This week, I sent a letter to the new CEO of Twitter, Elon Musk, thanking him for his commitment to protecting free speech and asking him to report to Congress any attempts the Biden Administration made to censor information from the American public.
Americans deserve to know what actions the United States government has taken to prevent critical information from reaching them. Where has the White House colluded with Twitter in asking them to suppress the truth?
The government does not get to decide what is true or false. I look forward to Elon Musk’s report to Congress and his continued push to protect the First Amendment Rights of Americans.
The United States has the ability to supply the world with secure, reliable energy. I introduced the LNG for Allies Act to expedite the licensing approval for exports of U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) to strategic partners and allied countries.
This will help ensure American energy dominance by increasing the reliance of our global allies on American energy. Increasing exports to our partners and allies around the world will bolster their security, boost our economy, and make America stronger on the world stage.
This week I recognized a local leader in our community, Odessa-native Jesse Porras, a Marine Veteran who has been serving Thanksgiving meals to those in need for nearly a decade.
Mr. Porras has been cooking and serving a Thanksgiving meal to hundreds of Odessans in need every year since 2013, when he first felt called to provide a warm, comforting meal to anyone in need or struggling with homelessness in our community. Since then, it has grown into a community feast—with local businesses and others partnering with Jesse. Over the past nine years, Mr. Porras’ Thanksgiving meal has fed thousands and lifted the spirits of our entire community.
He is an inspiration to us all. Not only was he willing to put his life on the line through his service to our country as a Marine, but he continues that service through his generosity and philanthropic spirit today. This is something we can all emulate, especially as we get closer to the holidays.
Thank you to all of our community leaders, especially those making a difference this holiday season. It is my strongest belief that we have the greatest district, truly because of the wonderful people and the way we look after each other.
MACH 1 Caucus meeting with Israeli Air Force Pilots
This week, I had the pleasure of hosting 12 Israeli Air Force Pilots for a meeting with my fellow former military pilots and members of the MACH 1 Caucus.
In the meeting, we discussed the U.S.-Israel relationship and Israel’s broad security challenges. Specifically, we outlined the need for a strong relationship between Israel and the United States as we work together to thwart foreign adversaries.
It was a pleasure to sit down with a dozen Israeli Air Force Pilots to discuss our shared experiences as airmen and hear directly about the successes and challenges facing Israel’s national security. Israel is the United States’ strongest ally, and I will always work to foster a strong security alliance between America and Israel.
Happy Heavenly Birthday to JoAnne Powell
This past Sunday would have been JoAnne Powell’s 91st birthday. JoAnne was a beloved member of our team, and one of the most treasured pillars of the San Angelo community.
During her more than 35 years of service to the 11th District Congressional Office, she solved thousands of cases, mentored hundreds of young men and women, and made the lives of everyone in the Concho Valley a little bit brighter. JoAnne and her beloved husband Charlie made an incredible difference in our community, and their legacies live on through those who knew them and were touched by their influence.
I am proud that the legislation I authored to rename the San Angelo VA Clinic after Colonel Charles and JoAnne Powell will ensure that every veteran who walks in for care will be reminded of the Powells and their legacy.
We look forward to hosting a renaming service for the newly named Colonel Charles and JoAnne Powell VA Clinic in the upcoming months. Be sure to follow our social media and newsletter for up-to-date information.
Challenge Yourself with the Congressional Award
For the past 43 years, the United States Congress has recognized incredible young Americans for their initiative, service, and achievement with The Congressional Award.
The Congressional Award is open to all youth in the U.S. between the ages of 14 to 24. Participants earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates and Medals. Each level involves setting goals in four program areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration.
For this award, your past self is your biggest competitor. If you like to push yourself to your limits, challenge your ability, and improve your community, learn how to enter here.
Spend the Spring as an Intern in my D.C. Office
My office is currently accepting Internship Applications! Apply by December 15th to join my Washington D.C. office for Spring 2023. If you would like to gain hands-on experience in legislative policy, communications, and daily operations, this is the ideal position for you.
Thank you for reading. It is the honor of my lifetime to serve you in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.
