Lowering the Temperature

Floor Speech

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Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, it is time for Americans to lower the temperature. Political extremism and dangerous divisions among Americans are causes for serious reflection.

As inexplicable hate is spewed out, my gratitude goes out to law enforcement in all forms working around the clock to keep our Great Lakes communities and Nation safe. Yet, rising gun violence, drugs, and outlandish behaviors, such as cars driving on the turnpike at 90 miles an hour, remain as fallout from the pandemic. They must be addressed.

The heroic police deputies in Minnesota who addressed a deranged, extreme perpetrator did their job. We applaud them for their brains and valor.

Restoring some calm to America is not a Democratic or Republican challenge. It is an American challenge.

I welcome the suggestion of Sophie and Colin Hortman, children of slain Minnesota State House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. In their children's words: ``If you would like to honor the memory of Mark and Melissa, please consider the following: Plant a tree. Visit a local park and make use of their amenities, especially a bike trail. Pet a dog. A golden retriever is ideal, but any will do. Tell your loved ones a cheesy dad joke and laugh about it. Bake something--bread for Mark or a cake for Melissa--and share it with someone,'' like your local firefighters. ``Try a new hobby and enjoy learning something. Stand up for what you believe in, especially if that thing is justice and peace.''

Mr. Speaker, I hope all listening today take this message to heart.

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