X Post of the Week

We’re kicking off a new weekly feature in this newsletter to highlight key moments and messages that matter—straight from the front lines of the fight for our country’s future.

This week’s post calls out the reality too often ignored: even cartel members know they’re terrorizing their own people and killing Americans with fentanyl. This isn’t about media spin but stopping a national security and public health crisis. As Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee’s Cartel Task Force, I’m focused on exposing the truth and driving real solutions to dismantle these violent criminal networks.

National Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 4–10)

This week is National Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 4–10)—an important reminder to get ready before hurricane season begins. Now is the time to take simple, proactive steps to protect yourself, your family, and your home. Here are a few things you can do today to prepare:

• Know your risk from wind and water based on where you live
• Prepare in advance with an emergency plan and disaster supplies.
• Understand forecast information so you can respond quickly and confidently.
• Act early when a storm threatens—don’t wait to evacuate.
• Stay protected during the storm by sheltering in a safe, secure location.
• Use caution after the storm, watching for hazards like downed power lines and flooding.
• Take action today to review plans and ensure you're ready.

Summer Travel Checklist

Before you head abroad, take a few simple steps to avoid travel disruptions:

• Check your destination’s entry requirements, local laws, and travel advisories at travel.state.gov/destination
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
• Review your health insurance—many U.S. plans don’t cover care overseas—and consider travel insurance.
• Sign up for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get safety alerts from the nearest U.S. embassy.
• Look up which items (including medications) are prohibited in your destination country.
• If your passport is lost or stolen abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy for help.

Preparing ahead of time can help ensure a safe and stress-free trip.

Congressional Soccer Game

The Real Conclave: Power, Politics, and the Papal Vote

Wednesday, May 7th marked the beginning of the conclave – the Catholic Church’s process of electing the next pope. Conclaves have traditionally been portrayed in our culture as shrouded in intrigue and back-room politicking. But, as theology expert Dr. Joseph Capizzi shows us, the 2000-year-old tradition is not that mysterious. He walks us through how cardinals elect a new pope, the political considerations they use to evaluate candidates, and how the Pope’s power in the world has changed over millennia. He evaluates the legacy and controversy surrounding Pope Francis. He explains why the Catholic Church is growing in Africa, Asia, and among young American men. They end with a discussion of how Christian moral theology evolved to address, and ultimately reject, the practice of slavery.

Dr. Joseph Capizzi is the Dean of Theology and Religious Studies at The Catholic University of America. He teaches in the areas of social and political theology, with a special interest in peace and war, citizenship, political authority, and Augustinian theology.

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