WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Wiley Nickel (NC-13) co-led a bipartisan delegation trip to Latin America to engage in discussions with foreign leaders and partners on issues of immigration, counterterrorism, trade, national security, intelligence, and law enforcement.
The bipartisan delegation trip was organized by the House Committee on Homeland Security and the U.S. Air Force, and comprised of Congressman Wiley Nickel (D-NC-13), Congressman August Pfluger (R-TX-11), Congressman Carlos Gimenez (R-FL-28), and Congressman Aaron Bean (R-FL-04). The bipartisan delegation trip included visits to Brazil, Colombia, and Panama.
In Brazil, Congressman Nickel participated in a business energy roundtable discussion at the U.S. Consulate General in Rio De Janeiro, met with Federal Deputy Soraya Santos, met with the Federal Police Superintendent for the State of Rio, visited the Brazilian Federal Police International Police Cooperation Center, and heard from experts on China’s increasing presence in the region.
In Colombia, Congressman Nickel participated in a briefing on current efforts to combat illicit narcotics trafficking, observed a coca paste lab presentation and demonstration with a walk through of a coca field, and met with Foreign Minister Álvaro Leyva and Defense Minister Iván Velásquez to reaffirm the historic, long-standing bilateral relationship between the United States and Colombia.
In Panama, Congressman Nickel participated in a helicopter overflight of the Darién, toured the San Vicente migrant camp and witnessed the need for continued robust international investment, and met with Foreign Affairs Minister Janaina Tewaney Mencomo and Public Security Minister Juan Manuel Pino Forero.
So our southern border is wide open and we’re being softly invaded, but our rep is down in Brazil on a workcation. Tax dollars hard at work, y’all. Thanks a lot southern Wake County for giving us this. /s
@Brett: NC exports more than $32Billion to South/Central America — more than half of NC’s total trade exports. I guess you’re an anti-business person who wants to decrease NC’s trade? Perhaps you’d prefer congressional reps who simply spend your money on building a wall? Those of us who value trade, exports, and making money are happy to see reps who are pro-business!
What’s that gotta do with business? You think we need the federal government involved in our state’s PRIVATE business dealings? Oh yeah…nothing.
Dear Brett,
The Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution empowers Congress to “regulate commerce with foreign nations,” U.S. Const. Art. I, § 8, cl. 3.
Successful exporters must understand and comply with both U.S. regulations and foreign import requirements.
Well aware. It says they have the power to “regulate”, not “conduct”. Effective regulation doesn’t require you to travel overseas unless you’re trying to cozy up to foreign leaders for your own agenda.
By having elected members of Congress going down there to talk, not just trade/commerce, but other law enforcement activities, shows that these members are far less concerned with gathering the needs and opinions of NC companies that do business down there, but would rather have a nice taxpayer funded vacation.
Spare me the Constitution lesson, because the Dems are well equipped as using it for toilet paper. It’s not like they actually carry about it, or even follow it.
@Brett: You may be unaware, but the US Constitution gives the federal government the power to create treaties (including trade regulations) with foreign powers. That means the fed has A LOT of involvement.
Just because they can, doesn’t mean they should.
From the article: “The bipartisan delegation trip was organized by the House Committee on Homeland Security and the U.S. Air Force, and comprised of Congressman Wiley Nickel (D-NC-13), Congressman August Pfluger (R-TX-11), Congressman Carlos Gimenez (R-FL-28), and Congressman Aaron Bean (R-FL-04).”
Looks like three Republicans were on the workcation with Rep Nickel as well.
Brett needs to buy a private island with no internet so we don’t have to hear his anti-everything rants every time the government spends a dime on something he deems unworthy to his life.
Brett our organization agrees with your comments. You are not alone in your thoughts on this subject. Keep on posting.
I hope the “trade” part of the discussions included human trafficking.
Gone to invite more people in.
Nickel…in place…from Democrat theft of redistricting.
Gerrymandering is fine when it benefits your politics, correct? “But, but the Democrats used to do it too…” It’s time for 3rd parties to draw congressional districts.
He should have stayed there.