Merry Christmas! Welcome to the December edition of The Moran Minuteman.

This monthly newsletter is our way of recognizing extraordinary efforts in Texas Congressional District 1 and providing an inside look into what happens behind the scenes in the life of a Congressman.

Every fall leading up to an election year, candidates, including incumbent officeholders, must file paperwork communicating their intent to run for office. This year, the filing period was from November 11 - December 11. Now that the filing period has ended, I am humbled to report that I was the only candidate to file to serve the First Congressional District of Texas as its next U.S. Congressman for the 119th Congress, beginning January 2025 and continuing through the end of 2026. Preparing for a second term while finishing the first term in strong fashion will be my goal. Additionally, running uncontested will also provide an opportunity to help grow our House majority nationwide by working on behalf of other candidates in swing districts. It is imperative that we retain and grow the majority for the U.S. House.

Our team is proud of what we have accomplished in our first year in office, and we look forward to another term delivering strong, conservative results for so many friends and neighbors across East Texas and boldly speaking on behalf of hundreds of East Texans as we work together to change the course of this great Republic. Thank you for your continued support and prayers.

Recognizing the 2023 Minuteman Honorees

When I think of East Texans, I think of the Minutemen of the Revolutionary War. Loyal to country and community, dependable, selfless, and ready at a moment's notice, the Minutemen were American heroes who helped turn the tide of the Revolutionary War. Today's East Texans reflect those traits. You are patriotic, dependable, and deeply committed to making our communities better.

Starting last March, each month, we recognized an East Texan who goes above and beyond in serving our region - someone who epitomizes the identity of a Minuteman. To wrap up the year, let's recognize them one more time for their extraordinary efforts on behalf of their fellow citizens. These are just a few of the great folks in East Texas who are truly agents of change for the better. And I know there are many more like them (and you). So, thank you for shining a light in this dark world!

Johnny Horne

Owner and operator of Cajun Tex restaurant, Johnny would stop and help anyone at a moment's notice. He was known to build wheelchair ramps and donate to local causes and fundraisers anytime there was a need. We should all strive to serve our community the "Johnny Way."

Artie Erwin

Artie Erwin, a retired Army nurse in Texarkana, started a Beds for Kids program in 2018 as a ministry of Walnut Church of Christ to provide beds for children in foster care. He now leads a team of volunteers and works with local businesses to secure donations of lumber, mattresses, and linens. Artie is a true community servant who embodies the Minuteman spirit – ready at a moment’s notice to make our community better.

Courtney Klepfer

Courtney Klepfer’s dedication to serving others, as evidenced through her work to help Tyler become just the second Texas city recognized as a Dementia Friendly Community as well as her efforts chairing the Senior Resource Committee for the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce, is commendable.

Baxter Whitworth

Baxter Whitworth, the founder of Top Notch Cattle Company, shows us all that with hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve the American Dream, even at 12 years old. We commend Baxter for his entrepreneurial spirit.

Greg Peeler

Greg Peeler doesn’t wait for someone to ask for help. He steps up at a moment’s notice with much-needed supplies and resources when his community is in need. Thank you, Greg, for being there for your neighbors and providing a helping hand.

Gene Keenon

For the past 30 years, Gene Keenon has served over 30 communities and has put in countless hours volunteering for multiple different Chambers of Commerce, Economic Development Corporations, Rotary Clubs, and Beautification Committees. Thank you, Gene, for your dedication and passion for serving East Texas.

Deana Brown

Deana Brown has worked tirelessly to advocate for the freedom of worship across the globe by helping persecuted Christians in hostile countries relocate to places of safety. Through Freedom Seekers International, Deana has shown dedication to the East Texas values of faith, family, and freedom.

Bill Morris

An Army veteran, Bill Morris started the Panola County Veterans Relief Fund for all veterans in Panola County. This fund has helped replace roofs, keep on the utilities, and provide food, transportation, and a myriad of other needed services for veterans. Thank you, Bill, for your dedication to our community, state, and nation.

Lt. Charles Helton

As the Community Relations Officer for the Henderson Police Department, Lieutenant Charles Helton builds strong relationships across Henderson and the surrounding area. He is an active member of many local groups, has served as past president of the Chamber of Commerce, and for the past decade, Lt. Helton has worked part-time as a funeral director at Garmon Funeral Home. Thank you, Lt. Helton, for your dedication and passion for serving your community.

Do you know an East Texan who would be a great recipient of the Minuteman honor? Please submit their name here. Maybe you will nominate the first Minuteman of 2024!

Nominate a Minuteman!