November 15, 2024

East Texas Congressional Veteran Commendation Ceremony

Congressman Sessions and East Texas CVC recipients

Before heading back to Washington for the start of session after October recess, I participated in Veterans Day weekend festivities around TX-17. Veterans Day is an important time to thank those who serve our armed forces. Because of their willing sacrifice, we can enjoy the freedoms that come with being an American. On Friday, I was in Huntsville to honor the East Texas recipients of the Congressional Veteran Commendation. These three veterans have set the standard of service by engaging in community involvement after military service. Their dedication, leadership, and selflessness display the highest ideals of character. Thank you for your incredible service!

Waco Veterans Day Parade

Meeting with Sam Houston State University

GOP Leadership Elections

President Trump addresses the House Republican Conference

With a Republican trifecta — control of the Senate, House of Representatives, and the Presidency — secured, there was much to discuss at this week’s GOP leadership elections. The American people have spoken and chosen a Republican majority to take charge and fix our country. We are united under President Trump’s vision: it is time to make this government efficient. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Federal Workforce, I have investigated ongoing waste, fraud, and abuse. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has reported $2.7 trillion in improper payments. The American people deserve a government that works for them and does not waste their hard-earned dollars. I look forward to working with President Trump and my colleagues in Congress to ensure greater government efficiency.

Texas Farm Bureau

On Thursday, leaders from the Texas Farm Bureau visited me in DC to further advocate for a new Farm Bill. The end of Congress is approaching, with little movement on the Farm Bill so far, however, TFB and I remain hopeful that some form of legislation will be passed before the end of the year. If the House voted today on the Farm Bill, I believe it passes easily. The problem rests with Senate Democrats who refuse to negotiate. It is imperative that we move towards bringing this legislation forward to provide for our farmers. The agricultural community of America depends on the provisions of the Farm Bill, and I am a staunch supporter of passing this legislation.

Baylor Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty

Congressman Sessions and BHCP Executive Director Jeremy Everett

On Thursday, I met with the Executive Director of the Baylor Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty (BCHP). Over the past few summers, BHCP ran the Meals to You program to deliver meals to students in rural areas as part of a demonstration program through the USDA. The Meals to You program experienced such rapid success, that Congress directed USDA to issue regulations allowing states to utilize meal delivery services in rural areas. In 2023, USDA recognized the nutritional needs of children in the summer cannot be addressed through a one-size-fits-all approach, and states should include the use of non-congregate meals programs, like meal delivery, where necessary. The BCHP initiative by Baylor University is doing great work in our community and I look forward to further partnering with them and the new USDA administration in the upcoming Congress.

H.R. 8446→ Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2024
I was proud to vote YES on this legislation to unify the critical minerals lists maintained by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the Department of Energy (DOE). By streamlining our accounting of critical minerals, we can identify and address vulnerabilities in the nation’s supply chains for essential materials like aluminum and lithium.
 
H.R. 7409→ Harnessing Energy at Thermal Sources (HEATS) Act
This bill promotes the development of geothermal energy by exempting geothermal operators from obtaining a federal drilling permit on state and private lands. Because this legislation mitigates unnecessary regulation from the federal government and facilitates domestically produced energy, I voted YES on the HEATS Act.

ABC News→ ABC News Live
I spoke with Kyra Phillips on ABC News Live about upcoming GOP priorities. The Republican Party is united in bringing America First policies to the table. I am looking forward to seeing how government efficiency improves in the next administration. 
 
NEWSMAX→ American Agenda
I joined the American Agenda on Monday to discuss the controversy surrounding the firing of a FEMA employee after telling a hurricane relief team in Florida to avoid homes with President Trump signs. This issue will be brought before the Oversight Committee. I applaud the FEMA response of firing the offending employee but know this is not an isolated incident, the increased polarizing rhetoric that is affecting everyday Americans comes straight from the top.
 
KXXV Channel 25→ Congressman Sessions explains what Congress is considering during lame-duck session
I spoke with KXXV this week about upcoming priorities in Congress. Many issues will be discussed in Congress, including the future of Social Security and the Farm Bill. 

TALK 1370→ Cardle & Woolley Show
In my regular appearance on the Cardle & Woolley Show, I discussed the latest Cabinet appointments with Lynn Woolley and guest host Chuck DeVore. This upcoming administration will place focus on ensuring government works for the people.