Howdy Texan –

It has been a busy week in Washington! I'm hopping on a plane back to Texas, so I wanted to take a moment to update you on my work in Congress.

ON THE DOCKET:

Drug Trafficking on I-35
Serving our Veteran Community
Holding the FBI Accountable
The Limit, Save, Grow Act

THE BRIEF:

Texas state troopers deployed by Governor Abbott stopped 8,721 human smugglers.
American consumers cut their retail spending for the second straight month in March, adding to signs of a slowing economy.
The process of how the United States government clears personnel to see and share classified information is under new pressure after an alleged leak by an Air National Guardsman.

DRUG TRAFFICKING ON I-35

The Drug Enforcement Administration plays a critical role in combating drug trafficking, reducing drug-related violence, and protecting our communities from the devastating effects of drug abuse. With nearly 200 Americans dying from fentanyl overdose daily, stopping this deadly drug from entering and dispersing across our country is critical. During an appropriations hearing this week, I questioned DEA Administrator Melissa Milgram about the DEA’s efforts to stop drug trafficking along the I-35 corridor.

Listen to my questions here.

SERVING OUR VETERAN COMMUNITY

America made a promise to our veterans, and as Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Appropriations Committee, I’m committed to fulfilling that promise. I met with Jaime Areizaga-Soto, Chairman of the Board of Veterans Appeals, which is tasked with deciding veterans’ claims for benefits, including service connection and rating of disability claims. We discussed the VA’s need for additional attorneys and judges, so they can more efficiently and effectively assist those who served our country.

HOLDING THE FBI ACCOUNTABLE

This week, I questioned Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Christopher Wray about the erosion of public trust in the Bureau. With increases in crime and the threat of Chinese spies in the U.S., our nation needs to be able to rely on the Bureau to work effectively.

As a former Judge, I believe in law and order. While appropriating funding to law enforcement agencies, I will also maintain thorough oversight to ensure our taxpayer dollars are being used effectively to protect our communities.

LIMIT, SAVE, GROW ACT

House Republicans passed the Limit, Save, Grow Act, which will limit Washington’s irresponsible spending, save taxpayers' hard-earned dollars and grow the American economy. I am proud to have voted in favor of this legislation.

As Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, I am committed to fulfilling the promises America made to our veterans. This legislation does not impact veterans’ benefits. The Save, Limit, Grow Act will save $4.8 trillion over the next 10 years without harming our ability to care for veterans, protect our national defense, and secure our border.

As always, thank you for taking the time to stay updated on what's happening in Texas' 31st congressional district. Follow my Facebook and Twitter accounts for more updates.

It is an honor and privilege to represent you and Texas in the United States House.

Sincerely,