News (Noticias) Tagged ‘Silvestre Reyes’

Congressman Silvestre Reyes, Chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and South Florida Democratic Candidates Joe Garcia (FL-25) and Annette Taddeo (FL-18) will hold a press conference to discuss veterans’ issues with concerned veterans and supporters.

Congressman Reyes, Joe Garcia, and Annette Taddeo will talk about the need to protect our veterans when they return home from bravely serving our country, and bringing a responsible end to the war in Iraq.

WHO: Congressman Silvestre Reyes
Joe Garcia (FL-25)
Annette Taddeo (FL-18)
WHAT: Veterans’ issues
WHEN: 10:00 am, Monday, October 27, 2008
WHERE: Best Western Kendall Hotel & Suites
8560 SW 124th Avenue
Kendall, Florida, 33183″

Homepage: http://www.house.gov/baca/chc/

Wikipedia Entry: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Congressional_Hispanic_Caucus

About: (from their site’s about page )

“The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) is comprised of 21 Members of Congress of Hispanic descent. The Caucus is dedicated to voicing and advancing, through the legislative process, issues affecting Hispanics in the United States and Puerto Rico. The CHC was founded in December 1976 as a legislative service organization of the United States House of Representatives. Today, the CHC is organized as a Congressional Member organization, governed under the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives.”

Contact Information

• Phone:(202) 225-2410
• Fax:(202) 225-8671
• 1527 Longworth HOB

  Washington, DC 20515

Officers

• Chair: Joe Baca (CA43)
• 1st Vice Chair: Raul M. Grijalva (AZ07)
• 2nd Vice Chair: Charles A. Gonzalez (TX20)
• Whip: Grace F. Napolitano (CA38)

Members

• Xavier Becerra (CA31)
• Dennis Cardoza (CA18)
• Jim Costa (CA20)
• Henry Cuellar (TX28)
• Charles A. Gonzalez (TX20)
• Raul M. Grijalva (AZ07)
• Luis V. Gutierrez (IL04)
• Rubén Hinojosa (TX15)
• Robert Menendez (NJ)
• Grace F. Napolitano (CA38)
• Solomon Ortiz (TX27)
• Ed Pastor (AZ04)
• Silvestre Reyes (TX16)
• Ciro Rodriguez (TX23)
• Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA34)
• John Salazar (CO03)
• José Serrano (NY16)
• Albio Sires (NJ13)
• Hilda Solis (CA32)
• Nydia Velázquez (NY12)

A complaint against U.S. Rep. Silvestre Reyes, D-Texas, has been filed with the House Committee on Conduct of Official Standards by Friends of the Border Patrol after Reyes’ office asked a federal law enforcement agency for help in the kidnapping of a relative in Juárez.”*

U.S. law enforcement authorities helped facilitate a $32,000 ransom payment in Mexico for a relative of a U.S. congressman who was kidnapped last week by gunmen in Ciudad Juarez, a border city with rampant drug smuggling, gunfights and corruption. “*

For more than 26 years I served on the border, first as a Border Patrol agent, and eventually as sector chief in McAllen and later El Paso, Texas. I know first hand what it takes to keep our enemies out, including drug dealers and human traffickers. For years in Congress I’ve worked to advance and improve our nation’s border security and reform our immigration laws.

From fighting to end the so-called catch-and-release policy on non-Mexicans caught crossing the border, to working to provide our Border Patrol with the resources they need. I’ve always kept the mindset that this is not about Republicans or Democrats. It’s about doing what’s right for our country. One thing was clear to me from the beginning both as a Border Patrol agent and as a member of Congress. We cannot solve our nation’s immigration and border security problems with a piecemeal approach. “*

An aide of U.S. Rep. Silvestre Reyes, D-Texas, contacted the Immigration and Customs Enforcement assistant attache in Mexico to report that a Mexican citizen who is related to Reyes had been kidnapped, according to an internal ICE memo.”*

The U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) today announced that the Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi will deliver the keynote address at the 2008 USHCC Legislative Conference Awards Dinner. Themed “Hispanic Business: Shaping Tomorrow’s Policy,” the Legislative Conference is the nation’s leading legislative forum for the Hispanic business community and will take place in Washington DC, March 11 – 13.

