Congresswoman Veronica Escobar

Dear john,

Welcome to the weekly edition of my newsletter. Here you'll find recaps of some of the most important things that happened in Washington and El Paso, my reactions, and news I'd love to bring to your attention.

Video of the Week:

Last week, it was confirmed that contractors at Camp East Montana were paid up to $11.5 million for food services while the facility was empty.

This is just one of the clearest examples of fraud, waste, and abuse I’ve seen at CEM.

I proposed an amendment that was accepted to direct ICE to get that money back.

Watch the full video by clicking the image below.

In Case You Missed it this Week:

Letter to DHS Secretary and Acting ICE Director on Suspected Overdoses at Camp East Montana

On Wednesday, I sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin and Acting ICE Director David Venturella regarding reports that at least three people have suffered suspected overdoses at Camp East Montana.

Read the full letter here.

Urging the Department of Homeland Security to Rescind Environmental, Historic Preservation Waivers at Big Bend

On Tuesday, I joined my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives in urging the Department of Homeland Security to reverse the environmental and historic preservation waivers granted at Big Bend. These waivers were granted by the Trump administration to bypass federal environmental laws in order to speed up work on border barriers in the area.

This comes after I spoke in support of prohibiting the construction of a barrier or wall at Big Bend.

Read my full press release here.

El Paso Water: Signing Ceremony and Groundbreaking

Nearly $1 million to improve flood alerts for our community’s families and emergency responders. $3.8 million to upgrade stormwater mitigation for Central El Paso.

Projects like these save lives – and every year, I work tirelessly to secure these critical federal dollars that protect El Pasoans and strengthen our community’s infrastructure. I was proud to celebrate these two major investments, and I look forward to continuing to deliver for El Paso.

Village of Vinton: Community Project Funding Check Presentation

Reliable infrastructure is public health, quality of life, and future growth. Where we invest our money matters, and that’s why I was proud to present $1 million in federal funding to the Village of Vinton to expand critical water services.

My focus will always be to improve the lives of El Pasoans, and I remain committed to delivering federal resources back home and ensuring our communities across El Paso are not overlooked.

El Paso Makes: Community Project Funding Check Presentation

On Tuesday, I presented $1.031 million in federal funding I secured to El Paso Makes, which is bringing together local El Paso manufacturers to develop a research project aimed at producing greater defense-aerospace production right here at home.

El Paso has the talent to lead the nation in manufacturing technology, and I’m proud to continue bringing federal resources home to grow our economy and create lasting opportunities for El Pasoans.

Innovation Factory Phase II: Community Project Funding Check Presentation

For more than 10 years, I - along with some truly amazing El Pasoans - have been working to position our community as a leader in advanced manufacturing.

I was proud to present the Advanced Manufacturing District Innovation Factory with another $250,000 to continue to build opportunities for early-stage entrepreneurs and companies.

Raiz FCU 90th Anniversary: Congressional Record Presentation

I presented a Congressional Record to Raiz Federal Credit Union as they celebrate 90 years of service to El Paso.

Congratulations to the entire Raiz team on this remarkable milestone! I look forward to their continued service for generations to come.

Service Academy: Send Off Lunch

I always leave our Service Academy Send-Off feeling hopeful. These brave, young El Pasoans have chosen a path of service to our nation. Their commitment to something larger than themselves reflects the very best of our community. It was an honor to celebrate them before they begin this next chapter. El Paso is proud of you, and so am I!

In the news:

EP Inc. - Officials promise safer storm response, modernized flood warnings

EP Times - Camp East Montana overdoses explained by DHS

KTSM - U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar joins KTSM for wide-ranging interview

As always, your thoughts and concerns guide my work every day. If there's any other content or ideas you have for this newsletter, please never hesitate to share them with me by clicking the link here.

Veronica Escobar
Member of Congress

###