url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
http://pearce.house.gov/editorial/sunzia-project-threatens-national-security,SUNZIA PROJECT THREATENS NATIONAL SECURITY,2014-12-07,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"By: State Senator Mary Kay Papen and Congressman Steve Pearce
Washington, DC (Dec. 7, 2014) Today, we in the United States face an unprecedented variety and quantity of threats against our safety.  From Chinese cyber aggression, to the possibility of ISIS terror attacks – our nation must defend itself.  In order to do that, our military requires the ability to train and adapt to threats as they emerge and evolve, as well as the ability to develop and test new technology that will assist in strengthening our security. 
There is only one military installation in the world that is able to provide this dual capability for the U.S. – White Sands Missile Range (WSMR). 
WSMR is the nation’s premier development and test facility.  Unlike any other range, WSMR allows the military to conduct live tests of everything from Patriot missiles to laser interceptors. 
This diversity is possible because of WSMR’s size and location. Covering roughly 4,000 square miles, with 100 percent restricted airspace; the Army, Navy, and Air Force have a unique environment to create and engage in virtually any test that is needed.
Under current global conditions – this versatility makes WSMR invaluable to our national security and the protection of our men and women in uniform.  Unfortunately, some appear to believe that corporate profits come before the defense and security of the United States. 
In 2008, the SunZia Corporation began plans to construct a 515 mile long transmission line across New Mexico to Arizona.  Utilizing alternative energy sources, the line will support Phoenix and other large Arizona cities with significant energy assistance. 
To be clear, we support the prospects of alternative energy development in New Mexico, and we do not oppose the construction of the SunZia transmission project.  What is unsupportable is the route.
Currently, the route would directly impact WSMR by cutting through an important section of the installation.  It is utilized for nearly 30 percent of the test and evaluation operations ongoing at WSMR, and this percentage will increase in coming years.  Routing the line through this area will cripple the military’s ability to conduct critical tests, jeopardizing not just the survival of WSMR, but the safety and security of American soldiers and American citizens. 
The SunZia transmission line is projected to cost more than one billion dollars, but construction has not begun. Final environmental impact studies have yet to be completed, and so, alterations to the route can still be made with little difficulty, delay or cost.  Not to mention it would be easier to construct next to existing power lines – like those already along Highway 60.  Yet, for the last 6 years, SunZia has fought to route the transmission line through WSMR. 
We have yet to understand why, and our support remains solidly behind the mission of the Range.
Earlier this fall, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel agreed to mitigation terms that would allow the line to cut across WSMR, with the requirement of three small buried sections. 
From day one, the Department of Defense opposed any effort that would impact the viability and flexibility of WSMR, while the Department of the Interior seemed determined to approve the line regardless of the security and economic implications it has for New Mexico and the nation. 
However, after senior officials at the White House were briefed on SunZia’s project and the conflict that existed, Defense suddenly agreed to approve the transmission line, despite crossing WSMR. 
We struggle to understand how anyone could believe it is more important to prioritize the construction of a transmission line, than to protect the nation’s top test and evaluation site, which is unlike anywhere else in the world.  In the end, it seems as though an unfortunate compromise was made, placing corporate profits over national security.  This is unwise and dangerous.
The Albuquerque Journal, Las Cruces Sun-News, Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce and Governor Martinez, have all opposed SunZia compromising WSMR’s mission.  The Range provides nearly $1 billion annually in revenue for New Mexico, and employs roughly 10,000 of our friends, family members and neighbors.  Most importantly, it provides our military with the spring board to conceptualize, develop and test the next generation of defense capabilities to face any threat against the United States head on. 
White Sands Missile Range is fundamental to national defense, and to obstruct its mission is to invite peril.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141206023829/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-applauds-decision-interstate-stream-commission,Pearce Applauds Decision by Interstate Stream Commission,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Nov. 24, 2014) Today, the Interstate Stream Commission (ISC) voted to accept $128 million in federal funding to claim 14,000 acre feet of water from the Gila River. Under the Arizona Water Settlements Act of 2004, the State of New Mexico has the legal right to claim the water and take the funds by December 31, 2014.
“I applaud the ISC for doing what is best for New Mexico:  ignoring special interest groups, and acquiring much-needed water that the state is legally entitled to,” said Pearce. “For almost a decade, there has been a spirited debate over whether or not to proceed with a plan to take this water. Had the State not taken it, we would have lost millions of gallons of water that New Mexicans desperately need. Instead, the ISC came up with a plan that will move water to thousands of households in Southwestern New Mexico.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141206023840/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-three-bills-address-transparency-efficiency-epa-and-ensure-science-used,"House passes three bills to address transparency, efficiency in the EPA and ensure science used in regulatory process",2014-11-22,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Nov. 22, 2014) The U.S. House of Representatives passed three bills this week to address transparency and efficiency in EPA’s permitting process and ensure that the Agency is prevented from implementing economically harmful regulations without publishing the science behind it. Congressman Steve Pearce urged his colleagues in the Senate to take up these important pieces of legislation immediately.
H.R. 1422, the Science Advisory Board Reform Act of 2013, makes changes to the EPA’s Science Advisory Board to increase public participation, increase the transparency for selecting advisors, and ensures the board remains focused on science and not politics. The bill passed with a bipartisan vote of 229-191.
“Under this administration, the EPA has introduced a number of economically devastating proposals that have had little scientific standing,” said Congressman Steve Pearce.  “With so many livelihoods on the line, we must ensure that the panel that reviews these regulations is fair and balanced. This bill will work to guarantee that these job-killing regulations are no longer subject to a biased panel and that there is transparency in the review process. I ask that my colleagues in the Senate take up this piece of legislation immediately.”
H.R. 4012, the Secret Science Reform Act, prohibits the EPA from enacting or proposing regulations without first publishing for independent review the science on which they were based. The bill passed with a bipartisan vote of 237-190.
“Over the last six years, the EPA has cost jobs and increased electricity rates for Western families through their economically damaging proposals,” Pearce said. “These costly proposals have been implemented based on science that the EPA refuses to publicize for peer review. Taxpayers who pay for these reckless regulations deserve a say in the process. This bill will create a more transparent process by requiring the EPA to publicize their science.”
H.R. 4795, the Promoting New Manufacturing Act, increases transparency and efficiency within the EPA by reducing lengthy permitting delays for manufacturing facilities, which help create American jobs. The bill passed with a bipartisan vote of 238-172.
“Increased domestic energy production has led to a revival of American manufacturing,” Pearce said. “Unfortunately, this administration and the EPA refuse to allow this manufacturing resurgence to reach its full potential. Permitting delays have stalled the production of numerous manufacturing facilities that would provide thousands of good-paying jobs for Americans. This bill cuts back the bureaucratic red tape that this administration has used to slow this recovery.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141206023853/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-obama-overreaches-again,PEARCE: OBAMA OVERREACHES AGAIN,2014-11-21,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Nov. 20, 2014) Today, Congressman Pearce responded to President Obama’s executive order outlining expanded relief for undocumented immigrants in the United States.  Specifically, the “Immigration Accountability Executive Action” is a plan that expands Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), and creates a new deferred action program for up to 4 million undocumented people who have lived in the U.S. for more than 5 years and are parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. The result is that the immigration law will be changed for nearly 5 million undocumented immigrants.
“President Obama’s decision to use executive powers to alter immigration policy for 5 million people is a gross abuse of power,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “The President is choosing to ignore the bounds of his Constitutional powers and bypass Congress.  Very simply, these actions are illegal and unlike those taken by any other President.  This is not just my view, this is the view of many.  Even Doris Meissner, the Commissioner of Immigration and Naturalization Service for President Clinton, noted that prosecutorial discretion does not provide the President the right to ignore current law.”
“Not only are the President’s actions disregarding the Constitution, the democratic process, and the will of the people, they are short-sighted and cruel.  The innately political action by the President will have harmful and damaging effects, while significantly disheartening and disadvantaging the millions of potential immigrants following the law and waiting to enter the United States.”
“The immigration system in the United States must change.  As New Mexicans, we live with the impacts of a broken immigration system.  For our families, for our neighbors, and for our friends, the government must work to correct this problem.  As Gov. Martinez describes in a recent Washington Times article, reform cannot be political, temporary, or self-promoting.  It must be permanent and it must be based on fairness.”
“Congress must work together. We must find bipartisan solutions anywhere we can, as I have with Congressman O’Rourke.  Comprehensive immigration reform is not the only option, nor does it have to be.  Immigration reform, like any issue, is not too large to face, as long as we are willing to work together.  While members of Congress recognize the need to fix our broken immigration system, and that differing approaches exist to accomplish this, the reality is that the President cannot just ignore our laws.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141206023905/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-responds-administration%E2%80%99s-plan-close-artesia-immigration-detention-center,Pearce Responds to Administrations Plan to Close Artesia Immigration Detention Center,2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Nov. 18, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce responded today to the Administration’s plan to close the temporary immigration detention center in Artesia by the end of December.  
“The Department of Homeland Security’s announced closure of the immigration processing center in Artesia fulfills the Department’s commitment to the local community, the state and the nation,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “The Artesia community was called on to play a vital role this summer, providing housing for hundreds of women and children who crossed the southern border.  In the five months the facility has been operational, ICE and FLETC have worked diligently to meet their obligations.  I thank the agents and employees for their work at the facility, and the community for having faith in the agencies for keeping their word.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141114204002/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-votes-approve-keystone-xl-pipeline,House Votes to Approve Keystone XL Pipeline,2014-11-14,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Nov. 14, 2014) Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5682, to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline with a bipartisan vote of 252-161. The bill would put an end to the lengthy and unnecessary delay of the project that has gone on for over six years. Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement in response to the passage of the bill:
“After six years of stalling by this administration and Senate democrats, it is time for the President and Harry Reid to remove politics from the decision and approve the Keystone XL Pipeline,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “This bill will provide shovel ready jobs for Americans, and will increase American energy independence while strengthening our national security. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to act on this important piece of legislation before the end of this Congress.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141115001503/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-responds-president%E2%80%99s-short-sighted-emissions-deal-china,Pearce Responds to Presidents Short-Sighted Emissions Deal with China,2014-11-14,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Nov. 14, 2014)��President Obama and President Xi Jinping of China announced Tuesday that they reached an agreement for carbon emissions spanning the next two decades. In the agreement, President Obama committed the United States to curbing its carbon emissions by 26-28% by 2025, while China promised to keep increasing its own emissions through 2030.
Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement in response to the announcement:
���President Obama���s agreement with President Xi Jinping was deeply irresponsible,��? said��Congressman Steve Pearce. ���The agreement would place regulatory restraints on the American economy causing an increase in electricity rates for middle-class families and a loss of thousands of good-paying American jobs. I am deeply concerned that the President would knowingly hamper the American economy, while allowing China to continue on its current course for another decade, before it even has to consider making restrictions under this non-binding agreement. The President���s unilateral attack on affordable energy for Americans must come to an end.�� This agreement shows that the President is not listening to the American people, like he said he would.��?",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141111205859/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/veterans-day-day-remember-and-show-gratitude-our-nation%E2%80%99s-veterans,VETERANS DAY IS A DAY TO REMEMBER AND SHOW GRATITUDE FOR OUR NATIONS VETERANS,2014-11-11,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Nov. 11, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement today in honor of Veterans Day.
”I take time today, on Veterans Day, to remember and show my gratitude for our nation’s veterans,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “The people of New Mexico have a strong history of service, from Bataan to Operation Inherent Resolve. This history will forever fill us with honor and pride. As a Vietnam veteran, I deeply appreciate the efforts our communities, state and nation make to honor our veterans each year. Thank you to all veterans who faced seemingly insurmountable challenges and dangers, when answering the call of duty. Veterans Day is much more than recognizing those who served. It is about thanking and honoring all who have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our nation safe. I ask that you take a moment today to also remember the families of the fallen and the troops who are still in harm’s way. I continue to keep them in my thoughts and prayers. We must never forget our debt of gratitude to these brave men and women.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141024015901/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/ebola-czar-appointment-deeply-disappointing,EBOLA CZAR APPOINTMENT DEEPLY DISAPPOINTING,2014-10-18,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Oct. 18, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce is deeply concerned about the Administration's latest misstep in response to the Ebola virus. President Obama’s appointment of Ron Klain, former chief of staff to Vice Presidents Joe Biden and Al Gore, as Ebola Czar was another disappointment to the American people. 
“President Obama’s decision to appoint a political aide, who has no healthcare experience, to lead the nation’s Ebola response, is deeply concerning,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “This Administration has been slow to respond to this crisis from the start. This latest decision by the President to appoint a political advisor was another delayed and fumbled reaction to a situation that has Americans afraid for their safety.”
“I appreciate the views of the CDC and believe our medical community is working diligently to contain the spread of this deadly virus,” Pearce continued. “However, I believe the President has failed to adequately address this situation in a timely manner, which has placed our country at significantly greater risk. We must work with our scientists and the international community to stop the spread of this deadly virus. The President must work with public health officials, transportation experts, our military and the international community to create a response that will address the current cases of Ebola in the United States, and a path forward to shield the nation from further risk. ”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pearce.house.gov/editorial/op-ed-environment-groups-inhibit-new-mexicans-using-national-forests,OP-ED: Environmental groups inhibit New Mexicans from using national forests,2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Oct. 10, 2014) In the second district of New Mexico, we have four national forests in whole or in part. It is the job of the Forest Service to ensure that our national forests are preserved, but also to ensure that they are kept open for outdoor recreation and resource development that does not harm the environment. Hundreds of thousands of people from across the country come to New Mexico to enjoy fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, and the numerous other recreational activities that our national forests provide every year. The water in our national forests is used to support New Mexico’s cattle and agriculture industries, and the trees support our timber industry. New Mexico’s national forests also create a large amount of economic activity through tourism and responsible production.
As one can easily tell, New Mexico’s national forests satisfy a number of different needs. This is why I am dismayed that radical environmental groups from outside of our state continually attempt to close off great swaths of our national forests. These continued attempts to expand and even create new wilderness area will have a devastating impact on thousands of New Mexicans. These environmental groups will inhibit everyday New Mexicans from using our national forests for recreational activities and the enjoyment of property rights.
The groups wish to directly affect the way ranchers and job creator’s work within the forests with their end goal being the reduction of ranching and resource production. A great example of this was the listing of the spotted owl under the ESA, a decision that drastically reduced timber production in the American West.  The meadow jumping mouse is another example as ranchers have been removed from their grazing allotments due to the listing. Just this past spring, the US Forest Service, due to the listing of the jumping mouse, also fenced off ranchers from the water that the Office of the State Engineer says they own. This is a flagrant violation of properties rights, and it is a direct result of radical special interests pushing their agenda on New Mexicans.
Recently, environmental groups pushed the Cibola National Forest to move forward with the initial steps of a wilderness designation within the Mt. Taylor Ranger District during the development of the new forest management plan. Many times, these radical interest groups will work with federal agencies to ram these changes through with as little public input or notice as possible. My office worked with the people of Cibola County to ensure their voices were heard on this great change in the way their forest is managed.