“It is an honor to join the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at their annual Legislative Awards Dinner. The USHCC is a valued partner working with Hispanic businesses across the country, and a powerful advocate for Hispanic families. Democrats in Congress have worked with USHCC to pass landmark legislation that give Hispanic businesses the tools and capital they need to succeed,” said Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

The Legislative Awards Dinner will draw Hispanic entrepreneurs and Chamber leaders from across the nation, as well as key representatives from Corporate America and top-level members of Congress and the Administration. Along with Speaker Pelosi’s address, the event will also feature the 2008 USHCC Awards presented to a distinguished group of elected officials who have championed and advanced Hispanic entrepreneurship.

“We could not be more honored to have Speaker Pelosi as our keynote speaker,” said David C. Lizárraga, USHCC Board Chairman. “We are privileged to have such an exemplary national leader stand shoulder to shoulder with the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the entire Hispanic business community. Speaker Pelosi continues to lead our country toward realizing the American Dream of homeownership and entrepreneurship by passing laws that provide access to capital for all Americans. Her continued work with the USHCC has proven that, under her leadership, the growing Hispanic business community will continue to advance and contribute to the prosperity of our nation.”

As the keynote speaker for this year’s USHCC Legislative Conference Awards Dinner, Speaker Pelosi joins an illustrious group of past keynoters including Sen. Mel Martinez, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Silvestre Reyes, and United States Surgeon General Richard Carmona. .

Speaker Pelosi made U.S. history by becoming the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House of Representatives. As the highest-ranking elected woman in American history, she is second only to the Vice President in the line of presidential succession.

The Legislative Conference brings together the nation’s top business owners, Chamber representatives, opinion leaders and key governmental and administration officials for a three-day forum to address the most pressing legislative concerns of the nation’s largest and fastest growing business segment—Hispanic entrepreneurs. Expanding hemispheric relations and trade, telecommunications, energy efficiency, and federal procurement opportunities are among the key issues that will receive top billing at this year’s Legislative Conference.

For a complete list of major events at the 2008 USHCC Legislative Conference, or for more news on the lineup of speakers and dignitaries, special events and registration information, visit www.ushcc.com, the interactive source for all Legislative Conference information.

Note to Journalists:
General press and analyst registration is available at www.ushcc.com/news-legislative18th.html. Journalists are encouraged to submit their media credential applications by Friday, March 7 to take advantage of all the Legislative Conference press events.

About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of more than 2.5 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States that generate more than $388 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for 200 local Hispanic chambers in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, Bolivia and Uruguay.

UPCOMING EVENTS

– Briefing on White House Issues*-Tentative
Tuesday, March 11, 2:00 PM
– Latina Leaders Reception*
Tuesday, March 11, 6:30 – 8:00 PM
– Breakfast on the Hill
Wednesday, March 12, 8:00 – 9:15 AM
– Plenary on Immigration
Wednesday, March 12, 9:30 – 10:30 AM
– Workshops
Thursday, March 13, 8:30 AM – 5:10 PM
– Legislative Luncheon*
Thursday, March 13, 12:30 – 2:00 PM
– Legislative Reception*
Thursday, March 13, 6:00 – 7:00 PM
– Legislative Awards Dinner*
Thursday, March 13, 7:00 – 9:30 PM “*

*From: http://www.hispanicprwire.com
Traducido: usando Google o Altavista/Babel Fish

Congressman Silvestre Reyes, D-El Paso, released the following statement in response to the Bush Administration’s proposed fiscal year 2009 budget:

“At a time when El Paso seniors and working families are challenged to pay for health care and heating, what does that Bush Administration propose for their fiscal year 2009 budget? Major cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and billions in new fees for our veterans. My colleagues and I in Congress will fight these misplaced priorities and enact a budget that will move our country in a new direction and reflect the real needs of El Paso and the nation.””*

*From: http://www.newspapertree.com/
Traducido: usando Google o Altavista/Babel Fish

The first session of the 110th Congress began in 2007 with a pair of significant firsts for the Hispanic community:

Rep. Nydia Velazquez, D-N.Y., became the first Latina ever to chair a full congressional committee when she took over the House Small Business Committee, and Democrat Silvestre Reyes of Texas became the first Hispanic to chair the influential House Select Committee on Intelligence.

