March 7, 2025

Fireside Sessions

Texas History

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This week, we commemorated the anniversary of some big moments in Texas history. March 2 marked Texas Independence Day, when delegates met at Washington-on-the-Brazos to declare independence from Santa Anna and Mexico, establishing the Republic of Texas. Just 4 days later, on March 6, the Battle of the Alamo came to a tragic end. These events represent the cradle of Texas liberty. Texans today continue to display a strong resolve for freedom. Proud to be a Texan!

Joint Address to Congress

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Congressman Sessions' view from the House floor of President Trump
On Tuesday, President Trump delivered his State of the Union Address to Congress, highlighting the promises he has fulfilled and reaffirming his commitment to making America great again. Throughout his tenure, President Trump has remained an open and transparent leader, keeping the American people consistently informed. On Wednesday evening, I had the opportunity to meet with Elon Musk and several members of Congress. This Administration is dedicated to openness, and I look forward to collaborating further with President Trump to reduce the size of federal bureaucracy and streamline government operations.

Veterans of Foreign Wars

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Congressman Sessions and staff meet with VFW
On Monday afternoon, representatives from Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) visited to discuss veterans’ issues. These brave men and women have sacrificed so much for our country, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the care, support, and recognition they deserve. I remain committed to supporting our nation's heroes, and I will continue to push for legislative solutions that address their needs.

Brazos Transit District

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Congressman Sessions meets the Brazos Transit District board

On Tuesday, I met with board members of the Brazos Transit District, including Nacogdoches City Councilman Roy Boldon and Lufkin Mayor Pro Tem Robert Shankle. By providing affordable and accessible transportation services across the Brazos Valley, the Brazos Transit District plays a vital role in the community. The Brazos Transit District is expanding access to jobs, goods, and services throughout the Brazos Valley. I fully support their efforts and look forward to continuing our partnership to address the transportation needs of TX-17.

Commissioner Will Jones

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Commissioner Will Jones speaks with Congressman Sessions

This week, I had the opportunity to meet with McLennan County Precinct 3 Commissioner Will Jones to discuss important issues related to rural policies and water management. Commissioner Jones shared valuable insights into the unique challenges our rural communities face, particularly concerning agriculture and infrastructure. Local leaders like Commissioner Jones play an indispensable role in advocating for the needs of our communities, and his deep knowledge and commitment to serving McLennan County is evident in the work he does.

Texas Farm Bureau

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Congressman Sessions and President Will Boening discuss legislative priorities

It is always a pleasure to hear from President Russell Boening of the Texas Farm Bureau, and I was glad to have the opportunity to meet with him in my office this week. Our conversation was insightful and productive, as we had much to discuss regarding the new Administration. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with President Boening and the TFB through this Congress to support policies that will strengthen our agricultural communities.

Oversight and Government Reform

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Hearing witnesses testify before the House Oversight Committee 

On Wednesday, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform held an important hearing on so-called “sanctuary cities.” Testifying were the mayors of Boston, New York City, Denver, and Chicago. While the responsibility of any mayor should be ensuring the safety and well-being of their residents, these mayors are compromising that duty by refusing to cooperate with federal law enforcement agencies and harboring illegal aliens. Rather than offering sanctuary, these cities are teeming with danger for their residents. I hope that after our conversation, these mayors will be open to working with us to make America's cities SAFE again. Click here to view my remarks.

Financial Services Committee

The Financial Services Committee held a markup this week of legislation, including H.R. 1577, the Stop Fentanyl Money Laundering Act of 2025, of which I am a cosponsor. This legislation permits the Treasury Department to act if financial institutions outside the United States are suspected of facilitating money laundering for narcotics purposes. The legislation of the House Financial Services Committee is essential for protecting our financial institutions and ensuring American greatness on the global stage.

Legislation of the Week

H.J. Res. 42Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Energy relating to "Energy Conservation Program for Appliance Standards: Certification Requirements, Labeling Requirements, and Enforcement Provisions for Certain Consumer Products and Commercial Equipment"

Rescinds a rule that places additional costs and red tape on appliance manufacturers. I voted YES to prevent consumers from bearing the cost of unnecessary regulation.
 
H.J. Res. 61Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Rubber Tire Manufacturing"

This legislation repeals the rule implementing the Biden-Harris Administration’s National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for the rubber tire manufacturing sector. The costly and unnecessary regulatory requirements of this rule raise prices and threaten manufacturing jobs. I voted YES.

S.J. Res. 11A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management relating to "Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources"

This Senate Joint Resolution nullifies a rule that mandates time-intensive and unnecessary archaeological reports for oil and gas development plans. I voted YES to stop deterring investment in American resources.

H. Res. 189Censuring Representative Al Green of Texas

During President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress, my colleague from Texas Congressman Al Green refused to follow the rules of decorum. This is unacceptable behavior from a Member of Congress, I voted YES on this measure to censure Congressman Green.


In the News

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Sincerely,
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Pete Sessions
Member of Congress

 

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