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Dear Neighbor,
As you know, a motion to vacate succeeded in ousting Speaker McCarthy recently. Unfortunately, since that vote we’ve been without a Speaker and have wasted two legislative weeks where we could have gotten the remaining appropriations bills with fiscally responsible spending policies passed through the regular order process. My Republican colleagues and I met in a closed door meeting to select a new speaker last week. Two candidates ran for the position, both of whom I am proud to consider my friends, Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise. After initially winning a first round of votes in the Republican Conference, Scalise withdrew his nomination when it was clear he would not be able to garner the 217 votes to prevail for a full House vote. Jim Jordan has since prevailed as the Speaker-Designate in the Republican Conference and I look forward to supporting his candidacy as we move toward a vote on the House Floor this week. I am eager to return to the business of governing. We have many challenges facing our country and the international community. I believe it is important that we unite as a Caucus so we can continue to tackle them. I'll continue to push my colleagues to do so. Please continue reading for a brief overview of my efforts on your behalf last week.
Making Washington Work For You
Supporting our Allies: As Co-Chair of the International Religious Freedom Caucus I stand firmly with Israel in the wake of a brutal attack by cowardly terrorists last weekend. I also condemn anti-Semitism in the wake of pro-Hamas taunts at solemn pro-Israel gatherings in the United States mourning the dead. I know that global anti- Semitism has been problematic since time in memorial. However, it is particularly despicable as war rages in Israel and civilians have been tortured, kidnapped, and slaughtered. Many of these Pro-Hamas rallies are taking place on college and university campuses. My colleagues and I reached out to the Secretary of Education to urge him to follow the law and ensure swift steps are taken to protect Jewish students from harassment on campuses. Click here to learn more.
The darkest moments in human history have come when people remain silent in the face of oppression, violence, bigotry and injustice. We must eradicate its presence around the globe, and we must always continue to support our most steadfast ally in the face of such hatred. I'm an original co-sponsor of a Resolution in Support of Israel. As we take action, pray for the victims of this savage attack and support Israel’s self-defense against these aggressors, let us remain united in our resolve to stand up against global extremists who use terror as a tool for spreading hate.
My team and I have also been active in helping Americans stuck in Israel to arrange transportation home. If you have family or friends that need similar assistance, please feel free to contact my office for help.
Advocating for Vulnerable Veterans: Many of my constituents are being negatively impacted by the VA’s new travel reimbursement policy. In addition to working on their individual cases, I’m continuing to fight on their behalf.
Improving Public Safety: I’m glad to see the Citrus County Opioid Task Force raising alarm about the growing threat of Xylazine laced drugs. I have filed legislation that would give law enforcement the tools its needs to address this public health crisis.
Learning from You Here at Home: I enjoyed visiting Fenco Farms in Floral City to learn more about technological advances in the industry and the challenges local farmers are having as they work to produce and distribute safe food throughout the country.
It was great to join neighbors at the Pasco Back the Blue BBQ in support of local first responders who work each and every day to keep our community safe!
Providing Free Dental Care for Veterans in Need: Do you know a Veteran in need of dental care? My team is once again proud to host Stars, Stripes and Smiles -- an opportunity for local Veterans in need to receive free dental care. I believe oral health is an important part of wellness, which is why I've filed a bill to expand Veteran access to dental care. However, in the interim, I'm grateful to the local dentists volunteering their time and skill to take care of our local heroes' urgent needs. In order to receive care, Veterans must call my office at 727-232-2921 to register as space is limited.
Looking to Volunteer to Help Others?
The Internal Revenue Service along with the United Ways of Pasco and Hernando Counties sponsor Free Income Tax Preparation service for low and moderate income client each year. Returns are prepared by IRS certified volunteers who work one or two half-days per week from February to April 15. No tax experience is necessary. The only requirement is a desire to help people and have good computer use skills. Training in tax law and use of the tax preparation software is provided in January. For more information or to volunteer call or email one of the individuals listed below:
Community Connection
I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. As part of my commitment to developing a better understanding of the issues facing constituents in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties members of my team attended several events last week. Here are a few highlights.
My team was inspired by the stories of families who were helped by the Oasis Pregnancy Center during their annual dinner. This wonderful organization, and many like it, are literally saving the lives of countless unborn children by giving mothers the support and encouragement they need to choose life.
My team attended this month's Hernando Homeless Prevention Initiative meeting to learn about new resources to help at-risk families avoid homelessness. 
Additionally, my team attended the groundbreaking of Double Branch, a large development in San Antonio which is expected to create 6,000 new jobs in Pasco county. The project will feature 4 million square feet of industrial development, 725,000 square feet of offices, 400,000 square feet of retail, 3,500 housing units and 300 hotel beds on a 965-acre parcel at the southeast corner of Interstate 75 and State Road 52.
Constituent Corner
My office recently received this message from a constituent after my team helped connected her with the resources she needs from the VA.
When I was at your townhall, I heard the man say that vets could get a free uber to take them back and forth to VA doctor appointments but I didn't know what kind of code to use or how to get it. I called your office the next day and the woman I spoke to was very helpful. She put me in touch with someone who helped me schedule an uber for all my upcoming VA doctor appointments. Now I don't have to worry about driving to Tampa or figuring out the new travel reimbursement process. Thanks so much!
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you! |