The year began with high expectations on a number of fronts, including immigration. Democrats had largely run in 2006 on the promise that if they won control of Congress, they would certainly take up comprehensive immigration reform, including a path to legalize many of the estimated 12 million undocumented persons residing in the United States.”*

*From: http://www.scrippsnews.com
Traducido: usando Google o Altavista/Babel Fish

“The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) gathers Members of Congress and national leaders for its 30th anniversary Hispanic Heritage Month events, celebrating “Hispanic America: A Legacy of Honor,” October 1 - 3, 2007. Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients, WWII veterans of El Paso’s Company E, and Latino veterans now serving in the U.S. Congress highlight the week’s events.

Company E of El Paso, TX (141st Army Infantry Regiment, 36th Division) will be recognized during a Salute to Veterans at the Public Policy Conference. Company E was the only all-Chicano unit during World War II. Despite their heroism in confronting German forces, they still faced discrimination at home. Company E members Ricardo Palacios, Sr., accompanied by his son, Ricardo Palacios, Jr., and David Navarrete, son of Company E member Captain Gabriel Navarrete, will participate in the event. Hispanic Members of Congress who have served in the military will also share their stories, including Congressmen Joe Baca, Solomon Ortiz, Silvestre Reyes, and John Salazar.

Forty Members of Congress, an unprecedented number, unite to honor Hispanic veterans at the 30th Annual Gala. This year’s Chairman’s Award, selected by CHCI Chairman, Hon. Joe Baca (CA-43), will honor all Hispanic veterans who have served our country and pay tribute to three of five living Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients who will be present, Alejandro Renteria Ruiz, Rodolfo Perez Hernandez, and Alfred Rascon.

In addition, Congressman Ciro Rodrigues will host a Summit on veterans as part of the Public Policy Conference.

Public Policy Conference Washington DC Convention Center

Tuesday October 2, 2007
8:00 am - 10:00 am Summit on Veterans
Hosted by Congressman Ciro Rodriguez

11:30 am - 12:30 pm Salute to Veterans: Latino Veterans in Their Own
Words
With Company E and Latino veterans in Congress

30th Annual Gala Washington DC Convention Center

6:30 pm -10:00 pm Honoring Hispanic veterans and Medal of Honor
recipients

For press credentials, please contact: Scott Gunderson Rosa at 202-340-7073 or via email at sgunderson_rosa@chci.org.
Website:

“The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) today announced details of its 2007 Public Policy Conference, part of its 30th Anniversary Hispanic Heritage Month events. Hispanic Members of Congress and prominent Latino experts and national leaders will participate in more than 30 separate events taking place on September 30 - October 3, 2007, at the Washington DC, Convention Center, under the theme Hispanic America: A Legacy of Honor.

“This year we honor the accomplishments and contributions of Latinos to the fabric of our nation,” said Congressman Joe Baca (CA-43), CHCI Chairman. “Latinos have a rich history in this country and America’s future legacy will be greatly affected by the success and achievements of the growing Latino community.”

Members of Congress will lead discussions on various issues of importance to Latinos, including summits and plenary sessions on education, business, civil rights, health, housing, immigration, labor and technology. The following is the Summit schedule:

Monday, October 1, 2007 10:30 am - 12:30 pm
Banking & Finance - Cong. Loretta Sanchez (CA)
Corporate America - Cong. Joe Baca (CA)
Education A - Cong. Ruben Hinojosa (TX)
Health A - Cong. Hilda Solis (CA)
Mental Health - Cong. Grace Napolitano (CA)
Workforce - Cong. Ed Pastor (AZ)

Tuesday, October 2, 2007 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Civil Rights - Cong. Charles Gonzalez (TX)
Econ. Dev. & Housing - Cong. Albio Sires (NJ)
Education B - Cong. Ruben Hinojosa (TX)
International Relations - Cong. Henry Cuellar (TX)
Technology - Cong. Joe Baca (CA)
Veterans - Cong. Ciro Rodriguez (TX)

U.S. Senators Robert Menendez (NJ) and Ken Salazar (CO) headline the Opening Lunch on October 1. Other key events that day include a Labor Breakfast honoring Linda Chavez-Thompson, the Opening Plenary honoring Latina women in Congress, and a General Session on education with Cong. Baca and Hinojosa. Monday evening features a special performance by the East LA Classic Theater.

Tuesday’s highlights include the Closing Plenary on immigration with Cong. Luis Gutierrez (IL), a Salute to Veterans with Cong. Solomon Ortiz (TX) Silvestre Reyes (TX), John Salazar (CO) and others, and the Latina Leaders Celebration with Cong. Hilda Solis and honoring several prominent Latinas, including America Ferrera of ABC’s hit series Ugly Betty and Gloria Molina, LA County Supervisor.

