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February 5, 2010
HARPER STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF FORMER CHIEF PHILLIP MARTIN
"Sidney and I offer our deepest sympathy to the family of Chief Phillip Martin. While I did not have the opportunity to work with ‘Chief’ in an official capacity, I did have the honor of meeting him on several occasions and we shared many mutual friends. His passing is a tremendous loss for his immediate family, the Mississippi Choctaws, the State of Mississippi as well as for the entire nation."
February 4, 2010
YOU CAN’T SPEND MORE THAN YOU HAVE
WASHINGTON, DC – The President released his Fiscal Year 2011 budget Monday which confirmed that his recent rhetoric of fiscal responsibility is – well – rhetoric. Describing the budget, White House Spokesman Robert Gibbs said, “We have to return to some very common-sense principles that every day Americans live by.
January 29, 2010
HARPER FIELD REP. ESTABLISHES MONTHLY OFFICE SCHEDULE TO BETTER SERIVCE DISTRICT
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) today announced an updated office schedule for his District Field Representative, Evan Gardner, in Adams and Covington Counties.
January 26, 2009
HARPER: PRESIDENT OBAMA SHOULD CONSIDER GOP SOLUTIONS
The President is clearly out of touch with American citizens. After the President’s driving the federal deficit to a record $1.47 trillion, millions of people are still without jobs. Americans have real anxiety on the government takeover of health care and the idea of a national energy tax.
January 22, 2009
BACKROOM DEALS ARE BAD FOR AMERICA
WASHINGTON, DC – Democratic Members of Congress continue to strike sweetheart deals needed to pass their government takeover of health care in the smoke-filled corners of Washington. This unfair practice of burdening Americans across the political spectrum so that politically favored constituents can benefit must come to an end.
January 14, 2010
WHERE’S THE SUNSHINE?
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives is comprised of men and women elected to represent the interests of their congressional districts. For this reason, it is sensible that the American public and federal legislators receive access to the health care negotiations taking place behind closed doors.
January 14, 2010
McCarthy, Harper Introduce Legislation to Increase Online Voter Registration Services
After extensive consultations with state and local elections administrators, Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration’s Elections Subcommittee and Subcommittee member Rep. Gregg Harper, R-Miss., introduced the Responsible Online Voter Empowerment Registration Act (H.R. 4449).
January 13, 2010
HOUSE PASSES HARPER BILL TO HONOR FALLEN SOLDIER
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill today introduced by Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) to name the Hickory Post Office in honor of Sergeant Matthew L. Ingram, a Purple Heart recipient who died while serving in Afghanistan.
January 6, 2010
HARPER PRESSES DEMOCRATIC LEADERSHIP TO PROVIDE TRANSPARENCY INTO HEALTH CARE NEGOTIATIONS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) issued the following statement today in support of a request by C-SPAN that all future health care negotiations be open to the public through media coverage.
December 16, 2009
HARPER ON COPENHAGEN TREATY: “AMERICA CANNOT AFFORD TO GAMBLE WITH A MISGUIDED ENERGY POLICY”
“In today’s struggling economy, America cannot afford to gamble with a misguided energy policy. This is why I oppose the Democrats’ national energy tax and support an ‘all of the above’ energy bill. Harnessing new technologies is important, but Congress must not lose focus on increasing American energy from oil, natural gas, clean coal technology and nuclear power."
December 3, 2009
Members of Election Oversight Committee Call on EAC Commissioner to Resign
WASHINGTON — Today, the GOP members of the Committee on House Administration condemned politically discriminatory hiring by the Election Assistance Commission (“EAC”) and called on the commissioner involved to step down.
November 17, 2009
Wicker & Harper Defend “In God We Trust”
Mississippi Lawmakers Sign Legal Brief in Defense of National Motto & Pledge of Allegiance Inscriptions at New Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, D.C.
November 7, 2009
HARPER OPPOSES GOVERNMENT HEALTH CARE OVERHAUL
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) today voted against House passage of the Affordable Health Care for America Act (H.R. 3962), which would cost upwards of $1.055 trillion according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.
November 5, 2009
McCARTHY, HARPER RELEASE LEGISLATION TO INCREASE ONLINE VOTER REGISTRATION SERVICES
GOP Members of Elections Subcommittee Release Legislation to Increase States’ Online Voter Registration Services Without Compromising Existing Safeguards that Protect Against Fraud
October 29, 2009
HARPER SAYS PELOSI’S HEALTH CARE BILL WILL BE COSTLY FOR FAMILIES AND MISSISSIPPI
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) delivered the following remarks after the House Democratic leadership unveiled their latest plan for a government takeover of health care that will raise families’ insurance premiums and push hefty unfunded mandates to states.
October 27, 2009
HARPER SAYS A GOVERNMENT TAKEOVER OF HEALTH CARE WILL HURT MISSISSIPPI AND ITS SENIORS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) delivered the following remarks today on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in opposition to a Democratic health care plan that contains massive cuts to Medicare Advantage and imposes heavy unfunded mandates to states.
October 19, 2009
Bipartisan health care bill must include GOP proposals
On Tuesday, January 6, 2009, I cast my first vote in the U.S. House of Representatives in support of John Boehner of Ohio for Speaker of the House. This vote would ultimately become Nancy Pelosi’s first victory of the year and a preview of what Republicans might expect as the minority party in the 111th Congress.
October 9, 2009
HARPER: MISSISSIPPI CAN LEAD THE NATION WITH KEMPER COUNTY IGCC PLANT
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) released the following statement today in support of the Mississippi Power Company proposed IGCC plant in Kemper County at the conclusion of the five day Public Service Commission hearings.
