Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-06-04
PORT CHESTER SENIORS
George Latimer
DNY-16 · Representative
HealthcareTaxesInfrastructureLGBTQ+
Context
On 2026-06-04, Representative George Latimer (D-NY-16) delivered a floor speech titled "PORT CHESTER SENIORS" in the House.
Full Text
PORT CHESTER SENIORS Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 95 (Thursday, June 4, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 95 (Thursday, June 4, 2026)] [House] [Page H3837] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] PORT CHESTER SENIORS (Mr. Latimer of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. LATIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding programs provided by the Village of Port Chester that benefit the senior citizens of that community. Under the able leadership of Maryann Nielsen in the Port Chester Senior Community Center in Village Hall, the Port Chester Seniors serves hundreds of seniors annually with a daily nutrition program at lunchtime 6 days a week, along with activities and programs to engage seniors of all ages, including on Saturday, which is unique among many other programs. There are fitness classes from tai chi to chair yoga, mental fitness programs, a variety of board games--mah-jongg; bridge; along with the classic senior staple, bingo. Maryann and her talented crew host annual events, as well, for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, St. Patrick's Day, and a host of celebrations. There are day trips planned to shopping locales and tourist sites, as well. The programs are supported by the village board under the leadership of Mayor Luis Marino and Village Administrator Stu Rabin. From the floor of the House of Representatives, we salute the work of the Port Chester Seniors, the active and energetic members that show that age is more a state of mind. Pride Month Mr. LATIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Pride Month. As a supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community and a member of the Congressional Equality Caucus, I rise to honor the achievements in the fight for equality but also refocus on the work that lies ahead. Many of the champions in the fight for equality are organizations like the LOFT Center in White Plains, New York. This organization provides acceptance and access for the LGBTQIA+ community in the wake of the current administration's attacks on equality. The LOFT Center offers services ranging from support services, educational seminars, health screenings, training series for allies and businessowners, silver connections for members over 55, and much more. I commend them for being a champion in this fight, and I am proud to represent such a welcoming district, where people are judged by the content of their character. We will work to ensure that everyone has a place where they are accepted, even in the face of prejudice. Dismantling of Affordable Healthcare Mr. LATIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn the intentional dismantling of affordable healthcare in our country. Following the big, ugly bill last July, which failed to extend the premium tax credits critical to lowering the cost of healthcare for working families, Affordable Care Act enrollment for 2026 has fallen to about 23 million people, a decline of just over 1 million people. Studies predict that this may climb to as many as 5 million people dropping out of the ACA market by the end of this year alone. This isn't surprising given that the last year represented the highest increase in deductibles ever. Many Americans have shared their stories about how they cannot afford to take on the rising premiums, and my colleagues choose instead to prioritize nonsense legislation and policies that do nothing to address real problems. Mr. Speaker, more people will die younger or put off preventative health visits if they do not have access to affordable healthcare. If we will not address America's healthcare situation head-on, then let those of us who are willing to address the situation take action. ____________________