What Joseph D. Morelle said, and what was done

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dennis Mietz, President of Brighton Volunteer Ambulance (BVA), whose extraordinary dedication to emergency medical services and unwavering commitment to the Rochester community left an indelible mark on countless lives.”

“What are election officials to do? Count the ballots cast with student IDs on October 19 and shred the ones that arrive after that, on October 20? Is that what they are going to do?”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and service of Ellen Marie Ike--more commonly known on Capitol Hill as Ms. Ellen--a Lead Teacher at the House of Representatives Child Care Center, who tragically passed away on June 13, 2026, at the age of 61.”

“I am glad to see the House taking seriously the risk of foreign interference in domestic elections. In that spirit, I encourage my colleagues to consider other comprehensive democracy reforms to close loopholes.”

“Madam Speaker, again, I reiterate my support for the bill, and I want to thank the bill's sponsors, Mr. Fitzpatrick as well as Mr. Golden, for their work on this bill and continue to believe that there is much we can do and much that we need to do.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary leader, a cherished friend, and someone whose impact on Rochester will be felt for generations to come: Hillary Olson.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Beth Paul as she concludes her tenure of as president of Nazareth University after 6 years of remarkable leadership. Beth arrived at Nazareth during one of the most difficult moments in modern higher education, taking the helm in the midst of a global pandemic.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today after visiting the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia, New York, where I met with my constituent Omar Ramos-Jimenez. Omar has lived in Rochester for three decades.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize two outstanding community leaders and entrepreneurs from Rochester, New York: Livingston ``Livie'' and Thalia Walker.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to pay tribute to a dedicated civil servant from Rochester, New York: Malachi Williams. Throughout his life, Malachi has exemplified the values of hard work, perseverance, and service to others.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize a gifted creative from Rochester, New York: Garth Fagan. Born in Jamaica, Garth Fagan developed an early passion for dance and a deep appreciation for the rich rhythms, movement traditions, and cultural heritage of the Caribbean.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to pay tribute to an outstanding athlete and leader from Rochester, New York: Craig Demmin. Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Craig Demmin distinguished himself through an exceptional soccer career that spanned both the national and international stages.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize a dedicated leader from Rochester, New York: Clay Osborne. Born in Panama, Clay Osborne has built a distinguished career characterized by leadership, service, and a commitment to helping others succeed.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional young man from Rochester, New York, whose dedication to leadership, service, and academic excellence has earned him admission to the United States Air Force Academy: James Kester.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional young man from Rochester, New York, whose dedication to leadership, service, and academic excellence has earned him admission to the United States Military Academy at West Point and the opportunity to continue his athletic career as a member of its football program: Ronan Boyle.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding young man from Rochester, New York, whose dedication to leadership, service, and personal excellence has earned him admission to the United States Military Academy at West Point: Paul Brooker.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional young man from Rochester, New York, whose courage, resilience, and commitment to service have earned him admission to the United States Naval Academy: Augustine Galambos.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding young man from Rochester, New York, whose dedication, work ethic, and passion for maritime service have earned him admission to the United States Merchant Marine Academy: Ryan Galle.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding young man from Rochester, New York, whose commitment to leadership, service, and personal excellence has earned him admission to the United States Coast Guard Academy: Benjamin Hinds.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding young man from Rochester, New York, whose leadership, dedication, and commitment to service have earned him admission to the United States Merchant Marine Academy: Michael Kusch.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional young woman from Rochester, New York, whose dedication to academic excellence, leadership, and service has earned her admission to the United States Air Force Academy: Ariana Toner.”

“I agree with everything that he added and said, some of which we overlapped and some of which we didn't. This was truly a work where we are trying to do the right thing for the right purposes, and both sides worked together to reach what I think is actually a better bill.”

“Mr. Speaker, again, let me thank the sponsor of the bill, my friend Mr. Griffith, for his hard work. I thank Chairman Steil for his partnership in working together to protect these important legislative branch agencies and Congress' Article I prerogatives.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the West Webster Volunteer Firemen's Association as it celebrates 100 years of dedicated service to the Webster community and Monroe County, New York.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the West Henrietta Fire Department as it celebrates its 100th anniversary of dedicated service to the Henrietta community and Monroe County, New York.”

“Malliotakis is right. There is an exact location, unless the President says that is not where he wants it. This is the Congress. Article I--when I first came to Washington, Article I, it must have been said 1,000 times in my first few weeks-- Article I prerogatives, the Congress, Article I, the first section of the Constitution, the legislative responsibilities herein lie with the Congress of the United States.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize an exceptional civic and sports leader from Rochester, New York: Naomi Silver. Naomi Silver serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Rochester Red Wings and Rochester Community Baseball, where her leadership has helped strengthen one of Rochester's most beloved institutions.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize a dedicated community leader and volunteer from Rochester, New York: Herb Skerker. For decades, Herb Skerker has been a respected and active leader within Rochester's Jewish community through his longstanding involvement with Temple B'rith Kodesh, one of the region's historic Reform congregations.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize two outstanding community leaders and preservers of Rochester's Jewish culinary heritage: Jason and Alex Rheinwald.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize an exceptional arts educator, theater producer, and community leader from Rochester, New York: Freyda Schneider.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great gratitude for the opportunity to welcome Rabbi Peter Stein as our guest chaplain. One of the privileges of our role in Congress is to introduce spiritual leaders from across the country who reflect the depth and diversity of faith in America.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the distinguished career of Grant Malone, who is retiring in May after five exemplary years as President of the Rochester Building & Construction Trades' Council.”

