Friends,

This past week has been a reminder of both loss and resilience. On September 11th, we paused to remember the thousands of lives taken that morning, the first responders who ran into danger without hesitation, and the men and women who answered the call to serve in the years that followed. Their courage continues to define the American spirit.

In that same spirit of reflection, I want to acknowledge the tragic loss of Charlie Kirk. While many knew him as a political figure, I knew him as a man of faith, conviction, and family. He was a devoted father of two who lived out the principles he studied and believed in. His death is a painful reminder that behind every public debate is a human being whose life has meaning far beyond politics.

As we honor the memory of 9/11 and mourn Charlie’s passing, let us recommit ourselves to living with purpose, standing firm in our values, and never forgetting the human cost of tragedy.

Sincerely,

Never Forget

On September 11th, heroes revealed themselves—ordinary Americans who chose extraordinary selflessness. We remember the lives lost, the families forever changed, and those who answered the call to serve in the years that followed. More than two decades later, their courage still defines what it means to be American.

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Honoring Charlie Kirk

Many saw Charlie Kirk only as a political figure with sharp edges. I saw something different. He was deeply committed to Christian and conservative beliefs, and more importantly, he lived those principles quietly every day. He was a father who loved his two children. To me, he wasn’t just a symbol of division, he was a man of conviction and faith whose life should never have been cut short.

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S.E.A.L. Summit

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Social Security

Starting September 30, federal benefit payments will mostly be issued electronically instead of by paper check. This change is part of a new government initiative aimed at streamlining payments, making them faster, safer, and more convenient. Electronic payments go directly to your bank account or onto a prepaid debit card, so you won’t need to wait for the mail or visit the bank.

If you still receive paper checks, we encourage you to switch to direct deposit or the Direct Express card before the deadline to avoid potential delays. There are two easy ways to receive federal benefit payments electronically:

Direct Deposit to a checking or savings account. Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) beneficiaries can use or sign up for a my Social Security online account to manage direct deposit information and access benefit details. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients and international beneficiaries can call 1-800-772-1213 for assistance.
The Direct Express Card is a safe and convenient prepaid debit card option for individuals without a bank account. To enroll, call 1-800-333-1795 or visit www.usdirectexpress.com.

My office is here to help with this transition. Please call us at 713-860-1330 with any questions. Alternatively, you can contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or Direct Express at 1-800-333-1795 for assistance.

Texas Veterans Commission Grant

Crime, Punishment, and the DC Federal Takeover

After President Trump’s federalization of DC law enforcement, attention is turning to the root causes of violent crime and the policies needed to restore safety in America’s cities. Manhattan Institute’s Charles Fain Lehman joined me to break down the data, the myths, and the realities behind the crime waves in DC and other urban areas – from bail reform and policing shortages to homelessness, public disorder, and the social contagion of mass shootings. A hard look at what’s working, what isn’t, and what it will take to make our communities safe again.

Charles Fain Lehman is a fellow at the Manhattan Institute and senior editor of City Journal. He focuses primarily on the public policy of antisocial behavior, including issues of crime, drugs, and public disorder. Find him on X at @CharlesFLehman and read his research at Manhattan Institute.

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