Dear Friends,

I am excited to share with you the latest news from Congress and the work I am doing in Washington, D.C. on behalf of the 34th Congressional District of Texas. 

Warm regards, 

Congressman Vicente Gonzalez

Voted to Pass H.R. 82, Social Security Fairness Act of 2023

Tuesday night, I proudly voted in support of H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act of 2023. This bill would repeal provisions that unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits for millions of retired teachers, police officers, firefighters, and public servants. It’s time for the Senate to pass this critical bill and send it to the President’s desk! 

Inauguration Ticket Requests

On Monday, January 20, 2025, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies will host the 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremony at the United States Capitol.  
Tickets are free and I encourage those interested to complete the request form, linked here: https://gonzalez.house.gov/inauguration-ticket-request. Please note each Congressional Office is given a limited number of tickets to offer constituents and submitting a request does not guarantee you will receive tickets. Additionally, most areas are standing room only. 

Commemorating Veterans Day Across South Texas

It was an honor to join our community in Brownsville and Mercedes on Veterans Day to recognize and pay tribute to the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. 

In Brownsville, I was proud to support Warrior in Arms as we honored those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom and way of life. As your Congressman, I will continue to ensure those who have served are given benefits they’ve rightfully deserved. 

In Mercedes, I had the privilege of presenting the Ambassador for Peace Medal to four local Korean War veterans. As the son of a Korean War veteran, I understand the sacrifices our heroes made. Their commitment to freedom and peace is a testament to the courage and dedication that defines our nation. A few months ago, I had the honor of accepting the Ambassador for Peace Medal on behalf of my late father in Washington, D.C. I am honored to have been able to bestow this medal on South Texans as an expression of appreciation from the Korean government to U.S. veterans who served in Korea during the Korean War. 

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Welcomed Navy Secretary to NAS Kingsville

I was honored to welcome Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, to Naval Air Station Kingsville in October. During his visit, we met with personnel of all ranks to learn about the need for a new “Pass & Tag Facility” to streamline visitor access and ease the load of security personnel as well as modernizing the fire station to accommodate essential firefighting equipment. 

As you may know, NAS Kingsville’s impact goes beyond training over half of the Navy and Marine Corps’ tactical jet pilots. It’s a significant economic driver for our region creating more than 4,000 jobs and generating over $1 billion annually for Texas. Rest assured I will continue working to secure the resources necessary to strengthen this critical base and its role in our community and national defense. 

Met with UTRGV’s International Business & Entrepreneurship Student Association (IBESA)

It was great to be a part of UTRGV’s International Business & Entrepreneurship Student Association’s (IBESA) Leadership Talk Series. We discussed how to overcome professional and personal challenges, grow as leaders in our communities, and how together we can create a lasting impact on the Rio Grande Valley. These bright young minds are the future of business and entrepreneurship in South Texas. I’m excited to see where their careers lead them! 

$6.5 Million From the American Rescue Plan in Action in Weslaco 

I was thrilled to attend the groundbreaking of the Wellness Activity & Community Center in Weslaco! This multi-purpose facility, made possible by $6.5 million in the American Rescue Plan funding, which I voted to pass, will promote a healthier lifestyle and support the overall well-being of the Mid Valley! 

Announced Additional Funding to Revamp Harlingen’s VFW Post 2410

On Veterans Day, I was thrilled to announce over $2 million to rebuild and modernize the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2410. This funding includes the $850,000 I successfully secured through Congressionally appropriated Community Project Funding and an additional $1 million investment from Noble Charities.  

Together, we will ensure the VFW can continue to be a place for the more than 17,000 veterans and members of the community in Cameron County can convene. 
  

Announced $5 Million in Additional Federal Funding for Valley International Airport in Harlingen

I was pleased to announce an additional $5 million in federal funding for Valley International Airport in Harlingen. This funding, which builds on the initial $4.5 million I secured earlier this year, will ensure the airport can continue construction of its air traffic control tower. I will continue to invest in our infrastructure to improve air travel for South Texans. 

Presented Over $2 Million in Federal Funding to Brownsville Public Utilities Board to Restore Brownsville’s Resacas

Brownsville’s resacas are unique and play a critical role in our region’s environment, economy, and culture. This project will restore our historic resacas, improve water quality, and ensure residents have reliable access to water. Our resacas enhance property values, attract tourism, and help bring residents closer to nature.  I am proud to have secured funding that will allow Brownsville to preserve these important environmental features for future generations.

Presented Over $1.3 Million in Federal Funding to Improve Harlingen’s Drainage Systems

I was proud to present over $1.3 million in Congressional Community Project Funds for critical drainage improvements along the 5th and 7th Streets in Harlingen. This federal funding will help reduce flood risk, support local businesses, and improve safety for our community. Together we’re building a stronger, more resilient Harlingen. 

Every day, my office and I ensure federal agencies are working with you and for you. Whether you are having issues with passports, USCIS, OPM, the VA, or the IRS, we are here to assist you.
 Please call (956) 682-5545 or submit a request online here to speak with someone on my team.

Team Gonzalez Helps Constituent Expedite Fathers Military Records

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