Brian Babin: “I thank the gentleman so much for yielding to me. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor and a privilege to rise today in honor of…”

“I thank the gentleman so much for yielding to me. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor and a privilege to rise today in honor of Energy Secretary Rick Perry, a devoted statesman, a proud Texan, and a longtime friend of mine. In his early years, Governor Perry became an Eagle Scout and was taught what a strong work ethic looked like, and he has practiced it in every office he has held since, and those are numerous. I first met Rick Perry back when he was Agriculture Commissioner for Texas in the mid-1990s. In the 25 years since, he and I have worked together in various roles, including working together on the campaign trail. As a matter of fact, Governor Perry appointed me to the Lower Neches Valley Authority, where I served the State for many years. My son Leif, a Navy SEAL, is also friends with Governor Perry's Navy SEAL son-in-law. I had the privilege of working with Rick Perry when he served as the longest-serving Governor of Texas in history, where he successfully earned the reputation as one of the most successful Governors that our State has ever had. While serving as Governor of the great State of Texas, he oversaw incredible economic growth, low unemployment rates, low taxes, the creation of thousands of jobs, and commonsense reform that has brought tremendous success to our State. Texas has become a mecca for out-of- State Americans looking for jobs and prosperity.…”