March 8, 2024

Fireside Sessions

State of the Union

Last night, President Joe Biden gave his State of the Union address. For the past three years, the President and his Administration have been focused on implementing failed far-left border, economic, and foreign policies, which have turned every community into a border community, destroyed the savings of countless American families, and needlessly put American service members in harms way. 

The citizens of this country have had enough of Joe Biden's failed presidency. Just look at his plummeting poll numbers; on the economy, Biden is 16 points underwater; on crime, Biden is 16 points underwater; on foreign policy, Biden is 22 points underwater; and on immigration, which is the number one issue facing Americans, Biden is 33 points underwater. Joe Biden's abysmal poll numbers are a reflection of how Americans think he is handling skyrocketing Bidenflation, surging violent crime, the catastrophic open border, and our weakened national security. 

ImageSignificant concerns have arisen regarding Biden’s order for the U.S. military to construct a port in Gaza using U.S. resources. This plan risks diverting American taxpayer dollars into the hands of known terrorist organizations, including Hamas, and endangers the lives of U.S. service members.

Recently the USAID Inspector General highlighted that aid directed towards Gaza or the West Bank carries a high risk of misuse. Despite these warnings, it appears the Biden Administration is proceeding with plans that could inadvertently support entities opposed to U.S. interests and our ally, Israel.

In contrast to the Biden Administration's focus, House Republicans are committed to rectifying our fiscal state and addressing the consequences of the President’s prolonged, unchecked spending. His policies have led to increased living costs for Americans and a weaker economy. Actions by my Republican colleagues and I reflect a dedication to fiscal responsibility and the well-being of our nation.

As we move forward, we must prioritize the security of our nation, the protection of taxpayer dollars, and support for our allies. It is through these commitments that we can ensure a safer, more prosperous future for all Americans.

Sic'em Bears

On Thursday, met with Baylor University President Dr. Linda Livingstone and celebrated securing federal funding for two critical research projects. On Wednesday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed six fiscal year 2024 appropriations bills, that included $4.35 million in federal funding for Baylor, strengthening our national capabilities in key areas:

ImageArctic Acclimatization & Sleep Optimization (ARKTOS) Research Center
We secured $2 million for the ARKTOS Research Center at Baylor. This facility will develop technologies and protocols for rapid acclimatization in arctic conditions, focusing on optimizing human performance in military and construction tasks. This project is crucial for ensuring U.S. and allied dominance in strategic arctic regions.
 
Material Science Laboratory Expansion
An additional $2.35 million will expand Baylor's Material Science Laboratory, enhancing metallurgical testing and component inspection capabilities. This investment supports advanced materials research, crucial for national development and security efforts.

These investments in Baylor University underscore our commitment to leading in innovation and security. I am honored to have secured these initiatives, fostering a safer, more competitive America.

Sam Houston State University Gathering

Texas is at the cutting edge of research and developing new technologies. In a productive meeting with Sam Houston State University (SHSU) President Alisa White, alongside Congressmen Luttrell and Dan Crenshaw, we discussed pivotal initiatives that bolster our state's and nation's security.

ImageSHSU is advancing critical projects which are investments in infrastructure that will protect our digital landscapes and boost forensic science capabilities. SHSU’s efforts intend to safeguard Americans online against both domestic and foreign attacks, and they will provide better support for our justice system, aiding in accurate and swift resolutions for victims.

Our meeting highlighted SHSU and East Texas as leaders on the forefront of research and innovation. Their expertise and dedication will propel these projects forward, setting a national example. I look forward to continued collaboration with President White to make East Texas a forward thinking and thriving community. 

Review of the Federal Reserve

On March 6th, the House Financial Services Committee held a hearing entitled “The Federal Reserve’s Semi-Annual Monetary Policy Report” featuring The Honorable Jerome Powell, Chairman of the Federal Reserve.

ImageThis was Chairman Powell's 25th time testifying before the House Financial Services Committee. Chairman Powell last testified on June 21st, 2023. This was following the release of the Federal Reserve's Monetary Policy Report for 2024. 

I questioned Chairman Powell about the Biden Administration’s overreaching regulatory policies and poor decisions seen within the energy sector. A recent White House release revealed that the Biden Administration is considering a pause on permits for new liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects. 

While Chairman Powell noted that it would be inappropriate for him to comment, I pointed out that it is a direct influence on trends related to price increases, labor costs, etc. Due to the Biden Administration and the Federal Reserve’s poor management of the economy, these high prices are here to stay.

Support for Law Enforcement

On Tuesday, I met with the Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA) and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 112. I'm proud to stand with these organizations that excel in protecting, training, and advocating for our officers, ensuring our communities remain safe.

ImageJohn Sierega, Director of Field Services at TMPA, initiated this important dialogue. Our focus was on strengthening the bond between elected officials and law enforcement communities, essential for enhancing public safety and support for our officers. TMPA’s efforts in officer development and community safeguarding are crucial. Through our continued partnership, we aim to provide law enforcement with the necessary support and resources to succeed in their mission.

Together, we're building a safer, united Texas.

PIKE Night!

Wednesday evening, I had the privilege of speaking at the Founders Day Reception for the National Capital Area Alumni Association (NCAAA) of Pi Kappa Alpha. Emphasizing the values of courage and character, I shared insights from my own journey and the lessons I've imparted to my sons, who proudly carry on the PIKE legacy.

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The NCAAA plays a crucial role in uniting Pi Kappa Alpha alumni in the Washington, DC area. It fosters leadership and camaraderie among brothers, supporting local chapters and hosting events like Founders Day on Capitol Hill. I was honored to connect with my PIKES brothers, I am inspired by our collective dedication to leading with integrity and making a difference.

In the News

KBTX: President Biden’s border visit sparks diverse political reactions from across the aisle

KXAN: Election Day: Congressional district races in Central Texas

Waco Tribune-Herald: Local primary election results around McLennan County: March 5, 2024
 

Sincerely,
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Pete Sessions
Member of Congress

 

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