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Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume, and I thank my good friend Judge Carter for the time. I rise today in support of our first FY27 appropriations bill on the floor – the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This legislation reflects something we’ve long understood from our founding: America’s story has always been shaped by ordinary men and women willing to step forward and answer a call greater than themselves. A country worthy of sacrifice must also be worthy of the people who made it – and our obligation to those who wear the uniform does not end when they return home or hang up their uniform.

I am honored to present the FY27 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill to the House today. This bill supports our troops, their families, and our nation’s veterans. I want to thank Appropriations Committee Chairman Cole for his leadership in advancing this bill through the Committee. I also want to recognize the Ranking Member of the Full Committee, Ms. DeLauro, and the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee, Ms. Wasserman Schultz, for their partnership in bringing us to this point.

Thank you, Chairman Rogers, and thank you to Ranking Member Meng, Ranking Member DeLauro, and all our members. Our full committee markups continue today with consideration of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies bill.

Thank you, Chairman Cole. We would not be taking up this bill without your leadership. The hard work and focus that you bring to this Committee should be commended. It’s a long process – 12 bills through each respective subcommittee and then on to full committee is no easy task, and you do it with expertise. I want to thank you for your continued leadership. I would also like to thank Ranking Member Meng, Ranking Member DeLauro, and all Members of this Committee. Additionally, I would like to thank the Majority and Minority staff for their hard work.