Friends,

At midnight on October 1, Washington shut down because Senate Democrats refused to pass a simple, responsible bill that would have kept the government open. House Republicans acted in good faith to prevent a lapse in funding, but partisan obstruction in the Senate brought us to this point.

I know this situation creates uncertainty for many families and federal employees, and my team and I are here to help in any way we can.

Our offices in Kingwood and The Woodlands remain open and ready to assist with Social Security, Medicare, veterans’ benefits, passports, and other federal services. Even as some agencies temporarily reduce operations, we’re here to help you navigate available resources and stay informed.

I’ll also be hosting an upcoming Congressional Update in the district to share legislative updates, answer questions, and hear directly from you. Details are included below in the district section of this newsletter, and I hope to see y’all there.

Sincerely,

Important Information About the Government Shutdown

As of October 1, 2025, Congress has not renewed federal funding, resulting in a government shutdown. Earlier, I supported a clean, short-term funding bill to keep the government open through November 21. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats refused to act, insisting on unrelated policies being included. As a result, many agencies are now operating at reduced capacity, while critical programs required by law continue. While this shutdown persists, my team and I remain dedicated to serving the people of Texas’ Second District. I wanted to share some information that might be helpful to you and your family during this time.

Social Security and Medicare – Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments will continue, though some new claims or verifications may be delayed.
Veterans' Benefits – Veterans’ health care and disability compensation will remain funded and continue without interruption. However, the following VA services may be temporarily paused during the shutdown:
- VA regional benefits offices will be closed.
- The GI Bill Hotline will be closed.
- Veteran career counseling and transition assistance activities are paused.
- VA public affairs and outreach to Veterans are suspended.
- The VA will not permanently place headstones, maintain national cemetery grounds, process pre-need burial applications, or print new Presidential Memorial Certificates.

Mail Delivery – The U.S. Postal Service continues normal operations.

Air Travel & Transportation – TSA and air traffic controllers remain on duty, but travelers may face longer wait times.

National Parks & Museums – Some locations may close or limit access. My office can help check availability before you visit.

Passports & Visas – Processing continues but may slow down. Contact my office for help with urgent travel needs.
Federal Employees & Contractors – Federal employees who are furloughed might experience delays in pay. Contractors should check with their employers about contingency plans.

My offices remain open and prepared to assist you. Some casework may be postponed due to agency closures, but my team will continue to gather your information and prepare paperwork so that your case can progress as soon as funding is restored.

If you need assistance, please contact my Kingwood office at (713) 860-1330 or The Woodlands office at (281) 640-7720. You can also visit my website by clicking the button below for more information and resources.

Click for More Information

Upcoming Congressional Update

US Military Service Academy Applications

Each year, I have the privilege of nominating exceptional young men and women from Texas’ Second Congressional District to attend one of our nation’s distinguished U.S. service academies:

U.S. Military Academy (USMA) at West Point, NY
U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, MD
U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, CO
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point, NY

These institutions provide world-class education and leadership training, preparing graduates to serve our nation as commissioned officers. Each academy requires a minimum of five years of military service following graduation.

The U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) in New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for admission but offers the same level of excellence and commitment to service.

The deadline to apply is October 10, 2025.

Candidates must meet the following U.S. constitutional requirements to be considered for a nomination from Congressman Crenshaw:

Be at least 17 and not yet 23 by July 1 of the year of admission.
Be a United States citizen.
Be unmarried.
Reside in Congressman Crenshaw’s district (TX-02)

Please visit my website for more information, and contact Kaaren Cambio via email ([email protected]) with any questions or concerns.

Click to Apply

S.E.A.L. Summit

This past weekend, I had the honor of hosting the Fifth Annual Summit for Emerging American Leaders. I want to thank all the parents, teachers, speakers, and, most importantly, the incredible students who participated and helped make this event a success.

The energy, curiosity, and leadership I saw from these young men and women were inspiring. From engaging with our guest speakers to asking thoughtful questions about civic leadership and STEM careers, the next generation showed that they are ready to face tomorrow’s challenges.

I’m grateful to everyone who helped make this summit happen, and I look forward to seeing how these future leaders will continue to make a difference in our community and beyond.

Visiting High Schools in Our Community

I had the privilege of visiting Splendora and Carl Wunsche High Schools to talk with students about leadership and the importance of leading with integrity. I’m always encouraged by the next generation’s drive to lead with character. Thanks to all the students who took the time to meet with me—I really enjoyed it and hope y’all did too!

Coin Toss at Atascocita Homecoming

I had the honor of performing the coin toss at Atascocita High School’s homecoming game against Summer Creek High School, two outstanding schools right here in Texas’ Second District. It was a great night celebrating school spirit, community pride, and the next generation of Texas leaders.

Speaking at The Woodlands Chamber of Commerce

I had the opportunity to speak with new members at The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce during their “Meet the New Members” event. It’s always great to welcome new businesses and entrepreneurs who are helping our local economy grow and strengthening our community here in Texas’ Second District.

Recognizing Girls State Participants

I had the privilege of presenting awards to several outstanding young women who attended Girls State this year. Their leadership, civic engagement, and commitment to serving others represent the very best of Texas’ Second District and the future of our country.

How to Build a Life of Meaning

Rick Walker is an investor, author, and scholar of history and philosophy. He also happens to be my one-time opponent in his very first primary campaign – but no hard feelings about that. Get ready for a wide-ranging conversation about everything from Alexander the Great’s quest for the Fountain of Youth to birthday shopping with Dennis Rodman to life lessons learned on the campaign trail. Within all of it, Rick finds the universal truths that can lead everyone to a life of meaning.

Rick Walker is the author of “9 Steps to Build a Life of Meaning: How to Unlock Your Mind, Happiness, Power, and Your Enemy’s Demise.” Find him on X at @RickWalkerTX and listen to The Rick Walker Podcast.

Click to Listen

Click to Watch

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