On June 19, 1865, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, slavery officially ended in the United States. Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and delivered General Order No. 3, proclaiming: “The people are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property…” This historic moment marked the final chapter of emancipation in America.
This week, I introduced the Juneteenth Museum Act of 2024, which directs the Smithsonian Institution to explore options for establishing a museum dedicated to Juneteenth in collaboration with Galveston and Texas officials. The study will evaluate potential locations in Galveston, Texas, and report recommendations to Congress.
Juneteenth is an important chapter in our nation’s history, and it was right here in Galveston, Texas, where this historic day was first recognized. It’s a moment that symbolizes freedom, resilience, and the enduring spirit of America. There is no better place to explore the option of a museum to honor that legacy, ensuring future generations understand the true significance of that day in 1865. We owe it to those who came before us to preserve this history and celebrate how far we’ve come. I’m proud to lead this effort and work with leaders and community members of Galveston to make this vision a reality. |
Here's the situation: right now, there are 1.4 million illegal immigrants in the United States who have been ordered to leave by federal immigration judges. Yet, most of them are still here. Only 13,000 individuals are currently held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody.
These 1.4 million people had their immigration cases reviewed, went through the legal process, and were issued final removal orders. In most cases, they've exhausted their options to appeal. Yet, instead of being removed, the vast majority are still out in our communities.
This raises a serious question: how can we maintain the integrity of our immigration system when those who are ordered to leave are not being removed? Texans—and Americans across the country—deserve accountability and enforcement of our laws.
It's time for commonsense action to address this crisis, enforce our immigration laws, and ensure our nation's borders are secure.
President Trump is building a team ready to fight tooth and nail for our nation's future, and I couldn't be more excited to have Tom Homan as the new Border Czar. This is fantastic news for Texas—and for the entire country.
Tom Homan has the experience, know-how, and backbone to get the job done right. Remember when Kamala Harris was supposed to be the "border czar"? She did absolutely nothing to secure our border. Now, we've got someone who truly understands the job. Tom means business, and he's ready to carry out President Trump's plan to the letter. This isn't just a change—it's a major upgrade.
Tom Homan has stated that he will remove illegals that are living in our country. I couldn't agree more. It is time to put American citizens first. I joined Real America's Voice for an interview to discuss my thoughts more in-depth, but I want to hear your thoughts.
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Do you support Tom Homan's efforts to deport illegal immigrants currently living in the United States?
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This week, the House of Representatives achieved a monumental victory for our nation’s veterans and their families by passing H.R. 8371, The Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. This bipartisan legislation delivers on our promise to prioritize veterans—not bureaucracy. It’s a comprehensive effort to modernize the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and ensure veterans receive the care, benefits, and services they have earned. Named in honor of Senator Elizabeth Dole, a tireless advocate for veterans and caregivers, this bill reflects months of collaboration between Republicans, Democrats, and leading veteran service organizations. Here’s what it means for our heroes: Highlights of the Bill- Expanding Career Opportunities: Fully funds the Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Course program, offering high-tech career training to transitioning service members and veterans. With an 84% graduation rate and an average starting salary of $66,000, this program equips our veterans for success in the modern workforce.
- Improving Elderly and Home Care: Expands access to Home- and Community-Based Services, allowing severely ill and aging veterans to receive care at home with dignity.
- Strengthening Mental Health Support: Provides community mental health grants to caregivers of veterans, reducing stigma and supporting mental wellness.
- Addressing Veteran Homelessness: Raises grant funding for homelessness programs, ensuring veterans have transportation and resources to secure housing and employment.
- Streamlining GI Bill Benefits: Simplifies educational assistance to give student veterans more flexibility to use their benefits as they see fit.
- Modernizing Disability Claims: Updates VA systems to improve efficiency and transparency in processing disability compensation claims.
- Enhancing Survivor Benefits: Extends funeral allowances to survivors of veterans who choose to die at home or under VA hospice care.
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We always enjoy welcoming folks from Southeast Texas to Washington! It was a pleasure meeting with members of USA Rice to discuss the critical needs of our agricultural community and the upcoming Farm Bill. I also had a productive conversation with the Greater Houston Partnership, the Mayor of Morgan’s Point, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the City of Houston to review key projects impacting our region. Additionally, I met with the Texas A&M System Board of Regents to highlight the incredible work happening in Galveston.
I also had the privilege of meeting with the Director of Flight Operations from NASA's Johnson Space Center to discuss their pioneering work in advancing human space exploration and the impact of their mission on our community and the nation. |
Legislation sponsored: - H.R. 10190 - To direct the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution to study the feasibility of establishing a Juneteenth Museum on Galveston Island, Texas, and for other purposes.
Legislation cosponsor
- H.Res. 1577 - Expressing support for the goals of National Adoption Day and National Adoption Month by promoting national awareness of adoption and the children awaiting families, celebrating children and families involved in adoption, and encouraging the people of the United States to secure safety, permanency, and well-being for all children.
- H.R. 10180 - To amend the National Marine Sanctuary Act to prohibit requiring an authorization for the installation, operation, maintenance, repair, or recovery of undersea fiber optic cables in a national marine sanctuary if such activities have previously been authorized by a Federal or State agency.
- H.J.Res. 225 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Internal Revenue Service relating to "Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit".
- H.Res. 1577 - Expressing support for the goals of National Adoption Day and National Adoption Month by promoting national awareness of adoption and the children awaiting families, celebrating children and families involved in adoption, and encouraging the people of the United States to secure safety, permanency, and well-being for all children.
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What are your thoughts on the Department of Government Efficiency?
Positive: 70.2% Negative: 24.7% No Opinion: 5.1%
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It is a privilege to represent our district in Congress. While we’ve faced many challenges in recent years, through strength and prayer, we have persevered.
Please know that we are always a resource for you. Call or stop by any of the offices (YOUR offices, we work for you), whenever you need assistance or want to talk about an issue before Congress.
For assistance or more information, please call or go online to visit us at weber.house.gov.
God Bless you and God Bless Texas! |
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Sincerely,
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Randy K. Weber
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