Recognizing the University of Michigan Debate Team for Their National Title

Floor Speech

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Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the University of Michigan's Debate Team, on the occasion of winning their first national title. The tenacity and dedication this team has shown throughout their season is worthy of commendation.

The University of Michigan Debate Team in Ann Arbor was founded in 1903 and is one of the oldest debate programs in the United States. Prior to their national championship victory this year, the team finished as runner-up 3 times in the past 3 years. The perseverance the team has shown is evident in this, and their victory is so deserving. The skills and values that this team and all other teams have gained throughout this season are impressive, and no doubt carry them into successful futures. This accomplishment is also an indicator as to why organizations such as debate in universities and colleges are so worthwhile.

The 78th annual tournament was held at Emory University, with 47 universities and colleges represented by 78 different teams. This esteemed tournament is highly competitive, and the University of Michigan rose to the occasion. The topic of debate was concerning U.S. nuclear weapons policy. This weighty topic is no easy thing to discuss, let alone debate, and the University of Michigan Debate Team should be proud of their accomplishment.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Debate Team at the University of Michigan. Their victory signifies the second national championship title for the University of Michigan this academic year, following the Michigan Football Team's College Football Playoff win. I want to congratulate the Debate Team for their accomplishments, and I have no doubt that they will continue to make their university proud.

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