[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 129 (Thursday, August 6, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S4507]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO JIM MACRAE

  Mr. SANDERS. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and thank Jim 
Macrae for his extraordinary career of public service and for his 
contributions to expanding access to primary care for all Americans. As 
he retires from the Health Resources and Services Administration after 
decades of dedicated leadership, he leaves behind a legacy that has 
made our healthcare system stronger.
  Throughout his career, Jim has been a tireless champion for community 
health centers and the millions of patients who rely on them for high-
quality, affordable primary care. As Associate Administrator of the 
Health Resources and Services Administration's Bureau of Primary Health 
Care, he oversaw a huge expansion of community health centers, leading 
and strengthening one of our Nation's most successful healthcare 
programs and ensuring that community health centers can continue 
providing high-quality care in underserved communities across this 
country.
  Primary care is the backbone of our healthcare system. Community 
health centers make up a major portion of that backbone. While we have 
made great progress towards ensuring all people have access to the 
primary care they need, there is much more to be done.
  Community health centers provide affordable, quality primary medical, 
dental, and mental health care as well as access to low-cost 
prescription drugs to over 32 million people. In Vermont, nearly one 
out of every three people receive their primary healthcare through a 
community healthcenter across over 90 sites--something that I and my 
fellow Vermonters are very proud of. I thank Jim for his support of 
Vermont's work to build a vibrant network of community health centers 
across our State.
  Over my years in the Senate and as chair and ranking member of the 
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, I have worked hard to 
expand community health centers. Jim has been an effective partner in 
these efforts throughout the years. As Jim begins this well-earned 
retirement, I extend my deepest gratitude for his dedication to 
improving our healthcare system and the health of millions of 
Americans. We owe him our thanks and respect.

                          ____________________