Honoring the life and service of Congresswoman Kay Granger

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Following last week’s final vote, I joined my colleagues for a moment of silence honoring the life and service of Congresswoman Kay Granger.

Congresswoman Granger represented Texas in Congress for 28 years, becoming the first Republican woman from Texas elected to the House and later the first Republican woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee.

It was a privilege to serve alongside Congresswoman Granger, a fellow Texan whose leadership, dedication, and years of public service left a lasting mark on our state and on Congress.

Unaccompanied Alien Children

I participated in a House Oversight Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement roundtable examining the trafficking and exploitation of unaccompanied alien children. We discussed how cartels profit from human trafficking, the role Chinese money laundering networks play in supporting these criminal operations, and the tools federal law enforcement needs to disrupt trafficking networks.

The roundtable also examined ways to strengthen sponsor vetting, improve information sharing between federal agencies, and better protect vulnerable children from exploitation.

American Economic Leadership

As a senior member of the House Financial Services Committee, I participated in a hearing focused on strengthening the American economy and promoting growth, opportunity, and prosperity.

I discussed with Circle President Heath Tarbert the importance of preserving the U.S. dollar’s dominant position in the global financial system and maintaining American leadership as financial markets continue to evolve. I also highlighted the importance of capitalism and a strong, growing American economy in ensuring the United States remains a leader in the world.

Firearm Suppressors

During a House Oversight Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement roundtable, I joined my colleagues in examining the Department of Justice’s posture toward firearm suppressors. We discussed the legitimate uses of suppressors, including their role in reducing the noise of gunfire and protecting hearing, recent developments in federal suppressor regulation, and concerns surrounding federal enforcement against law abiding firearm owners.

The roundtable also featured experts from the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the American Suppressor Association, and a retired Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives official.

Identity Fraud

Congressman Bill Foster and I spoke at Identity Week America during a fireside chat focused on privacy, emerging technology, and the growing challenge of identity theft and fraud.

We discussed our bipartisan Stop Identity Fraud and Identity Theft Act, which would help states improve identity verification systems while keeping participation voluntary and preserving physical identification options.

The conversation also addressed AI driven fraud and the importance of protecting Americans’ personal information while improving the security of our financial and government systems.

FedEx tour

The tour of the FedEx Memphis Hub offered a first-hand look at how private industry uses innovation and efficiency to manage a highly sophisticated package processing operation. The visit included a look inside the FedEx command center, where FedEx coordinates package movement and logistics across its network.

It was an impressive example of how technology, planning, and private sector innovation support efficient large-scale distribution.

USPS Field Visit

As Chairman of the House Oversight Subcommittee on Government Operations, I hosted a visit with members of Congress at the U.S. Postal Service facility in St. Louis to examine regional and national issues affecting mail delivery.

The visit followed a request from Congresswoman Ann Wagner, who has worked for years to address ongoing mail delivery problems in the St. Louis region and press for greater accountability.

Congresswoman Wagner has made clear that the St. Louis community “deserves on time mail delivery from the United States Postal Service,” and I appreciate her leadership in bringing these concerns to our Committee as we work to improve service for Missourians and Americans across the country.

Service Academy Forum

I invite high school students in grades 9 through 12, parents, and educators to attend the 2026 Central Texas U.S. Service Academy Forum on Saturday, Sept. 19, in Round Rock. The event will provide information about the admissions process for all five U.S. Service Academies: West Point, the Air Force Academy, the Naval Academy, the Merchant Marine Academy, and the Coast Guard Academy.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with congressional and academy representatives and hear from admissions representatives, parents, academy board members, and current cadets and midshipmen.

The forum will take place from 8:30 a.m. to noon, with doors opening at 8:15 a.m., at the Cedar Ridge High School Fine Arts Auditorium, 2801 Gattis School Road, Round Rock, TX 78664. The event is free, and no reservation is necessary.

Pete Sessions represents District 17, which includes Trinity County, in the U.S. House of Representatives.