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.

After several days spent flying over the United States, a Chinese spy balloon was finally shot down off the coast of South Carolina on February 4th. As officials work to recover the remains and gather more information, many questions are left unanswered. That’s why I joined my colleagues on the House Homeland Security Committee in requesting a briefing by the Commander of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and the Secretary of Homeland Security on the recent Chinese spy balloon incident to prevent further risks to our nation’s security. It is imperative that U.S. airspace is protected against all potential threats. Read the full letter here.

As our foreign enemies grow more aggressive, protecting our military installations is a top priority. That’s why I introduced the Protecting Military Installations from Foreign Espionage Act to stop foreign adversaries from acquiring land near military bases. This legislation restricts any efforts by Russia, China, Iran, or North Korea to buy U.S. land within 100 miles of a U.S. military installation or 50 miles from military operation areas. It also allows the Department of Defense (DOD) to prevent construction on any site under investigation and would mandate sending reports on this construction to lawmakers. This legislation aimed to halt the construction of GH America Energy’s Blue Hills Wind Farm in Del Rio, Texas. This project, linked to the Chinese Communist Party, involved development on American farmland near Lackland AFB, posing risks to our energy infrastructure and military intelligence. We must stand against the pursuit of American soil by adversaries and condemn this national security risk in Congress. Read the full bill text here.

As a former Navy Cryptologist, I know firsthand how important cybersecurity is to keeping our nation safe. In response to an increased number of cyberattacks against the U.S. and our allies, I partnered with Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11) in recently introducing the U.S.—Taiwan Advanced Research Partnership Act. This bill would strengthen both Taiwanese and U.S. homeland security through bilateral information sharing on incurred cyber incidents while also facilitating joint initiatives to bolster cybersecurity. With Taiwan being one of America’s strongest partners abroad, I am proud to spearhead this effort in Congress.

As a father of 6, I know that quality education is one of the most precious gifts we can give to our children. Over the past two years we have seen the impact that prolonged COVID-19 lockdowns have had on American students. This year, roughly 50% of children began the semester behind in at least one subject. I am committed to recovering learning loss and ensuring parents have an active role in the decision-making that goes into building our childrens’ academic future.

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