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June 23
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Backlog Woes
As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Federal Workforce, I am deeply concerned by the backlogs and delays we are seeing at our federal agencies. These service disruptions are causing unnecessary hardships for Americans. Whether it is people seeking passports, our veterans who require personnel records for their benefits, or citizens seeking information on their Social Security benefits.
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 During the hearing with witnesses from the U.S. Social Security Administration, National Personnel Records Center, and Department of State, it became abundantly clear that these agencies are struggling under the weight of the backlog. Assistant Secretary Rena Bitter detailed how the State Department is mobilizing surge teams and even recalling retirees to manage the surge in passport applications, indicating a significant resource issue.
One of the key issues causing these backlogs was the necessary remote work and suspension of in-person services during the pandemic. This was most noticeable in the case of NPRC, which had to restrict access to its facilities and saw its onsite workforce drastically reduced. The NPRC Director, Scott Levins, noted that returning people to work has been crucial in addressing the backlog.
Both Republican and Democrat members of my subcommittee agree we need swift action to address these delays, improve customer service, and streamline operations. I am committed to addressing this resource and manpower allocation issue head-on. You can watch my subcommittee hearing here. |
Oversight of the SEC
This week, I participated in a House Financial Services Committee hearing to provide oversight of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The very essence of the SEC's mission revolves around capital formation, protecting investors, and maintaining fair, orderly, and efficient markets. Yet, it seems apparent to me that the SEC and its Chairman are distorting this vital mandate by leveraging their discretionary power to potentially hinder capital formation.
During my remarks, I sought to draw a parallel between the current disingenuous conduct of the SEC and the past conduct of the FBI, until my father, who was appointed Director of the FBI under the Reagan Administration, took the reins of the bureau. Before his tenure, the FBI ensnared American citizens in bureaucratic hurdles and engaged in futile investigations, causing much dismay.
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 I'm concerned the current Chairman of the SEC, Gary Gensler, is engaged in similar weaponization. They are keeping the American people and their elected representatives in the dark, providing little to no information, and avoiding engagement on important issues. If the SEC is investigating a private citizen, one who has done their due diligence and hired capable legal representation, then it's only fair that regulators engage them in an open, transparent, and timely manner.
The stark disparity in engagement is troubling. When an average citizen is under scrutiny, the SEC takes an average of 214 days to engage, effectively keeping them in limbo. But when a major Democrat donor like Mr. Bankman-Fried finds himself in a similar situation, the top official of the SEC is quick to engage. This kind of behavior raises questions about the impartiality of the SEC and undermines its credibility.
Our institutions should stand as pillars of trust, integrity, and fairness. I urge the SEC to take these values to heart and to ensure that their actions reflect their responsibility towards the American people and our democratic system. Anything less is a disservice to us all. You can watch my remarks here. |
India Prime Minister Address to Congress
Yesterday, we welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Congress, where he delivered an inspiring speech that reminded us of the shared values and ambitions between our two great nations, both pillars of democracy in the world. Modi's visit underlines the pivotal juncture we find ourselves in today, where our alliance is more essential than ever.
He eloquently spoke of passion, persuasion, and policy, and rightfully celebrated the deep bond between our nations. His conviction that the U.S.-India partnership is the defining relationship of this century resonates strongly with me. Our alliance is not just about mutual benefit, but also serves democracy, and freedom.
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 India is a key ally in our broader foreign policy goals, especially regarding China's rising influence. Our cooperation spans several crucial sectors including defense, technology, and energy. Prime Minister Modi wisely acknowledged the looming threat of coercion and confrontation in the Indo-Pacific, affirming our mutual vision of maintaining a free, open society.
Texas also shares a unique bond with India, a relationship that's rich in economic, cultural, and demographic ties. India is one of Texas' top trading partners, with our state exporting billions in goods to India each year. Texas companies, particularly in energy, technology, and aerospace, are finding growing markets in India, leading to job creation and economic growth back home.
The United States' role as one of India's top defense partners was acknowledged, a statement that was greeted with a standing ovation from my fellow lawmakers. This is a testament to the significance of our relationship. His visit underscored the important bond our countries share, and we look forward to fostering this relationship in the years to come. |
Congressional Veterans Commendation
The 17th Congressional District of Texas is fortunate to have a substantial and involved veteran community. Many veterans, after fulfilling their responsibilities in the armed services, return home to become pillars of our community, through their continued dedication to service and sacrifice. Their engagement and stewardship exert a lasting positive influence on friends, family, and loved ones.
In recognition of their invaluable contributions, I am soliciting nominations for the Congressional Veterans Commendation (CVC) program. The CVC is a unique distinction designed to honor those who have courageously served our nation, during both war and peacetime. This year, I will confer the commendations to the chosen nominees at a special ceremony.
Please note that nominees should have received an honorable discharge from a branch of the United States Armed Forces and must have served either as active-duty personnel or as a reservist called to duty. Use the 2023 CVC Nomination form, available on by website, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 254-633-4500.The deadline for submissions is July 14th, 2023. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to hear your story.
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National
NewsMax: Rep. Sessions to Newsmax: Hunter Biden Got 'Sweetheart Deal'
MeriTalk News: Rep. Sessions Grills Agencies on Backlogs, Faults Pandemic Work Norms
Yahoo News: Here are all of the Republican elected officials backing Trump's 2024 campaign
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| Sincerely, |
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| Pete Sessions |
| Member of Congress |
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