October 8, 2009
HARPER VOTES AGAINST HATE CRIMES PROVISIONS ATTACHED TO CONFERENCE REPORT ON NATIONAL DEFENSE
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) voted today against the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 due to hate crimes provisions that were attached to the legislation by the U.S. Senate.
September 30, 2009
FISCAL YEAR 2009 SPENDING PRODUCES MORE GOVERNMENT
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) issued the following statement today as Fiscal Year 2009 ends on September 30, 2009 with federal government spending, deficits and debt at record highs.
September 17, 2009
Congressmen on Missile Defense Caucus Blast President Obama's Abandonment of European Missile Defense
Members of the House Missile Defense Caucus today gave the following statements upon hearing that President Barack Obama has officially chosen to abandon plans for the European Missile Defense site, including the deployment of 10 missile interceptors in Poland and a radar in the Czech Republic.
September 11, 2009
HARPER: “AMERICANS WILL NEVER FORGET”
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) made the following statement today in remembrance of the innocent victims and in honor of the families who lost loved ones during the terrible events surrounding the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks.
September 9, 2009
HARPER: “IF THE DEMOCRATS WANTED A BIPARTISAN BILL, THEY WOULD PRODUCE A BIPARTISAN BILL”
After President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress regarding the future of America’s health care, U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) called on the President to go back to the drawing board. “Republicans continue to seek constructive solutions to making quality health care coverage available, affordable and accessible for every American, regardless of pre-existing health conditions. But the truth is, if the Democrats wanted a bipartisan bill, they would produce a bipartisan bill.
August 27, 2009
HARPER: MID-SESSION REVIEW PROVIDES HARSH EVIDENCE OF DEMOCRATS’ SPENDING BINGE
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.), freshman Member of the House Committee on the Budget, has called for order to the chaotic deficit spending after the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released updated economic and budgetary projections.
August 4, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES GRANT FUNDING FOR VETERANS CEMETERY IN NEWTON
Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) today announced $6.9 million in funding to establish the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Newton. The grant, issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs, will reimburse the state 100 percent for the cost associated with the construction of phase one of the three-phase development.
July 30, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES DEFENSE FUNDS FOR MSU AND REGIONAL COUNTER DRUG TRAINING ACADEMY IN MERIDIAN
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) today voted in support of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2010 which provides our armed forces with the weapons, equipment and funds to ensure continued excellence in America’s military performance.
July 14, 2009
HARPER NAMED TO HOUSE ETHICS COMMITTEE
The House Republican Conference today confirmed U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) to serve as the only freshman on the House Committee on Standards of Official Conduct. Selected by Republican Leader John Boehner of Ohio, this leadership appointment marks Harper’s fifth committee assignment for the 111th Congress.
June 26, 2009
HARPER: AMERICA DESERVES AMERICAN ENERGY
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper voted today against cap and trade legislation that intends to severely tax the use of carbon-based energy and reward the use of renewable energy.
June 25, 2009
HARPER SECURES $8M IN FUNDING FOR UNATTENDED GROUND SENSOR RESEARCH FOR MSU
Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) announced $8 million in funding today for continued research and development of Advanced, Long Endurance Unattended Ground Sensor Technologies (UGS) housed at Mississippi State University.
June 17, 2009
MISSISSIPPI’S THIRD DISTRICT TOPS U.S. POULTRY PRODUCTION
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.) joined the Mississippi Poultry Association to announce that Mississippi’s Third Congressional District leads the nation in poultry production, according to recently released data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2007 Census of Agriculture.
June 16, 2009
HARPER COMMENTS ON OPPOSITION OF THE ’09 WAR SUPPLEMENTAL
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.) opposed the Conference Report accompanying the Fiscal Year 2009 Supplemental Appropriations Act today although the measure passed the House of Representatives.
June 3, 2009
HARPER COMMENTS ON REAGAN’S LEGACY AFTER STATUE UNVEILING
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.), joined by his 19-year-old son, Livingston, made the following remarks today after a ceremony was held to unveil the statue of President Ronald Reagan in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.
June 2, 2009
HARPER EMPHASIZES NEED FOR CONTINUED MISSIONS AT 186th
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.) joined Mississippi Adjutant General, Major General William Freeman, Jr., and Commander of the 186th Air Refueling Wing, Colonel Franklin E. Chalk today in welcoming Chief of the National Guard Bureau, General Craig R. McKinley to the Mississippi Air National Guard base in Meridian at Key Field.
May 22, 2009
CAP AND TAX: MORE TAXES FEWER JOBS MORE GOVERNMENT
As the summer months quickly approach and families across the Third Congressional District start to plan vacations, our state and country continue to struggle with high energy costs. That is why the Democrats’ cap and trade energy plan – which should be called “cap and tax” – is a reckless proposal that will do more harm than good. The simple truth behind the Democrats’ energy plan is that it is nothing more than a national energy tax.
May 21, 2009
HARPER APPLAUDS LAWMAKERS FOR STANDING FIRM ON GUANTANAMO BAY
“I applaud lawmakers for rejecting President Obama’s request for funding to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility,” said Congressman Gregg Harper. “Closing this facility should not even be considered until the administration has a plan to safely detain, prosecute or transfer these detainees.”
