During today’s House floor session, Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) delivered a speech condemning the expansion of federal agency power during the Biden administration and urging support for the Midnight Rule Relief Act—a bill that would make it easier for Congress to strike down last-minute executive branch regulations.
Wilson’s Key Points: Fighting Bureaucratic Overreach
1. The Midnight Rule Relief Act
Wilson praised the legislation introduced by Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ), arguing that it would restore congressional authority over federal regulations.
- The bill would allow Congress to disapprove multiple regulations at once—instead of requiring separate votes for each policy—when those regulations were issued in the last year of a president’s term.
- Wilson argued that the current process for overturning agency rules is too slow, allowing harmful regulations to linger and disrupt economic growth.
- He blamed the Biden administration for expanding executive power at the expense of Congress and the American people.
“Federal agencies were allowed to drastically expand power, undermining the legislative authority of Congress.”
If passed, the Midnight Rule Relief Act would provide Congress with new tools to block regulations that Wilson and other House Republicans argue kill jobs and stifle economic growth.
2. Job-Killing Regulations and Economic Concerns
Wilson linked government regulations to job losses, arguing that Biden-era policies have hampered economic progress.
- He criticized environmental, labor, and financial regulations, claiming they create red tape that destroys American jobs.
- He called for a return to Trump-era deregulation, saying that the former president’s approach created a stronger economy and more opportunities for American workers.
“This bill will provide Congress with the necessary tools to reject regulations, protecting democracy and creating jobs.”
3. National Security and Immigration
Wilson also pivoted to national security concerns, tying border security to the risk of terrorism.
- He warned that open borders could allow terrorists to enter the country, citing an FBI warning that the U.S. remains vulnerable to another 9/11-style attack.
- He praised Trump’s national security approach, saying that if re-elected, Trump would reinstate laws to strengthen border protections.
“Open borders for dictators put all Americans at risk of more 9/11 attacks as warned by the FBI.”
Wilson concluded his remarks with his signature “God bless our troops” statement, reinforcing his support for strong national defense policies.
What’s Next?
The House is expected to vote on the Midnight Rule Relief Act this week.
- If passed, it could significantly alter how Congress overturns executive regulations, giving lawmakers greater power to quickly roll back last-minute Biden administration rules.
- However, Senate Democrats are likely to oppose the measure, setting up a partisan battle over executive authority and regulatory oversight.
Expect fierce debate between Republicans and Democrats over whether the bill is a needed check on executive overreach or a reckless rollback of important federal protections.
Bills at the Hill 
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