“Rochester community who represented Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics: Dylan Walczyk, Christopher Lillis, and Haley Winn. These exceptional athletes proudly represented our region on the world stage, competing with determination and excellence at the Winter Games last month.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Women's History Month to honor an exceptional and influential leader from Rochester, New York: Debbie Evans. For decades, Debbie has been a tireless advocate for individuals and families facing poverty and food insecurity.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Women's History Month to honor an exceptional and influential leader from Rochester, New York: Sister Christine Wagner. In 1993, Sister Christine Wagner was among the founding members of the St.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Women's History Month to honor an exceptional and influential leader from Rochester, New York: Rachel Petrie. Rachel is a dedicated nurse whose service exemplifies the very best of our healthcare professionals.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Women's History Month to honor an exceptional and influential leader from Rochester, New York: Nija Branca Bilofsky. Nija has devoted her career to education and to inspiring the next generation of students.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Women's History Month to honor an exceptional and influential leader from Rochester, New York: Myra Henry. As the first Black President and Chief Executive Officer of the YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County, Myra Henry has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to empowering women and strengthening families.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Women's History Month to honor an exceptional and influential leader from Rochester, New York: Carla Palumbo. Carla has built a distinguished career as an advocate for justice, a champion for survivors of domestic violence, and a dedicated public servant.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Women's History Month to recognize a remarkable and impactful leader from Rochester, New York: Fran Weisberg. Throughout her distinguished career, Fran has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service, dedicating her professional life to addressing some of our most pressing challenges, including poverty, public health, and the evolving needs of nonprofit organizations.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Julie A. Poole as she retires after more than three decades of distinguished service to the federal government, including 25 years with the U.S.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize February as National Cancer Prevention Month and to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to reducing the burden of cancer in communities across our Nation.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Margaret ``Midge'' Thomas, a lifelong Rochesterian whose passing is deeply felt throughout our community. Ms. Thomas lived a life defined by service and a steadfast commitment to equality.”

“Mr. Speaker, I would ask Mrs. Miller: Do 80 percent of Americans want the Department of Homeland Security and ICE to have your personal, private information and data?”

“Mr. Speaker, I have great respect for the gentleman from Tennessee, but I do want to inform him that actually current Federal law prevents noncitizens from voting in Federal elections, so he may want to look that up.”

“We both hail from New York. He is a dear friend, but I just want to point out something. New York City Democrats actually put up a bill to allow noncitizens to vote in their elections.”

“Mr. Speaker, one other thing States are required to do is States would be forced to give our personal information to the Department of Homeland Security and ICE.”

“Mr. Speaker, I warn Republicans that a vote against this motion to commit is a vote to send American citizens' data to the Department of Homeland Security. A vote against this MTC is a vote to put Kristi Noem and Donald Trump and ICE and the Department of Justice in charge of the midterm elections this fall.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank my longtime friend, the distinguished ranking member of the Rules Committee, for his vigorous defense of our position and his encouragement that people vote against the so-called SAVE America Act.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate a remarkable woman, Helen Pluta, whose life was defined by compassion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to others. Helen's contributions to Rochester are profound and lasting.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Monroe Red Jackets high school football team, led by Coach Terrell Cunningham and New York State Gatorade Player of the Year Messiah Hampton, who made history as the first-ever Rochester City School District Class B State champions.”

“Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Don Stevens, the legendary voice of the Rochester Americans, as he calls his final season behind the microphone. For four decades, Don has called over 3,300 games for the Amerks and became the longest tenured play-by-play broadcaster in the American Hockey League.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Rochester's own Chuck Mangione, a world-class musician whose unique sound carried our city's spirit to every corner of the globe.”

“Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Lucien A. Morin, who passed away this year at 104. Lu, as he was known to all, was a proud World War II veteran.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Judith Cannan, Chief of the Policy, Training and Cooperative Programs Division (PTCP) at the Library of Congress on her retirement after nearly 50 years of service and thank her for her extraordinary dedication to the institution.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an exemplary public servant, distinguished leader, and dear friend from Rochester, New York, Jim Brown, who is retiring after more than three decades of dedicated service to the Joseph A.”

“What are we doing here? Let's review the sequence of events. Senate Republicans snuck this outrageous provision into a bill to reopen the Federal Government after months of Republicans insisting that they would only accept a clean funding bill.”

“Mr. Speaker, I need to say, as someone who served on the House Rules Committee for 4 years, that we clearly could have put on the floor and made in order an amendment to strike this provision from the bill that had been passed by the Senate.”

“Mr. Speaker, I have enormous respect for my colleagues and particularly those that serve on the Rules Committee, but this could have been dealt with last week. There was no reason to pass this.”

