Mario Díaz-Balart

Madam Speaker, you have heard of Bill Young, the statesman, and that he was.

He mastered that appropriations process like, frankly, nobody before him.

His wisdom and his desire to help was always so present.

There is not one time that we didn't go to him that he would not be helpful.

Tourism is the backbone of Florida's economy, and DHS must do more to adequately staff our ports.

There has been a huge tax increase on the middle class because of the Affordable Care Act.

Well, and I would just, you know, not putting words in your mouth, but I would say not only the IRS, but frankly, it is the basis of our country that you should not fear the government because of your beliefs.

tourism is unlawful.

I think this is worse. As dangerous, as unacceptable as those that I just mentioned are, and they are, when government targets individuals for their beliefs, this is now an affront on democracy, on our freedoms.

The American people have already gotten hit with a number of tax increases.

But the choices are very simple. You can either try to change the story and cover this up, and try to give it a good spin, or you can make sure that you get to the bottom of it.

I will never, ever be shy or be apologetic about defending the interests of the folks that I represent who are hurting because their taxes have been increased.

Is there ever a limit to tax increases?

your role is to enforce the law, and tourism is unlawful.

the penalties, the Supreme Court, whether you or I like it, has said it is a tax on the middle class.

I trust that you are going to do the right thing. But the right thing means absolute transparency.

Tourism is the backbone of Florida's economy, and DHS must do more to adequately staff our ports.

It is insanity that we are here in this empty building, and there are others around the country.

It has made a huge difference, and it is part of my statement today that after a recent storm, after looking at that, we were told that the stronger building codes reduced the damage by 40 percent.

It does not. It gives incentives to the States.

Building codes work. It is vital that we seize this opportunity to encourage States to adopt their building codes in a manner that will save lives, that will protect property, and ultimately also reduce taxpayers' exposure to natural…

Look. These things are going to happen, and the question is are we ready beforehand.

I think I am one of those who does not like mandating things to the State.

They do static scoring. They do not look at the savings.

Those buildings, whether it is residential or commercial, that were built under higher standards, frankly, withstand the damage.