Friends,

It's been a busy few weeks in Washington, and I want to keep you updated on what's happening in Congress and our district. We've made solid progress on key legislation, and my team and I remain focused on delivering real results for the Second District of Texas. I have also been pushing back against misleading media narratives to ensure our priorities are accurately represented and the facts are not distorted.

Back home, my team has been working hard to assist constituents and ensure your voices are heard in Washington.

I also want to take a moment to thank everyone who joined me a few weeks ago for President Donald J. Trump's inauguration. When last-minute changes moved the ceremony indoors, we organized a watch party for TX-02 constituents, and I was honored to celebrate this historic moment with so many of you. While it may not have been the inauguration we expected, we made the most of it, and I hope you all enjoyed the day as much as I did.

Thank you once again—it was a truly special day, and I’m grateful to have shared it with you!

Sincerely,

The Source with Kaitlan Collins

I went on The Source with Kaitlan Collins to defend President Trump’s EO on military readiness. Service members who undergo gender transition surgery are not deployable, and that weakens our military. The next night, Collins brought on a transgender activist to challenge my position—even though he transitioned after deployment, proving my point.

CNN refuses to acknowledge that this is an 80/20 issue. If they want to keep debating, I’m more than ready.

Kingwood Park High School

This morning, I spoke with Kingwood Park High School students about problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership—essential traits for future leaders. Effective policy begins with a strong culture. If we want to see good policy, we must focus on building a culture that values integrity, responsibility, and critical thinking.

Greater East Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce

Additionally, earlier this week, I had the pleasure of delivering a legislative outlook for the new Trump Administration at the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural Elected Officials Reception. I’m ready to keep fighting for more wins for Texas’ 2nd District in the 119th Congress.

Be sure to check out the latest updates from TX-02 below!

Mobile Office Hours

My team will hold mobile office hours this February to connect with constituents and provide assistance with federal agencies. Join us on February 21st at the May Community Center or the Crosby Community Center and on February 26th at the San Jacinto Community Center.

On February 21st, local congressional staff will be available to meet with you from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Crosby Community Center and from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the May Community Center. Similarly, on February 26th, staff will be available at the San Jacinto Community Center from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Tax Filing Season is Here – What You Need to Know

The IRS has officially opened the 2025 tax filing season and is now accepting 2024 tax returns ahead of the April 15 deadline. Taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas may have additional time to file.

Free Tax Help – Eligible taxpayers can file for free online or in person through IRS Free File, IRS Direct File, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance programs.
Faster Refunds – Most refunds are issued within 21 days if filed electronically. Those eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) may receive refunds by March 3. Track refund status using “Where’s My Refund?” on the IRS’ website or the IRS2Go app.
Avoid Scams – Be on alert for tax scams and identity theft. The IRS never initiates contact via text, email, or social media about refunds or payments. Stay informed with the latest consumer alerts identified by the IRS.
Wait to File Until You Have All Documents – Ensure all income and tax documents are received before filing to avoid delays or errors.
Choose a Trusted Tax Professional – Avoid “ghost“ tax preparers who do not sign returns. Always verify a tax preparer’s credentials.

For more information, visit IRS.gov to access official resources, filing assistance, and updates.

What to Do in an Emergency Abroad

If you or someone you know has an emergency while traveling abroad. The US Department of State is there to assist you. You can contact them any time for assistance. The website, https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html, has all the information you need for each country you visit.

You can also contact my offices for assistance contacting the embassies. Stay safe, stay informed!

Contacts for Emergencies while Traveling Abroad:

From the U.S. & Canada: 1-888-407-4747
From Outside the US: +1 202-501-4444
Kingwood Office: 713-860-1330
Woodlands Office: 281-640-7720

The Laken Riley Act

I am proud to have co-sponsored H.R. 29, the House companion to S.5, the Laken Riley Act. Both the House and Senate passed the Laken Riley Act in January 2025.

On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, President Donald Trump signed this bill into law, making it the first piece of legislation enacted during his second term.

As you may know, the Laken Riley Act requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to detain certain non-U.S. nationals for burglary, theft, robbery, or shoplifting. It also allows states to sue the federal government for decisions related to immigration enforcement.

The Healthcare Freedom and Choice Act

On January 14, 2025, I joined my colleagues in introducing the Healthcare Freedom and Choice Act (H.R. 379) to restore a Trump-era policy that expands healthcare options and lowers costs for Americans. This bill reinstates access to short-term, limited-duration insurance (STLDI) plans for up to 36 months, rolling back the Biden administration's restrictive 4-month limit.

Americans deserve the freedom to choose affordable health coverage that fits their long-term or short-term needs. The Biden administration's overregulation has driven up costs and limited choices, hurting small businesses and families. I'm proud to support this bill and will continue working to ensure Americans have access to flexible, affordable healthcare options.

The Do No Harm in Medicaid Act

On January 16, 2025, I introduced H.R. 498, the Do No Harm in Medicaid Act, with Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. This legislation prohibits the use of federal Medicaid funds for gender transition procedures on minors, protecting children from irreversible interventions and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent on evidence-based, medically necessary care.

I have consistently fought to protect children, ensure accountability in healthcare funding, uphold parental rights, and stop taxpayer funding of harmful medical practices—and I will continue these efforts in the 119th Congress.

The Healthcare Efficiency through Flexibility Act

Excessive government regulations should not complicate physician practice. That's why I cosponsored H.R. 379, the Healthcare Efficiency Through Flexibility Act. This bipartisan bill will assist physicians in meeting the digital reporting requirements of accountable care organizations.

Protecting the Unborn at the Federal Level

I am proud to have received an A+ rating from Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America for my work protecting the unborn in the 118th Congress. The right to life is a sacred gift, and I will continue to advocate for the mothers, families, and the unborn at the federal level during my time in office.

"A Rebel's Guide to Defeating the British Army"

In the latest episode of Hold These Truths, I had an in-depth conversation with Dr. Alexander Burns about the evolution of 18th-century warfare. We discussed General Washington's battlefield tactics, the long-standing conflict between officers and common soldiers, and the early development of the American military.

Dr. Alexander Burns is an Assistant Professor of History at the Franciscan University of Steubenville. He specializes in 18th-century conflict in North America and Europe and is the author of Infantry in Battle, 1733-1783. Follow him on X at @KKriegeBlog.

Situation Report (SITREP) for January 24th, 2025.

We're launching a weekly Situation Report (SITREP) on Hold These Truths, providing real-time insights into current news from Congress, the nation, and the world. This podcast is your go-to source for accurate news and analysis on how these events affect your life.

In this episode, I covered President Biden's family pardons, President Trump's actions on border security, and Marco Rubio's nomination as Secretary of State. I also discussed Trump's push for U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence, his pardons for pro-life protesters, SpaceX's lunar lander launches, and the FDA's new treatment for depression.

Unsubscribe | Privacy

Open in browser window Open plain text version