June 16 

Fireside Sessions

Questions for Secretary Yellen

On Tuesday, I participated in a House Financial Services Committee hearing with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on the International Financial System. I hoped to hear her take responsibility for the federal government’s extreme overspending habits, but I was not surprised when she declined to acknowledge our nation’s negative fiscal trajectory. Our economy is robust at its core. But, if we fail to curb spending and responsibly allocate our resources, we will squander our potential and saddle future generations with a significant economic burden.

ImageImmediately after President Biden was elected, he began sending out billions of dollars to support international institutions like the IMF (International Monetary Fund). During the hearing, I asked Secretary Yellen how much Joe Biden has currently loaned to various global markets. Rather than answering my simple question, she deflected to avoid recognizing our unbridled international expenditures and the negative effect it has on our national markets and family businesses. Irresponsible Democrat leaders, like Janet Yellen, are at fault for policies that keep American markets from standing on their own two feet.

You can watch my full remarks during the hearing here.

Excessive Federal Regulations

On Wednesday, the House Oversight & Accountability Committee held a hearing titled: Death by a Thousand Regulations. Recent changes to various federal regulations have transformed what were once simple tasks into significantly more time-consuming processes, primarily to the excessive amount of paperwork Congress has incorporated into registration procedures.

ImageDuring my discussion with witnesses at the hearing, we concurred that the volume of paperwork accompanying basic regulations is unreasonable. These cumbersome processes not only complicate federal regulations but also harm the very individuals applying for services or benefits.

For instance, in 2010, Bill 10-70 was introduced to assist citizens in securing loans. However, since its inception, the policy documentation associated with this bill has ballooned from 16 to 900 pages. Bill 10-70 is not the only instance of expanding and overbearing regulation. They affect the entire country, but they particularly burden small businesses and students.

While the paperwork associated with federal regulations may seem troublesome, a reasonable amount of documentation remains necessary for effective governance. However, most regulations today are overly burdensome and proscriptive in their requirements. Congress must prioritize reigning in the federal bureaucracy and ensuring that regulations do not exceed their statutory mandate.

You can watch my full remarks during the hearing here.

Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce

This week, proud Texans from the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce (GWCC) joined me in Washington. Established in 1899, they have been instrumental in enhancing Central Texas’ economy and public works. The GWCC is a catalytic factor in McLennan County’s transition into a regional leader for economic activity. It’s members are laser focused on attracting well-paying jobs and fostering business growth.

ImageAs we know, Waco’s strategic location between Dallas, Austin, Houston, and San Antonio has led to a tremendous amount of success when advocating for Central Texas priorities. The GWCC met with many elected officials, including: Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, as well as G.T Thompson, Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee.

Central Texas values are top of mind in the daily efforts of my team and organizations like the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce. Together, we strive to better the country and the well-being of Texas 17th Congressional District.

Alex Sessions

My son, Alex Sessions spent the last two weeks with me in Washington, and I enjoyed sharing my experiences at the Capitol with him. His warm and vibrant personality shines brightly – infusing a typically politics-centered environment with much-needed joy and warmth. Alex's charm has endeared him to my Congressional colleagues and my staff, and I am deeply grateful to those who have made him feel welcome.

ImageAlex was born with Down Syndrome, yet he consistently demonstrates that his abilities vastly outweigh his disability. His presence is a daily reminder that every individual has unique strengths and the potential to positively affect others.

In the past, Alex and I have collaborated on several significant projects. One such initiative is the Family Opportunity Act, designed to ensure that families with medically vulnerable children have access to comprehensive healthcare. Alex has been my guiding light in championing the rights and needs of those with disabilities. I am profoundly grateful for his presence in my life, and for the opportunity it gives me to increase awareness and support for children like Alex.

In the News

Local

Dallas Morning News: Texas Republicans, Democrats take the field Wednesday night in congressional baseball game

The Daily Sentinel: Blueberry Festival draws in thousands

National

Fox News: Republicans hammer Biden after trans activists go topless at White House event: 'Very disgraceful'

Sincerely,
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Pete Sessions
Member of Congress

 

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