CHCI’s Hispanic Heritage Month Events also include Reyes of Comedy night, featuring Carlos Mencia on Tuesday evening, and the Presidential Candidates Forum and 30th Annual Gala on Wednesday, October 3, 2007.

The 2007 Public Policy Conference is proudly hosted by Citigroup and benefits CHCI’s nationally recognized youth leadership development programs. For a complete agenda and more information, please go to www.chci.org, or call 202-543-1771.
Website:

“Six-term Texas congressman Silvestre Reyes has carved a niche in Washington as a go-to guy on immigration and national defense. The 62-year-old was born on a farm in Canutillo, Texas and didnt speak English until starting school at age 6. He served in Vietnam and, upon returning to the United States in 1969, worked for the U.S. Border Patrol, retiring in 1996 to run for the House of Representatives. With Democrats ascendant in the 109th Congress, Mr. Reyes was named to head the House Intelligence Committee. Despite a gaffe confusing Sunni and Shiite Islam early in his chairmanship, hes been an influential moderate voice, saying that while U.S. combat troops should leave Iraq, having “broken” the country, its up to the U.S. to keep some support there.”

“The U.S. Hispanic business community continues to contribute explosive growth to the nations economy, and the companies leading this trend are the focus of the July/August double issue of Hispanic Business magazine. In addition to a directory and a story on the 100 Fastest-Growing Hispanic Companies, this months issue also reveals the 50 Top Exporters among Hispanic-owned businesses – and where their exports are bound. While Latin America remains a prime destination, Hispanic-owned exporters are increasingly global players, and not just regional ones.

FASTEST GROWING: Liberty Power Corp., an independent supplier of retail electricity based in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., ranks No. 1 on the 2007 Hispanic Business 100 Fastest-Growing CompaniesR list. This years list finds the explosive growth in the Hispanic marketplace is more diverse both geographically and industry-wise than in past years. Liberty Powers sales increased from $806,215 in 2002 to $119.71 million in 2006, while the companys workforce grew ten-fold, from six to 60 people. Other Hispanic-owned companies near the top of the list are Force3 Inc., a network infrastructure developer in Maryland, and J2 Engineering, a Florida-based environmental and construction services company.

TOP EXPORTERS: Hispanic-owned companies are meeting the demands of the global market, and no one is doing it better than Brightstar Corp. The telecom supplier and cell phone distributor is the top-ranked company on the Hispanic Business Top 50 Exporters list with more than $3 billion in export sales in 2006. Brightstar Corp. also topped the Hispanic Business 500 in the June issue. Like Brightstar, Hispanic-owned companies are increasingly exporting their products and services to Europe, Africa and the Middle East, rather than focusing solely on Latin America and the Caribbean.

Other featured stories in the July/August issue of Hispanic Business magazine include:

SECURING THE BORDER: Hector Holguin, a technology entrepreneur from El Paso, Texas, came out of retirement in following 9/11 to start a company that helps smooth out international shipping woes at the U.S.-Mexico border. His SecureOrigins company has developed a model that uses tracking devices and satellite surveillance to help routine shipments avoid getting bogged down by inspections. Exporters and importers whose good behavior has been guaranteed sail through, while shipments where concerns might be well founded get the scrutiny they deserve. SecureOrigins’ model is drawing interest among border states in the U.S. and Mexico; Texas has announced intent to invest in the company.

MAKE MINE A MILLION: The Make Mine a Million $ Business program aims to give women entrepreneurs in the United States the tools they need to boost their company’s sales, with the goal of reaching $1 million or more in revenues each year. Created by Count Me In, a nonprofit micro-lender, and American Express OPEN, a small-business outreach from the financial giant, Make Mine a Million $ Business gives women business owners with revenues of $200,000 or more the chance to win a free year of mentoring, marketing and technology assistance, and a $50,000 line of credit.

Q&A WITH TEXAS REP. SILVESTRE REYES: As the head of the House Intelligence Committee, a Vietnam veteran, and a former U.S. Border Patrol officer, Rep. Silvestre Reyes D-TX has a lot to say about immigration reform and the Iraq war. The six-term congressman tells Hispanic Business about his vote against placing a fence at the U.S.-Mexico border, his push for an “earned legalization program,” and challenges the U.S. intelligence agencies face in the current global political climate. He also discusses his love of public service and his future plans.

