Congressman Henry Cuellar Leads Colleagues On Border Tour

CONGRESSMAN HENRY CUELLAR LEADS COLLEAGUES ON BORDER TOUR

Washington, DC- Emphasizing the importance of border security and trade, Congressman Henry Cuellar hosted several of his colleagues in Congress in Laredo today for a Congressional Border Tour. The bi-partisan delegation included Reps. Jo Bonner (Alabama), Charles Dent (Pennsylvania), John Doolittle (California) and Pete Sessions (Texas).

"Today, some of our nation's top policy makers took a glimpse into daily life on the US-Mexico border- the people, business, and economic needs- critical aspects for lawmakers to understand as they evaluate commerce and immigration issues," said Congressman Cuellar. "It was extremely valuable for them to see and learn about the challenges of our city as well as all the great things it has to offer," Congressman Cuellar added.

The Congressional delegation observed the day-to-day operations of Laredo's busiest ports of entry—the Lincoln/Juarez Bridge and the World Trade Bridge. Department of Homeland Security officials briefed the Congressional delegation on ongoing border violence and immigration issues, which were highlighted by an aerial tour of the Rio Grande River. Congressman Cuellar stressed that South Texas should be a priority region in maintaining effective border security and trade policy.

"Members from both sides of the aisle are coming together to move forward on important policy including border issues," said Congressman Cuellar. "This investigation of our nation's busiest inland port, allows them to see firsthand the urgent need for border security resources, comprehensive immigration reform and measures to preserve healthy commerce and trade," Congressman Cuellar added.

The two day tour continues on Friday when South Texas business executives, local leaders, and Mexican government officials will participate with the Members of Congress in a round-table discussion focused on economic development and U.S.-Mexico trade.

This was the second Congressional Border Tour organized by Congressman Cuellar this year.

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Budget and Agriculture committees in the 109th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care and economic development are his priorities.

http://www.house.gov/list/press/tx28_cuellar/060817.html