Hispanic Caucus joins President on Trip to Mexico, Summit of the Americas

For Immediate Release Contact: Miguel Ayala
April 16, 2009 miguel.ayala@mail.house.gov

(Washington DC) - The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) was the first to learn about President Barack Obama's trip to Mexico, and three key Members of the caucus are joining the President today as he embarks on the journey to Mexico and the Summit of the Americas. The members attending are Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez, Chair of the CHC, Congressman Xavier Becerra, Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, and Congressman Ciro D. Rodriguez, Chair of the Agriculture and Rural Community Task Force.

"It is a pleasure and an honor to accompany President Obama on his first visit to Mexico and the Caribbean since he took the Oath of Office," said Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez (NY-12). "There are important conversations to be had regarding immigration reform, border security and trade relations with our closest neighbors. We look forward to taking part in those exchanges, and representing the views of our constituents and Latinos across the nation."

Reps. Becerra and Rodriguez are both former Chairs of the CHC. In addition to his role in the U.S. House leadership, Congressman Becerra is also a Member of the House Ways and Means Committee.

"President Obama is sending the right signal that America is ready to reengage with our neighbors and to work in a collaborative way to address the problems that affect the region," said Congressman Xavier Becerra (CA-31). "The future holds enormous potential for our region, but we must work together to take full advantage of this opportunity."

Congressman Rodriguez represents a Texas border district. He serves on the House Veterans Committee and the House Appropriations Committee, where he is part of the Homeland Security Subcommittee.

"When I recently visited the White House I brought my bill that seeks to fund more programs that would seek to prevent drug cartel violence by cracking down on gun running, working with officials on both sides of the border, and funding our local law enforcement agencies as the first local line of defense in our communities," added Congressman Ciro D. Rodriguez (TX-23). "On this trip I will continue to seek the administration's support in stopping our border violence while also reminding them that Texas is Mexico's number one partner for trade."

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