“Mr. Speaker, I once again remind the Members that any one of the citizens of this district could have filed petitions. In fact, Mr. Garcia has faced primaries before and general elections before.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to recognize an extraordinary artist, educator, and community leader from Rochester, New York, Jason Barber. As a Cuban-American artist and educator, Jason Barber has devoted his creative journey to exploring the intersection of memory and place, weaving together Rochester's histories with the lived experiences of its people.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to recognize an outstanding leader from Rochester, New York, Lucia Colindres. Originally from El Salvador, Lucia Colindres came to the United States in 1989, bringing with her a spirit of resilience and service that has defined her life's work.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to honor an extraordinary advocate from Rochester, New York, Daisy Rivera-Algarin. As a founding member of Latinas Unidas, Daisy Rivera-Algarin has long recognized the vital importance of representation, equity, and cultural pride in community leadership.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to recognize an outstanding business and community leader from Rochester, New York, Orlando Ortiz. Serving as President, Orlando Ortiz has played a pivotal role in shaping and leading the Puerto Rican Festival for over 15 years.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to pay tribute to a distinguished community leader from Rochester, New York, Padron-Morales. As co-founder of Hipocampo Children's Bookstore, Henry Padron-Morales has created a space that celebrates culture, diversity, and the power of literacy.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend, the gentleman from Massachusetts, the ranking member of the Rules Committee, for yielding. Mr. Speaker, as we reach the apparent conclusion of this absurd exercise, it is worth asking: What is the purpose of this bill?”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize an exceptional public servant from Rochester, New York: Rose Bonnick. Born in Jamaica, Rose is a proud member of the Caribbean American community and a tireless advocate for equity and opportunity.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize an extraordinary leader from the Rochester community: Roosevelt Mareus. As Executive Director and Dean of the Rochester Educational Opportunity Center, or REOC, Roosevelt Mareus has led with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to uplifting others.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize an exceptional public servant from Rochester, New York: Marlene Henry. As the owner of PeppaPot Catering, Marlene Henry is far more than a business owner--she is a quiet but powerful force for good in our community.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize a trailblazing leader and advocate from Rochester, New York: Norma Thom. Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Norma brought to the United States a deep commitment to culture, education, and service.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to pay tribute to a distinguished community leader from Rochester, New York: Jerome H. Underwood. As Chief Executive Officer of Action for a Better Community and a founding member of the Greater Rochester Black Agenda Group, Jerome Underwood has led with clarity, purpose, and unwavering integrity.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary leader, visionary, educator, and friend, David C. Munson, Jr., on his retirement after 8 transformative years as president of the Rochester Institute of Technology and over four decades in higher education.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize a remarkable leader and educator in our Rochester Jewish community: Monica Gurell. Monica Gurell serves as the President of Temple B'rith Kodesh, where she has led with passion, humility, and inclusiveness.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to pay tribute to a remarkable spiritual leader and community advocate from Rochester, NY: Rabbi Alan Katz.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize an extraordinary individual from Rochester, NY, whose commitment to service and leadership continues to uplift our Jewish community: Nathan (Nick) Robfogel.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the 200th anniversary of the birth of Antoinette Brown Blackwell, a trailblazer born in my district in Henrietta, New York, and the first woman ordained as a mainstream Protestant minister in the United States.”

“Mr. Speaker, I was remiss earlier. I want to remind my colleague, Mr. Roy, that an estimated 150,000 women in his district have a different name on their birth certificate than on their photo ID, and 336,000 residents of Texas' 2lst District lack a passport, a cost of $43.7 million to those who would need to get a passport should they choose that.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Rochester Community Players theater group on their 100th season. As the second oldest continually operating community theater in the State of New York and a part of the Little Theatre Movement in America, their rich history dates back to 1925, with their opening performance at the Historic German House in Rochester, New York.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the distinguished career of Randy Gorbman, the News Director of WXXI, who will retire at the end of March.”

“In closing, Madam Speaker, I thank the people who have spoken here on an idea whose time has more than come. I think this is the appropriate way, and particularly, as Ms.”

“Madam Chair, I thank my friend, the gentleman from Virginia, for yielding me time. I rise today in strong opposition to this budget resolution. As an Appropriations Committee member, thoughtful consideration of government spending is a responsibility I don't take lightly.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the inspiring work being done by the Rochester Museum & Science Center, led by curator Jamie Jacobs, to create a new permanent educational exhibit that showcases contemporary indigenous artists inspired by their ancestors.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of Arkansas seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Donald J.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of Delaware seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Kamala D.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of Hawaii seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Kamala D.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of Iowa seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Donald J.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of Maine seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Kamala D.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of New Mexico seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Kamala D.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of Ohio seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Donald J.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of Rhode Island seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Kamala D.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote from the State of Texas seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Donald J.”

“Madam President, the certificate of the electoral vote of the State of Washington seems to be regular in form and authentic, and it appears therefrom that Kamala D.”

“Mr. Speaker, in late 2022, President Biden signed the bipartisan Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act (``ECRA'') into law, establishing new requirements for the counting of Electoral College votes pursuant to the Twelfth Amendment to the United States Constitution (``Twelfth Amendment'').”