Congressman Joe Barton visits AVID

AVID students dressed in their best to visit with US Congressman Joe Barton on Wednesday, March 27. The discussion centered around students’ interest in admission to United States Military Academies and other questions over his responsibilities as a congressman.

Sophomore Nick Thomas requested, via email, for the congressman to speak to the students of his AVID class because of his interest in applying to the United States Air Force Academy. Nick and nine other students attended Barton’s visit with interested in becoming a student at one of the Academies.

Congressman Joe Barton has served in The United States House since 1984. His journey as congressman has granted him the opportunity to meet every president since Nixon, weekly visits to Washington and the honor to represent North Texas citizens in Washington. Barton, among the 38 congressman representing the state, represents the Sixth District of Texas.

“I’m proud to be an American, and I’m proud to be your congressman,” Congressman Barton said.

The congressman explained there are no aptitude tests or education requirements necessary to serve in Congress. In order to run for Congress one must be a citizen of the United States, be at least 25 years old and live in the state they are running to represent.

“Why are there so many qualifications in order to be in a military academy but not to become a congressman,” junior Madison Jetty asked.

Congressman Barton responded with a smile.

“You have to be elected by the people you represent. It’s not a requirement that you graduate from Harvard because there are people who haven’t graduated from Harvard. You don’t have to be 6‘4“ or homecoming queen. We want anybody in the country who has an issue to bring it to the public, to be eligible to do it,” Congressman Barton said.

Students’ question also centered around admission requirements for United States Military Academies, since each of the three academies only accept 1,000 high school graduates each year. The requirements to enter the academy are very thorough. Each academy considers applicants based on their academics, athletics and community service. Three to four people conduct the interview and try to figure how an applicant handles pressure, what makes them tick and ensure the applicant wants to join the military. A congressman must send recommendation in order for that person to be considered for admission to the academy.

Of all the congressional districts in the nation, Joe Barton has had more accepted applicants to military academies than any other. Between 300 and 400 applicants appointed to the military academies remain active in the military today.

“We want you to have a value system and reflect the United States,” Congressman Barton said.