My staff has helped spread the word on work sessions to help shape the new Cibola National Forest Plan.  These efforts ensure that the people who the plan will affect the most have a say in the process.  A staff led group formed a Facebook page to draw attention to a meeting in Grants in June. This effort allowed 160 people to show up for the event, as opposed to the 25 people who showed up for a similar event in Albuquerque.  Staff continued to help the group by organizing a rally for meetings in September that led to 420 people attending the meeting.
I will fight against these continued attempts to close off our land from the people. It is your land, and you know how to manage it better than any outside special interest or government bureaucracy can.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141017015731/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/condolences-family-las-cruces-businessman-justin-harper,CONDOLENCES FOR FAMILY OF LAS CRUCES BUSINESSMAN JUSTIN HARPER,2014-10-16,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Las Cruces, NM (Oct. 15, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce was saddened to learn of the passing of valued businessman and personal friend, Justin Harper, president and CEO of Citizens Bank of Las Cruces, who died of natural causes at his home Monday. Mr. Harper was a trusted leader in the financial community. He also served his community by dedicating his time to state and local organizations.
“Cynthia and I send our deepest condolences to the family of our personal friend Justin Harper of Las Cruces,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “He was a trusted leader in the financial industry in the Las Cruces area and served to better the community throughout the state. He and his wife, Bea, were champions of promoting business while keeping true to their roots in New Mexico. His leadership and skills as a businessman, and significant service on several boards and foundations, including service with the Boys and Girls Club, will be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and coworkers at this time.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141011011306/https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-congratulates-new-citizens-naturalization-ceremony-today,PEARCE CONGRATULATES NEW CITIZENS AT NATURALIZATION CEREMONY TODAY,2014-10-10,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Albuquerque, NM (Oct. 10, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce congratulated more than 160 new United States citizens this morning as guest speaker at a naturalization ceremony at the Albuquerque Convention Center.
“I congratulate today’s men and women, who have chosen to become citizens of our great nation,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “Like millions before them, they bring the promise of creating a stronger America by building upon our foundation of culture and diversity. New Mexico flourishes because of the people who call our state and communities home. Citizenship also carries with it the responsibility to our communities and the ability to voice opinions. I thank these men and women for their enthusiasm today and I encourage them all to carry that passion for America in their hearts always.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141010014240/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-celebrates-hispanic-heritage-month,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH,2014-10-06,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month:
“This month, our country commemorates the rich and diverse culture of Hispanic men and women across the country. Every day is a time to celebrate the heritage of our state, which includes the incredible contributions and successes made by those within the Hispanic community,” said Pearce.
“In New Mexico, we are especially cognizant of the influence of the Hispanic community. Many cultures have been enriched by the values and spirit of Hispanic men and women. Hispanic culture is one marked by its regard for faith and family, and one of integrity and honor. While we take the time to celebrate Hispanic culture, let us not forget that it is through our collective experience that we form the American culture.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141003215039/https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-steve-pearce-reacts-new-mexicans-losing-healthcare-plans-0,CONGRESSMAN STEVE PEARCE REACTS TO NEW MEXICANS LOSING HEALTHCARE PLANS,2014-10-03,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Oct. 3, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce responded to the announcement that roughly 30,000 New Mexicans will lose their healthcare plans on or before January 1, 2015 due to non-compliance with standards set by Obamacare:
“New Mexicans and Americans nationwide were promised that if they liked their healthcare, they could keep it. This recent announcement is the latest instance of President Obama’s inability to keep his promise to the American people,” said Pearce.  “Obamacare was designed to provide greater access to healthcare, not less.  Since the Obamacare exchanges launched, the nation continues to see increased cost, decreased options, and greater uncertainty. New Mexicans should have the freedom and flexibility that fit their needs, not the needs the government says they should have.  I will continue to support replacing Obamacare with a patient centered system that does not have onerous, burdensome, and costly mandates on healthcare plans.”
Click here for more information.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141004041651/https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-reacts-jobs-report,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE REACTS TO JOBS REPORT,2014-10-03,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Oct. 3, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement regarding the monthly Jobs Report released by the Department of Labor.
“I am pleased to see better than expected job growth in September, however we cannot become complacent with the slow improvements we have seen.  As a nation, we have significant work left to be done,” said Pearce.  “The reality is that workers in New Mexico and across the country continue to struggle with a sluggish economy laden with inflation.  Over 9 million Americans are still unemployed, over 7 million people remain underemployed and at just about 62%, our nation continues to have a labor participation rate so low it has not been matched since the 1970s.  It is the federal government’s responsibility to create an environment conducive to job creation and economic growth, something the House of Representatives have been working the past 2 years to accomplish.  Currently, there are over 40 bills the House has passed waiting for action in the Senate.  The Senate cannot continue to delay.  Delay only continues to provide millions of Americans with uncertainty at home simply trying to make ends meet.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141003013545/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-time-new-leadership-secret-service,PEARCE: TIME FOR NEW LEADERSHIP IN THE SECRET SERVICE,2014-10-01,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement in response to the severity of recent security breaches at the White House, urging Julia Pierson, Director of the Secret Service, to resign.  
“Secret Service agents are willing to put their lives on the line to protect our president, and should be commended for their efforts. The vast majority of agents are decent men and women committed to their duty of securing the White House. In the 1970s, Secret Service agents protected President Ford from two attempts on his life. In 1981, they helped save President Reagan after he was shot by John Hinckley. On September 19th, an off-duty Secret Service agent stopped a would-be attacker during the security breach,” said Congressman Pearce.
“However, the most recent security breaches are totally unacceptable, and warrant accountability at the highest level. The presence of an armed person on an elevator with the President of the United States is outrageous and frightening. I believe that Secret Service Director Julia Pierson should take ‘full responsibility’, as she said she would yesterday, and resign her post. The complete failure of the security plan put the lives of President Obama and his family in danger. Thankfully, the worst possible scenario was avoided, but the lackadaisical approach to securing our White House, such as leaving doors unlocked, can never happen again. The attitude of the bureaucracy has been one of business as usual, despite Director Pierson’s testimony. This attitude must end today.
I also believe that the Secret Service should be placed back under the Department of the Treasury, where it was housed for nearly 140 years. The law enforcement entity responsible for protecting our President should be the main law enforcement focus within a federal department, and not just another cog in the wheel, like it is at the Department of Homeland Security. I believe the Secret Service would face stricter accountability, and follow procedures more thoroughly if its headquarters were housed at the Treasury Building, next door to the White House.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141003013613/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-us-afghanistan-security-agreement-positive-step-forward,PEARCE: US-AFGHANISTAN SECURITY AGREEMENT A POSITIVE STEP FORWARD,2014-10-01,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement following the signing of a long-term security pact yesterday by Afghan and American officials.
“Yesterday’s announcement that the United States and Afghanistan have agreed to and signed a bilateral security agreement is an important milestone towards mission success,” said Congressman Pearce.  “The United States and the world cannot afford to repeat the same mistakes it made in Iraq.  Allowing US troops to maintain a presence in Afghanistan will allow the Afghan people to continue to grow and develop their own government.” 
“This agreement will also allow our soldiers, who have sacrificed so much, to complete their mission to root out and stop terrorist activity.  I firmly believe, if our nation commits troops to military action and risk their lives, we must follow through on the mission.  We must succeed.  This agreement will help us do that.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20141003013728/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-wipp-recovery-moving-forward,PEARCE: WIPP RECOVERY MOVING FORWARD,2014-09-30,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Congressman Pearce responded to the Department of Energy’s (DOE) release of its recovery plan for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP).
“The release of DOE’s recovery plan for WIPP is another positive step toward resuming operations,” said Pearce.  “The plan lays out a clear and dedicated plan to not only reopen the site, but to mitigate future accidents by implementing new safety standards and requirements.  Once again, I must thank Secretary Moniz for his commitment to safely and expediently reopen WIPP and for his support for the Carlsbad community.  The New Mexico Delegation and Congress must now do its part by providing DOE and WIPP with the funds it needs to move forward.
“WIPP is vital to the environment and national security of our nation.  The site is nothing without the workforce and community that support it every day.  I fully support the recovery plan’s ability to keep all employees retained and working during the recovery.  Neither New Mexico nor the nation can afford losing the institutional knowledge and skill the WIPP employees have.   I look forward to continuing to work with DOE, the state, and the community to ensure WIPP resumes operations as safely and quickly as possible.”
NOTE: A full copy of the WIPP recovery plan can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140926014413/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-vice-chairman-house-armed-services-committee-tour-nm-military-installations,"PEARCE, VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE HOUSE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE TO TOUR NM MILITARY INSTALLATIONS",2014-09-24,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Roswell, NM (Sept. 24, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce will be joined Thursday and Friday by Congressman Mac Thornberry, of the 13th District of Texas. Rep. Thornberry is Vice Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, and leads the Subcommittee on Intelligence, Emerging Threats and Capabilities. He also serves on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Reps. Pearce and Thornberry will spend this week touring Cannon Air Force Base, missions at White Sands Missile Range, Holloman AFB, and other military installations and missions in Southern New Mexico.
“I am extremely grateful that Congressman Thornberry will spend two days with me in New Mexico, touring our state’s critical military installations,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “As a key Congressional decision maker for military operations, Congressman Thornberry’s insight into the value of New Mexico’s assets is extremely important. I look forward to speaking with him about our state’s role in national security and discussing New Mexico’s future military missions.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140918232048/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-america-stands-ukraine-fight-against-russian-aggression,PEARCE: AMERICA STANDS WITH UKRAINE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST RUSSIAN AGGRESSION,2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 18, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement following after meeting with President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine in today’s Joint Meeting of Congress.
""The people of Ukraine have shown bravery in the face of tyranny from outside forces. I'm proud to welcome President Poroshenko to the United States, and stand with him in his ongoing fight against Russian aggression,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “From the poisoning of their President-elect in 2004 to the violent repression of democratic protesters this year to the summer invasion by Russian forces, Ukraine has endured significant hardships even after the fall of communism. I pray the people of Ukraine will find freedom, peace and prosperity in the near future.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140919121020/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-bill-provide-energy-jobs-reduce-electric-rates,"HOUSE PASSES BILL TO PROVIDE ENERGY JOBS, REDUCE ELECTRIC RATES",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 18, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of the American Energy Solutions for Lower Costs and More American Jobs Act, H.R. 2, in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Act passed with a bipartisan vote of 226-191.  The bill includes a variety of proposals that will increase U.S. energy production, reduce the lengthy permitting process for energy infrastructure projects, and prevent burdensome and job killing regulations.
“It is vital that we utilize America’s vast reserve of energy resources at a time of global chaos and economic stagnation,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “Gasoline prices have been stable in our country despite turmoil in the Middle East due to proven technologies that allow for increased oil production. H.R. 2 will work to stabilize and decrease American gasoline prices by increasing domestic energy production.  The bill also expedites the approval process of critical infrastructure projects that are essential in ensuring that middle class families have access to inexpensive and reliable electricity for their homes. The bill also fights to get Americans working again by protecting and creating well-paying American energy jobs.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140919121045/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/jobs-america-act-improves-conditions-economic-growth-job-creation,"JOBS FOR AMERICA ACT IMPROVES CONDITIONS FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH, JOB CREATION",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 18, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce applauded today’s bipartisan passage by the House of Representatives of H.R. 4, the Jobs for America Act. The Act will make changes to federal law to improve conditions necessary for economic growth and job creation.
“Creating jobs and easing federal regulations on employers will get America and New Mexico moving again. The Jobs for America Act makes changes to federal law and spurs economic growth for job creation,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “This legislation will incentivize businesses to hire veterans, provide tax credits for increased innovation and investments in the U.S., ensure small businesses have the certainty they need to grow and create jobs,  and cuts back regulations.”
“The House has taken the necessary steps to ensure this country is once again friendly to businesses and job providers. I encourage the Senate to do the right thing and pass H.R. 4. This Administration has created an economic climate that has forced too  many Americans into part-time employment or on public assistance.”
NOTE: H.R. 4, the Jobs for America Act, passed by a vote of 253 to 163.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140918232110/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-responds-isis-threat,HOUSE RESPONDS TO ISIS THREAT,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"HOUSE RESPONDS TO ISIS THREAT
 
Washington, DC (September 17, 2014) Today, Congressman Pearce released this statement after voting in favor of the McKeon Amendment to H J Res 124, authorizing a request for military response to the aggression of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in the Middle East.
“During the Vietnam War, the United States had little direction and little strategy to achieve success, to complete the mission,” said Pearce.  “For three years, I witnessed and experienced the effects of having a war led by Washington politicians, not our military commanders.  As a solider it was extremely disheartening to have the ability to effect change in Vietnam to complete my mission, but not have the authority to do so.  Soldiers should never be put in this position.  We must provide them with the resources, authorizations, and clear strategy that will allow them to do what they have trained to do, and allow them the ability to fight, if we are going to put them in harm’s way.”
 “I supported the amendment today to address the very real problem that ISIS presents.  There is no doubt in my mind that our military has the ability to face ISIS head on and defeat them,” Pearce continued. “We cannot wait and allow this terrorist organization to continue to amass power; we must begin addressing the threat immediately.  However, I fear the President is not listening to his generals, and without caution we could make the same mistakes we did in Vietnam.”
“Congressional action today is designed only as a first step, to allow our military to train opposition forces in Syria, while sending a message to the President that more work needs to be done to ensure success.  The President has the responsibility to create and articulate to the American people a strategy that follows through on his word to defeat ISIS.”
“Today’s Amendment, at the insistence of those, including me, who fear there is a current lack of strategy, only provides a short-term authorization with significant checks and balances from Congress about the authority and timeline to ensure the President is working with military commanders to provide our troops with the authority and strategy to complete the mission.”  
“As Americans, we stand together to support the military facing the terrorist organization ISIS head on.  I have no doubt we can win, yet my time in Vietnam has taught me that without a definitive strategy to completing a mission, we are risking soldiers’ lives for nothing.  I am committed to continuing to work with the President and our military to ensure that the troops deployed in this effort have the authority and support that they need to do what they do best--complete the mission.”
NOTE: The McKeon Amendment passed by 273 by 156. This authorizes the military to begin training operations in Syria until Dec. 11 or an National Defense Authorization Act passes and is signed into law, allowing the operation to continue.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140918232133/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/continuing-resolution-important-begin-operations-against-isis,CONTINUING RESOLUTION IMPORTANT TO BEGIN OPERATIONS AGAINST ISIS,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 17, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of H.J. Res. 124, the Continuing Appropriations Resolution proposed by the House to fund the government until Dec. 11.
“Managing the country two to three months at a time is no way to operate. Typically, I vote against partial-year funding bills,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “This would not be acceptable in small business, in our homes or our states. However, today’s resolution included the funding to begin military operations to counter the ISIS threat. Therefore, I felt compelled to support the measure.”
