In Support of the Release of Paul Whelan

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, we learned this morning of a prisoner swap with the Kremlin: basketball star Brittney Griner for the merchant of death, Viktor Bout.

Left behind once again by this administration was Michigander Paul Whelan.

While we rejoice with the Griner family, Paul's parents, constituents in my district, will soon have their fourth Christmas without their son.

Paul's family is doing their best to stay upbeat and is genuinely happy for the Griner family, as we all are. But it is hard to fathom the magnitude of disappointment with this latest lopsided swap.

We are keeping the Whelans in our prayers, just as we are keeping up the pressure. For years now, I have spoken about Paul's wrongful imprisonment on this floor. I was hoping the next time would be to celebrate his release. Sadly, it is not.

Today, once again, it is time for Paul Whelan to come home.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source