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February 14, 2025
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Meeting with Governor Abbott
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| Congressman Sessions and Governor Abbott |
Congressman Sessions, Governor Abbott, Senator Cornyn, Congressman McCaul, and Senator Cruz |
Happy Valentine’s Day! This week in Washington was full of monumental moments directly impacting TX-17. On Wednesday, I hosted Governor Abbott in a meeting with all 25 Texas Republican Members of Congress and Senators Cornyn and Cruz. As the Dean of the Texas Delegation, I am committed to leveraging our collective strength and uniting this group to advance Texas' agenda. When we come together as a team, we will be successful.
One of the most pressing issues facing Texas is the Biden Administration’s disastrous and dangerous approach to the southern border. In response to government inaction, Governor Abbott launched Operation Lone Star to protect not just Texas, but all of America from criminals pouring through our open border. I am proud of our state for stepping up and taking action on a responsibility that should have fallen on our federal government while the Biden Administration put our entire country at risk. We have agreed to circulate a letter to the Trump Administration to bring attention to Texas’ actions in protecting our nation.
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Baylor University |
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| Congressman Sessions spoke to Coach Aranda and President Livingstone |
On Tuesday, I had the honor of welcoming Baylor University President Linda Livingstone to my office to discuss the university’s federal priorities. As a proud Wacoan, I’ve been a lifelong fan of Baylor football, so it was a true pleasure to also host Coach Dave Aranda. During our meeting, President Livingstone, Coach Aranda, and I discussed the rapidly evolving landscape of collegiate athletics. With the introduction of NIL, it's crucial that we work to maintain a level playing field for both athletes and universities. Ensuring fairness and integrity in this new era is essential for the future of college sports.
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McLennan Community College |
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| Congressman Sessions speaks with students from MCC |
Also on Tuesday, President Johnette McKown of McClennan Community College brought a group of MCC students to visit my office. President McKown plays a vital role in our community by investing in the future of our country through the students at MCC. In FY23, I secured funding for MCC’s Health Professions Simulation Lab for a technology and equipment upgrade. It was rewarding to hear firsthand how this funding is positively impacting students and enhancing their education. I’m proud to support institutions like MCC that are shaping the leaders of tomorrow. |
Financial Services Committee
On Wednesday, we held a full committee hearing in the House Committee on Financial Services with Chairman of the Federal Reserve Jerome Powell testifying as the key witness. As the Federal Reserve operates under the direct oversight of Congress, this hearing was important to fulfill that responsibility. Transparency is essential for maintaining trust and stability in our financial system, and we are committed to ensuring the Federal Reserve remains accountable. Click here to see my remarks.
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Brazos Valley Council of Governments
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| Congressman Sessions meets with BVCOG |
Monday, I met with local officials that make up the Brazos Valley Council of Governments to discuss key issues facing the TX-17 region. We touched on the problem of limited broadband access in rural Texas and discussed government overreach in the high-speed rail project. I remain firmly opposed to the high-speed rail proposal, as it threatens local control, and has been a failure in California, where billions of taxpayer dollars have been spent with little progress and no end in sight. What was originally a proposed $10 billion private investment has ballooned into a $40 billion project seeking another $10 billion in federal aid. I’m committed to supporting our local leaders against the high-speed rail project.
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GATX Rail
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| Congressman Sessions and staff meet with GATX |
On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to meet with representatives from GATX, a railcar leasing company with a 300+ employee facility in Hearne. We discussed some of the challenges faced by owner-lessors, including issues surrounding rate parity. I appreciate GATX for taking the time to meet with me, and I look forward to visiting their Hearne facility later this year to understand their operations on the ground.
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National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
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| Congressman Sessions speaks with the NFFF |
On Wednesday, I met with members of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, including Lufkin’s Fire Marshal. As a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I am committed to supporting fire safety personnel. We discussed how Congress can support firefighters before, during, and after their careers. I am incredibly grateful for the work of the NFFF in assisting the families and communities of America's fallen fire heroes, as well as for all fire personnel who dedicate their lives to keeping us safe.
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Texas Trucking Association
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| Congressman Sessions and the Texas Trucking Association |
This week, I met with the Texas Trucking Association to discuss key issues affecting the trucking industry. This is a thriving sector in TX-17, but it faces challenges that require legislative action. We focused on the damaging impact of unjust nuclear verdicts that can destroy small, locally owned trucking companies. These excessive legal decisions are a form of court weaponization that threatens the livelihood of small trucking business owners. Additionally, we discussed how restrictive regulations, like California's Clean Air Act waivers, impede business and harm interstate commerce. I support our truckers and will continue to work on legislative solutions to protect and support this vital industry.
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SAVE THE DATE: TOWN HALL
I will be in Trinity County next weekend for a town hall! This is a time for constituents to share their thoughts, concerns, and opinions on how I can serve you in Congress. This will take place at 2:00 PM at the City of Trinity Community Center (640 S Robb St. Trinity, TX 75862) on Saturday, February 22. I hope to see you there!
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H.R. 77→ Midnight Rules Relief Act
I was a YES on this legislation that makes it easier for Congress to disapprove last minute, "midnight rules" enacted by outgoing administrations. This will help Congress combat the hundreds of regulations imposed by unelected bureaucrats from the Biden Administration.
H.R. 35→ Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act
This legislation imposes criminal and immigration penalties for intentionally fleeing a pursing federal officer while operating a motor vehicle. This reflects our commitment to securing the border and protecting Americans from dangerous criminals. Another YES from me.
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FOX→ Fox Newsroom
NEWSMAX→ The Count with Lidia Curanaj
CNN→ Newsroom with Pamela Brown
NPR→ All Things Considered
CNN→ CNN News Central
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| Sincerely, |
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| Pete Sessions |
| Member of Congress |
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