North Texas News

Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the Rules Committee, recently joined Spectrum News to discuss his new appointment by Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) to lead the Rules Committee. During the interview, Chairman Burgess explained the operations and processes of the Committee and highlighted his plan to prioritize legislation that secures the border, strengthens the American workforce, and delivers on the Republican Commitment to America.

The Texas representative was chosen by Speaker Mike Johnson to chair the Rules Committee, a significant role in the House of Representatives as it functions as a gatekeeper for most major legislation. The Rules Committee's members also have the power to amend legislation and unlike other committees, it sets no time limits for debate - a feature that Burgess appreciates.

Burgess' appointment marks a significant achievement in his congressional career, especially after he announced he would not seek a 12th term. The 73-year-old joined the Rules Committee a decade ago and expressed his desire to maintain its collegiality while addressing policy changes concerning the southern border.

“The Rules Committee is really where it all happens in the House of Representatives,” Burgess said. “In order for anything to actually get done, legislation needs to come to the floor under a rule and the Rules Committee is where those parameters are worked out.”

He further emphasized how any member who wishes to speak in favor or against a bill or an amendment can do so without time constraints in this committee room located above the House floor.

The chair became available after Rep. Tom Cole, R-Oklahoma, left to lead the Appropriations Committee. Another Texan representative, Kay Granger from Fort Worth stepped down early as top Republican on Appropriations Committee and took on a role providing counsel to her colleagues.

Burgess also touched upon contentious pieces of legislation passed under what’s called “the suspension of rules”, which fast-tracks bills bypassing Rules Committee. “That’s not ideal, is it? I mean, if you’re having to suspend the rules, then the system has not worked as intended,” Burgess commented.

Burgess, who is an obstetrician-gynecologist and a leading voice on health care issues on Capitol Hill, expressed his hope for lawmakers to address unlawful border crossings. House Republicans have pushed for passing a hardline border security and immigration bill known as H.R. 2.

“I don’t know how many different ways I can vote for it,” Burgess said. He added that if Congress cannot pass the House Republican-led bill, GOP members will continue to challenge President Joe Biden’s border policies.

When asked why he was leaving Congress, Burgess said, “Yeah, I got too old. Twenty-two years is a long time up here.” Despite ruling out another term, his tenure ends with a significant chairmanship.