Protecting Texas Agriculture

Our Texas universities are among the best in the nation, and they should play a role in the important work being done to accelerate new research to fend off the New World screwworm parasite.

On Tuesday, I urged the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to reinstate the Cross-Border Threat Screening and Supply Chain Defense Center of Excellence at Texas A&M University, as it assists state and federal agencies in protecting our borders, economy, and supply chains.

Last week, I also held our second New World Screwworm Working Group meeting where we discussed the importance of this center and further action our coalition can take to prevent the spread of this deadly parasite.

As cases of the screwworm continue to spread toward the Texas-Mexico border—livestock, beef prices, the supply chain, and even domestic pets are all at risk of being affected. 

I will continue to work with farmers and ranchers, my fellow lawmakers, and other experts to find the best solution to protect Texas’ agriculture and wildlife industries.

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales at the New World Screwworm Working Group Meeting.

To listen to Congressman Gonzales' Texas Farm Bureau Radio Network interview on the New World screwworm, click here.

Reopening our Federal Government

Throughout this government shutdown, I have been urging Senate Democrats to vote in favor of reopening our government so we can pay our federal workers and servicemembers.

Myself and a group of military Veterans serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, who voted YES on the House's September 19^th Continuing Resolution, have especially been making the case to fellow Veterans serving in the United States Senate. Several of these individuals voted NO at the detriment of our military troops and their families.

Last week, President Trump directed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to use available funds to pay our troops. Securing this funding is a major win for our military, but not a permanent solution.

It's time Congress does its job, stops playing politics, and opens the government so that our federal employees can get paid.

To watch Congressman Gonzales on National Report, click here.

Funding for Public Safety in El Paso

Recently, the U.S. Department of Justice awarded the El Paso Police Department a $2.25M grant to hire new officers and strengthen the department's relationship with the community.

In July, I expressed my strong support for the City of El Paso's Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program application, and through my role on the House Appropriations Committee, I was able to help fund this important initiative.

This is exciting news for El Paso. I will always work to make our communities safer.

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales' letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, supporting the City of El Paso's application to the COPS Hiring Program.

Working in TX-23

Last week, I spent a lot of time visiting key stakeholders in TX-23.

I first visited Trinity University and met with President Beasley to speak about how I am working to ensure critical grant funding for our Texas universities, and tour their facilities.

San Antonio is home to many top-tier universities, and Trinity University is doing excellent work educating our future generation.

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales touring Trinity University with President Beasley.

I then visited UTSA's Roadrunner Athletic Center for Excellence facilities and met with UTSA Athletic Director Lisa Campos and Head Football Coach Jeff Traylor.

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales touring UTSA's Roadrunner Athletic Center for Excellence facilities with Athletic Director Lisa Campos.

On Friday, I met with members of the Jewish Community Relations Council in San Antonio. I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about their important work to support and build up communities within the San Antonio area.

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales with members of the Jewish Community Relations Council.

I also visited the Animal Defense League of Texas Animal Shelter and met with their leadership team.

I introduced a bill that would train shelter dogs to provide mental heath support for our Border Patrol Agents and CBP personnel—turns out there are some wonderful canine candidates here in San Antonio. 

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales meeting staff and dogs at the Animal Defense League of Texas Animal Shelter.

Follow @RepTonyGonzales on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

My team and I are always available to assist you. Please feel free to contact my office at any time.