February 28, 2025

Fireside Sessions

Trinity Town Hall

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Congressman Sessions speaks at a town hall in Trinity Town hall attendees and Congressman Sessions Congressman Sessions and Commissioner Neal Smith of Trinity County Precinct 3

Last weekend, I was in Trinity for a town hall meeting. These events are crucial for ensuring that I can represent you effectively in Washington. I value the thoughts and insights of each and every one of you, and I encourage open dialogue. My time in Trinity was truly productive. We engaged in a thoughtful and meaningful discussion that I believe was worth everyone’s time. You may have come across a story in the New York Times covering the event. Unfortunately, I felt this media portrayal was misleading and did not capture the true spirit of our conversation. Every attendee was respectful, and our discussion was constructive. I invite you to watch the full event here for yourself and form your own opinion. If you were not able to attend, stay connected through my newsletter or follow me on social media for updates about where I will be holding my next town hall.

Trinity, thank you for showing up with your questions and ideas. I believe that East Texans have the solutions for the problems that our nation faces, and I am committed to bringing your ideas to Washington. Your active participation is key to shaping the future of our country.

Big 12 Student Leaders

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Congressman Sessions speaks to student leaders
On Monday, I kicked off my week in Washington with a meeting with Big 12 student leaders, including some representing Baylor University. We had a productive discussion about the current job market for college graduates and the role of Congress in facilitating pathways to employment. I remain committed to reducing inflation, which will not only help with affordability, but also increase opportunities for recent college graduates. It is always a pleasure to speak with such talented and ambitious students, and I am confident that the future of country is in good hands.

House Financial Services Committee

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Congressman Sessions speaks in FSC
On Tuesday, the House Financial Services Committee held a hearing titled "Examining Policies to Counter China." To maintain the United States' position as the global financial leader, we must continue to champion free markets and capitalism, fostering an economic system that prioritizes innovation. While technological innovation is key to countering China’s influence, we must also protect our communities from threats like fentanyl trafficking, a crisis that is being fueled in part by China. To address this, I am proud to co-sponsor Congressman Andy Ogles’ Stop Fentanyl Money Laundering Act, which empowers the Treasury Department to target money laundering activities that facilitate fentanyl trafficking. This important legislation falls under the jurisdiction of the Financial Services Committee, and we are fully committed to combating China on both financial and criminal fronts. You can see my hearing remarks here.

Capital Markets Subcommittee

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Congressman Sessions speaks in subcommittee hearing

Also in the Financial Services Committee, the Subcommittee on Capital Markets, of which I am a member, held a hearing this week. This hearing was entitled, "The Future of American Capital: Strengthening Public and Private Markets by Increasing Investor Access and Facilitating Capital Formation." We focused on the critical importance of capital formation for businesses of all sizes. Capital formation plays a crucial role in our long-term economic growth in our communities. You can view my comments here.

Independent Bankers Association of Texas

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Congressman Sessions and IBAT in the Capitol Rotunda

On Wednesday, I met with members of the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) from TX-17. Community banks play a vital role in supporting our local economies. I agree with IBAT that lowering burdensome government regulations will foster a more productive business environment and help our community banks thrive. These institutions are integral to supporting small businesses and are often victims of fraudulent activity. I am committed to policy that protects our banks and decreases regulations.

The evening before our meeting, I had the pleasure of taking these IBAT visitors on a tour of the U.S. Capitol. It was an opportunity to show them firsthand how impactful legislation is formulated and continue the important dialogue about how Congress can support the growth and stability of our local banks.

United Aerial Firefighters Association

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Congressman Sessions and UAFA

Wednesday afternoon, I met with the United Aerial Firefighters Association (UAFA). We discussed opportunities to improve wildfire management across the country, while supporting small businesses providing rural jobs. With three beautiful national forests in TX-17, I am committed to supporting personnel like companies with UAFA that protect our communities vulnerable to wildfires.

Legislation of the Week

H.Con.Res.14→ FY25 Budget Resolution
Tuesday night we passed the FY25 budget resolution. This bill allows us to begin work to pass a legislative package that will grow the economy by $2.6 trillion over 10 years from 2.6% average growth. We will save $829 billion in discretionary spending and ensure President Trump’s tax cuts will become permanent. I voted YES.
 
H.J. Res. 20→ Reversing the Biden-Harris Administration's Ban on Gas Water Heaters
This legislation addresses the Biden Administration’s ban on gas-fired water heaters, rescinding a rule that restricts the water heaters that millions of Americans rely on, bringing back a prioritization of consumer choice and affordability. I was a YES.

H.J. Res. 35→ Repealing the Natural Gas Tax
My fellow Texan Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) led this legislation to repeal the rule that implemented the Biden Administration’s Waste Emissions Charge, or natural gas tax. This rule harms innovation and creates red tape for businesses and consumers. I voted YES.


In the News

Fox Business NetworkThe Bottom Line
Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10) and I spoke to The Bottom Line about the House Oversight Committee's perspective of cuts made to government. 
 
CNNNewsroom with Pamela Brown
I told Pamela Brown about my town hall and gave an overview of what I want to see from the executive branch's DOGE. 
 
NewsmaxTodd Starnes Show
Todd Starnes and I discussed the actions of President Trump's cabinet, from major changes in security at the border under Tom Homan to increased efficiency at the EPA under Lee Zeldin. 

Sincerely,
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Pete Sessions
Member of Congress

 

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