“Funding for cleanup and to provide jobs at the Waste Isolation Pilot Project in Carlsbad is also included in this resolution,” Pearce continued. “This is critical for our national security. The resolution also included funding for border security and veterans services.”
NOTE: H.J. Res. 124 Continuing Appropriations Resolution, passed by a vote of 319 to 108.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140918232156/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-isil-threat-shines-light-need-greater-border-security,PEARCE: ISIL THREAT SHINES LIGHT ON NEED FOR GREATER BORDER SECURITY,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (September 16, 2014) Today, Congressman Pearce responded to the ever-increasing threat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) poses to the security of the United States.
 
""ISIL poses a serious threat to national security.  This is a message that has resonated throughout the government for weeks.  The ISIL threat to the United States has brought a number of deficiencies within our nation’s homeland defense to the forefront, most notably the security of our border,” said Congressman Steve Pearce.  “While federal officials have continually attempted to reassure the American people that there is currently no credible information that ISIL is planning an attack on the United States, it does not alleviate the fear that those living on and near the border have known for decades – the border remains unsecure and is possibly the greatest threat to our national security.""
 
""Since arriving in Congress, I have called for greater border security as an issue of national importance for the security and stability of our nation.  In the past decade, two administrations have failed to address the security needs.  Hiring more Border Patrol agents, or building more fence, will not secure the border.  Border security can only be achieved by utilizing a combination of new technology and new strategy.  With continued expansion of threats against the U.S. globally, we cannot wait any longer.  We must secure the border once and for all.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140918232220/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/president-needs-clear-long-term-strategy-request-ebola-health-situation,PRESIDENT NEEDS CLEAR LONG-TERM STRATEGY IN REQUEST FOR EBOLA HEALTH SITUATION,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 16, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement following President Obama’s announcement that he intends to increase U.S. military presence to 3,000 to a region West Africa to assist in the Ebola outbreak. The Department of Defense has asked Congress to redirect $500 million for the efforts.
“There is no doubt that the Ebola virus outbreak is tragic. Our prayers are with the communities in West Africa that have been stricken with this deadly crisis. The U.S. should take part in this critical effort to help the people of West Africa at this time,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “However, President Obama is asking for military assistance and funds to assist in a situation for which he has not clearly outlined a long-term strategy. The U.S. should be a partner in the response to this crisis, but the U.N. should take the lead. The American people have lost trust in the Administration’s ability to stand by its word, in light of the number of military missions that have not seen completion under this president’s leadership.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912014315/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/statement-second-anniversary-benghazi-terrorist-attacks,STATEMENT ON SECOND ANNIVERSARY OF BENGHAZI TERRORIST ATTACKS,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 10, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement on the second anniversary of the terrorist attacks in Benghazi, Libya.
 “Two years after the death of four Americans, including an Ambassador, we still have no answers,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “The Obama Administration has mislead the American people about the details of these attacks starting just hours after they tragedy began. This year, secret emails to UN Ambassador Susan Rice surfaced that reveal the administration’s deceptions about Benghazi originated at the highest levels. The lies and deceit must end. The loved ones of those lost deserve better. They deserve the truth. Our nation cannot and will not continue to stand for anything but complete transparency.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912014340/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/remembering-september-11-2001,"REMEMBERING SEPTEMBER 11, 2001",2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 11, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce recognized the thirteenth anniversary of September 11, 2001, and took time to remember the people who died on that tragic day in American history.  
 “Today we remember the nearly 3,000 people, including nearly 400 firefighters and police officers, who perished thirteen years ago. The cowardly acts of terrorism that took the lives of our friends and family members have forever changed us. America must never forget the selfless heroism and sacrifices made that day.”
 “I pray for our nation today, and for the men and women who continue to fight terrorism around the world. Now more than ever, we must pull together as a nation to face those enemies who seek to use the tools of terror to further their own cause. The sacrifices of those who have fallen must not be forgotten. I ask that you join me today and take a moment to remember those who are still in harm’s way globally, and remember our military members who are still on the battlefield fighting the war on terror.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912014406/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-us-must-target-and-eliminate-isil-threat-1,PEARCE: US MUST TARGET AND ELIMINATE ISIL AS A THREAT,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (September 10, 2014) Congressman Pearce offers the following response to the President’s speech on the Islamic State of Syria and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist group.
“ISIL is a serious threat. They pose a very real risk to the safety and stability of the Middle East, and the United States,” said Pearce. “In the last six months, as ISIL has gained momentum, our nation has been absent a leader and a plan to face this radical group head on. The United States needs a comprehensive strategy to answer and destroy this threat permanently. Tonight, I think the President laid out a fairly clear strategy to deal with ISIL. I appreciate and support the President acknowledging the threat and tasking our military to engage this terrorist organization. I am hopeful that the plans outlined tonight will be the decisive actions needed to answer and eliminate ISIL as a threat.”
“ISIL has taken advantage of a void in Iraq left by the United States leaving before the mission was complete. The President is currently working to end U.S. operations in Afghanistan before the mission is complete and the nation is stable. How can we expect this time to be any different? As Commander and Chief, the President holds the lives of every soldier, sailor and airman in his hands. These selfless individuals will sacrifice anything to accomplish an order for their Commander and Chief, including their lives. If we say we are going to terminate ISIL, and risk the lives of our troops to do it, we must follow through. We must complete the mission. If actions follow the Presidents words, the strategy highlighted tonight will have the ability to do just that.” 
“Operating virtually unchecked in the greater Syria and Iraq region for nearly six months, ISIL has captured stockpiles of weapons, armor and vehicles from the Iraqi and Syrian Governments.  The Iraqi Security Forces have shown little ability to stand up to the group, and little opposition appears to exist in the void in Syria between Assad and ISIL.  Prior to the speech, I was hesitant to further arm Syrian militias based on this information. However, in combination with military advisors and support from a unified coalition, I am cautiously optimistic that we will be able to assist Syrians fight for their freedom and keep arms out of the hands of ISIL.” 
“In the coming days, I hope the Administration will continue to develop its strategy to target and destroy ISIL anywhere they exist. I urge the President to be steadfast and defiant in the face of this threat, and to only further risk the lives of our servicemen and women if he intends to accomplish his goal and fully destroy ISIL.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912014430/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-condemns-administrations-release-taliban-5,HOUSE CONDEMNS ADMINISTRATION'S RELEASE OF TALIBAN 5,2014-09-10,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 9, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted to condemn the Obama Administration in its handling of the release of five known Taliban terrorists, commonly referred to as the Taliban 5. In May, the White House failed to comply with the law when the Taliban 5 were released without Congressional notification. The radical enemy commanders, including a former head of the Taliban army, were released on May 31 from Guantanamo Bay and flown to Qatar.
""President Obama's release of the Taliban 5 is yet another example of this Administration's disregard for the law,"" said Pearce. ""To make matters worse, the President's unilateral actions released five of the most dangerous foreign terrorists possible. In fact, all five men were deemed by an inter-agency panel in 2010 to be too dangerous to release. These individuals pose a very real risk to the security of our soldiers, the security of the Afghan population, and to the security of the United States. With the ever-mounting instability in the MIddle East due to ISIL, now is not the time to be releasing more aggressors against the United States, especially when these actions happen outside the confines of law.""
NOTE: H.R. 644, Condemning and Disapproving of the Obama Administration's Failure to Comply with the Lawful Statutory Requirement to Notify Congress Before Releasing the Taliban 5, passed today by a vote of 249 to 163. The 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requires the Secretary of Defense to notify Congress at least 30 days prior to the release or transfer of Guantanamo Bay detainees.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140912014508/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/house-passes-bill-prevent-federal-overreach-western-waters,HOUSE PASSES BILL TO PREVENT FEDERAL OVERREACH IN WESTERN WATERS,2014-09-09,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 9, 2014) As Co-Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement today tollowing the House passage of the Waters of the U.S. Regulatory Overreach Protection Act of 2014.
""The EPA and Army Corps of Engineers' proposed rule for Waters of the United States would have a devestating impact on western communities,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""Increasing burdensome federal regulations will be extremely harmful for western farmers, ranchers, and small businesses that are already over-regulated by the federal government. The proposed rule is another example of this administration's continued attempt to unilaterally implement unnecessary federal regulations. H.R. 5078 blocks this blatant federal overreach by prohibiting the implementation of the rule, allowing states and local officials to continue to effectively regulate their own waters. I call on my collegues in the Senate to support the property rights of western communities and promptly act on this important piece of legislation.""
NOTE: H.R. 5078, the Waters of the United States Regulatory Overreach Protection Act of 2014, passed with a bipartisan vote of 262-152. The bill prevents the Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers from expanding their regulatory jurisdiction over ponds, streams, and ditches currently regulated by the states.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140905014122/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/new-mexico-included-latest-va-pilot-program,NEW MEXICO INCLUDED IN LATEST VA PILOT PROGRAM,2014-09-03,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Sept. 2, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce applauded the Department of Veterans Affairs’ announcement that New Mexico’s Department of Veterans’ Services was one of five entities selected to participate in a new pilot program to assist veterans and their families living in rural or underserved communities transition from military service to civilian life. 
 “I am pleased that we will be able to provide much-needed assistance to our rural veterans and their families,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “Transitioning care from the military to the VA continues to be a weakness within our veterans’ support system.  This program will work to make this extremely difficult adjustment an easier process. In August, Chairman Jeff Miller and Congressman Beto O’Rourke joined me in meeting with Army and VA staff about this very issue at Fort Bliss. I look forward to the implementation of this program and the increased care it will provide New Mexico’s veterans and veterans nationwide.”
 The New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services will receive up to $2 million, through the Rural Veterans Coordination Pilot (RVCP) program, to increase coordination of health care and benefits, increase availability of high-quality medical and mental health services, provide assistance to families, and/or outreach to veterans and families. NMVS was the only state veterans’ department to be granted the pilot program funding.
 Click here to see the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release on the Rural Veterans Coordination Pilot (RVCP) program.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140815020304/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/we-stay-committed-community-ensure-wipp-brought-back-full-operations,WE STAY COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY TO ENSURE WIPP IS BROUGHT BACK TO FULL OPERATIONS,2014-08-13,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Roswell, NM (Aug. 12, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce visited the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in Carlsbad with Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Ernest Moniz and members of the New Meico Congressional delegation. The tour was part of a two-day visit by Secretary Moniz. Congressman Pearce was encouraged after discussions with Secretary Moniz and the community, and supports DOE's efforts to recover WIPP to full operations.
""Just after the February incident at WIPP, Secretary Moniz promised to keep the team together, and safely and expeditiously recover the site, in order for it to fully reopen. During the last two days, Secretary Moniz has given us proof that the DOE will honor those committments,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""I support Secretary Moniz and his team's efforts to completely recover the WIPP site in the safest and most timely manner possible. Our visit to the site today was a positive step, and we learned about aspects of the progress and safe recovery at the site. Safety will remain a priority as we stay committed to our neighbors and community. WIPP remains vital to the national security of our nation. The continued support of the community, and work by the highly trained and professional workforce in Carlsbad, is critical to getting this mission back on line. WIPP is only as strong as the community and workforce behind it.""
""Congress must do its part to assist DOE in the recovery process,"" Pearce continued. ""My collegues and I have a responsibility to ensure Secretary Moniz and WIPP are provided with the resources they need to bring back WIPP. Earlier this summer, I was able to work with Chairman Mike Simpson of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water to provide WIPP with a budget of $340 million for 2015, which includes $220 million for operations and an extra $120 million specifically for the recovery effort. I look forward to the Senate working this fall to match the House, to ensure WIPP has the funds it needs.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140809024039/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/statement-iraq,STATEMENT ON IRAQ,2014-08-08,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Aug. 8, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce is closely watching events unfold in Iraq and the humanitarian crisis that treatens non-combatants and U.S. personnel near Erbil and Baghdad. He released this statement in response to today's military action.
""I support our military and its mission to safeguard our personnel in Iraq and deliver vital supplies to innocent civilans. American and Iraqi lives are in great peril with the advancement of ISIS militants, as is the long-term stability of Iraq. My thoughts and prayers remain with all those affected, especially U.S. service members and their families back at home,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140802151700/https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/statement-border-crisis-supplemental-package,STATEMENT ON BORDER CRISIS SUPPLEMENTAL PACKAGE,2014-08-02,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (Aug. 1, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement following the House of Representative's vote to pass the emergency funding bill to address the humanitarian and national security crisis at the southern border.
""The House action taken today will help secure the border, provides the President with the funds necessary for humanitarian aid for children and families, ensures speedy judicial hearings for those who claim credible fear as the reason for entering our country, and allows the National Guard to provide support in the border crisis,"" sad Congressman Steve Pearce.
""We did not have the votes yesterday to pass this legislation. I feel leadership made the prudent choice to keep the House working instead of allowing members to return to their districts for the August work period. This was a difficult but thoughtful process. With this vote, the House has given a response that is in the best interest of our national security.""
""We stayed the course and kept our promises to America,"" Pearce continued. ""I join my colleagues, and the American people, in urging the Senate and the President to act on this legislation. The President must start listening to the will of the people.""
""The serious and long-term issues of immigration reform and border security legislation remain. We must strive to get that work done. Our nation needs these issues to be addressed. We owe it to our nation,"" Pearce said.
NOTE: H.R. 5230, the House Border Crisis Supplemental Package, will provide $405 million for the Department of Homeland Security to boost border security and law enforcement, $22 million to accelerate judicial proceedings for immigrants, $70 million for National Guard border efforts, $197 million for the Department of Health and Human Services to provide temporary housing and humanitarian assistance to unaccompanied minors, and $40 million in repatriation assistance to Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. The bill also amends the Trafficking Victims Protection Reuthorization Act of 2008, so unaccompanied children from all countries are treated the same. The bill also places restrictions to keep the government from housing immigrant children on military bases. Much of the appropriation funding made in this bill is offset through reductions in foreign aid.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140801024712/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/fletc-situation-presents-health-safety-concerns-departures-halted,"FLETC SITUATION PRESENTS HEALTH, SAFETY CONCERNS AS DEPARTURES HALTED",2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (July 29, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce received confirmed information about public health and safety issues at the Federal Law Enforcedment Training Centers (FLETC) facility in Artesia. The information, confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security, detailed the conditions for the undocumented immigrant women and children held at FLETC. DHS confirmed that arrivals and departures have been halted as they treat and vaccinate the population for Varicella (chicken pox).
""As the FLETC facility reaches maximum capacity, I am increasingly concerned for the health and safety of the women and children at FLETC and for the local community. The virus, that has caused two residents to be put in isolation, has halted all departures,"" said Pearce. ""Our office communicated to DHS officials outlining our concerns with impacting local citizens, posing risks to the local community and draining limited county medical resources. Our office has called for DHS to talk to the community directly, and answer all questions and concerns about all matters at FLETC, through open town hall meetings or forums.""