May 21, 2009
UNCLE SAM WANTS YOU, YOUR TAXES, BUT NOT YOUR VOTE
Today, the Committee on House Administration’s Elections Subcommittee held a hearing on the failing efforts to address obstacles currently disenfranchising thousands of military voters, and legislative solutions – specifically, the Military Voting Protection (MVP) Act – that will protect the rights of our troops serving abroad.
May 18, 2009
HARPER COMMENDS THE SENATE FOR MABUS’ CONFIRMATION
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) commented today after the Senate voted unanimously Monday night to confirm former Mississippi Governor Ray Mabus as secretary of the U.S. Navy, which is the Navy’s top civilian job.
May 7, 2009
HARPER JOINS HOUSE COLLEAGUES, NFL STAR FOR NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) made the following statement today following a bipartisan press conference with Rep. Randy Forbes, Republican of Virginia and the National Football League’s 2005 MVP, Shaun Alexander.
May 4, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER ANNOUNCES 2009 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION WINNERS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) is privileged to announce that senior Brock Hanson of Starkville High School is the 2009 winner of the Third District Congressional Art Competition. Brock’s entry entitled “Facing Reality” will hang in the U.S. Capitol for one year beginning in June.
April 30, 2009
McComb Enterprise-Journal Op-Ed Debt Day: National Debt Goes Through The Roof
Sunday, April 26th marked Debt Day for the 2009 fiscal year. Debt Day is the day the government starts paying for federal spending by borrowing money rather than using its revenue. This means that all of the money spent from Washington the rest of this year will either be borrowed from foreign countries or borrowed from future generations, in turn increasing our federal debt dramatically.
April 29, 2009
HARPER: “CAN WE AFFORD ANOTHER 100 DAYS?”
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) commented today on the President’s budget, on which House and Senate Democrats rushed to complete action by the 100th day of the Obama presidency.
April 7, 2009
HARPER COMMENTS ON OBAMA ADMINISTRATION DEFENSE CUTS AFTER MERIDIAN LOCKHEED MARTIN TOUR
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) toured the Lockheed Martin Subassembly Plant in Meridian today which produces portions of the F-22 and the C-130J. Discussions to continue production on the F-22 topped the priority list after yesterday’s announcement by Defense Secretary Robert Gates to cap production at 187 fighters.
March 26, 2009
HARPER ON BARBOUR’S STATE OF EMERGENCY
“I commend Governor Barbour’s efforts in ensuring that all resources are made available to the local governments affected by the storm in the Third Congressional District. With the risk of additional storms, I agree with the decision to mobilize the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and I am confident they will respond in a timely manner.
March 25, 2009
Special to The Washington Times Health Care: My Personal Issues
Over the past several years, the federal government has consistently addressed America’s health concerns. I commend Congress for continuing its pursuit in improving access to quality, affordable health insurance. While I understand the constant struggles in acquiring and retaining health insurance, one struggle is closer to my family than others and I have taken an active role in examining this issue.
March 19, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER TO HOST 2009 MILITARY ACADEMY DAY
Military Academy Day is for interested students and parents to learn more about our nation’s military academies, requirements for admission and the appointment process. Congressman Harper will be joined by midshipmen, cadets, alumni and representatives from the five service academies: U.S. Military Academy (West Point), U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.
March 16, 2009
Special to the Mississippi Business Journal Guest Column
I have had the pleasure of representing the Third Congressional District over the past two months. I would like to share with you the challenges we face as a nation and what I believe are strong, conservative solutions to getting our economy back on track.
March 12, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER JOINS RANKING REPUBLICAN IN REAUTHORIZATION OF U.S.A. PATRIOT ACT
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) joined Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Lamar Smith (R–Texas) as a co-sponsor to reauthorize key national security provisions of the U.S.A. PATRIOT Act set to expire in 2009.
March 4, 2009
Hare, Delahunt Reestablish Fragile X Caucus; Harper Joins as Co-Chair
Congressman Phil Hare (D-IL), Congressman Bill Delahunt (D-MA), and Congressman Gregg Harper (R-MS) today announced that they have formed the Fragile X Caucus as advocates from across the United States are on Capitol Hill lobbying their Members of Congress to improve the lives of people afflicted with this syndrome.
March 3, 2009
HARPER LAUNCHES PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT ON FRAGILE X SYNDROME
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.) launched a Public Service Announcement today in support of his 19-year-old son, Livingston who lives with Fragile X and the National Fragile X Foundation Advocacy Day being held Wednesday, March 4th.
February 24, 2009
CONGRESSMAN GREGG HARPER COMMENTS ON PRESIDENT OBAMA’S FIRST ADDRESS TO THE JOINT CONGRESS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) attended President Barack Obama’s first address to the joint session of Congress Tuesday where Republicans welcomed the President’s call for fiscal responsibility. However, Congressman Harper is skeptical due to the recent history of legislation passed by the Democrat led Congress.
February 20, 2009
Sens. Cochran, Wicker, and Rep. Harper Announce $4.9 Million for Jackson-Evers International Airport
U.S. Senators Thad Cochran, Roger Wicker, and U.S. Representative Gregg Harper today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has released $4,980,692 in funding for the Jackson-Evers International Airport. These funds will provide the airport with security enhancements and will improve the terminal. It will also rehabilitate the runway and modernize the drainage system.
February 20, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES PHILADELPHIA MUNICIPAL AIRPORT FAA GRANT
On Friday, U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) notified Mayor Rayburn Waddell’s office of a $65,150.00 grant award for the Philadelphia Municipal Airport. “This funding will improve the safety and quality of aviation for the Philadelphia Municipal Airport,” said Congressman Gregg Harper. “I am excited about the economic development this expansion will bring to the airport and the surrounding community.”
