With Washington in gridlock for the past few months, this week was a giant step forward for our nation. North Texans – and all Texans – are celebrating several milestones in Washington.
The embattled Export-Import Bank passed the House earlier this week moving on to Congressional approval. A program that has been under much debate for the past several years, the Ex-Im Bank provides loans and loan guarantees to allow foreign customers to buy U.S. goods and services. Many members of the North Texas Commission have been advocating for the renewal of the bank’s charter, which impacts many of the region’s small and medium-sized manufacturers.
Thank you to all of you who reached out to your elected officials to stress the importance of this bank to keeping the Texas and U.S. economy strong.
North Texas Congressman Sam Johnson was appointed as the interim Ways and Means Chair, filling a vacancy left by the newly appointed Speaker Paul Ryan.
“I am honored to serve the Ways and Means Committee during this time of transition,” Johnson said in a statement. “Under Chairman Ryan’s leadership we have enjoyed great successes, and I will continue to focus our efforts on critical issues moving forward.”
Congressman Johnson is a hero and inspiration to many across our region, state and the country. A decorated war hero and native Texan, he ranks among the few Members of Congress to fight in combat. During his 29-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Representative Johnson flew combat missions in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He endured nearly seven years as a Prisoner of War in Hanoi, including 42 months in solitary confinement.
Also, congratulations to Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan, the new Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Texas wishes you the best of luck in your new position.
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