"Mornings with Maria"

This week, I joined “Mornings with Maria” to talk about how cartels raked in billions under the Biden administration through human trafficking—and how they’re now losing ground under President Trump’s stronger border policies. I emphasized the need for Congress to crack down on these criminal networks and work with our Mexican partners, who are finally stepping up to help prevent Mexico from becoming a full-blown narco-state. We also discussed the growing problem of activist judges blocking national policy with a single ruling, and why I’m supporting the No Rogue Rulings Act to restore the constitutional balance of power. 

Local Law Enforcement Roundtable 

Last Friday, I had the honor of meeting Sheriff Doolittle and leaders from several local law enforcement agencies. These officers are real American heroes and play a vital role in ensuring our community's safety and stability. Public safety starts at the local level, and we in Congress must have their backs by providing the tools, funding, and support they need.

Coffee With Crenshaw 

Recently, I hosted a Coffee with Crenshaw and had the chance to talk with some of you about President Trump’s first 100 days back in office and answer your questions. It’s always great to hear what’s on your mind — thanks to everyone who came out and joined the conversation! We covered a lot of ground, and I appreciate y’all taking the time to participate. Looking forward to the next one!

Congressional Art Competition

TX-02 high school students are invited to submit artwork for display in the U.S. Capitol! Entries are due by April 10, 2025. This year's theme is "Texas," showcasing our state's rich history and culture. In line with the theme, I’m looking for pieces that showcase what makes Texas unique. For submission guidelines and competition details, visit Crenshaw.House.gov/Art-Competition.

Please contact [email protected] with any questions or concerns. 

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 before the April 15 deadline. Taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas may have additional time to file. 

• 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

WEP and GPO Retroactive Payments
The Social Security Administration recently announced it will issue retroactive payments and adjust monthly benefits for those impacted by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). For additional information or questions, please refer to the administration’s blog or contact either of my district offices.

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

Hearing on 2025 Worldwide Threat Assessment

This week, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence held an open hearing on the 2025 Worldwide Threat Assessment from 18 U.S. intelligence agencies. For the first time, drug cartels are ranked as the top threat to U.S. national security, surpassing ongoing threats posed by countries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Cartels are flooding our streets with fentanyl and violence, causing chaos throughout the country. I applaud the intelligence community for recognizing cartel activity as a serious national security threat, and I will continue to work in Congress to combat cartels, secure the border, and protect Americans.

Protecting Survivors of Domestic Abuse from Vehicle Tracking Abuse 

Recently, I introduced the Safe Vehicle Access for Survivors Act with Rep. Debbie Dingell to protect survivors of domestic abuse, harassment, and stalking from being tracked through connected vehicle technology. Right now, abusers can use manufacturer apps to monitor a vehicle’s location—even after a court has granted the survivor sole use of the car. Our bipartisan bill creates a clear process for survivors to revoke that access, helping them regain control of their safety, privacy, and independence.

Middle East 101: The “Pragmatic” Terrorists Who Toppled the Assad Regime

How did a small offshoot of Al Qaeda overthrow a major country in the Middle East and establish a diplomatic dialogue with the United States? I sat down with Dr. Aaron Zelin—one of the foremost experts on jihadist movements past and present—to unpack the shocking fall of the Assad regime in Syria and the rise of the group that replaced it: Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). We discussed the conditions that led to Syria’s revolution, the geopolitical fallout, and the emergence of what Dr. Zelin calls “pragmatic jihadism” within HTS. This episode offers a deep dive into the evolution of Sunni extremism, the strategic thinking behind HTS leadership, and how this unexpected power shift fits into the broader global landscape.

Dr. Aaron Zelin is the Gloria and Ken Levy Fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, where he also directs the Islamic State Worldwide Activity Map project. He is also the founder of jihadology.net, a leading resource for translations and analysis of jihadi source material.

SITREP #10

On the latest Situation Report, I break down key takeaways from this week’s House Intelligence Committee hearing on Worldwide Threats—including why Congress needs to start treating the Mexican drug cartels like the national security threat they are. I also cover Secretary Kennedy’s move to overhaul America’s tap water standards, what it means for you, and more. Real news, clear analysis, no fluff—in under 20 minutes.

OUR OFFICES:

Washington Office |248 Cannon HOB | Washington, DC 20515
(202) 225-6565

Kingwood Office |1849 Kingwood Dr, Suite 100 | Kingwood, TX 77339
(713) 860-1330

The Woodlands Office |2829 Technology Forest, Suite #280 | The Woodlands, TX 77381 
(281)  640-7720