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.

This week, I joined a congressional delegation visiting government and industry officials in Taiwan. Strengthening our ties with our allies abroad is more important than ever with China on the rise. During our visit, we met with President Tsai Ing-wen to discuss the ongoing partnership between the United States and Taiwan. With shared values and a commitment to democracy, we will continue to work together to build our economic partnership, strengthen security cooperation, and increase digital and cultural exchanges. Our delegation also met with semiconductor companies GlobalWafers and Micron Technologies to discuss U.S. chip manufacturing, and spoke with the American Chamber of Commerce Taiwan to hear concerns from U.S. businesses related to energy and cybersecurity.

Representing over 800 miles of the southern border, I know firsthand the impacts the border crisis is having on communities across the country. Criminals smuggling illicit drugs across our borders are getting more creative with their methods each day, which is why it is important for U.S. Customs and Border Protection to have adequate resources. That’s why I introduced the Security First Act, which would double funding for border security partnerships between Border Patrol and local law enforcement. It would also designate the cartels as foreign terrorist organizations to give law enforcement more tools to crack down on their operations.

For too long, open border policies have empowered cartels and allowed smugglers to carry contraband across our borders undetected. As a result, fentanyl is now a leading cause of death for young adults. That’s why I introduced the Felony Murder For Deadly Fentanyl Distribution Act. This legislation increases criminal penalties for fentanyl smugglers that can be linked to drug overdoses. To properly fight the trafficking of this deadly drug, we must hold smugglers accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

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