This Congress, I cosponsored a resolution condemning socialism because it’s important to be clear about what socialism is and why its growing popularity should concern every American. Socialism places the government at the center of the economy, giving the state control over major industries, private enterprise, and key decisions that belong to individuals and families. Wherever this system has taken hold, it has limited economic freedom and concentrated power in the hands of the government.

In recent years, more people in the United States have begun identifying as socialists or supporting socialist-style policies. That shift matters. A country built on free markets and individual liberty cannot thrive under a system that depends on government control. The rising acceptance of socialism signals a move away from the principles that have made America strong, innovative, and prosperous.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has taken an important step by moving forward with the Big Beautiful Gulf 1 (BBG1) offshore energy lease sale. This is a major win for Texas, for our district, and for America’s long-term energy strength. The sale opens roughly 80 million acres in the Gulf of America for responsible oil and gas development, which means more jobs, more investment, and more affordable energy for American families. 

Earlier this year, we passed historic legislation that finally put America back on the right track. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA) cleared away unnecessary hurdles, restored certainty for producers, and sent a strong message that the United States is serious about unleashing American energy again. BOEM’s decision to launch the BBG1 sale shows that our work is already paying off. 

The Gulf of America is the beating heart of America’s energy supply. Our district plays a huge role in that success from LNG facilities and refineries to seven major ports that keep America moving. The hardworking men and women across TX-14 fuel this nation every single day, and this lease sale will create even more opportunities for our region to grow and thrive. 

As I’ve said before, the road to American energy independence runs right through the Gulf of America. The legislation we passed in July cleared the way for American energy again, and BOEM moving forward with the BBG1 sale proves it’s working. This first sale is another milestone in President Trump’s work to unleash American energy and keep our nation strong. 

And this is only the beginning. BBG1 is the first of many lease sales that will support American workers, strengthen our economy, and secure our position as the world leader in energy production.

The Environmental Protection Agency has approved Texas’ request for primacy over Class VI underground injection wells, which are used for carbon capture and long-term carbon storage. This decision transfers regulatory authority from DC to the State of Texas, allowing our state agencies to manage the permitting, oversight, and enforcement of these wells directly.

This is an important development for Texas’ energy future. Our state has a long history of experience regulating complex energy infrastructure, and we have built a strong track record of protecting groundwater, managing geological formations, and supporting responsible development. Texas agencies are equipped with the technical knowledge and operational capacity necessary to carry out this responsibility effectively and in line with the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Assuming primacy means Texas can move projects through the permitting process more efficiently. Companies pursuing carbon capture projects will now work with regulators who understand our geology, our industrial footprint, and the demands of our energy sector. This eliminates the lengthy federal delays that have slowed down projects across the country and provides investors and operators with a clearer path forward.

This decision also strengthens Texas’ role as a national leader in energy innovation. Carbon capture and storage is becoming an increasingly important tool for expanding our energy capabilities and supporting long-term economic growth. By giving Texas full authority to regulate these wells, EPA is acknowledging the state’s expertise and its ability to manage this work responsibly.

I appreciate Administrator Zeldin for acting in a timely and decisive way! It is critical for states like Texas to have the flexibility and authority needed to support investment, encourage technological advancement, and keep major projects on schedule. Bringing these decisions closer to home ensures they are made with a full understanding of local conditions and the needs of our communities.

After voting to reopening the government and delivering long overdue relief to Texans, I was glad for a busy and productive week across TX-14!

Team Weber had great conversations with the Pelican Island and Galveston Channel Advocacy Committee about the future of the island, the bridge, and the dredging that keeps our economy moving. I also met with constituents across the district to hear their ideas and the issues they want addressed in Washington.

Veterans Day events were a highlight of the week. Friendswood, League City, UTMB Health, and the Friendswood Chamber all hosted meaningful ceremonies, and it was inspiring to see our community turn out to honor the men and women who served.

We also enjoyed time with local business leaders, and regional partners working to keep Southeast Texas strong. The community celebrations made the week even better, from the Polar Express Train Ride ribbon cutting to the College of the Mainland Culinary Arts Center Grand Opening to the 60th anniversary of Galveston’s Sister Cities Plaza!