February 13, 2009
HANDY HARDWARE TO BUILD DISTRIBUTION FACILITY IN MERIDIAN
Jackson, Mississippi – Governor Haley Barbour announced today that Handy Hardware, a member-owned hardware buying group, will open a distribution center in Meridian. The company plans to employ more than 150 people.
February 12, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES KEY FIELD FAA GRANT
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) recently notified Tom Williams, the executive director of the Meridian Airport Authority, of a $481,235.00 grant award. The award, issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration, allows Key Field to advance on a project to relocate the glide slope antenna from one side of the runway to the other. The relocation would accommodate a parallel taxiway that is currently being constructed.
February 12, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES G.V. SONNY MONTGOMERY FAA GRANT
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) recently notified the Honorable Nancy Chambers, Mayor of Forest, of a $66,426.00 grant award. The award, issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration, allows G.V. Sonny Montgomery Airfield to advance on a project to repair surface irregularities. Currently, the runways are practically unusable due to soil heaving, bumps and dips.
February 12, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES LOUISVILLE-WINSTON COUNTY FAA GRANT
In Washington this past Wednesday, U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) notified Mayor Daniel Yarbrough and representatives from the Louisville-Winston County Partnership of a $273,551.00 grant award.
February 12, 2009
HARPER JOINS REPUBLICAN LEADERS IN VOICING CONCERNS OVER THE 2010 CENSUS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) joined Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) and other ranking Republicans in highlighting the creation of a Census Task Force created by Boehner and the Republican Conference.
February 7, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER'S GUEST COLUMN IN THE CLARION LEDGER
Last week, I joined 177 Republicans and 11 Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives in opposing the economic stimulus package rushed to the floor by the liberal Democratic leadership. This bill bypassed the standard committee process.
January 28, 2009
HARPER SAYS "NO" TO DEMOCRAT'S WASTEFUL STIMULUS PLAN
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) voted against an economic stimulus bill today that would ultimately cost taxpayer’s nearly $1.2 trillion in new government debt. "I wish Congress would open their eyes to the wasteful government spending that is contained in this bill and that will drive the country further into debt," said Congressman Gregg Harper. "The American people know we cannot borrow and spend our way back to prosperity."
January 20, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER WELCOMES CONSTITUENTS TO THE CAPITOL
Regarding the distribution of tickets to almost 200 constituents, Congressman Gregg Harper said Monday, "This is such an historic occasion and it was great to see folks from all across the Third Congressional District in Washington enjoying the celebration of our next President. Inauguration is an exciting time and I am glad to give my constituents an opportunity to join in this moment as we swear-in our next Commander-in-Chief."
January 15, 2009
CONGRESSMAN GREGG HARPER LANDS SEAT ON PRESTIGIOUS BUDGET COMMITTEE
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-MS) was appointed by the Steering Committee Thursday to the Committee on the Budget earning his third committee seat for the 111th Congress pending Conference approval. This prestigious committee sets guidelines in the annual budget resolution for monitoring federal programs to meet spending projections. "I am excited to welcome Congressman Gregg Harper as the newest member of the House Budget Committee," said Ranking Republican Member Paul Ryan (WI-01). "In coming to grips with a deepening recession and a soaring budget deficit, his commitment to fiscal discipline and pro-growth economic policies will be an asset to this committee and to this nation."
January 14, 2009
CONGRESSMAN GREGG HARPER COMMENTS ON SCHIP
On Wednesday, January 14, 2009, the U.S. House of Representatives took up consideration of H.R. 2, the Children’s Health Insurance Reauthorization Act of 2009 (SCHIP). U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-MS) voted against the bill although it was passed by a vote of 289 to 139. While Congressman Harper certainly supports providing healthcare to poor children, and in fact favors reauthorization of the SCHIP program, the bill that was passed today by the U.S. House greatly expands the original program at a cost to the taxpayers of $35 billion over the next four-and-a-half years.
January 9, 2009
HARPER APPOINTED TO THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY AND THE COMMITTEE ON HOUSE ADMINISTRATION
Congressman Gregg Harper (R-MS) has been appointed to the House Committee on Judiciary and the Committee on House Administration for the 111th Congress. "As the Republican representative on the Steering Committee, I worked hard to get the other freshman Republicans the best committee assignments possible," said Congressman Harper. "I am very thankful for their cooperation and am pleased with the placement I have received from the Committee as well."
January 8, 2009
HARPER HOSTS CEREMONIAL SWEARING-IN ADMINISTERED
On Wednesday, Congressman Gregg Harper (R-MS) hosted a ceremonial swearing-in at the historic Madison Building of the Library of Congress with over 70 friends and family who traveled from Mississippi to share in this important occasion as Harper transitions into his new position. "I’m overwhelmed by the large number of people who came to be with me in Washington for my first few days in Congress. This is a special time for my family and me and I am especially thankful to all of those who were here to support Sidney, Livingston and Maggie," said Congressman Harper.
January 6, 2009
CONGRESSMAN GREGG HARPER TAKES THE OATH OF OFFICE
Mississippi’s Third Congressional District Representative Gregg Harper (R-MS) took the Oath of Office today on his first day as a member of the 111th Congress. "Today, I signed a verbal contract to serve the interests and concerns of each individual in the Third Congressional District,” said Harper. “I am humbled and honored to serve the people of Mississippi, and I will work diligently to represent the conservative values of our state."
