Congressman Pete Sessions of Texas Meets Political Science Students

Congressman Sessions, shown here with future intern Shane, met students on the steps of the Capitol.  He gave a brief motivational speech and then answered questions (below.) 

Emily presents Leigh Carter Young with HHS gear in appreciation for arranging this meeting.  

Shane- On November 12 we will be visiting the Iranian Interests Section for a discussion of US/Iran relations. If you could ask the representatives of Iran we are going to meet one question, what would you ask?  ANSWER- Do you get that the world wants to be a safer, more peaceful place? Whenever the ideals of peace and freedom come up you always shoot them down.  The only thing that comes from your country is killing and demonizing.  What don't you get? 

Christeen- Many in my class thought the proposed penalty for transporting a minor across state lines for an abortion to circumvent state parental notification laws, one year in prison and a fine, was too harsh.  Isn't it more appropriate for a judge to determine a penalty for breaking the law instead of members of congress?  ANSWER- No. It's to be understood by the facts of the case.  This is a decision made by the legislature over here (pointing to Capitol Dome) not over there (pointing to Supreme Court).  We legislate, they interpret the law. And minors in Texas can't even get tattoos without parental permission.

Gonzallo- A member of the Texas Congressional Delegation, Congressman Ron Paul, seems to have views that are vastly different than other Republican members of the Texas delegation, whether on  Iraq, Israel or domestic policy.  If someone challenged him in a Republican primary would you consider endorsing his challenger if the challenger had views more in line with yours?  ANSWER- Dr. Paul is a good man and a friend of mine.  Now, he's a libertarian Republican, I'm a conservative Republican. He's a libertarian who chooses to vote with Republicans. He votes along the line of not wanting to reduce, but to abolish.

Megan (left)- On the recent Jewish holy days, our school, Herndon High School was vandalized.  Someone spray-painted doors and windows with swastikas.  Considering that was obviously targeted towards Jewish students and teachers, do you think that should be considered a separate and more serious crime than non-specific vandalism?  ANSWER- A person that would do that is stupid and probably didn't know any better. Vandalism is not enough to cover a reason but it is more than vandalism because of malicious intent.  However it should not be a federal crime.

Sydney (identified herself as interning next semester for Speaker Nancy Pelosi)-As Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, what are the chances of Republicans taking control of the House of Representatives after the 2010 elections?  ANSWER- Pelosi. I've heard of her!  Well as you know every member of the House is up for reelection.  But Pelosi is dramatically bad. She will lose 10 million jobs. She is starting a jobless recovery. I want a free enterprise zone, not a class struggle.

Congressman Sessions challenged any of the students to debate any points he  had made. Stephanie, took him on regarding the Obama stimulus and its effect on the economy.  It was a spirited exchange!

Congressman Sessions introduced Congressman Brett Guthrie from Kentucky.  Congressman Guthrie discussed how his life had changed since becoming a member of Congress.

Connor 

Shayma (right) after a successful interview with Congressman Ron Kind's staffer Meghan Roh. They are in the Longworth House Office Building.