As we get ready to ring in the New Year, I am thinking about all we achieved together this year.
I started the year by returning to Congress for my third term and we began to build our 2024 re-election campaign. I’ve worked on important legislation in Congress, stood firm against House Republicans’ agenda when it’s at odds with our values and priorities, and spoken to Texans about their concerns and hopes for the future.
I was able to talk to people about the critical work we have done for our community and our country this year. I’m glad to share some highlights of the year below. One of the biggest highlights has been the generous support in response to emails like this one, asking for support. (And you can do that again here, of course!)
JANUARY
I began my third term in Congress and became the Whip of the Pro-Choice Caucus. I took on this new role at an important time, in time to join Vice President Kamala Harris in marking the first anniversary of Roe v. Wade since the Supreme Court overturned the decision. Here in Texas, we see firsthand the grave threats to our reproductive health care and to our freedom. (More on that a little later in this email.) It’s so important for me to bring this Texas perspective to Congress.
FEBRUARY
I became Vice Chair of the Equality Caucus, leading efforts in Congress to advance equality, combat discrimination, and improve opportunities and access for our LGBTQI+ community. Unfortunately, this role came at a critical time as well, as I spent the year fighting House Republicans’ anti-LGBTQI+ policies, including bills that would make schools hostile environments for LGBTQI+ students.
MARCH
In March, I was named the Chair of the New Democrat Coalition’s Trade Task Force, an issue of critical importance to people in my internationally focused district, and for people across the country. And I had the joy of welcoming the United States Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai to Houston for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
APRIL
A federal court in Texas issued an unprecedented decision staying the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) approval of medication for the termination of pregnancy, which accounts for more than half of abortions performed in the United States today. This legal battle is still ongoing as this month the Supreme Court announced it will hear the case and decide the future of abortion medication in our country. I introduced a bill that would reaffirm the FDA’s authority to approve safe medications, including the abortion pill.
MAY
My friend and colleague Colin Allred launched his campaign for U.S. Senate. I was thrilled to welcome him to Houston for his launch, and to work with him every step of the way for the rest of the year as he’s built a strong, impressive campaign. I’m looking forward to working with him in 2024 to give Texans the leadership they need and deserve.