FLETC officials will reportedly now use Eastern New Mexico Regional Medical Center in Roswell, instead of Artesia General Hospital, for patient care. This questionable decision by DHS is a concern for Congressman Pearce as it relates to the possible unexpected burden on local medical resources, moving patients nearly an hour away from the facility for treatment.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140801024748/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-improving-endangered-species-act-essential-species-and-people,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE: IMPROVING THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT IS ESSENTIAL FOR SPECIES AND PEOPLE,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (July 29, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce was proud to be a part of a historic move by the House to improve the Endangered Species Act, one of the most wasteful and economically devastating laws that impact New Mexico.
“New Mexico’s cattlemen, oil producers, landowners and farmers live under the ugly shadow of the corrupt system that the Endangered Species Act has become. Today’s vote to bring transparency and common sense back to the ESA can only serve to better the hard-working people from every corner of our state,” said Pearce. “ESA has only achieved a 2 percent recovery rate, yet has cost our citizens time, money and, for some, their very livelihoods. It is time to stop the secretive sue-and-settle tactics that imposed the new listings of the prairie chicken and jumping mouse. For years, New Mexicans have also feared for their safety as wolves roam through their property, tormenting children, and killing livestock. I do not want this for the rest of the country.”
New Mexico leaders joined Congressman Pearce Tuesday in applauding the passage of The Endangered Species Transparency & Reasonableness Act.
“Ranchers in Western New Mexico fear for the safety of their cattle and families due to Mexican Wolf predation,” said Luna County Commissioner Joe “Oleo” Milo, Jr. “Farmers near the Middle Rio Grande have lost water because of the Silvery Minnow, and now economic activity is under threat from the listing of the Prairie Chicken. Our economic livelihood as a state is at risk because of special interest lawsuits and a listing process that completely lacks transparency. I thank Congressman Pearce and the US House of Representatives for taking these steps to modernize and improve the Endangered Species Act to benefit people and species.”
“The Endangered Species Act has a 2 percent recovery rate, which unacceptable,” said Otero County Commissioner and longtime County Commission Chairman Ronny Rardin. “Today’s bill is an attempt to stop taxpayer funded trial lawyers from dictating policies that hinder economic growth, and clearly do not benefit at-risk species. In Otero County, ranchers have been denied access to the water they own due to the listing of the Meadow Jumping Mouse. We can protect water rights and the mouse at the same time. H.R. 4315 will help us to strike the right balance to grow jobs and ensure species are able to recover.”
“Local and state officials often do not have a seat at the table when it comes to Endangered Species listings,” said Chaves County Commissioner Greg Nibert. “Throughout the listing process for the Lesser Prairie Chicken, county officials, conservationists, and statewide wildlife experts stated that the voluntary conservation efforts were working. Yet the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service was forced by trial lawyers to ignore the monumental achievements we made on behalf the Chicken, and local stakeholders. H.R. 4315 ensures that local officials, who understand conservation better than any bureaucrat, will have a seat at the table in crafting these decisions that impact our environment and economy.”
NOTE: H.R. 4315, The Endangered Species Transparency & Reasonableness Act, focused on sensible, targeted updates to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in the areas of transparency and species recovery, passed the House of Representatives today by a bipartisan vote of 233 to 190. The ESA was created four decades ago, in1973. Since then, more than 1,500 US domestic species and sub-species have been listed. Only 2 percent have been recovered. The last renewal of the ESA by Congress occurred in 1988.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140801024823/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/statement-agreement-reform-department-veterans-affairs,STATEMENT ON AGREEMENT TO REFORM THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (July 29, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce welcomed the news that House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chairman Rep. Jeff Miller and Sen. Bernie Sanders had reached an agreement to reform the Department of Veterans Affairs.
""The anger generated by the American people over the treatment of our veterans has spurred Washington to work together to find a solution. Your voices have been heard,"" said Pearce. ""This legislation would allow our rural veterans to access local care, allow those who wait too long for appointments to seek care from local doctors, and promises to remove other bureaucratic barriers at the VA. I have fought for years for these changes and am ready to make them happern for New Mexico veterans.""
""This agreement could not come at a  better time for our veterans. I have spoken with the Albuquerque VQA Medical Center administration,"" Pearce continued. ""They have confirmed that they will participate in a pilot program to demonstrate the effectiveness of providing local primary care, mental health care and speciality appointments to veterans in Roswell during Chairman Miller's visit to New Mexico next week. I look forward to leading New Mexico in one of the nation's first tests of what this legislation would look like.""
The agreement, announced Monday by Sen. Sande4rs anfd Rep. Miller, is expected to be introduced by Congress this week.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140726062710/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-responds-house-working-group-report,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE RESPONDS TO HOUSE WORKING GROUP REPORT,2014-07-25,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (July 25, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce responded to the House Working Group's presentation Wednesday of its recommendations and solutions to the national security and humanitarian crisis at the southern border.
""The address to the House GOP Conference of our working group was a response to the president's request for nearly $4 billion in emergency funding, and addressed the national security and humanitarian crisis at our border,"" said Pearce. ""We need to ensure a prompt repatriation of immigrants who are not eligible for asylum, and provide the immigrants fair treatment and a fair hearing process for those who seek to stay, out of fear of returning.""
""The safety of the children remained a priority as we crafted the recommendations during the past few weeks. We met with presidents of Honduras and Guatemala, the people, and visited the most deperately poor areas of these countries during our visit. The leaders made it clear: They do not want to lose their next generation. Our recommendations include facilitating the return of families and children to their countries.""
""Many recommendations also include securing our border and assisting these countries with border security as well. We need to stem the tide and ensure safety for the children and famliies against human smuggling. The President needs to follow the law and secure our border to stop the surge, for the safety of all.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140725025434/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/statement-operation-protective-edge,STATEMENT ON OPERATION PROTECTIVE EDGE,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (July 23, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement in support of Israel's offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
""I stand by our Israeli allies and their effort to permanently end terrorist attacks on civilians,"" said Pearce. ""Since the beginning of this military intervention into Gaza, the radical Islamic terrorist group Hamas fired over 1,000 rockets indiscriminately at Israeli civilians, while hiding behind women and children in mosques, hospitals and UN-administered schools. The moral case for Israel could not be clearer.""
""Israel agreed to three separate ceasefires proposed by Egypt, the Red Cross and the United Nations. Hamas continued firing rockets. Israel warns civilians before a military operation commences in their neighborhood. Hamas forces civilians to stay near rocket launch sites. President Clinton said that the terrorists running the Gaza strip have a strategy to increase civilian casualties for propaganda purposes. I agree with his observation. This war could end tomorrow if Hamas would lay down its arms, and recognize Israel's right to exist.""
""I ask all New Mexicans to join me in prayer for a stable solution that ends the violence, protects Israel's right to exist, and secures a long-lasting peace in the Middle East.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140711034708/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-funds-need-provide-long-term-solution,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE: FUNDS NEED TO PROVIDE LONG-TERM SOLUTION,2014-07-09,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (July 8, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement following President Obama's request for $3.7 billion in emergency appropriations today.
""Money alone is not the solution to this problem. Too often, Washington gets bogged down with simply questioning whether to fund something or not,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""With the border and ongoing crisis, we need a clear path forward. We must know the United States has a plan to solve this problem, and look at how to mitigate and manage the long-term issues facing our border security.""
""President Obama and DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson have publically stated that they are committed to enforcing the laws we have,"" Pearce continued. ""This is the simplest and quickest answer to the current crisis we face. This sends a clear message that attempting to enter the United States illegally is not worth the physical and monetary toll it takes. Moving forward, Congress and the President must work together to address our long-term border needs, while ensuring accountability in addressing the short-term humanitarian crisis we face.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140711034730/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/happy-independence-day-0,HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY,2014-07-04,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Las Cruces, NM (July 4, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement recognizing Independence Day.
""Today, I want to wish all Americans a Happy Independence Day. On this day, 238 years ago, our Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. This symbol of freedom spoke of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. America remains a beacon for individual liberty and opportunity for the world. As my fellow New Mexicans join with family and friends today, I encourage us all to take a moment to honor the men and women in uniform, who fight so that we may life free. God bless all who serve in victory and valor, so that we may celebrate this Independence Day.""
Congressman Pearce will participate in Fourth of July celebrations in New Mexico, attending events in Las Cruces and Silver City.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140704054232/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/supreme-court-ruling-favor-religious-freedom-obamacare-victory-some-business-owners,SUPREME COURT RULING IN FAVOR OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM FROM OBAMACARE IS VICTORY FOR SOME BUSINESS OWNERS,2014-07-01,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 30, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement in response to today's U.S. Supreme Court decision that will allow some private business owners to reject a provision in President Obama's healthcare law that requires them to provide birth control to their employees.
""Today's landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court is a major victory for family-owned businesses,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""The Supreme Court has ruled that some American business owners do not have to give up their religious beliefs to the federal government, simply because President Obama has forced his healthcare system on the country. No individual should ever forfeit their freedoms, especially when they decide to contribute to the American economy and provide fair wages and benefits to their fellow Americans.""
""The opinion to recognize religious liberty under the First Amendment, however, was not shared by Justices Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Stephen G. Breyer, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayer, who ruled against the exemption,"" continued Pearce. ""The decision was narrow and did not include all corporations. The exemption is only for closely-held American for-profit corporations, controlled by religious families. This does not include all corporations operating in the U.S. Many religious non-profits, including several affiliated with the Catholic Church, are still fighting 51 similar lawsuits against the Obama administration.""
NOTE: In today's U.S. Supreme Court ruling, companies can object along religious grounds to the birth control mandate of the Affordable Care Act. Cases involved are Burwell V. Hobby Lobby and Conestoga Wood Specialties V. Burwell.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140704054257/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/obama-exploiting-humanitarian-crisis,OBAMA EXPLOITING HUMANITARIAN CRISIS,2014-07-01,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 30, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement in response to President Obama's annoucement today that he would fix the immigration system on his own, without Congress.
""President Obama is exploiting the humanitarian crisis at our southern border. This emergency does not give Obama an excuse to abuse his executive authority and circumvent Congress once again,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""A president cannot act beyond his executive authority and decide law based on his own preferences. Time and again, Obama has proven he only answers to himself. Recent Supreme Court rulings prove that he is wrong.""
""At $2 billion, the cost of this crisis is staggering. As a member of the House working group assigned specifically to advise Members of the House on this situation, I will examine all aspects of this border security crisis,"" Pearce continued. ""The problem at our southern border is a tragedy, caused by the President's own executive orders that gave false hope to children and their families. They are now suffering in crowded border facilities, with some women and children being processed as detainees in southern New Mexico. The President needs to continue to allow the democratic process to proceed.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140704054451/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/i-continue-seek-answers-albuquerque-va,I CONTINUE TO SEEK ANSWERS FROM ALBUQUERQUE VA,2014-06-28,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Albuquerque, NM (June 28, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce met for the second time with administrators of the Albuquerque VA Medical Center Friday to discuss the ongoing concerns about the VA Health Care system and veterans services. He announced plans for a pilot program in Southeast New Mexico for veterans to see local doctors for specialty care. Congressman Pearce also again engaged with VA administrators, asking them for transparency in answers to patient lists.
""Friday's meeting with the Albuquerque VA Medical Center was productive. We engaged in a full range of discussions dealing with veterans waiting too long for care and inadequate staffing,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""We did not agree on everything. I am continuing to ask for answers to failures in patient care, establishing a patient satisfaction measurement program, and results of the investigation into the local system and regional medical clinics. Dr. James Robbins and I had a productive conversation about the VA Medical Center's progress, but I remain concerned about overall resistance to openness and transparency.""
The Albuquerque VA Medical Center again declined to allow media to attend Friday's meeting. Congressman Pearce highlighted the results of a recent survey that showed 76 percent of New Mexico veterans support a state investigation into the problems of the VA Medical Center.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140627080917/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/ready-work-select-house-group-national-security-humanitarian-crisis-southern-border,"READY TO WORK WITH SELECT HOUSE GROUP ON NATIONAL SECURITY, HUMANITARIAN CRISIS AT THE SOUTHERN BORDER",2014-06-24,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 24, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce was selected by House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) to participate on a seven-member House working group on the national security and humanitarian crisis at the southern border. This group will advise the House of Representatives and keep lawmakers informed on the situation. Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) will lead the effort.
""I am honored to be selected by the Speaker to be a member of this working group,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""I applaud Speaker Boehner for taking immediate steps to form this necessary group to address the humanitarian crisis and national security at our southern border. This disastrous sitution will not end until we can secure our borders and develop an orderly process for legal immigration.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140627080940/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/statement-federal-officials-moving-illegal-immigrants-southern-new-mexico,STATEMENT ON FEDERAL OFFICIALS MOVING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS INTO SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO,2014-06-23,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 23, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in response to the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) plan to use the Federal Law Enforcfement and Training Centers (FLETC) facility in Artesia, New Mexico as a holding and processing facility for women and children who have recently crossed the border illegally.
""This is a humanitarian crisis. Families and children are flooding across our border, and now held in overflowing facilities,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""There are communities and people in the Second District looking to assist the children with basic needs. My office has been in communication with DHS regarding the transfer and processing of hundreds of detained illegal immigrants to FLETC. There are a number of outstanding questions regarding the decision -- including site-security features, the duration of this operation, and the deportation process -- which my office is seeking clarification on from the Department.""
""We must secure our borders immediately,"" Pearce continued. ""We need a clear, orderly process for immigration. America has fumbled and failed for decades to put in place a border policy that protects our country. Now, President Obama and Congress need to work together and set political goals aside to put in place an orderly process for border security and legal immigration.""
According to the DHS, the women and children will be detained at the facility in a secure location, until they are deported. Congressman Pearce will provide updated information as it becomes available.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140620051526/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/i-congratulate-mccarthy-scalise,"I CONGRATULATE MCCARTHY, SCALISE",2014-06-19,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 19, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement about today's House vote to elect Congressman Kevin McCarthy as Majority Leader and Congressman Steve Scalise as Majority Whip.
""I congratulate Congressman McCarthy and Congressman Scalise following today's vote for new House leadership,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""I also want to applaud all candidates involved in this important process for providing one of the most transparent and informative leadership election dialogues that I have been involved with. The House has emerged from the election more unified than ever.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140620051837/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/independent-survey-new-mexico-veterans-shows-differences-va-health-care-wait-times,INDEPENDENT SURVEY OF NEW MEXICO VETERANS SHOWS DIFFERENCES IN VA HEALTH CARE WAIT TIMES,2014-06-18,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 18, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce released a survey of New Mexico veterans that shows differences in reported wait times at VA Health Care facilities, when compared to data released last week by the Veterans Administration. In an ongoing effort to shed light on the problem facing veterans in New Mexico and continue the dialogue, Pearce released this statement.
""This survey shows that the Veterans Administration is not providing the public with realistic data. Veterans in New Mexico are waiting longer for appointments than the federal audit shows,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""Administrators at the Albuquerque VA Medical Center could not verify the data in the internal VA audit. With recent allegations of long waits and service failures, I wanted real answers. We need transparency and open dialogue with the VA, not more misinformation.""
