Mr. Chair, I rise in strong support of the FY17 Defense Appropriations bill. This very important bill provides for our national security by supporting our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines, on whom we rely to provide that security…

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5243, the Zika Response Appropriations Act. This bill provides $622 million to respond to the Zika virus both at home and abroad. As chair of the State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee of the…

I hope you can discuss any recent developments.

I remain concerned about the funds this subcommittee provides.

I don't have to remind you of the strong opposition by many members of Congress to any funding for this purpose.

Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 103, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' ____________________

Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 104, had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' personal explanation

Our presence in Kuwait has been critical to prosecute the current fight against ISIL.

We need to be always aware of the people that serve, and make sure they have the equipment also.

We want to build interoperability, we want to build effective partnerships and allies.

We really need to do everything we can to make it faster and smoother.