Anticipating U.S. Vs. Wales in the World Cup

Floor Speech

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Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer congratulations ahead of this year's World Cup in November. For the first time in 8 years, the U.S. men's national soccer team has qualified for the most important tournament in world soccer. As the Chairman of the Congressional Friends of Wales Caucus, I would also like to congratulate Wales on reaching the World Cup for the first time since 1958.

The historic links between the United States and Wales are very strong. The Welsh were among the early settlers to North America to pursue religious liberty and the opportunity to create a better life for themselves and their descendants. At least five signers of the Declaration of Independence had a Welsh background, including its primary author, Thomas Jefferson. By now there are endless links between the United States and Wales, from economic to academic to cultural connections.

On November 21, 2022, a new link will be created. The countries will face each other in the first match of their World Cup campaigns--and it will be the first time the United States and Wales have faced each other in a World Cup. This day will be a special day for Americans, Welsh, and Welsh-Americans all around the world to come together and celebrate what both countries have achieved.

As one of the millions of Welsh-Americans, I look forward to cheering both countries in the World Cup--albeit on November 21 I will be supporting the United States.

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