|
Dear Neighbor,
Negotiations regarding continued funding for government operations will continue into next week. During this time, I will continue to fight for commonsense to prevail. We can't do anything to worsen the economic plight that all Americans are experiencing. We have to make significant changes in order to provide relief and build an economy that is strong. That will be my focus heading into the new year!
I’d also like to wish a Happy Hanukkah to all those who will begin celebrating this evening. May this festival bring blessings upon you and your family!
Please continue reading for a brief overview of my efforts on your behalf last week.
Securing our Border
A huge migrant caravan of over 1,000 people crossed illegally into El Paso, Texas last week, making it the largest single group we have ever seen. The city of El Paso reports Border Patrol now has over 5,000 in custody and has released hundreds onto city streets. This comes on the heels of reports that over 70,000 illegal immigrants evaded apprehension at our southern border last month. This is the highest month on record according to preliminary reports from Border Patrol agents.
Also, the Chief of U.S. Border Patrol reported that in a 48-hour window last week, there were more than 16,000 migrant encounters, which absolutely constitutes an emergency. During my recent trip to the border, Border Patrol agents said they were simply overwhelmed and that they know they are only aware of a fraction of those who are illegally entering our country each day. Title 42 is one of the most powerful tools at the federal government’s disposal that allows for the quick expulsion of illegal immigrants in order to protect our communities. Yet, the Biden Administration has successfully fought in court to end this effective policy. When Title 42 fully expires next week, the record-setting border situation is expected to worsen. Officials predict that the daily apprehension totals may exceed 10,000 per day. It is well past time for the Biden Administration to take action to end this humanitarian and national security disaster. We must hold them accountable for doing so.
Grappling with Inflation
Inflation of 7.1% is still at a 40 year high, and Americans are feeling the impact in a variety of ways this holiday season. Food, toys, rent, and even Christmas trees are more expensive than ever.
In a recent survey, more than three quarters of wholesale Christmas tree growers say they are increasing prices due to increased production costs associated with inflation. This is more terrible news for American families as they are already struggling in this difficult economy. Also, more than 40 percent of U.S. small business owners report being unable to pay rent on time or in full for the month of November – the highest this year- due to a slowing economy and high costs. This is a sure sign of trouble as small businesses employ most Americans. We need to combat inflation by rejecting more of the reckless government spending that has fueled this situation.
Fighting for our Heroes
ICYMI- I took to the House Floor last week to implore my colleagues to help me rectify the injustice of concurrent receipt for more than 50,000 medically retired combat Veterans by passing the Major Richard Star Act before the end of the year. This package has broad bipartisan support in the House and Senate. It is the right thing to do, and we need to get it done! Click here to listen to my remarks.
Strengthening Quality Education Experiences
It was wonderful to visit Pepin Academy in Pasco recently. This school provides tremendous learning opportunities to students with disabilities and is a fantastic resource for families in our community. I’m excited by the school’s plans for expansion!
Helping those in Need
I was honored to join Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano, Sheriff Chris Nocco, and other local leaders as a sponsor of last week’s holiday food giveaways in West Pasco and Lacoochee. While it is sad to see that so many of our neighbors are hurting due to record levels of inflation, we were glad to be able to help this holiday season.
Ensuring Accountability
Among other things, I look forward to conducting Congressional investigations into the Biden Administration’s reckless pandemic spending, the origins of the coronavirus, and the tech industry’s role in the fentanyl crisis. Americans deserve a government that is accountable and that is what they will get under a Republican-led House!
Providing Resources for Educators
Teachers searching for learning opportunities for their classrooms either virtually or when school groups visit the U.S. Capitol can turn to the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center for help. An expanded array of onsite and live online classes about the U.S. Capitol and Congress is now available to educators. In addition to onsite classroom offerings, online classes, self-guided e-learning tools, worksheets and much more are accessible. Click here to learn more.
Community Connection
I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. Here are a couple highlights of their interactions last week!
My team enjoyed visiting Premier Community Health Center’s Pediatric Center’s Open House in New Port Richey this week. Community Health Centers provide outstanding healthcare, mental health and dental services to over 25 million Americans. They accept patients who are insured, underinsured or uninsured.
My team also participated in this year’s Traditions on the Green Holiday Concert in Land O’ Lakes. It was an uplifting experience for all who participated.
Also, the West Pasco Community Service Council conducts many service projects to those in need. My team enjoys participating in these meaningful service opportunities as a way to give back and recently enjoyed celebrating all that has been accomplished this year during the group’s annual holiday luncheon. Thank you to all the volunteers who help make Pasco County such a special place!
Additionally, my team was honored to attend this year’s Pasco Economic Development Council’s holiday party. It was great to celebrate all of the economic activity occurring in our community and I’m grateful to all those civic leaders who are helping to create high skill/high wage jobs within Pasco.
Constituent Corner
My office recently received this constituent email from a local Veteran.
Thank you for helping me get in touch with someone at the VA. I've been trying to transfer my primary care from Bradenton to the NPR clinic since I moved here in August with no luck. After a call to your office, I got an appointment in NPR within the week. I appreciate all you do.
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you! |