February 5, 2010
HARPER STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF FORMER CHIEF PHILLIP MARTIN
"Sidney and I offer our deepest sympathy to the family of Chief Phillip Martin. While I did not have the opportunity to work with ‘Chief’ in an official capacity, I did have the honor of meeting him on several occasions and we shared many mutual friends. His passing is a tremendous loss for his immediate family, the Mississippi Choctaws, the State of Mississippi as well as for the entire nation."
February 4, 2010
YOU CAN’T SPEND MORE THAN YOU HAVE
WASHINGTON, DC – The President released his Fiscal Year 2011 budget Monday which confirmed that his recent rhetoric of fiscal responsibility is – well – rhetoric. Describing the budget, White House Spokesman Robert Gibbs said, “We have to return to some very common-sense principles that every day Americans live by.
January 29, 2010
HARPER FIELD REP. ESTABLISHES MONTHLY OFFICE SCHEDULE TO BETTER SERIVCE DISTRICT
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) today announced an updated office schedule for his District Field Representative, Evan Gardner, in Adams and Covington Counties.
January 26, 2009
HARPER: PRESIDENT OBAMA SHOULD CONSIDER GOP SOLUTIONS
The President is clearly out of touch with American citizens. After the President’s driving the federal deficit to a record $1.47 trillion, millions of people are still without jobs. Americans have real anxiety on the government takeover of health care and the idea of a national energy tax.
January 22, 2009
BACKROOM DEALS ARE BAD FOR AMERICA
WASHINGTON, DC – Democratic Members of Congress continue to strike sweetheart deals needed to pass their government takeover of health care in the smoke-filled corners of Washington. This unfair practice of burdening Americans across the political spectrum so that politically favored constituents can benefit must come to an end.
January 14, 2010
WHERE’S THE SUNSHINE?
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives is comprised of men and women elected to represent the interests of their congressional districts. For this reason, it is sensible that the American public and federal legislators receive access to the health care negotiations taking place behind closed doors.
January 14, 2010
McCarthy, Harper Introduce Legislation to Increase Online Voter Registration Services
After extensive consultations with state and local elections administrators, Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration’s Elections Subcommittee and Subcommittee member Rep. Gregg Harper, R-Miss., introduced the Responsible Online Voter Empowerment Registration Act (H.R. 4449).
January 13, 2010
HOUSE PASSES HARPER BILL TO HONOR FALLEN SOLDIER
WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill today introduced by Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) to name the Hickory Post Office in honor of Sergeant Matthew L. Ingram, a Purple Heart recipient who died while serving in Afghanistan.
January 6, 2010
HARPER PRESSES DEMOCRATIC LEADERSHIP TO PROVIDE TRANSPARENCY INTO HEALTH CARE NEGOTIATIONS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) issued the following statement today in support of a request by C-SPAN that all future health care negotiations be open to the public through media coverage.
December 16, 2009
HARPER ON COPENHAGEN TREATY: “AMERICA CANNOT AFFORD TO GAMBLE WITH A MISGUIDED ENERGY POLICY”
“In today’s struggling economy, America cannot afford to gamble with a misguided energy policy. This is why I oppose the Democrats’ national energy tax and support an ‘all of the above’ energy bill. Harnessing new technologies is important, but Congress must not lose focus on increasing American energy from oil, natural gas, clean coal technology and nuclear power."
December 3, 2009
Members of Election Oversight Committee Call on EAC Commissioner to Resign
WASHINGTON — Today, the GOP members of the Committee on House Administration condemned politically discriminatory hiring by the Election Assistance Commission (“EAC”) and called on the commissioner involved to step down.
November 17, 2009
Wicker & Harper Defend “In God We Trust”
Mississippi Lawmakers Sign Legal Brief in Defense of National Motto & Pledge of Allegiance Inscriptions at New Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, D.C.
November 7, 2009
HARPER OPPOSES GOVERNMENT HEALTH CARE OVERHAUL
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) today voted against House passage of the Affordable Health Care for America Act (H.R. 3962), which would cost upwards of $1.055 trillion according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.
November 5, 2009
McCARTHY, HARPER RELEASE LEGISLATION TO INCREASE ONLINE VOTER REGISTRATION SERVICES
GOP Members of Elections Subcommittee Release Legislation to Increase States’ Online Voter Registration Services Without Compromising Existing Safeguards that Protect Against Fraud
October 29, 2009
HARPER SAYS PELOSI’S HEALTH CARE BILL WILL BE COSTLY FOR FAMILIES AND MISSISSIPPI
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) delivered the following remarks after the House Democratic leadership unveiled their latest plan for a government takeover of health care that will raise families’ insurance premiums and push hefty unfunded mandates to states.
October 27, 2009
HARPER SAYS A GOVERNMENT TAKEOVER OF HEALTH CARE WILL HURT MISSISSIPPI AND ITS SENIORS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) delivered the following remarks today on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in opposition to a Democratic health care plan that contains massive cuts to Medicare Advantage and imposes heavy unfunded mandates to states.
October 19, 2009
Bipartisan health care bill must include GOP proposals
On Tuesday, January 6, 2009, I cast my first vote in the U.S. House of Representatives in support of John Boehner of Ohio for Speaker of the House. This vote would ultimately become Nancy Pelosi’s first victory of the year and a preview of what Republicans might expect as the minority party in the 111th Congress.
October 9, 2009
HARPER: MISSISSIPPI CAN LEAD THE NATION WITH KEMPER COUNTY IGCC PLANT
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) released the following statement today in support of the Mississippi Power Company proposed IGCC plant in Kemper County at the conclusion of the five day Public Service Commission hearings.