About Hispanic BusinessR
For over a quarter of a century, Hispanic Business Media has been the source for the latest trends, research and reporting that drive growth for Hispanic-owned companies. Hispanic Business magazine, our award-winning publication, and HispanicBusiness.com, provide readers in the United States and around the world with the most relevant and data-driven news on the U.S. Hispanic marketplace. Hispanic Business Media properties include Hispanic Business magazine, HispanicBusiness.com, Hispanic Business Events - including Hispanic Business magazine EOYR Awards, Woman of the Year WOY Awards - as well as HireDiversity.comR HispanTelligenceR is the research division of the company. “

“The largest Hispanic association in the country, LULAC will host its first state convention in El Paso in 25 years today through Sunday at the El Paso Marriott hotel on Airway Boulevard.

Among the activities LULAC is planning for the estimated 1,000 delegates is an opening luncheon address today by character actor Tony Plana, who plays the father of the lead character on the ABC show “Ugly Betty,” a visit to the “Viva Mexico” variety show in Juárez on Friday, and an address by U.S. Rep. Silvestre Reyes, D-Texas.”

“Tomorrow, Members of House Democratic Leadership will join Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus to discuss the Iraq war and the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans Health and Iraq Accountability Act that will be debated in the House of Representative later this week.

WHO: Rep. Steny Hoyer MD, House Majority Leader Rep. John Larson CT, House Democratic Caucus Vice Chairman Rep. Xavier Becerra CA, Assistant to the Speaker of the House Rep. Joe Baca CA, Chair, Congressional Hispanic Caucus Rep. Silvestre Reyes TX, Chair, House Select Committee on Intelligence Rep. Ciro Rodriguez TX, Member, House Committee on Veterans Affairs WHAT: Press Conference on Iraq War and U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans Health and Iraq Accountability Act WHEN: TOMORROW, Wednesday March 21, 2007 1pm WHERE: House Radio-TV Gallery H-321″

“he United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce USHCC, the leading advocate for the more than two million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States, is pleased to announce Rep. Silvestre Reyes as its 2007 President’s Award recipient and Sen. Mel Martinez as its 2007 Chairman’s Award recipient. Both men will be honored during the 17th Annual USHCC Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. during the Legislative Awards Dinner on March 7, 2007.

“These two men represent what leadership in government is all about,” said USHCC Board of Directors Chair David C. Lizárraga. “They lead by a powerful example and distinguished service, and it is wonderful reflection on the types of contributions Hispanics are making in all walks of life.”

Sen. Martinez became the first Cuban-American to serve in the U.S. Senate when he entered the office in 2005. An immigrant from Cuba at age 15, Martinez enjoyed an accomplished career as an attorney in Orlando. Sen. Martinez was also recently named to chair the Republican National Committee, the first Hispanic named to this position. Martinez has also been a leading advocate for comprehensive immigration reform since being sworn into the Senate.

Rep. Reyes served in Vietnam and spent much of his life working with the Border Patrol in Texas. He became the first Hispanic to represent the 16th District of Texas when he was elected in 1996. Now in his sixth term, Reyes was recently named by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as Chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Reyes became the first Hispanic to chair this prestigious and influential committee.

“The USHCC is proud to award these two powerful Hispanic leaders with awards that reflect their dedication and active commitment to the bettering of the Hispanic community and the United States as a whole,” said USHCC President and CEO Michael L. Barrera. “Both have worked diligently to improve the lives of their constituents and to help create more avenues for Hispanics in the United States to enjoy more opportunities and success.”

The President’s Achievement Award is conferred upon an outstanding public servant who has demonstrated continued commitment, service, and dedication to the Hispanic community throughout their distinguished career and whose work serves as an example and inspiration to the millions of Hispanic business owners and future Latino and Latina entrepreneurs.

The Chair’s Award is given to a public servant who best exemplifies the mission and goals of the USHCC and whose proven leadership and dedication to the Hispanic community has resulted in the growth, expansion and empowerment of Hispanic influence in the realms of business and government.

The USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of more than two million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States, which earn more than $350 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for 200 local Hispanic chambers in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico”

“Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo, and House Intelligence Committee Chairman Silvestre Reyes, D-El Paso, introduced the “Prosperous and Secure Neighbor Alliance of 2007″ PSNA. The bill addresses a serious imbalance in U.S. foreign aid by significantly increasing foreign assistance to Mexico to improve security and promote economic development. Mexico received $69 million in foreign aid from the U.S. in fiscal year 2006, while Columbia and Peru received $561 million and $146 million, respectively.”

“The National Council of La Raza NCLR, the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the U.S., today welcomes the beginning of the 110th Congress and the expanded role that Hispanic members of Congress will play in addressing the nation’s challenges.

“The 110th Congress will give Hispanic members of Congress the opportunity to play a leadership role on a host of issues affecting not only the Latino community but all Americans,” stated Janet Murguí, NCLR President and CEO. “Hispanics in Congress have long served their constituencies, and served them well, and we are pleased that they are now in a position to make a positive difference for the nation as a whole.”

Congresswoman Hilda Solis D-CA will be Vice Chair of the Democratic Steering Committee and Congressman Xavier Becerra D-CA will be Assistant to the Speaker. In addition, Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez D-NY will Chair the House Small Business Committee and Congressman Silvestre Reyes D-TX will Chair the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.

“I am especially pleased to see that the accomplishments of women such as Congresswoman Solis and Congresswoman Velázquez are being recognized,” concluded Murguí. “All of these members will bring years of distinguished service and committed leadership to their new positions.””

“Silvestre Reyes was born on Nov. 10, 1944, in Canutillo, Texas, a small community just north of El Paso. He is known as “Silver” to his friends.

His father, who dropped out of school in the sixth grade, was a successful farmer. Helping out on the farm as a child, Reyes used to serve as the lookout for Border Patrol agents – yelling “migra” to alert undocumented workers that they should hide.”

“The National Council of La Raza NCLR, the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the U.S., today applauded House Speaker-Designate Nancy Pelosi’s D-CA decision to name Congressman Xavier Becerra D-CA Assistant to the Speaker.

“We congratulate Congressman Becerra on his appointment to the Democratic Leadership. He has demonstrated a commitment to and deep knowledge of policy issues affecting all Americans, and Latinos in particular,” stated Janet Murguí, NCLR President and CEO. “This is clearly a well-deserved appointment.”

The announcement of Congressman Becerra’s appointment follows that of Congressman Silvestre Reyes D-TX as Chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence earlier this month. Like Congressman Reyes – a lifelong public servant and Vietnam War veteran – Congressman Becerra brings a wealth of experience to his new position. He has expertise on a wide range of issues developed through serving on key congressional committees, such as the Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Committee on Ways and Means.

“Over his 13 years in the House of Representatives, Congressman Becerra has tackled issues such as education, health care, minimum wage, Social Security, and taxes. We have no doubt that he will continue to serve all Americans well as a member of the Democrats’ leadership team, and hope that he is given the resources necessary to do so,” concluded Murguí.”

“House Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi recently chose Texas Representative Silvestre Reyes to take over as chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence next month. Pelosi boldly stated, “For the first time in six years there’s going to be some checks and balances. We will see true oversight and real consequences.”

First and foremost, intelligence must continue to be an exceptionally vigilant security and intelligence system. Better understanding of modern intelligence through appropriate disclosure of its functions, resources, limitations, and product should be discussed in the U.S. political arena. However, secrecy must be respected and protected.”

“Earlier this month, when El Pasos Democratic congressional representative Silvestre Reyes was named to lead the powerful House Permanent Select Intelligence Committee, he agreed to sit down for an interview with the El Paso Times. During the interview, he was interrupted by a phone call from Rep. Ike Skelton, D-Mo., who later was named head of the House Armed Services Committee.

“Congressman who?” Reyes asked, adjusting the angle of his cell phone against his ear. “Yes, Ill talk to him.”"

“El Pasos economy is strong and continues to grow, U.S. Rep. Silvestre Reyes, D-Texas, told about 150 business leaders Tuesday morning at the Embassy Suites in East-Central El Paso.

Reyes, the newly appointed chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, was the guest speaker at the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerces Buenos Dias networking event.”

“Silvestre Reyes wasn’t the first pick to head the U.S. House Select Committee on Intelligence. He wasn’t even second on the list. But the El Paso Democrat is a good choice.

First, let’s offer up a little Lone Star pride over House Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi’s decision to name Reyes to this key chairmanship.”