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January 12, 2024
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The Law Applies to All Equally
On Wednesday, I was deeply concerned by the conduct of President Joe Biden’s son Hunter. His appearance at our House Committee on Oversight and Accountability markup, intended to consider a resolution holding him in contempt of Congress, was a clear act of defiance. This behavior shows the President’s son’s flagrant disregard for the legal process and emphasizes our Committee's efforts to uphold accountability and the rule of law – even for the politically connected.
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| Hunter Biden leaves after disrupting House Oversight Committee markup. |
On December 13, 2023, Robert Hunter Biden failed to comply with deposition subpoenas issued by the Committees on Oversight and Accountability and the Judiciary for testimony relevant to the House of Representatives’ impeachment inquiry and the Committees’ oversight investigations. Instead, Mr. Biden opted to read a short, prepared statement in front of the Capitol. Accordingly, Mr. Biden has violated federal law, and must be held in contempt of Congress. This choice drew criticism from myself, the Chairman of the House Oversight Committee, James Comer (KY-1), and legal experts including Democrat attorney Julian Epstein, who advocates for compliance with the Committees’ requests.
The mission of the Majority on the Oversight Committee is to ensure that the law is applied equally to all, regardless of their name or status. Hunter Biden's actions during the markup and his ongoing defiance are unacceptable, showing contempt for Congress and, by extension, the American people. My Republican colleagues and I remain committed to justice and transparency and will continue our critical inquiry into whether Joseph R. Biden, Jr., as Vice President and/or President took any official action or effected any change in government policy to enrich himself or his family or if he abused the public trust in another way. |
Restraining Progressive Ideologies in the U.S. Military
On Thursday, I participated in a hearing in the House Oversight Subcommittee on National Security, Border, and Foreign Affairs to examine the impact of progressive ideologies on U.S. military readiness and cohesion. We examined the military's missed recruiting goals, questioning whether political influences deter Americans from service. As an Eagle Scout and conservative, I believe in leaving our military 'campsite' better than we found it. I am concerned by the Biden Administration’s focus on woke policies instead of maintaining competition.
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 The hearing also covered the financial and policy implications of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the military. Discussions included the Air Force's increased pilot bonuses and plans to reduce the percentage of white pilots, raising concerns about meritocracy versus quota-based systems.
Maintaining the military as a merit-based institution is crucial for preserving its excellence and strength. Our focus must always be on our duty to protect American freedoms. You can watch my remarks here. |
Improving Housing in Texas
At a recent House Financial Services Committee hearing, I addressed Secretary Marcia Fudge regarding housing issues in Texas under the oversight of her Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).
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 I expressed concerns about potential legislative changes that could undermine the effective local administration of HUD's Section 8 program in Texas. Despite Dallas's significant growth and housing needs, HUD has repeatedly denied requests to support new housing development, showing a lack of collaboration with local leaders. This issue remains a priority for me.
I also highlighted the alarming diversion of nearly $381 million, designated for veteran housing, to other purposes, including illegal immigrants. This misallocation, affecting cities like San Diego and New York, is unacceptable. Veterans' needs must come first, and while HUD didn't allocate these funds, I urged Secretary Fudge to help rectify the situation.
I am dedicated to advocating for effective housing policies and supporting our veterans and community. You can watch my remarks here. |
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National
CNN International: H.R. 2 Bill Faces Opposition in the Senate
Newsmax: Congressman Sessions: Biden Doesn't Understand Austin's Role
NewsNation: House Republicans Continue Border Negotiations
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| Sincerely, |
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| Pete Sessions |
| Member of Congress |
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