October 8, 2009
HARPER VOTES AGAINST HATE CRIMES PROVISIONS ATTACHED TO CONFERENCE REPORT ON NATIONAL DEFENSE
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) voted today against the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 due to hate crimes provisions that were attached to the legislation by the U.S. Senate.
September 30, 2009
FISCAL YEAR 2009 SPENDING PRODUCES MORE GOVERNMENT
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) issued the following statement today as Fiscal Year 2009 ends on September 30, 2009 with federal government spending, deficits and debt at record highs.
September 17, 2009
Congressmen on Missile Defense Caucus Blast President Obama's Abandonment of European Missile Defense
Members of the House Missile Defense Caucus today gave the following statements upon hearing that President Barack Obama has officially chosen to abandon plans for the European Missile Defense site, including the deployment of 10 missile interceptors in Poland and a radar in the Czech Republic.
September 11, 2009
HARPER: “AMERICANS WILL NEVER FORGET”
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) made the following statement today in remembrance of the innocent victims and in honor of the families who lost loved ones during the terrible events surrounding the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks.
September 9, 2009
HARPER: “IF THE DEMOCRATS WANTED A BIPARTISAN BILL, THEY WOULD PRODUCE A BIPARTISAN BILL”
After President Obama addressed a joint session of Congress regarding the future of America’s health care, U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) called on the President to go back to the drawing board. “Republicans continue to seek constructive solutions to making quality health care coverage available, affordable and accessible for every American, regardless of pre-existing health conditions. But the truth is, if the Democrats wanted a bipartisan bill, they would produce a bipartisan bill.
August 27, 2009
HARPER: MID-SESSION REVIEW PROVIDES HARSH EVIDENCE OF DEMOCRATS’ SPENDING BINGE
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.), freshman Member of the House Committee on the Budget, has called for order to the chaotic deficit spending after the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released updated economic and budgetary projections.
August 4, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES GRANT FUNDING FOR VETERANS CEMETERY IN NEWTON
Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) today announced $6.9 million in funding to establish the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Newton. The grant, issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs, will reimburse the state 100 percent for the cost associated with the construction of phase one of the three-phase development.
July 30, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES DEFENSE FUNDS FOR MSU AND REGIONAL COUNTER DRUG TRAINING ACADEMY IN MERIDIAN
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) today voted in support of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2010 which provides our armed forces with the weapons, equipment and funds to ensure continued excellence in America’s military performance.
July 14, 2009
HARPER NAMED TO HOUSE ETHICS COMMITTEE
The House Republican Conference today confirmed U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) to serve as the only freshman on the House Committee on Standards of Official Conduct. Selected by Republican Leader John Boehner of Ohio, this leadership appointment marks Harper’s fifth committee assignment for the 111th Congress.
June 26, 2009
HARPER: AMERICA DESERVES AMERICAN ENERGY
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper voted today against cap and trade legislation that intends to severely tax the use of carbon-based energy and reward the use of renewable energy.
June 25, 2009
HARPER SECURES $8M IN FUNDING FOR UNATTENDED GROUND SENSOR RESEARCH FOR MSU
Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) announced $8 million in funding today for continued research and development of Advanced, Long Endurance Unattended Ground Sensor Technologies (UGS) housed at Mississippi State University.
June 17, 2009
MISSISSIPPI’S THIRD DISTRICT TOPS U.S. POULTRY PRODUCTION
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.) joined the Mississippi Poultry Association to announce that Mississippi’s Third Congressional District leads the nation in poultry production, according to recently released data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2007 Census of Agriculture.
June 16, 2009
HARPER COMMENTS ON OPPOSITION OF THE ’09 WAR SUPPLEMENTAL
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.) opposed the Conference Report accompanying the Fiscal Year 2009 Supplemental Appropriations Act today although the measure passed the House of Representatives.
June 3, 2009
HARPER COMMENTS ON REAGAN’S LEGACY AFTER STATUE UNVEILING
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.), joined by his 19-year-old son, Livingston, made the following remarks today after a ceremony was held to unveil the statue of President Ronald Reagan in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.
June 2, 2009
HARPER EMPHASIZES NEED FOR CONTINUED MISSIONS AT 186th
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.) joined Mississippi Adjutant General, Major General William Freeman, Jr., and Commander of the 186th Air Refueling Wing, Colonel Franklin E. Chalk today in welcoming Chief of the National Guard Bureau, General Craig R. McKinley to the Mississippi Air National Guard base in Meridian at Key Field.
May 22, 2009
CAP AND TAX: MORE TAXES FEWER JOBS MORE GOVERNMENT
As the summer months quickly approach and families across the Third Congressional District start to plan vacations, our state and country continue to struggle with high energy costs. That is why the Democrats’ cap and trade energy plan – which should be called “cap and tax” – is a reckless proposal that will do more harm than good. The simple truth behind the Democrats’ energy plan is that it is nothing more than a national energy tax.
May 21, 2009
HARPER APPLAUDS LAWMAKERS FOR STANDING FIRM ON GUANTANAMO BAY
“I applaud lawmakers for rejecting President Obama’s request for funding to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility,” said Congressman Gregg Harper. “Closing this facility should not even be considered until the administration has a plan to safely detain, prosecute or transfer these detainees.”
May 21, 2009
UNCLE SAM WANTS YOU, YOUR TAXES, BUT NOT YOUR VOTE
Today, the Committee on House Administration’s Elections Subcommittee held a hearing on the failing efforts to address obstacles currently disenfranchising thousands of military voters, and legislative solutions – specifically, the Military Voting Protection (MVP) Act – that will protect the rights of our troops serving abroad.
