Meeting With Small Business Leaders

Touring Small Businesses in Gonzales County and Cuero, TX.

President Biden continues to tout “Bidenomics,” while many small businesses continue to feel the pain, with inflation still more than twice as high as when he took office. While Texas remains one of the strongest states in the country for business, local leaders have still been struggling the past several years with high inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions inflicted by Joe Biden’s policies.

Last week, I toured small businesses in Cuero and Gonzales County to give an update on what’s happening in Congress, as well as hear ideas on how we can ease some of the burden from the last two years.

Small businesses and the folks who make them run are the backbone of our economy and they’ve shown tremendous strength during a difficult time. Whether it’s high taxes, rising inflation, or unnecessary regulations, Washington seems to want to deliberately make life harder for Main Street America. That’s unacceptable. In the days ahead it’s critical that we press forward on cutting spending, easing regulatory burdens, and getting government bureaucracy out of the way so small businesses can thrive – and I’m committed to that goal.

Supporting And Listening To Our Veterans

Last week, I hosted a roundtable with veterans in Bastrop. I listened as they discussed current issues facing the veterans community and how Congress can help address these issues. It’s no secret that in the past, the VA has not lived up to the standard of care our veterans deserve. While Congress has enacted a number of reforms to improve the VA, there is still much work to be done.

Our nation owes a tremendous debt to the brave men and women who served this country. These men and women could have easily chosen to fulfill their other obligations or pursue other goals. Instead, they chose to defend the liberties cherished by their fellow Americans, so we owe these American heroes an unpayable debt of gratitude.

At the roundtable, I was happy to share what me and my office have been working on to help improve veterans’ access to healthcare access in our district, as well as discuss the ways in which our office can assist veterans. I can assure you that I will continue working to make sure our veterans are receiving the support and care that they fought for and deserve.

Meeting with Bastrop County Sheriff Maurice Cook

Our police officers play a vital role in our communities and it’s extremely important we support them. While in Bastrop, I met with Bastrop County Sheriff Maurice Cook last week to discuss the work he has been doing and how my office can assist their team. During our discussion, we talked about the successes and challenges they've faced this year and what more can be done to ensure their department can protect and provide for residents.

Sheriff Cook also updated me on the ways the southern border crisis is impacting Bastrop. Here in Texas, most of us have understood the reality of the situation for a long time. However, as the crisis persists, more individuals are being put into danger as a result of Joe Biden’s open border policies. The situation must be resolved so that our communities and migrants are kept safe.

Touring the Army Futures Command

We also got the chance to tour Army Futures Command in Austin, Texas, where they are focused on modernizing the Army to ensure current and future generations of soldiers are well-equipped to defend our nation.

America faces a critical moment in history with the threat of China and Russia expanding their influence on the world. Congress has a duty to support our troops, as well as require the DOD to focus on battle readiness rather than woke ideology. Army Futures Command’s technology and science, combined with a talented workforce, holds immense promise for our military and our national security. I am eager to continue working with the Army to ensure they are ready to preserve peace and deter aggression.

Hosting "Coffee with Congressman Cloud"

Thank you to everyone who came out to “Coffee with Congressman Cloud” in Bastrop County last week!

It's always good to be back home in Texas with familiar faces and friends. It’s a privilege to serve and represent our part of Texas in Washington. As a representative, I am committed to amplifying your voice and values in the Capitol. While I know these times can be difficult, it’s the people I represent that remind me of America’s great potential and that our best and brightest days are ahead.

August 7, 2023: Weekly Newsletter

Hosting "Coffee with Congressman Cloud"

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