[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 7 (Friday, January 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E21]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING RYAN NESSELRODT, PH.D.

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 9, 2026

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition and 
appreciation of Dr. Ryan Nesselrodt, Ph.D. upon his completion of the 
American Association for the Advancement of Science, Science & 
Technology Fellowship. Dr. Nesselrodt served as a fellow in my 
Washington, D.C. office from September 2024 to December 2025, 
displaying remarkable technical knowledge, flexibility, and creative 
thinking.
  As an integral member of my legislative staff, Dr. Nesselrodt 
assisted my work on the House Committee on Armed Services and the House 
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, particularly my work on 
the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. His 
exceptional analytical skills and scientific background made him an 
invaluable advisor for the office on a variety of issues, ranging from 
plutonium pit production to geothermal energy to the maritime industry.
  Throughout his fellowship, Dr. Nesselrodt was the driving force 
behind several critical legislative efforts. He drafted key provisions 
on nuclear weapons policy that were adopted as part of the National 
Defense Authorization Act. He also was responsible for drafting and 
introducing the ``Geothermal Tax Parity Act,'' which would incentivize 
geothermal energy production. In addition, he was instrumental in 
building support among industry stakeholders and Members for my ``SHIPS 
for America Act.'' His work often required balancing competing 
legislative priorities, and he was always able to develop a range of 
sound policy options for my consideration.
  Beyond drafting legislative language, Dr. Nesselrodt proved to be a 
critical voice in policy debate. He consistently offered thoughtful 
perspectives often not considered by other members of the team. His 
arguments, grounded in strategic realities, have been essential in 
helping the office promote responsible, effective policies.
  Dr. Nesselrodt is a dedicated public servant, an extraordinary 
researcher, and a skilled communicator. He is precisely the kind of 
future leader and innovative thinker we need. I expect Dr. Nesselrodt's 
fellowship in my office will inspire and inform his future endeavors, 
and I am confident he will make invaluable contributions in his new 
role.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of California's 8th 
Congressional district, I extend our deepest appreciation to Dr. 
Nesselrodt for his dedicated service as an AAAS Science & Technology 
fellow. He will always remain a deeply valued member of Team Garamendi.

                          ____________________