""These numbers show that 46 percent of veterans strongly disapprove of the VA's handling of veterans' health care,"" Pearce continued. ""Another 58 percent said they would support a voucher system that would allow them to see a doctor at a non-VA facility. To the VA's credit, 58 percent said they received good or better quality of care. I look forward to continuing discussions with the Albuquerque VA Medical Center to find solutions to this situation.""
The survey, conducted by BWD Global, found that 24 percent of veterans had to wait longer than 30 days for a non-emergency appointment. Another 6 percent were not able to get an appointment at all. Also, 14 percent indicated it took 30 to 90 days to schedule their first appointment. And, 7 percent said it took longer than 90 days.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140620051901/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pilt-payments-help-new-mexico-counties,PILT PAYMENTS TO HELP NEW MEXICO COUNTIES,2014-06-17,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 17, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce is proud to see that New Mexico will be issued $37,677,905 in Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) today. Pearce pushed for the payments to be included in the Agriculture Act of 2014 to fully compensate counties for federal land within their borders. New Mexico will receive nearly $3 million more in funding this fiscal year.
""I worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to include PILT funding in the final Farm Bill that passed the Senate and the House overwhelmingly. PILT is vital to all of New Mexico, especially our rural counties,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""However, this is only a temporary measure to guarantee our counties get the money they need. I will work with members of Congress to find a permanent solution to fund PILT.""
The Department of the Interior issued $436.9 million in PILT payments today to over 1,900 local government jurisdictions. Detailed information will be available on the PILT website June 18 at www.doi.gov/pilt.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140613064758/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/obamas-decision-negotiate-terrorists-was-serious-mistake,OBAMA'S DECISION TO NEGOTIATE WITH TERRORISTS WAS A SERIOUS MISTAKE,2014-06-11,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 11, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement in response to Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel's testimony before the House Armed Services Committee, on the transfer of five Taliban terrorists from Guantanamo Bay to Qatar.
""It is clear to me that President Obama made serious mistakes in securing the release of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""By trading five top Taliban terrorists, the President has not only risked the safety of our troops who remain in Afghanistan, he has endangered lives internationally. I support an investigation into the Obama administration's negotiations and its failure to notify Congress before releasing terrorists from custody. The President's decision to negotiate with terrorists has placed people around the world in greater threat of danger.""
The trade made by President Barack Obama for the recovery of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl was negotiated without providing Congress with 30-day notice. Secretary Hagel testified today that President Obama made the final decision, and that the Obama administration conducted talks beginning in 2011 with the Taliban about the exchange.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140613064852/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/usfws-again-caves-radicdal-interests-jeopardizes-jobs-jumping-mouse-listing,"USFWS AGAIN CAVES TO RADICDAL INTERESTS, JEOPARDIZES JOBS WITH JUMPING MOUSE LISTING",2014-06-10,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 10, 2014) Yesterday, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) announced it had listed the New Mexico Meadow Jumping Mouse as an endangered species. FWS included grazing and wildfires as primary reasons for the listing. Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in response.
""Once again, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service chose to cater to big-city radical special interests instead of protecting our jobs, and ignored the fact that conservation and economic growth are not mutually exclusive,"" Pearce said. ""FWS is sectioning off thousands of acres of federal, state, tribal and private lands to benefit one species at the expense of ranchers in three states. The U.S. Forest Service collaborated with FWS to deny ranchers access to water in Otero County before the Jumping Mouse was even listed. FWS failed to recognize that its own policies--which have stopped timber harvesting and forest thinning--are to blame for the raging wildfires that threaten the mouse. This decision was made before all the facts were considered.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140613064928/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-funding-vital-reopen-wipp,PEARCE: FUNDING IS VITAL TO REOPEN WIPP,2014-06-10,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 10, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce applauds today's House Appropriations subcommittee action to approve $220 million for operations and an additional $120 million for recovery efforts that will move the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in Carlsbad closer to reopening.
""This action is vital to getting WIPP reopened safely and keeping our friends and family working in Carlsbad,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""Support for this nuclear repository is necessary for the Department of Energy's commitment to remediating defense sites nationwide. I have pushed for this funding because WIPP is a critical site for our community, for jobs and for the essential work it does for our nation.""
NOTE: The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development approved matching the President's budget request for $220 million for WIPP's operations and an additional $120 million for recovery efforts. The additional $120 million was approved as part of the energy and water spending bill. The bill will now move from the subcommittee to the full committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140608100129/https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-today-we-honor-70th-anniversary-d-day,PEARCE: TODAY WE HONOR THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF D-DAY,2014-06-06,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (June 6, 2014) Today, we remember and honor the 70th anniversary of D-Day, when more than 160,000 Allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy. Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower called the crusade one in which, ""we will accept nothing less than full victory.""
""Today, we honor the servicemen who faced insurmountable odds as the cooperative airborne and amphibious assault on Normandy Beach began Operation Overlord. Through their valor, perserverance and everlasting commitment to freedom, the liberation of France was secured and efforts were furthered for the eventual Allied victory during WWII,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""On this 70th anniversary of D-Day, we remember those who sacrificed their lives securing the freedoms we hold so dear. Their memory lives through us, and stands as a testament of the undying will of America's bravest heroes. Let us never forget their courage or their sacrifice.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140613065013/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-chaves-county-takes-stand-against-usfwss-destructive-prairie-chicken-ruling,PEARCE: CHAVES COUNTY TAKES A STAND AGAINST USFWS'S DESTRUCTIVE PRAIRIE CHICKEN RULING,2014-06-06,2014,2014-06,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Roswell, NM (June 6, 2014) Today, Chaves County Commissioners became the latest local leaders to stand up against the federal government in the fight against the Obama administration's increasing agenda to target New Mexico ranchers, oil and gas producers, industry and jobs. The county commission has decided to join in an effort by the Permian Basin Petroleum Association, and others, to sue the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Department of the Interior to overturn the recent disastrous prairie chicken listing as a threatened species.
""I support Chaves County in its decision to stand up to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service against its destructive decision to list the prairie chicken,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""The FWS's decision to cater to environmental groups and disregard science will devestate New Mexico's way of life. New Mexicans will pay the price in lost jobs, industry, ranching and oil and gas production. This is a federal government that is out of control. The only way change can occur is when local citizens and their leaders, like those in Chaves County, start standing up and demanding it.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140601220148/https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-funding-intelligence-community-vital,PEARCE: FUNDING FOR INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY IS VITAL,2014-05-31,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 30, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of H.R. 4681, the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2014 and 2015. This act provides the intelligence community with funding authorizations for the year to come.
""With all the current global unrest, from Russia's action in Ukraine to the civil war in Syria, and the continued actions by terror groups, now is not the time to starve off funding to our intelligence operations,"" said Pearce. ""The legislation passed by the House today supports our intelligence workforce and ensures they have the resources and capability to continue the vital work they complete worldwide. We must be able to combat the advancing cyber warfare threat, and we must continue to thwart terror plots against our nation and our allies. Most importantly, our nation must be cognizant of the continual evolving and emerging threats that are posed on a daily basis. None of this can be accomplished without a strong and stable funding commitment to agencies that work to keep us safe.""
NOTE: H.R. 4681, the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2014 and 2015, authorizes appropriations for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, the Central Intelligence Agency, the Department of Defense, the Defense Intelligence Agency, National Security Agency, Departments of the Army, Navy and Air Force, Coast Guard, Departments of State, Treasury, Energy and Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, National Reconnaissance Office, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. H.R. 4681 passed by a final vote of 345-59.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140601220226/https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-shinsekis-resignation-was-correct-decision,PEARCE: SHINSEKI'S RESIGNATION WAS THE CORRECT DECISION,2014-05-30,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 30, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement following the resignation of Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki.
""The President's decision to accept Secretary Eric Shinseki's resignation, while weeks too late, was the correct decision,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""I thank Secretary Shinseki for his decades of honorable service in the military. Unfortunately, his leadership and administration of the VA did not meet the needs of our veterans. I hope his resignation today ends the neglect of our veterans that has occurred under his direction. Now, the President must act again and nominate a new chief of the VA that can immediately step in and right the tremendous wrongs and failures currently going on.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140601220251/https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-support-law-enforcement-and-scientific-innovation,PEARCE VOTES TO SUPPORT LAW ENFORCEMENT AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION,2014-05-30,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 30, 2014) Early today, Congressman Steve Pearce joined his colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass H.R. 4660, the Commerce Justice Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for 2015. H.R. 4660 is the third of 12 Appropriations bills the House of Representatives plans to address this summer.
""This legislation provides our community, state and Department of Justice law enforcement entities with the resources they need to keep our neighborhoods and nation safe, while also reducing waste, fraud and abuse within our federal agencies,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""Specifically, the bill focuses on combating cyber terror against American companies; it assists state and local law enforcement entities by providing assistance grants, combats human trafficking, and provides essential funding to support violence against women programs.
""Beyond the law enforcement assistance, this bill includes a number of items that benefit science and innovation in New Mexico,"" Pearce said. ""It provides strong funding for NASA exploration and research programs, support for National Science Foundation research, on topics ranging from physical science radio astronomy, and enables the Economic Development Administration to assist with public works and economic development projects.""
NOTE: H.R. 4660 provides related agencies with funding for the year to come. This bill provides for a total discretionary funding level of $51.2 billion, nearly $400 million less than in FY14. It provides $27.8 billion to support law enforcement initiatives, including cyber security. Additionally, the legislation provides $8.4 billion for scientific and technical research and weather forecasting. H.R. 4660 passed by a final vote of 321 to 87.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140530040033/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-time-new-leadership-va,PEARCE: TIME FOR NEW LEADERSHIP AT THE VA,2014-05-29,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 29, 2014) Following the release of the Department of Veterans Affairs Inspector General report on the Phoenix VA Health System yesterday, Congressman Steve Pearce again urges Secretary Eric Shinseki to resign.
""I am appalled by the findings announced yesterday,"" said Congresman Steve Pearce. ""Gross negligence at the Phoenix system is not an isolated problem. These issues are systemic within the VA and must be corrected immediately. The men and women who risked everythng in the protection of our nation must be treated with respect, and be given the care we have guaranteed them.""
""I thank Secretary Shinseki for his decades of service to the military,"" Pearce continued. ""Unfortunately, his leadership and administration of the VA has not successfully provided the services and benefits to those he is supposed to serve. As with the military, when a leader is not successfully completing his or her mission, that leader needs to be replaced. It is time for Secretary Shinseki to resign. At the end of the day, he, no one else, is responsible for the actions that took place within his department. If he refuses to resign, President Obama should remove him immediately and replace him with someone who will bring an end to the failures at the VA.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140530040058/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-actions-speak-louder-words,PEARCE: ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS,2014-05-24,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 23, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce responded to the ongoing deficiences within the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Obama Administration.
""After three weeks of total silence on the issue, President Obama once again offered us words and no action,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""Instead of holding anyone accountable, the President continues to stand by and defend a Department of Veterans Affairs that continues to lie and falsify documents. From shadow lists to clear evidence of destroyed documents, veterans are needlessly dying because of VA actions. Veterans deserve better. When Enron falsified documents and continually lied, people went to jail. What makes this situation any different? Nationwide, including the Albuquerque VA system, hospitals are being accused of great injustices. This cannot and must not stand. The deaths of these veterans have been completely unnessary.""
""Once again, I call on President Obama to take action on the most recent failure and demand that those responsible and involved in the wrongful death of veterans nationwide be terminated and, if necessary, held criminally responsible, instead of paying out bonuses to bureaucrats under investigation by the Inspector General,"" Pearce continued. ""For the past 10 years, I have fought for greater transparency and care within our VA system, and called on VA centers in Albuquerque and El Paso to correct deficiencies in care. The men and women who risked their lives to protect our nation deserve a VA that will guarantee the benefits our nation owes them.""
NOTE: Congressman Pearce, a Vietnam War veteran, supported efforts this week to pass legislation providing the Secretary of the VA with additional powers to demote and fire senior employees within the department. This legislation, entitled H.R. 4031, The Department of Veterans Affairs Management Accountability Act of 2014, passed the House of Representatives by a final vote of 390 to 33. Congressman Pearce was proud to cosponsor this legislation with Chairman Jeff Miller.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140523062845/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-defense-authorization-0,PEARCE VOTES FOR DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION,2014-05-22,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 22, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 (NDAA), which authorizes spending and ongoing support for our military.
""The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) assures our men and women in uniform the ongoing support they need as they continue missions from bases in new Mexico to Afghanistan,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""At a time of extreme budget uncertainty and questions surrounding the funding and size of our military, it is critical for Congress and the American people to show strong support for those in uniform. The legislation passed today protects the important TRICARE promises made to our veterans and active duty troops. It includes critical funding for our national security labs to ensure they can continue their mission. This legislation includes a pay increase for those who sacrifice their own safety for ours. Most importantly, this bill increases defense spending, providing the support our armed forces need to combat terrorism and stand ready to defend freedom around the world.""
""Every year, I consider the NDAA one of the most important votes I take,"" Pearce continued. ""My experience in the Vietnam War allowed me to see firsthand the harmful effects of Congress choking off military funding. I am proud the House voted to authorize the military to operate for another year, and continues to show support for our troops.""
NOTE: The NDAA is legislation that authorizes military activities for the Department of Defense, for military construction and for defense activities within the Department of Energy, for the year to come. It passed the House of Representatives today by a final vote of 325 to 98.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140523062911/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-stop-nsa-dragnet-protect-civil-liberties,"PEARCE VOTES TO STOP NSA DRAGNET, PROTECT CIVIL LIBERTIES",2014-05-22,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 22, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted for HR 3361, the USA Freedom Act. This important legislation increases accountability in domestic surveillance, including the creation of a Special Advocate for civil liberties and constitutional issues to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) Court, and ends the federal government's ability to collect bulk telephone records data.
""I was an original cosponsor on HR 3361, because it is imperative that Congress correct instances of civil liberties violations,"" Pearce said. ""The disclosure last year of the National Security Agency's massive dragnet of data collection caused significant alarm. Today, Congress took a major step toward fixing this problem, and returning the PATRIOT Act to its original intent: targeting those who wish to harm Americans, and preventing terrorist attacks. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to act on this legislation immediately.""
NOTE: The USA Freedom Act passed overwhelmingly on a 303 to 121 bipartisan vote. The Senate version, S. 1599, is sponsored by Senate Judiciary Committee Chariman Pat Leahy (D-VT), and includes 21 cosponsors from both parties.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140523063138/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-obama-usurps-democratic-process-once-again-ignores-congress-new-monument,"PEARCE: OBAMA USURPS DEMOCRATIC PROCESS, ONCE AGAIN IGNORES CONGRESS WITH NEW MONUMENT DESIGNATION",2014-05-21,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 21, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce opposes President Barack Obama's use of executive powers under the Antiquities Act to designate one-fifth of Dona Ana County to create a new national monument.
