Come and Read It Report
Dear Texans,
Last week, President Trump reminded us of what makes our nation great. I have always said the federal government should do three things: collect our taxes, defend our borders, help us with infrastructure, and then get out of the way. Right now, our economy is booming, and the President has acknowledged the need to fix our nation's infrastructure. He is committed to rebuilding our military, and I believe we are on the right path to being stronger than ever before. Our country needs a commonsense business approach to government, and I am committed to working on an agenda that will benefit all Americans.
Declassified FISA Memo
Last Friday, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence released the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) memo to the public. To be clear, those individuals who demonstrated clear and abhorrent abuse of power are few and far between and should not be a reflection of the Department of Justice and FBI as a whole. Government transparency is absolutely paramount in maintaining the trust of the American people, and I am glad the memo has been released to the public.
Tax Reform Update
Have you checked your check? Starting February 1, Americans from all over are starting to see more money in their paychecks as a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. U.S. employers added over 200,000 jobs in January alone, and wages increased at the fastest pace in more than eight years. Every single day we are learning of more major and local businesses announcing pay increases for their employees and it's all thanks to the historic overhaul to our nation's tax code.
Legislative Update
Last week: we voted on and passed six legislative items. I also participated in a Financial Services Committee hearing on the Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit. If you missed it, you can watch it here.
This week: the Committee is holding a hearing today to question U.S. Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin regarding the 2017 annual report of the Financial Stability Oversight Council. You can watch it here.
Amtrak Train Update
Lastly, many of you heard about the Amtrak collision last Wednesday that was carrying Republican Members of Congress to our annual legislative planning retreat in West Virginia. I was on the train with my colleagues, but thankfully, was not injured. I am grateful for all the security, doctors, and first responders on site who secured the area and assisted those who were injured. I ask that you continue praying for everyone who was involved and hurt in the collision.
It is an honor and privilege to represent the people of Texas' 25th Congressional District and as always, please reach out to me with any issues and concerns that are important to you.
In God we Trust,
Roger Williams
Member of Congress