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Dear Neighbor,
Merry Christmas to you and your family! It is important to make time to reflect upon what really matters: faith, family, friendship, and service to others. This time of year fills me with even more gratitude for the continued opportunity to serve our community. As 2023 draws to a close, I am thankful for the chance to have gotten to know my new constituents in Hernando and Citrus counties better and to continue serving those throughout Pasco County. Please know that I remain committed to fighting for you and your family.
Continue reading for a brief recap of my efforts on your behalf last week.
Making Washington Work for You: As noted in this article, I was honored to be appointed by Speaker Mike Johnson as Veterans' Advisor to the Speaker. Throughout my tenure in Congress, I have made it my priority to act as the voice of the men and women who serve our nation. I’m grateful for this newest opportunity to strengthen that voice and will continue pushing to ensure veterans issues remain at the forefront of the priorities we tackle this Congress.
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Additionally, my colleagues and I commissioned a report from the Government Accountability Office documenting the amount of federal funding received by abortion providers. It revealed that Planned Parenthood outrageously received over $90 million in Paycheck Protection Program funding. The majority of Americans do not want to see their tax dollars used to fund abortions. I’ll keep fighting to prevent this from occurring in the future.
Learning from You Here at Home: Last week, I had the privilege of teaching students in Hernando and Citrus counties. The students at Winding Waters K-8 School in Weeki Wachee were bright and engaging. They had insightful questions about policy issues and the political process.
It was also great to visit Crystal River High School last week to teach Ms. Houts’ government class. It was refreshing to see how determined her students are to make a positive difference in the world.
I was proud to stop by CREST school in Lecanto this week to drop off canned goods for the student-led drive to benefit local Veterans in need. What a wonderful way to give back to those who have honorably served our nation!
Additionally, I appreciated everyone who joined me in my Hernando and Citrus offices for my Holiday Open Houses. My team and I enjoyed speaking with you about efforts to strengthen our community.
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 honored to celebrate the 107th birthday of a true patriot and inspirational member of the greatest generation, William Monfort. He served with distinction and valor in the U.S. Navy and survived the attacks on Pearl Harbor. Thank you for your service, sir, and Happy Birthday!
My team was proud to volunteer at the annual Holiday Food Distribution in New Port Richey. It is an honor to be able to help those of our neighbors who are struggling this season.
Additionally, my team was inspired by the stories shared at the Hospice House's annual tree lighting in West Pasco. 
Constituent Corner
My office recently received this message from a constituent after my team helped with his VA issue.
I am happy to report that the VA granted one of my disability claims, retroactive to August 2013. This has been a long hard road for me and is finally over. I wish to thank you for all of your efforts in helping me get the long sought benefits due me. Hopefully, I will have equally good news on my remaining appeal. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Congressman Bilirakis for his efforts on the Parkinson’s Bill for veteran’s. This was no small achievement since the VA finally recognized the role it played in my neuropathy, an agent orange presumptive condition. Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.
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! |