""President Obama's announcement today that he will establish the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument flies in the face of the democratic process,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""This single action has erased six years of work undertaken by Dona Ana ranchers, business owners, conservationists, sportsmen, officials and myself to develop a collaborative plan for the Organ Mountains that would have preserved the natural resource, and still provided future economic opportunities.
""The President's reckless use of his executive powers also takes away assurances of border security for county residents, soil and water conservation, hunting and motorized vehicle access,"" Pearce continued. ""I was elected to represent the people of Southern New Mexico, and President Obama ignored the people of Southern New Mexico with the stroke of a pen.""
Congressman Pearce has always supported a permanent solution to protect the Organ Mountains. Pearce introduced H.R. 995 in March 2013 to establish the Organ Mountains National Monument. The bill would have protected the rights of ranchers, hunters and law enforcement to access the monument. It would permanently withdraw 54,800 acres of the land from mineral exploration, and ensure than new roads would not be constructed without the consent of the Interior Secretary. It also guaranteed that flood control structures could be reparied when necessary.
President Obama will instead use the Antiquities Act to bypass Congress and establish half a million acres of land in Dona Ana County as the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument. The Antiquities Act states that the President must only use this power to declare monuments within ""the smallest area compatible."" The President said in his State of the Union address that if Congress did not implement his will, he would take as many executive actions as he saw fit.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140523063412/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-now-time-address-human-and-sex-trafficking,PEARCE: NOW IS THE TIME TO ADDRESS HUMAN AND SEX TRAFFICKING,2014-05-21,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 20, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of a package of six widely supported bipartisan bills that passed the House of Representatives to combat human and sex trafficking, and raise awareness of the issues nationwide. He was a cosponsor of two bills and supported all six. Human trafficking continues to affect more than 20 million victims worldwide, including hundreds of children and adults in New Mexico.
""Now is the time to aggressively shine the light on the horrific epidemic of human and sex trafficking that affects so many children and adults in New Mexico, and across the United States,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""These bills will begin to bring justice to victims of trafficking, stop exploitation, provide much-needed resources to victims of these crimes, prevent the demand for sex trafficking, raise awareness, and provide many other immediate ways to address the issue.""
The Department of Justice estimates that as many as 100,000-300,000 children are at risk of being trafficked for commercial sex in the U.S. each year. Pearce and his staff have held community round table discussions about human trafficking in Anthony and Las Cruces. Another discussion is planned for Artesia next week.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140523063438/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-water-resources-and-reform-development-act-fund-needed-new-mexico-water,PEARCE: WATER RESOURCES AND REFORM DEVELOPMENT ACT TO FUND NEEDED NEW MEXICO WATER PROJECTS,2014-05-20,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 20, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted for H.R. 3080, the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA), a bill that passed by a strong bipartisan vote of 412-4. This bill responsibly funds and ensures the construction of several water resource projects across the country, including key dams and levees in New Mexico, to help prevent flooding on the Rio Grande. It will also make cuts in wasteful, outdated projects.
""Today's legislation is critical for New Mexico and for the nation,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""Proactive management of our dams along the Rio Grande is vital to our projects across the nation, while also cutting $18 billion in old, inactive projects. The bill makes major reforms to increase transparancy, accountability and Congressional oversight in reviewing and prioritizing future water resource projects.""
WRRDA maximizes the ability of non-federal interests to contribute their own funds to move studies and projects forward, and establishes a water infrastructure public-private partnership program and new options to expand the local role in project implementation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140523070449/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-statement-president-obama%E2%80%99s-organ-mountains-desert-peaks-national,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE: STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA’S ORGAN MOUNTAINS-DESERT PEAKS NATIONAL MONUMENT DESIGNATION,2014-05-19,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 19, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce released this statement following President Barack Obama's decision to use the Antiquities Act to designate one-fifth of Dona Ana County to create the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.
""The President's decision to section off one-fifth of Dona Ana County is miguided, and shows his contempt for the legislative branch,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""For years, I have worked to find a collaborative solution to permanently protect the Organ Mountains and promote true economic opportunity for my constitutents. With this land grab, the President is once again going out of his way to derail any attempt for form a consensus, and do what local people want. Residents of Dona Ana County deserve the assurance that first responders and Border Patrol can protect the public, flood control structures will be maintained, ranchers will have their grazing rights, and hunters can have the access they've always enjoyed.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140523070501/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-disappointed-dojs-inabiity-recognize-property-rights,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE DISAPPOINTED BY DOJ'S INABILITY TO RECOGNIZE PROPERTY RIGHTS,2014-05-17,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 16, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce is disappointed by the Department of Justice's inability to recognize the constitutional property rights of citizens in the ongoing dispute over access to water for cattle ranchers in Otero County. The U.S. Forest Service continues to deny the Goss family access to the Agua Chiquita, after two court rulings have declared this family's right to access that water for their cattle.
""The Department of Justice and the U.S. Forest Service have acted with contempt to the findings of these courts. They have also failed to cooperate today with elected officials of Otero County, as they attempted to mediate the property rights issues surrounding the opening of the gates at Agua Chiquita,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""The DOJ's actions in this matter demonstrate that our constitutional protections have no value to this administration. I will immediately request a Congressional field hearing to address the U.S. Attorney's failure to uphold the private property rights of citizens, and an additional hearing on the USFS's taking of private water rights.""
The New Mexico Supreme Court ruled that if a person has water rights, they have the right to convey that water over private or public property to their livestock. The USFS has not allowed the Goss family this ability. Federal claims court ruled in their favor after the USFS denied the longtime ranching family the ability to access water in another area of the national forest. The New Mexico State Engineer has also agreed that the Goss family maintains water rights to the Agua Chiquita.
Congressman Pearce has stood by Otero County ranchers and elected officials during this dispute. He will continue to stand by the county and its citizens. The USFS and US District Attorney refused a request by the county attorney who asked for Congressman Pearce to be present at today's mediation hearing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140516080918/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-charter-schools-provide-opportunities-school-choice-thousands-new-mexico,"PEARCE: CHARTER SCHOOLS PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES, SCHOOL CHOICE FOR THOUSANDS OF NEW MEXICO FAMILIES",2014-05-09,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 9, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of H.R. 10, the Opportunity Through Quality Charter Schools Act, a bill to reauthorize and modernize the charter schools program that has provided millions of American families, and 20,000 New Mexican children, with choice in quality educational opportunities.
""This bipartisan bill provides incentives for the creation and expansion of quality charter schools,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""Charter schools provide opportunities and school choice for thousands of New Mexico families. I fully support this legislation that helps communities and schools thrive and excel.""
H.R. 10, which passed 360-45, increases flexibility for the use of federal grants to be used to expand and improve existing charter schools, as well as create new, high-quality charter schools. In addition, this legislation increases authorized funds eligible for federal charter school grants from $250 million a year to $300 million.
Pearce recently visited La Academia Delores Huerta and New Americas schools, two charter schools in Las Cruces, where he gained first-hand insight into the successful outcomes of charter schools in New Mexico. New Mexico has 98 charter schools that currently serve 20,000 students. May 4-10 is National Charter Schools Week.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140509055001/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-encouraged-benghazi-committee-formation,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE ENCOURAGED BY BENGHAZI COMMITTEE FORMATION,2014-05-07,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 6, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce is encouraged that Speaker John A. Boehner, R-Ohio, will form a select committee to investigate the State Department's handling of the 2012 attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya.
""This decision is long overdue. Americans deserve answers to the questions they have demanded since this tragedy occurred in 2012,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""The American people still know nothing about the circumstances that surround the deaths of four Americans killed during the brutal attack on our consulate. I stand with New Mexicans and our citizens who continue to demand nothing short of full transparency and an expendient investigation without futher delay.""
In April 2013, Pearce cosponsored HR36, legislation to establish a committee to investigate and report on the Benghazi attack. In November 2012, he sent a letter to the White House, inquiring about the attacks. Pearce did not receive a response to this letter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140509055105/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-prepared-ask-tough-questions-forest-service,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE PREPARED TO ASK TOUGH QUESTIONS OF FOREST SERVICE,2014-05-06,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 6, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement on the situation in Otero County between local officials and the US Forest Service:
""It is the responsibility of elected officials to serve those they represent. I am proud of the elected leadership in Otero County for asking the tough questions of the Forest Service on behalf of local citizens. Like the County Commission and Sheriff, I have the same responsibility. I have been watching closely, and am prepared over the coming days to begin asking the tougher questions that have so far gone unanswered by the Forest Service.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140509055130/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-applauds-supreme-court-decision-town-greece-v-galloway,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE APPLAUDS SUPREME COURT DECISION ON TOWN OF GREECE V. GALLOWAY,2014-05-06,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (May 6, 2014) Monday, the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in favor of the Town of Greece in the case of Town of Greece v. Galloway. The court's decision was the result of a 2008 suit filed by two residents in Greece, New York, who claimed that the practice of reciting an opening prayer in council meetings was unconstitutional.
""The Supreme Court made the right decision,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""An opening prayer is a longstanding tradition performed in local municipalities and in the United States Congress. As Justice Kennedy states in the opinion of the court, 'Our tradition assumes that adult citizens, firm in their own beliefs, can tolerate and perhaps appreciate a ceremonial prayer delivered by a person of a different faith.' This ceremonial practice is a constitutional right for all governing bodies, no matter how small.""
In August 2013, Pearce joined 84 other members of Congress who submitted an Amicus brief in support of the Town of Greece. the brief sought to restore the use of the Coercion Test, a standard by which the Supreme Court tests constitutionality.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140502053503/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-hold-town-hall-prairie-chicken-listing-hobbs,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE TO HOLD TOWN HALL ON PRAIRIE CHICKEN LISTING IN HOBBS,2014-05-01,2014,2014-05,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 30, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce will host a town hall meeting Saturday in Hobbs for citizens of Lea county to meet face-to-face and ask questions of federal officials regarding the economically devastating impact of the lesser prairie chicken listing. Representatives from the U.S. Fish and wildlife Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Land Management have been invited to attend.
""I encourage all residents affected by the lesser prairie chicken listing to attend this town hall meeting,"" Pearce said. ""You have a right to ask government officials why they made the decisions they made. Their choices affect your right to farm your land, graze  your cattle, or continue the energy boom that's created so many good-paying jobs throughout Southeastern New Mexico. Federal officials owe New Mexicans an explanation for why their extraordinary cooperative efforts to preserve lesser prairie chicken habitat were not good enough.""
Hobbs Town Hall: 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, 1 Thunderbird Circle, Western Heritage Museum & Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame, NMJC Campus, Hobbs",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140502053528/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-obama-expected-choose-arizona-company%E2%80%99s-profits-over-national,"CONGRESSMAN PEARCE: OBAMA EXPECTED TO CHOOSE ARIZONA COMPANY’S PROFITS OVER NATIONAL SECURITY, NEW MEXICO JOBS",2014-04-30,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 30, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce learned that the White House is expected to announce its decision to allow SunZia to run its transmission line through the northern area of the White Sands Missile Range. By selecting this route, President Barack Obama has decided to choose an Arizona company's profits over national security and New Mexico jobs.
""It is irresponsible that the White House would side with corporate profits over the safety and wellbeing of our men and women in uniform,"" said Congressman Steve Pearce. ""White Sands Missile Range provides the military with the only long-range, 'live-fire' facility to test future weapons systems essential for our national defense. Allowing the SunZia project to interfere with our national security shows this administration's continued disregard for those who risk their lives for our freedom. We must not allow political influence and corporate profits to interfere with national security. It is not an accedptable answer for the people of New Mexico or the people of the United States.""
Senior Army, Navy, and Defense officials have repeatedly opposed Obama's apparent selectede route, which would reduce WSMR's operations by 30 percent. A reduction of this size, would reduce the range's ability to conduct critical national security operations. Earlier this year, the President proposed a budget that would gut military spending. To combat the constrained environment, the Secretary of Defense highlighted the necessity to create a more technologically advanced military -- there is no location in the world better suited to do so then WSMR.
The increasing tension between Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine, the situation in Syria, Iran's efforts to enrich uranium, China's military advancements, and North Korea's work on longer-range missiles; only remind us that this is not a time for America to lose further ground on any aspect of its national security.
Last month, senior administration officials and congressional staff were briefed on a classified report that showed several potential negative impacts this project would have on the mission at WSMR. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology study concluded that construction of the line across the northern extension area would adversely affect the national security test missions at the facility. DOD proposed an alternative that would allow construction of the line and protect missions at WSMR.
SunZia has steadfastly resisted moving the route a few miles outside the range or burying the line, citing cost as the prohibiting factor. If the President approves SunZia's desired route, it will not be for the benefit of New Mexicans, it will be for the benefit of a special-interest corporation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140502053637/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-meets-southeast-new-mexico-leaders,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE MEETS WITH SOUTHEAST NEW MEXICO LEADERS,2014-04-29,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 29, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce met with a delegation of local business people and leaders from Chaves and Eddy counties, Roswell and Artesia. Pearce had the opportunity to hear the group's concerns about the recent U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's devastating decision to list the lesser prairie chicken, federal funding for local governments, and impacts of federal regulations on local jobs.
""Some commissioners expressed concerns over the flood of regulations heading in their direction, all of which are going to remove jobs and potentially harm the oil and gas industry,"" Congressman Steve Pearce said. ""Local leaders and local citizens need to speak out against a government that has become too strong, too intrusive, and threatens our livelihoods, with no significant gains for the environment, and no significant gains in species developmement. This is the message I basically heard, and one that I am willing to stand with the local citizens on.""
Pearce makes it a priority to meet with citizens who visit from New Mexico, and to hear their concerns.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140502053711/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-calls-resignation-phoenix-va-director,PEARCE CALLS FOR RESIGNATION OF PHOENIX VA DIRECTOR,2014-04-26,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 26, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce called for Sharon Helman, director of the Phoenix Veterans' Affairs Health Care System, to resign from her position following allegations of excessive patient deaths caused by delays of service, attempts to cover up those deaths and mismanagement.
""I strongly urge Sharon Helman to immediately step down from her position as director of the Phoenix Veterans' Affairs Health Care System,"" Congressman Steve Pearce said Saturday. ""Ms. Helman, and other management officials at the facility, are accused of actions that were intolerable, and may have resulted in the deaths of several veterans who served our country with honor. Veterans have sought better service from the VA for many years, only to be ignored. Our veterans are now fighting against an administration that does not value America's men and women in uniform. Our veterans deserve better than this.""
Pearce supports a full investigation into the Phoenix VA Health Care System and recent allegations of delays in treatment, accusations of recent patient deaths due to long delays in service, and mismanagement of the facility. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of the nationwide VA system should be considered to ensure these practices are not affecting veterans throughout the country.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140502053821/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-tours-roswell-job-corps,PEARCE TOURS ROSWELL JOB CORPS,2014-04-25,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"CONGRESSMAN PEARCE TOURS ROSWELL JOB CORPS
Washington, DC (April 25, 2014) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce toured the Roswell Job Corps to visit trade classes and speak to students about their future plans.Students showed Pearce their skills in automotive repair, culinary arts and electrical wiring trades. Pearce then engaged students in a discussion about leadership, how to find success and job opportunities.
