Enjoyed another week in TX-17. Last Friday evening, I had the honor of celebrating the Heart of Texas recipients of the 2024 Congressional Veterans Commendation. These remarkable veterans have not only served our country with distinction, but they have continued to dedicate themselves to service by making a positive impact in our community after their active-duty careers.
The stories of these remarkable individuals tell of inspirational sacrifice for others around them, both on the battlefield and in civilian life. Thank you for your service, and for being shining examples of leadership and resilience in our community.
MCC Scholars dinner
On Sunday, I joined the President of McLennan County College Dr. McKown and her McKown Scholars for dinner. It was inspiring to hear their innovative ideas and perspectives on issues facing our community and nation. It was encouraging to engage with these future leaders; I am confident that our future is bright and secure.
Farm tour
Each year, I embark on a tour of agricultural operations throughout TX-17. On Monday, I began my tour in Falls County. I continued my tour with stops in Williamson, Leon, and Nacogdoches County. It was great for members of my staff and myself to connect directly with our farmers and hear about their vital work.
One issue that was brought to my attention was the loss of agricultural land due to urban growth, concerning green energy projects, and environmental degradation. Hearing their stories and discussing their needs provided invaluable insights into how the federal government can better support their efforts from Washington.
Our farmers are essential not just to our economy, but to the fabric of our society, and I am proud to represent so many hardworking individuals who contribute to our community’s strength and resilience. I am dedicated to the advancement of resources and policies that support our agricultural sector.
I want to express my gratitude to the Texas Farm Bureau for organizing this tour and for their unwavering support of the agricultural community in TX-17.
Bakelite and West Fraser manufacturing tours
On Wednesday, I was able to tour the facilities of both West Fraser in Lufkin and Bakelite Synthetics in Nacogdoches. These two manufacturers are among the thousands that would be negatively impacted by the EPA’s upcoming formaldehyde ruling that would lower the chemical to levels that are undetectable to modern technology.
I questioned the EPA director over this nonsensical proposal in a House Committee on Oversight and Accountability hearing back in July. These manufacturers play a vital role in our economy so it is crucial to oppose EPA’s regulatory overreach that would level our industrial landscape.
Lufkin Forward
On Thursday, I had the pleasure of being in Lufkin to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Lufkin Forward initiative. The project to revitalize downtown Lufkin provided improvements to make the downtown more pedestrian-friendly and create public spaces to encourage community and advance business opportunity.
Lufkin is a beautiful community important to East Texas, and I am excited to see how the Lufkin Forward project will have an impact on generations to come.
Pete Sessions represents District 17, which includes Trinity County, in the U.S. House of Representatives.