May 18, 2009
HARPER COMMENDS THE SENATE FOR MABUS’ CONFIRMATION
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) commented today after the Senate voted unanimously Monday night to confirm former Mississippi Governor Ray Mabus as secretary of the U.S. Navy, which is the Navy’s top civilian job.
May 7, 2009
HARPER JOINS HOUSE COLLEAGUES, NFL STAR FOR NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) made the following statement today following a bipartisan press conference with Rep. Randy Forbes, Republican of Virginia and the National Football League’s 2005 MVP, Shaun Alexander.
May 4, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER ANNOUNCES 2009 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION WINNERS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) is privileged to announce that senior Brock Hanson of Starkville High School is the 2009 winner of the Third District Congressional Art Competition. Brock’s entry entitled “Facing Reality” will hang in the U.S. Capitol for one year beginning in June.
April 30, 2009
McComb Enterprise-Journal Op-Ed Debt Day: National Debt Goes Through The Roof
Sunday, April 26th marked Debt Day for the 2009 fiscal year. Debt Day is the day the government starts paying for federal spending by borrowing money rather than using its revenue. This means that all of the money spent from Washington the rest of this year will either be borrowed from foreign countries or borrowed from future generations, in turn increasing our federal debt dramatically.
April 29, 2009
HARPER: “CAN WE AFFORD ANOTHER 100 DAYS?”
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) commented today on the President’s budget, on which House and Senate Democrats rushed to complete action by the 100th day of the Obama presidency.
April 7, 2009
HARPER COMMENTS ON OBAMA ADMINISTRATION DEFENSE CUTS AFTER MERIDIAN LOCKHEED MARTIN TOUR
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) toured the Lockheed Martin Subassembly Plant in Meridian today which produces portions of the F-22 and the C-130J. Discussions to continue production on the F-22 topped the priority list after yesterday’s announcement by Defense Secretary Robert Gates to cap production at 187 fighters.
March 26, 2009
HARPER ON BARBOUR’S STATE OF EMERGENCY
“I commend Governor Barbour’s efforts in ensuring that all resources are made available to the local governments affected by the storm in the Third Congressional District. With the risk of additional storms, I agree with the decision to mobilize the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and I am confident they will respond in a timely manner.
March 25, 2009
Special to The Washington Times Health Care: My Personal Issues
Over the past several years, the federal government has consistently addressed America’s health concerns. I commend Congress for continuing its pursuit in improving access to quality, affordable health insurance. While I understand the constant struggles in acquiring and retaining health insurance, one struggle is closer to my family than others and I have taken an active role in examining this issue.
March 19, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER TO HOST 2009 MILITARY ACADEMY DAY
Military Academy Day is for interested students and parents to learn more about our nation’s military academies, requirements for admission and the appointment process. Congressman Harper will be joined by midshipmen, cadets, alumni and representatives from the five service academies: U.S. Military Academy (West Point), U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.
March 16, 2009
Special to the Mississippi Business Journal Guest Column
I have had the pleasure of representing the Third Congressional District over the past two months. I would like to share with you the challenges we face as a nation and what I believe are strong, conservative solutions to getting our economy back on track.
March 12, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER JOINS RANKING REPUBLICAN IN REAUTHORIZATION OF U.S.A. PATRIOT ACT
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) joined Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Lamar Smith (R–Texas) as a co-sponsor to reauthorize key national security provisions of the U.S.A. PATRIOT Act set to expire in 2009.
March 4, 2009
Hare, Delahunt Reestablish Fragile X Caucus; Harper Joins as Co-Chair
Congressman Phil Hare (D-IL), Congressman Bill Delahunt (D-MA), and Congressman Gregg Harper (R-MS) today announced that they have formed the Fragile X Caucus as advocates from across the United States are on Capitol Hill lobbying their Members of Congress to improve the lives of people afflicted with this syndrome.
March 3, 2009
HARPER LAUNCHES PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT ON FRAGILE X SYNDROME
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R – Miss.) launched a Public Service Announcement today in support of his 19-year-old son, Livingston who lives with Fragile X and the National Fragile X Foundation Advocacy Day being held Wednesday, March 4th.
February 24, 2009
CONGRESSMAN GREGG HARPER COMMENTS ON PRESIDENT OBAMA’S FIRST ADDRESS TO THE JOINT CONGRESS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) attended President Barack Obama’s first address to the joint session of Congress Tuesday where Republicans welcomed the President’s call for fiscal responsibility. However, Congressman Harper is skeptical due to the recent history of legislation passed by the Democrat led Congress.
February 20, 2009
Sens. Cochran, Wicker, and Rep. Harper Announce $4.9 Million for Jackson-Evers International Airport
U.S. Senators Thad Cochran, Roger Wicker, and U.S. Representative Gregg Harper today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has released $4,980,692 in funding for the Jackson-Evers International Airport. These funds will provide the airport with security enhancements and will improve the terminal. It will also rehabilitate the runway and modernize the drainage system.
February 20, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES PHILADELPHIA MUNICIPAL AIRPORT FAA GRANT
On Friday, U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) notified Mayor Rayburn Waddell’s office of a $65,150.00 grant award for the Philadelphia Municipal Airport. “This funding will improve the safety and quality of aviation for the Philadelphia Municipal Airport,” said Congressman Gregg Harper. “I am excited about the economic development this expansion will bring to the airport and the surrounding community.”