""Get out and do what it is you are passionate about and earn your success, because you are going to find more happiness and success doing these two things,"" Congressman Steve Pearce told the students. ""Money will come secondary. It doesn't bring success.""
The students asked several important questions and engaged with Pearce in a discussion about jobs and career choices. Pearce also spoke to them about leadership and overcoming obstacles.
""No matter where you start in life, you can do what you want to do,"" Pearce told the students.
Job Corps is a no-cost education and career technical training program administered by the U.S., Department of Labor for students ages 16 to 24.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140425065621/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-wipp-report-first-step-recovery-process,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE: WIPP REPORT IS FIRST STEP IN RECOVERY PROCESS,2014-04-24,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 24, 2014) Today, the Department of Energy published its initial findings on the release of radiation at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in Carlsbad that occurred Feb. 14. DOE officials and plant operators have done well to keep the community informed about the incident. Fortunately, they again confirmed this week that the release did not endanger the region and workers have returned to the site.
“While a striking indictment of the safety culture of WIPP, the report is a major step in the recovery and reopening of the site,” said Congressman Steve Pearce. “The report clearly shows that immediate work needs to be done to improve safety at the plant. This is a vital step in the process of recovery for the community and plant workers.
“The report depicts a site, a contractor and a DOE that was ill-prepared for any hazardous or emergency situation – let alone a radiological event,” Pearce said. “The contractor and DOE must make the recommended corrective actions before operations can or should continue at the site. I expect the DOE and the contractor to work diligently, to update, revise, and add safety and management policies that dictate daily operations at the site.”
A copy of the DOE report can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140425065700/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/statement-sierra-county-federal-disaster-declaration,STATEMENT ON SIERRA COUNTY FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION,2014-04-24,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"STATEMENT ON SIERRA COUNTY FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION                     Farm operators can seek assistance from Farm Service Agency                      
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    Washington, DC (April 24, 2014)--New Mexicans and New Mexico farmers continue struggle as the state enters the fourth year of significant drought. Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture designated Sierra County a primary natural disaster area following another devastating growing season.
	“The ongoing drought will continue to impose economic hardship on our farmers and families this year in New Mexico,” Pearce said. “Yesterday’s federal disaster declaration will help farmers in Sierra County and surrounding counties to apply for assistance from the Farm Service Agency. I will continue to press for support for our agriculture industry and farmers, as they struggle through another tough year of drought.”
	Yesterday’s designation allows farm operators in Sierra County and seven neighboring counties (Catron, Dona Ana, Grant, Lincoln, Luna, Otero and Socorro) to be considered for certain assistance from the Farm Service Agency, if eligibility requirements are met. The assistance includes FSA emergency loans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140425065733/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-i-want-wish-everyone-new-mexico-happy-easter,"PEARCE: ""I WANT TO WISH EVERYONE IN NEW MEXICO A HAPPY EASTER""",2014-04-20,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Hobbs, NM (April 20, 2014)--Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement to commemorate the Easter holiday:
""I want to wish everyone in New Mexico a happy Easter. Easter is a time of thoughtful prayer and celebration. This holiday means something different to everyone. It gives us a chance to be with our loved ones, and celebrate the life we have. The sacrifice of my savior, Jesus Christ, is the greatest act of love. I rejoice that he is risen.
	I also ask my fellow New Mexicans to pray for our troops serving at home and abroad, as well as our first responders.Those who risk their lives to serve this country deserve our highest gratitude. Please keep in mind the service members and their families who underwent the horrible tragedy at Fort Hood. Pray that they find peace and justice.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140418074244/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-%E2%80%93-state-acts-veterans%E2%80%99-cemeteries,PEARCE – STATE ACTS ON VETERANS’ CEMETERIES,2014-04-16,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Roswell, NM (April 16, 2014) Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement on Governor Martinez’s selection of four cities for consideration to become federally recognized veterans cemeteries.
“Yesterday, Governor Martinez and Secretary Hale announced Ft. Stanton, Gallup, Carlsbad, and Angel Fire are the first four communities being recommended to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for cemeteries,” said Pearce.  “The state’s efforts thus far have been in response to calls throughout New Mexico for increased access to cemeteries to further honor our veterans.  New Mexico has a long, proud history of military service, I look forward to continuing to work with the state and the VA to ensure New Mexico has the facilities to eternally honor our nation's bravest.”
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs will announce later this summer a full list of locations selected for the creation of cemeteries.  More information about the Department of Veterans’ Affairs initiative can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140418074309/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-statement-tax-day-0,PEARCE STATEMENT ON TAX DAY,2014-04-15,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 15, 2014)--Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement for Tax Day:
“Today, all Americans are legally required to file their federal income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service.  It’s a yearly reminder of the federal government’s burdensome overreach.  Despite President Obama raising taxes on 77% of Americans last year, our wasteful government spending has still left our nation with an enormous deficit.  Increasing the amount Americans pay in taxes will never be the solution.  The problem is the way Washington spends.  Borrowing money to pay this year’s bills with no plan or intention to pay back that debt is generational theft. It’s time to stop balancing the budget on the backs of our children and grandchildren.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140418074403/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-host-lesser-prairie-chicken-town-halls,Pearce to Host Lesser Prairie Chicken Town Halls,2014-04-14,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 14, 2014)—Congressman Steve Pearce announced today that he would host town halls for local citizens to meet face-to-face with and ask questions of federal officials regarding the impact of the lesser prairie chicken listing. Representatives from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Land Management have been invited to attend.The town halls will be held on the following dates:
•     April 14, 1 PM at the Lovington Chamber of Commerce, 201 S Main Ave
•     April 15, 1 PM at the Roswell Chamber of Commerce, 131 W 2nd St
•     April 16, 10 AM at the Portales Chamber of Commerce, 100 S Ave A
“I encourage all residents affected by the lesser prairie chicken listing to attend one of these town hall meetings,” Pearce said. “You have a right to ask government officials why they made the decisions they made.  Their choices affect your right to farm your land, graze your cattle, or continue the energy boom that’s created so many good-paying jobs throughout Southeastern New Mexico. Federal officials owe New Mexicans an explanation for why their extraordinary cooperative efforts to preserve lesser prairie chicken habitat were not good enough.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140411045508/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-supports-balanced-budget,PEARCE SUPPORTS BALANCED BUDGET,2014-04-10,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 10, 2014) – Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in support of H.Con. Res. 96, known as the Ryan Budget Resolution.  This plan, which establishes a budget framework for the year ahead and spending priorities for the next ten years, balances in 10-years, keeps Medicare as-is for people over age 56, and provides for a strong national defense. 
“The United States is $17 trillion in debt.  Continuing to spend and budget the way we currently do is simply unsustainable,” said Pearce.  “The budget passed today provides a commonsense pathway for Congress and the federal government to put our spending and nation back on a sustainable, manageable path.  While it will not be easy, it is the path we must take to provide our children and grandchildren with the opportunities that we all have benefited from.
“Last year, Washington tried to increase spending and raise taxes to promote job growth and energize the economy.  It did not work.  The budget plan today keeps our promise to seniors, while also protecting the Medicare guarantee for generations to come.  Unlike the President’s budget, this budget prioritizes national security, and avoids catastrophic cuts to defense spending. It simplifies the tax code, and provides full funding and benefits to our nation’s veterans.  This budget is not perfect.  However, it is a needed start.  I was sent to Congress to address our debt and deficit – the Ryan budget provides a framework to do just that.”
H.Con.Res. 96 passed the House of Representatives by a final vote of 219 to 205.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140408232006/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-i-unequivocally-believe-equal-pay,"PEARCE: ""I UNEQUIVOCALLY BELIEVE IN EQUAL PAY""",2014-04-08,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 8, 2014)--Rep. Steve Pearce released the following statement in recognition of Equal Pay Day.
""I unequivocally believe in equal pay for equal work.  The United States is the land of opportunity—opportunity for ALL.  Race, gender, age, or religious beliefs should never impact or infringe upon one’s chance at the American Dream.  When my wife and I owned our business, we practiced this concept.  We must ensure that our children and grandchildren are able to live in a free society where individuals are rewarded based on their merit.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140406014021/https://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-independent-oversight-and-cost-analysis-regulations,PEARCE VOTES FOR INDEPENDENT OVERSIGHT AND COST ANALYSIS OF REGULATIONS,2014-04-04,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (April 4, 2014)—Today, the US House passed HR 1874, the Pro-Growth Budgeting Act. The bill requires the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to study the economic impact that major regulations from the federal government have on the American economy, including employment, business investment and economic growth. Congressman Steve Pearce cosponsored and voted for the legislation.
	“Federal rules and regulations have a considerable impact on prices, paychecks and jobs,” Pearce said. “I cosponsored this legislation because the American people have a right to know the true costs imposed by the federal bureaucracy. Too often, rules and regulations are slammed through and forced on the middle class with no input from elected officials or proper analysis. HR 1874 ensures that an independent group of economic experts have the opportunity to publicly highlight what will happen to your wallet when government attempts to enforce a new, costly regulation.”
The Pro-Growth Budgeting Act passed by a 224-182 bipartisan vote.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140404053656/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-protect-american-workers,PEARCE VOTES TO PROTECT AMERICAN WORKERS,2014-04-03,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"April 3, 2014 (Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives voted to pass H.R. 2575, the Save American Worker Act.  Congressman Pearce, a cosponsor of this legislation, issued the following statement:
“The House voted today not only to reduce unnecessary and duplicative burden on thousands of small businesses nationwide, but also to protect jobs for those most in need,” said Pearce.  “Under Obamacare, full-time employment is defined as a 30 hour workweek.  Unfortunately, this change creates great conflict within the federal code, which will result in more regulatory burdens on small employers and threatens the hours and employment of predominantly low-income American workers.
“As a former small business owner, I know how burdensome the government can be on employers.  Congress and this administration should be focused on policies that incentivize employers to hire new workers and increase hours – not call into question the livelihood of millions.”
H.R. 2575 repeals the 30-hour full-time employment definition within Obamacare, replacing it with the standard 40-hour definition.  Without this simple change, the Hoover Institute estimates that as many as 2.6 million jobs are at risk of reduced hours if the 30-hour rule stays in effect.  The House of Representatives passed H.R. 2575 by a bipartisan final vote of 248 to 179.
 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140404054808/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/congressman-pearce-co-host-%E2%80%9Cout-world-job-fair%E2%80%9D-roswell-april-9th,CONGRESSMAN PEARCE TO CO-HOST “OUT OF THIS WORLD JOB FAIR” IN ROSWELL APRIL 9TH,2014-04-01,2014,2014-04,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"April 1, 2014 (Roswell, NM)—Congressman Steve Pearce is teaming up with employment agencies throughout New Mexico to host the “Out of This World Job Fair” in Roswell, Wednesday, April 9, from 2-6 PM at the Roswell Convention and Civic Center.  In addition to Congressman Pearce, job fair partners include: New Mexico Workforce Connection, ITS Quest, Inc. ENMU-Roswell, Goodwill, SL Start and the New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
“Jobs continue to be my primary focus,” Congressman Pearce said. “New Mexicans are blessed to have so many employers looking to hire new workers. I urge anyone looking for employment or attempting to change their career to attend next week’s job fair in Roswell. The most important thing we can do is help people help themselves.”
“I would also like to thank the organizations and companies attending the job fair,” Mr. Pearce said. “These companies are in need of qualified employees to keep up with growing demand for their goods and services. They are taking their time to come out, and hire people throughout the state. ”
The job fair is free to attend but pre-screening is suggested through the New Mexico Workforce Connection office in Roswell. Those interested in attending should call 575-624-6040 to register.  Some of the participating employers include:
 Artesia Training Academy
Bealls Department Store
Chaves County
Coca-Cola
ENMU-Roswell
New Mexico National Guard and Reserve
Goodwill of New Mexico
KOBR-TV
 New Mexico Job Corps
New York Life,
Remuda Energy Transportation
US Army, USA Pools.
 For more information about the job fair, telephone Congressman Pearce’s Roswell office at 575-622-6200.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140404055017/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-disappointed-fish-and-wildlife-service-listing-lesser-prairie-chicken,PEARCE: DISAPPOINTED IN FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE LISTING LESSER PRAIRIE CHICKEN,2014-03-28,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 27, 2014) – Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) announced their decision to list the Lesser Prairie Chicken as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act.  U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce responded with the following statement:
“I am extremely dissatisfied by FWS’s decision today. Existing cooperative conservation efforts between private industry, state officials, landowners and the federal government are more than adequate to protect this species. FWS endorsed one of the plans that has enrolled millions of acres of LPC habitat and millions of dollars for habitat remediation.   FWS’s actions today not only derail the incredible efforts, but also deny a future template for joint conservation efforts. Director Ashe and Washington Bureaucrats have failed once again to take steps towards a meaningful conservation strategy that does not jeopardize the economic stability of western communities.”
The listing of the Lesser Prairie Chicken today by the FWS eradicates months of progress made in ensuring the conservation of the species without Government involvement.  Current conservation efforts, carried out by private industry, have added nearly 4 million acres of habitat and $26 million for on-the-ground efforts to preserve the species.   The decision threatens the well-being of western communities by discontinuing successful conservation efforts that have adequately demonstrated that preservation can be achieved without hindering economic development.  A copy of the final rule can be read here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140404055049/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-accepts-resignation-press-secretary-rebekah-stevens,PEARCE ACCEPTS RESIGNATION OF PRESS SECRETARY REBEKAH STEVENS,2014-03-28,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 28, 2014) Today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce accepted the resignation of his Press Secretary, Rebekah Stevens.
“I am proud to hire passionate, hardworking, and dedicated congressional staff out of New Mexico,” said Pearce. “When I hired Miss Stevens, I hoped she could transition from activist to become an asset to the people of New Mexico. It is now clear that major obstacles will prevent this. I asked for and accepted her resignation this morning. I hold myself and my staff to the highest level of accountability, and any distractions that hinder my service to New Mexicans must always be addressed.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pearce.house.gov/editorial/cooperation-possible,Cooperation is Possible,2014-03-27,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,pearce.house.gov,,,legacy,"In the border towns from Hachita, NM to El Paso, TX, the news about immigration reform hasn’t changed much.  Here, the border is something we live with every day—as we commute to work, as we go to school, as we read the local news.  Immigrants aren’t statistics or political issues, they are spouses, cousins, neighbors, coworkers, friends.
Immigration reform goes beyond party lines.  Everybody here knows we need it.  Commuters want an easier drive and better security practices.  Ranchers whose land reaches the border want to find better ways to work with the border patrol agents who keep them safe.  Family members of U.S. citizens want a way to finally join their husband or wife here in the U.S.  Business owners want clear answers and better hiring procedures.  Everyone is affected, and everyone wants solutions.
