Washington, DC – Wednesday, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) spoke on the House Floor to announce the release of his constituent Trevor Reed, a U.S. Marine Veteran from Granbury, Texas, who has been held as a political pawn in Russia for nearly 1000 days.

Watch here, or read a transcript of the remarks below:

“Mr. Speaker,

“Today is a momentous day, as we have just received the news that my constituent Trevor Reed, a Texan, a Marine, and a patriot has been released from Russian prison after being held for an anguishing 985 days as a political pawn.

“Trevor’s parents, Paula and Joey Reed of Granbury, Texas have been tireless advocates for the release of their son, and I cannot imagine the relief that they are feeling right now. The Reeds have been living a two-and-a-half-year nightmare fighting every day for their son’s release, and today, our prayers have been answered.

“I would like to thank my colleagues in Congress, on both sides of the aisle, for working in a bipartisan manner to pass our resolution calling for Trevor’s release, and for continuing to draw attention to his case—including my predecessor Congressman Mike Conaway, Chairman Mike McCaul, Senator Cornyn, Leader McCarthy, Congresswoman Jackson Lee, Congressman Castro, and my entire office who represents the 11th District (my staff).

“I want to especially recognize Ambassador Sullivan and his team, as well as those at the NSA, NSC, and SPEHA. Finally, President Biden, thank you for bringing Trevor Reed home. Thank you for believing and leaving no American overseas.

“I look forward to welcoming Trevor safely home.” 

Background

 Congressman Pfluger has been a vocal advocate for the release of Trevor Reed:

• Early last month, Congressman Pfluger publicly called for President Biden to meet with Paula and Joey when the President visited Texas.
• This Congress, Congressman Pfluger passed a bipartisan, bicameral resolution calling for the immediate release of Trevor Reed.
• He has held multiple press conferences with the Reeds and Congressional leaders from both sides of the aisle (here, here);
• Repeatedly questioned Secretary of State Antony Blinken about Trevor’s case (here, here);
• Sent a bipartisan, bicameral letter to President Biden calling for him to address the arrest of Trevor and Paul Whelan, who is also detained in Russia.