February 13, 2009
HANDY HARDWARE TO BUILD DISTRIBUTION FACILITY IN MERIDIAN
Jackson, Mississippi – Governor Haley Barbour announced today that Handy Hardware, a member-owned hardware buying group, will open a distribution center in Meridian. The company plans to employ more than 150 people.
February 12, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES KEY FIELD FAA GRANT
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) recently notified Tom Williams, the executive director of the Meridian Airport Authority, of a $481,235.00 grant award. The award, issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration, allows Key Field to advance on a project to relocate the glide slope antenna from one side of the runway to the other. The relocation would accommodate a parallel taxiway that is currently being constructed.
February 12, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES G.V. SONNY MONTGOMERY FAA GRANT
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) recently notified the Honorable Nancy Chambers, Mayor of Forest, of a $66,426.00 grant award. The award, issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration, allows G.V. Sonny Montgomery Airfield to advance on a project to repair surface irregularities. Currently, the runways are practically unusable due to soil heaving, bumps and dips.
February 12, 2009
HARPER ANNOUNCES LOUISVILLE-WINSTON COUNTY FAA GRANT
In Washington this past Wednesday, U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) notified Mayor Daniel Yarbrough and representatives from the Louisville-Winston County Partnership of a $273,551.00 grant award.
February 12, 2009
HARPER JOINS REPUBLICAN LEADERS IN VOICING CONCERNS OVER THE 2010 CENSUS
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) joined Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) and other ranking Republicans in highlighting the creation of a Census Task Force created by Boehner and the Republican Conference.
February 7, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER'S GUEST COLUMN IN THE CLARION LEDGER
Last week, I joined 177 Republicans and 11 Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives in opposing the economic stimulus package rushed to the floor by the liberal Democratic leadership. This bill bypassed the standard committee process.
January 28, 2009
HARPER SAYS "NO" TO DEMOCRAT'S WASTEFUL STIMULUS PLAN
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) voted against an economic stimulus bill today that would ultimately cost taxpayer’s nearly $1.2 trillion in new government debt. "I wish Congress would open their eyes to the wasteful government spending that is contained in this bill and that will drive the country further into debt," said Congressman Gregg Harper. "The American people know we cannot borrow and spend our way back to prosperity."
January 20, 2009
CONGRESSMAN HARPER WELCOMES CONSTITUENTS TO THE CAPITOL
Regarding the distribution of tickets to almost 200 constituents, Congressman Gregg Harper said Monday, "This is such an historic occasion and it was great to see folks from all across the Third Congressional District in Washington enjoying the celebration of our next President. Inauguration is an exciting time and I am glad to give my constituents an opportunity to join in this moment as we swear-in our next Commander-in-Chief."
January 15, 2009
CONGRESSMAN GREGG HARPER LANDS SEAT ON PRESTIGIOUS BUDGET COMMITTEE
U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-MS) was appointed by the Steering Committee Thursday to the Committee on the Budget earning his third committee seat for the 111th Congress pending Conference approval. This prestigious committee sets guidelines in the annual budget resolution for monitoring federal programs to meet spending projections. "I am excited to welcome Congressman Gregg Harper as the newest member of the House Budget Committee," said Ranking Republican Member Paul Ryan (WI-01). "In coming to grips with a deepening recession and a soaring budget deficit, his commitment to fiscal discipline and pro-growth economic policies will be an asset to this committee and to this nation."
January 14, 2009
CONGRESSMAN GREGG HARPER COMMENTS ON SCHIP
On Wednesday, January 14, 2009, the U.S. House of Representatives took up consideration of H.R. 2, the Children’s Health Insurance Reauthorization Act of 2009 (SCHIP). U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R-MS) voted against the bill although it was passed by a vote of 289 to 139. While Congressman Harper certainly supports providing healthcare to poor children, and in fact favors reauthorization of the SCHIP program, the bill that was passed today by the U.S. House greatly expands the original program at a cost to the taxpayers of $35 billion over the next four-and-a-half years.
January 9, 2009
HARPER APPOINTED TO THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY AND THE COMMITTEE ON HOUSE ADMINISTRATION
Congressman Gregg Harper (R-MS) has been appointed to the House Committee on Judiciary and the Committee on House Administration for the 111th Congress. "As the Republican representative on the Steering Committee, I worked hard to get the other freshman Republicans the best committee assignments possible," said Congressman Harper. "I am very thankful for their cooperation and am pleased with the placement I have received from the Committee as well."
January 8, 2009
HARPER HOSTS CEREMONIAL SWEARING-IN ADMINISTERED
On Wednesday, Congressman Gregg Harper (R-MS) hosted a ceremonial swearing-in at the historic Madison Building of the Library of Congress with over 70 friends and family who traveled from Mississippi to share in this important occasion as Harper transitions into his new position. "I’m overwhelmed by the large number of people who came to be with me in Washington for my first few days in Congress. This is a special time for my family and me and I am especially thankful to all of those who were here to support Sidney, Livingston and Maggie," said Congressman Harper.
January 6, 2009
CONGRESSMAN GREGG HARPER TAKES THE OATH OF OFFICE
Mississippi’s Third Congressional District Representative Gregg Harper (R-MS) took the Oath of Office today on his first day as a member of the 111th Congress. "Today, I signed a verbal contract to serve the interests and concerns of each individual in the Third Congressional District,” said Harper. “I am humbled and honored to serve the people of Mississippi, and I will work diligently to represent the conservative values of our state."