To find those solutions, we should concentrate on what we agree on.  We already know what the two sides disagree on—but that’s only a small piece of the bigger picture.  As a Texas Democrat and a New Mexico Republican, it’s no secret that we don’t agree on everything.  But without compromising our own principles, we can still find some common ground.
That’s why the two of us are trying something different.  At a time when partisan gridlock grinds Washington to a halt, and people doubt whether anything will ever change, we’re coming together.  A Republican and a Democrat, a New Mexican and a Texan, working in spite of our differences to find the solutions we can agree on.
We started last fall, with a simple proposal to help American families.  We both agreed that our laws should not tear families apart, yet that is exactly what it does.  We heard from constituents who have been separated from their families because of minor technical violations, or issues that occurred long ago, when the family member was a minor.  Until 1996, a judge could review such cases, but a minor change in the law has left these families without any voice.  So, we teamed up to introduce our simple bipartisan solution: the American Families United Act.  This bill would again grant discretionary authority to review certain such cases, so that we can make honest, human determinations in our immigration system.
Now, we’re teaming up again to address another issue.  We represent very different districts, but we had both heard similar concerns: local Border Patrol lacks accountability, and struggles to interact with the local community.  Commuters worried that they had nowhere to go if they felt mistreated.  Ranchers worried about gates left open by agents as they did their jobs.  So, this week, we introduced H.R. 4303, the Border Enforcement, Accountability, Oversight, and Community Engagement Act of 2014.  The bill adds new training to help Border Patrol agents work closely with the communities in which they serve.  And, it introduces an ombudsman so that locals can have their voices heard and a channel for their concerns to be resolved quickly and effectively.
These bills are only a starting point.  There is still a long road ahead of us, and much work to be done.  But we just don’t accept the line that immigration reform is dead, or that we are out of solutions.  It is possible to come together.  It is possible to end the gridlock.  And it is possible to create a better future.
Congressman Steve Pearce, a Republican, represents New Mexico’s Second Congressional District, which includes the state’s entire border with Mexico.  Congressman Beto O’Rourke, a Democrat, represents Texas’ Sixteenth Congressional District, which includes the El Paso area.  The two have now cosponsored two separate bills related to border and immigration issues.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140328013323/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-acts-enhance-native-american-housing,PEARCE ACTS TO ENHANCE NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING,2014-03-27,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 27, 2014) – Today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce introduced reauthorization of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA).
""Today, I introduced a NAHASDA reauthorization, which provides much-needed support to our Native American communities,” said Pearce.  “In addition to reauthorizing critical components of the current law, my bill makes pragmatic updates that will provide tribes nationwide with greater flexibility and simplification when working to meet their housing needs. 
“What separates my legislation from previous reauthorizations, and the original law, is the inclusion of a demonstration project, which will allow Native American communities to access and partner with private industry more fluidly than ever before.  This was inspired by the successes of similar programs within the Department of Defense, and I am hopeful that this program will help lead to greater homeownership and economic opportunity for Native Americans.”
Nationwide, Congressman Pearce’s proposal has gained outspoken recognition and support from Native American leaders:
“The National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC) has worked with Rep. Pearce on this important legislation.  He understands the challenges and needs within Native American communities.  Rep. Pearce’s bill takes proactive steps to improve the current law to make it more effective for those who depend on this program. Considering the short legislative calendar for the remainder of the 113th Congress and the mid-term elections, NAIHC urges swift passage of reauthorization legislation.”
-Native American Indian Housing Council Chairwoman Cheryl Causley
“Congressman Pearce understands the urgent need to address the housing crisis in Indian Country, which has had such harmful consequences to our communities.  His legislation represents a major improvement in the law and is something we look forward to working on in hopes of passage this year.” 
-Pueblo of Acoma Governor Fred S. Vallo, Sr.
""On behalf of the Pueblo of Isleta, thank you for agreeing to sponsor a House bill to reauthorize the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996.  The passage of NAHASDA Reauthorization is vital to meeting the housing needs of low income Indian families.  Your hard work and effort to bring innovate means of housing finance is very much appreciated.""
-Pueblo of Isleta Governor E. Paul Torres 
The Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act was first signed into law in 1996.  Since 1996, the act has been reauthorized and amended a number of times. Congressman Pearce’s bill would reauthorize NAHASDA for five years, and text of the bill can be read here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140328014744/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-transparency-national-monument-designation-process,PEARCE VOTES FOR TRANSPARENCY IN NATIONAL MONUMENT DESIGNATION PROCESS,2014-03-27,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 26, 2014) – Today the House passed H.R. 1459, the Ensuring Public Involvement in the Creation of National Monuments Act by a 222-201 bipartisan vote.  
	   
	“Monument designations must come from our local communities, not executive orders from Washington,” said Pearce.  “Citizens deserve  a voice in the land management decisions that affect their jobs, their recreation, and their backyards. I cosponsored today’s  bill because it puts the power back in the hands of the people by adding a measure of accountability and transparency to the national monument designation process.  Hundreds of people in Southern New Mexico stood up, and demanded that the Secretary of the Interior listen to their voice on the Organ Mountains.  H.R. 1459 ensures they have a say.”  
	   
	Under this bill, national monument designations using the Antiquities Act would undergo strong environmental analysis and studies under the National Environmental Policy Act, just like other land management decisions, before a designation could be finalized.  Monument designations would be limited in number without approval of Congress.  The bill also requires a study of the costs associated with the monument designation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140328014809/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-orourke-introduce-bipartisan-immigration-bill-0,"PEARCE, O'ROURKE INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN IMMIGRATION BILL",2014-03-26,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 26, 2014) – Today, Republican U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce (NM-02) and Democrat U.S. Congressman Beto O’Rourke (TX-16) introduced H.R. 4303 the Border Enforcement, Accountability, Oversight, and Community Engagement Act of 2014.
“Today’s bill is a direct response to the needs of our constituents, and is a resounding statement that the two parties can successfully work together on immigration reform,” said Pearce.  “This proposal will help bring accountability, transparency, and cooperation to border patrol efforts.  This bill helps ensure proper training for all agents and officers, as well as providing mechanisms for greater interaction with the communities in which they serve and protect.  Congressman O’Rourke and I continue to show that working on simple, one-step proposals this Congress can fundamentally reform our nations broken immigration system.  Together, we can find the clear solutions our country and our communities need.""
H.R. 4303  creates new channels for individuals to resolve issues with Customs and Border Protection (CBP), including an “Ombudsman for Border and Immigration Related Concerns,” so that local residents have an opportunity to voice concerns and ideas.  It also proposes improved training for CBP to keep officers safe and enhance their relationships with the local communities they protect.  The proposal is the result of a wide variety of constituents—ranchers, immigrants, commuters, and others—who approached the Congressmen with personal stories and ideas for improving CPB operation and community interaction.
Pearce and O’Rourke announced their plans to introduce this legislation last month to a crowd of hundreds in Anthony, New Mexico.  Since then, they have worked closely with numerous related organizations and constituents to craft their bipartisan bill, which is the second the two border Congressman have proposed together.  The American Families United Act, introduced by Pearce and O’Rourke last fall, restores discretionary authority to review specific cases for a small number of American citizens who are separated from their families due to minor or technical issues.
The full text of today’s Border Enforcement, Accountability, Oversight, and Community Engagement Act can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140328014831/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-protect-america%E2%80%99s-energy-jobs,PEARCE: PROTECT AMERICA’S ENERGY JOBS,2014-03-25,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 25, 2014) – Today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce voted for H.R. 2824, the Preventing Government Waste and Protecting Coal Mining Jobs in America Act.
“Today’s bill is about American coal mining jobs, economic relief for American families, and affordable, reliable American energy production,” said Pearce.  “I voted for H.R. 2824 because we can—and must—protect the environment without sacrificing American jobs.  The action today coincides with efforts this Congress and efforts my office and the Congressional Western Caucus are taking to protect oil and natural gas jobs nationwide.  Congress has a responsibility to act to protect our nation’s energy jobs from harsh, overly burdensome, and confusing regulations.
“The administration’s misguided policies have wasted millions of taxpayer dollars on oppressive new regulations that put Americans out of work and raise energy prices.  Instead, this bill moves forward with a regulation that underwent 5 years of environmental review and public comment, and has been delayed by this administration for 5 years.  Passage of this bill provides American companies with the certainty they need to hire more employees and plan for the future, and stabilizes energy prices for hardworking American families.”
H.R. 2824 curbs unnecessary and costly overregulation of American coal mining, replacing it with responsible and effective policies that protect the environment without sacrificing American jobs and energy production.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140328015919/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-participates-arctic-training-navy-aboard-uss-new-mexico,PEARCE PARTICIPATES IN ARCTIC TRAINING WITH THE NAVY ABOARD THE USS NEW MEXICO,2014-03-25,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 24, 2014) – Earlier today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce returned from a weekend embark with the US Navy.  This operation, which included the Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Jonathan Greenert, Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, and the Under Secretary of Defense Frank Kendall, allowed Congressman Pearce to witness the ongoing Arctic training of our submarine fleet onboard the USS New Mexico.
	“This past weekend, I had the privilege of participating in the Navy’s ICEX operations,” said Pearce.  “During this two day trip to the Arctic, I took part in a number of briefings, drills, and activities around and aboard the USS New Mexico – showcasing the mission and capabilities of the ship and the US Naval fleet.  In addition to the operations being conducted, I was able to interact on a one on one basis with the sailors aboard the USS New Mexico.
	“In addition to being able to see the USS New Mexico in action, I was able to assist in a re-enlistment ceremony of sailors aboard the ship.  I am extremely thankful to our sailors and soldiers who selflessly put the safety of the nation above their own. As a veteran, I believe it is vital that representatives from both Congress and the Executive branch visit and understand the work our men and women do every day in service of our nation.”
	The 2014 Submarine Arctic Warfare Exercise, known as ICEX, is an opportunity for the Navy to perform training in and around the Arctic Ocean.  The USS New Mexico features a New Mexico theme throughout and includes the La Posta Mess.  Commissioned in March of 2010, the USS New Mexico is a 774 (Virginia) class nuclear submarine and is one of the nation’s newest submarines.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140321021741/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-honoring-high-fliers-during-women%E2%80%99s-history-month,PEARCE: HONORING HIGH FLIERS DURING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH,2014-03-19,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 20, 2014) – Today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement on Women’s History Month: 
“As a pilot, I have long been inspired by women in aviation history.  Many know the story of Amelia Earhart, but New Mexico has its own examples of heroic women pilots. Harriet Davidson Nye was a New Mexican pilot who helped to popularize airmail in the 1930s, flying mail in and out of Socorro, New Mexico, in a Fairchild 24.
“Ashley Olson was ten years old when I met her in Silver City.  At that time she told me about her dream of attending the Air Force Academy and asked for my assistance.  Thirteen years later I had the honor of commissioning her at her graduation from the Air Force Academy.  She is now serving her country flying C-17s, and serving as a role model to other young women who aim high and follow their dreams. 
“Women’s history month is an important time to remember and learn about the women who have led and inspired us, in aviation and in every area.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140321021817/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-delayed-honor-american-hero,PEARCE: DELAYED HONOR FOR AMERICAN HERO,2014-03-18,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 18, 2014) – Today, the Medal of Honor, the military’s highest honor, was posthumously awarded to Victor H. Espinoza, an El Paso native and Korean War veteran.  His nephew, Roswell resident Amado “Sonny” Espinoza, received the medal on his behalf.
“Though decades too late, our nation today recognized the incredible courage, bravery, and sacrifice of one of our heroes,” said U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce.  “Mr. Espinoza’s family should be proud of his valor and heroism.  I know his story will be remembered in New Mexico, and his legacy will live on.”
Espinoza, who passed away in 1986, was awarded the medal today for  “extraordinary heroism” in a daring assault in Chorwon, Korea, on 1 August 1952.  According to the citation for the Distinguished Service Cross, his actions “inspired all who observed him and enabled the unit to continue the assault and to secure the strong point.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140321021841/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/wipp-investigation-report-highlights-operational-shortcomings,WIPP Investigation Report Highlights Operational Shortcomings,2014-03-14,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 14, 2014)—Today, Congressman Steve Pearce responded to the Department of Energy’s WIPP Underground Fire Accident Investigation Report. The report provides a detailed examination into the fire that took place on February 5, 2014. 
“This transparent report highlights the sloppy procedures that caused the fire,” Pearce said, “including failure to regularly clean oil and grease off the engines of mining equipment.  The report concludes with the steps the WIPP team and the Department of Energy intend to take to prevent future incidents at the facility.
“I applaud the Department of Energy for producing a candid, transparent report that takes responsibility for its failures in oversight, training and other areas crucial to the operation of WIPP,” Pearce continued. “This report shows operational shortcomings, and highlights what the Department and contractor must do to rectify the situation. New Mexicans expect and deserve to know the full truth. Fortunately, no one was seriously hurt, but it must never happen again.
	“I also echo the sentiments of the report when it comes to the employees at WIPP. We have the highest caliber workers at WIPP. They deserve the strongest possible protections and a safe work environment. I am thankful that this incident was not as catastrophic as it might have been, but the people of New Mexico and WIPP employees deserve a facility managed to the best standards. I expect the site to meet these standards going forward.”
A link to the report can be found here.  The report is also available on Congressman Pearce’s website, www.Pearce.House.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140314015009/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-join-community-discussion-organ-mountains,PEARCE TO JOIN COMMUNITY DISCUSSION ON ORGAN MOUNTAINS,2014-03-13,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Las Cruces, NM (March 14, 2014) – Today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce announced he will participate in a community discussion on the Organ Mountains, to be held at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, March 19, 2014, at the Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces.  
	   
	Congressman Pearce will join local residents who will briefly present on various aspects of the Organ Mountains: recreation, culture, business, water, farming and ranching, public safety, and others.  Congressman Pearce has long advocated a solution that engages voices from the local community.  Members of the public are encouraged to attend.   
	   
	Community Discussion on the Organ Mountains  
	Wednesday, March 19  
	6:00 pm  
	Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum  
	4100 Dripping Springs Rd, Las Cruces, NM 88011",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://web.archive.org/web/20140314015032/http://pearce.house.gov/press-release/pearce-votes-protect-water-rights,PEARCE VOTES TO PROTECT WATER RIGHTS,2014-03-13,2014,2014-03,Republican,House,NM,Steve Pearce,P000588,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC (March 13, 2014) – Today, U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce voted for H.R. 3189, the Water Right Protection Act. 
“Water is a scarce resource in New Mexico, and it is vital that our water rights in the West are protected,” said Pearce. “Today’s bill prevents Washington special interest politics from trampling our needs.  In western states like New Mexico, we rely heavily upon water sources that may be far from their point of use, so this legislation takes the important step of protecting the ability of individuals, ranchers, and others to own water rights without federal intrusion.”
Pearce is a cosponsor of the legislation, which prohibits the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture from conditioning the approval of a permit, lease, or easement based on the receipt of water rights from the permit holder.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z