It is a privilege to serve the 23rd Congressional District of Texas in Congress. Each day, I work to address your concerns and protect our liberties. Please read below for some updates on my recent work representing you in Washington, D.C. and back home in TX-23.

As the Representative of the largest border district in the country, I am deeply frustrated with the situation my constituents in South and West Texas communities are facing along the border. It’s past time for Congress and this Administration to stop playing political games and do something to end this disaster. This week, I participated in the House Oversight Committee’s Hearing “On The Front Lines of the Border Crisis: A Hearing with Chief Patrol Agents.” I questioned Rio Grande Valley Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria Chavez and Tucson Sector Chief Patrol Agent John Modlin for their suggestions to end the crisis at our border. Watch the full clip here.

Fentanyl is killing Americans at record levels. In response to this illicit substance entering our borders, I joined Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) in introducing the Felony Murder for Deadly Fentanyl Distribution Act of 2023. This legislation will stop the scourge on our communities by ensuring criminals who traffic this deadly drug are met with severe penalties under the law.

I was proud to join Representatives Rick Larsen (WA-02) and Suzan DelBene (WA-01) in introducing the Improving Access to Our Courts Act. This legislation will expand courtroom access for West Texas constituents and ensure they don’t have to travel far distances to access our judicial system. In a rural district like TX-23, it is important that we expand access to critical resources whenever possible, and this legislation works to do just that.

As a former Navy cryptologist, I know firsthand how important cybersecurity is to maintain a safe country. This week, I was honored to participate in a cybersecurity discussion hosted by the Hudson Institute. During the panel, we discussed how to bolster our nation's cyber defense and how Congress can advance that priority.

The oil and gas industry has been essential for promoting economic growth in West Texas. Unfortunately, it has also caused an influx of traffic that has led to dangerous and deadly road conditions. That’s why I’m proud to have helped secure $240,000 in funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) for the Reeves County Safe Streets For All Project (SS4A). This critical funding will facilitate the creation of a safety action plan for Reeves County, and provide for an oversight committee responsible for implementing that plan. Utilizing low cost, high impact strategies and technologies will save lives by creating safer roadways in the surrounding community. Read the full press release here.

This week I sat down with leaders of the Texas Rural Water Association to discuss their federal priorities. They updated me on their recent successes in ensuring safe and efficient water and wastewater services across the state and briefed me on training programs that have been impactful in Texas. I was glad to thank them for the important work they do in providing essential services in our rural communities and look forward to advocating for their needs in Congress.

This week a group of students from the International School of the Americas, a magnet school located in San Antonio, stopped by my office for a visit. We discussed San Antonio's downtown and economic development and public safety initiatives. It is always exciting to see TX-23 constituents in D.C.!

Have plans to visit Washington, D.C.? Check out my website to book a tour and be sure to stop by my office during your trip!

As your Representative, I want to make sure each of my constituents has access to the resources my office has to offer. This week, my team will be visiting folks in Presidio, Jeff Davis, and Brewster Counties. Be sure to stop by for assistance, no appointment needed!

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