By Pete Sessions
In the heart of Central Texas, and indeed across rural America, families and small businesses consistently remind us that opportunities shouldn’t be confined to coastal areas. Entrepreneurs in Waco, along with farmers in Falls and Limestone Counties, deserve equal access to capital and public markets. It’s vital for maintaining a robust and competitive economy.
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Defence and Prosperity
That very commitment to securing America’s prosperity was my guiding principle when voting for this year’s National Defense Authorization Act. The NDAA ensures our troops receive a well-merited 3.8 percent pay increase. It also strengthens readiness, codifies pivotal executive orders from President Trump, and fortifies our nation’s peace-through-strength posture.
Ensuring Equitable Opportunities
As a senior member from Texas, my focus remains on ensuring that every community can grasp opportunities, that small businesses possess the necessary tools to flourish, and that America remains both secure and prosperous.
For additional information on economic developments in rural America, you can visit [Rural Economic Development](https://www.rd.usda.gov/).
Engaging with Our Community
Your engagement is invaluable, and I am grateful for the thoughtful feedback many of you have provided. I am committed to addressing these challenges transparently, ready to work across the aisle, focusing unwaveringly on protecting taxpayers and strengthening both Texas and our nation’s long-term economic health.
National Border Patrol Council Meeting
Congressman Sessions had the privilege of welcoming the National Border Patrol Council to Washington, D.C. Together, we discussed border conditions and ways to enhance the safety of our border patrol agents. For more on this vital subject, visit [National Border Patrol Council](https://www.bpunion.org/).
Postmaster General Roundtable
The Oversight Subcommittee on Government Operations hosted Postmaster General David Steiner for a roundtable. As Chair, I facilitated discussions among members, enabling them to address issues significant to their districts.
Meeting with the Administrator of CMS
In a meeting with Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator of CMS, we tackled numerous subjects, notably the treatment of Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP). This devastating disorder leads to progressive vision loss and blindness. Thankfully, emerging gene therapy treatments are becoming accessible to Americans.
As a dedicated advocate for the blind community in Congress, it’s heartening to hear about CMS’s efforts in treating and preventing RP. I anticipate further discussions with Dr. Oz, continuing the fight for the blind community. For advancements in gene therapy, explore [Gene Therapy for RP](https://www.fightingblindness.org/research/gene-therapy).
Introducing the Bipartisan REAL Act
I’ve introduced the bipartisan REAL Act with Congressman Bill Foster. This legislation aims to bring transparency and accountability to the federal government’s use of artificial intelligence. Texans appreciate clear and straightforward communication. This bill ensures that when federal agencies, including the President and Vice President, employ AI-generated content, the American people are kept informed. Transparency nurtures trust, and this legislation is about ensuring that new technologies are used responsibly and candidly. To learn more about AI legislative efforts, visit [AI Legislative Updates](https://www.congress.gov/).
Pete Sessions represents District 17, which includes Trinity County, in the U.S. House of Representatives.
