{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"TX\" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/new-york-magazine-trump-ended-2018-rewarding-putin-another-year-bad", "New York Magazine: Trump Ended 2018 by Rewarding Putin for Another Year of Bad Behavior", "2018-12-31", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For most of 2018, it was conventional wisdom among Russia experts to say, knowingly, that Moscow was disappointed and more than a bit perplexed by Donald Trump. Russia wants acceptance of its annexation of Crimea and recognition of its security primacy over Ukraine and Russia's western border region, but it hasn't gotten any of that. Russia would also like to see an end to economic sanctions imposed over Ukraine; however, thanks to the U.S. Congress, it's now subject to more sanctions. More broadly, Russia seeks recognition  in Syria, in Europe, and globally  of its status as a top-tier power alongside Washington and Beijing. Instead, Putin is endlessly linked to Trump's clownish behavior on the world stage and disdain for democracy, while China's President Xi gets to pose as the defender of norms and international cooperation.\nMoscow is likely still perplexed, but it got a whole Advent calendar worth of presents from Trump this month. The departure of Defense Secretary James Mattis is a huge boost to Moscow's unrelenting campaign to weaken and undermine NATO. For the last two years, Mattis has personified U.S. commitment to NATO  traveling where Trump wouldn't go, saying the things Trump wouldn't say, and, if we are honest, letting Americans and allies alike continue to believe in a commitment that Trump manifestly does not share.\nThat security blanket is gone now. And the confusion and anxiety we're seeing across Europe in response is exactly what Moscow hoped to produce with its meddling in the first place.\nThen there's the policy shift that led to Mattis's resignation: Trump's abrupt troop pullouts from Syria and (possibly) Afghanistan. For years, Moscow has wanted Washington to have less influence in Afghanistan, which has floated on the edge of Russia's security reach for centuries. And for even longer, Moscow has wanted to have a voice in the security affairs of the Middle East, and to be recognized as a first-tier player there. Its presence in Syria, and its military support for both the murderous regime of Bashar al-Assad and the Iranian militias that support him, is expensive and risky. With Washington gone, those activities will be a little less treacherous. And it will become more apparent that the player who can help regional actors get what they want  and honor their long-term commitments  is Putin, and not an American president.\nWhether you thought U.S. engagement in Syria should have been bigger, or should never have happened, the way Trump proceeded with the withdrawal announcement was a catastrophe. Our European allies who also have troops on the ground  and more importantly the Kurdish and Arab forces who have lost tens of thousands of soldiers fighting ISIS alongside U.S. troops  got no warning of the decision. That means no time to make a new plan to defend their territories without the U.S. or make deals to safeguard civilian lives. Tens of thousands of families who had moved to areas under the protection of U.S. forces are now at risk. That is potentially a death sentence for them  and it's definitely destroyed the credibility of promises from U.S. leaders for years to come.\nMoscow got one more big win this month that you may have missed. The Treasury Department said it plans to to lift sanctions on the business empire of Oleg Deripaska, one of Moscow's biggest oligarchs  who happens to be closely linked to former Trump campaign chair Paul Manafort. The announcement comes after intense lobbying by Europeans and volatility in commodity markets. Deripaska's aluminum company, Rusal, is among the world's largest non-Chinese suppliers. And Trump's tariff war with China, including a 10 percent surcharge on aluminum imports, has spooked markets. Under the deal, Deripaska will reduce his stake in several of his companies to under 50 percent, and he personally will remain on the sanctions list. But despite these efforts to prevent Deripaska from influencing the companies, he will still be the largest single shareholder, and some other shares will be controlled by his allies. Democratic congressman Lloyd Doggett, who has accused the Trump administration of going easy on Rusal in the past, said the move amounted to sliding another big gift under Vladimir Putin's Christmas tree.\nIt appears that much like our allies, Putin was surprised by all these gifts from the Trump administration. At his end-of-the-year news conference, Putin said he didn't know what the pullout from Syria means, but he couldn't resist tweaking Washington, noting the U.S. has been in Afghanistan 17 years and almost every year they say they are pulling out. Reporters said reactions in Russia ranged from ill-concealed gloating to suspicions that it's all a smokescreen for some secret U.S. moves.\nIn the long run, there's every reason to believe these withdrawals are going to prove as dubious a win for Moscow as the troop presences were for Washington. In Afghanistan in particular, Russia ought to be careful what it wishes for, lest extremist groups in Afghanistan find energy to target Russians or otherwise destabilize the nearby Central Asian states.\nFor much of the last two years, close observers of Trump foreign policy have bent over backwards not to attribute every move to puppet masters in Moscow, for three reasons: because we have a professional distaste for conspiracy theories, because we didn't think that is how Putin and his intelligence professionals would operate, and because we simply couldn't imagine someone being that obvious.\nFor the record, I still don't believe these helter-skelter policies are being devised and run from Russia. Nor do I believe that it's smart to have a Russia policy that is nothing but confrontation. But the fact is, we're ending the year with an arms control treaty that Moscow disliked on its way out and thousands of American troops set to leave places Moscow didn't want them to be. Meanwhile, ever-more Russian troops are on the Ukrainian border and Moscow still holds Ukrainian sailors it snatched in the Strait of Kerch last month. Institutions that sustain U.S. values are weaker, while Putin's claim to being a regional and global decider via his undemocratic methods is stronger.\nWe may never know the whole truth about Trump's relationship with Russia. But this all raises an interesting question: to paraphrase Ronald Reagan (who pursued nuclear disarmament even as he prosecuted the Cold War relentlessly), is Putin better off than he was two years ago?", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-announces-44-million-in-federal-grants-for-martin", "Congresswoman Johnson Announces $4.4 Million in Federal Grants for Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Clinic and UT Southwestern Medical Center", "2018-12-31", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dallas, TX  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson today announced that the Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Clinic and UT Southwestern Medical Center have been awarded more than $4.4 million in grant funding by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The two medical facilities received $4,166,624 and $243,000, respectively.\nEvery American needs health care, and it is the most fundamental of human rights that the government must ensure, said Congresswoman Johnson. As a non-practicing registered nurse and a Member of Congress, I've witnessed the transformative impact better health care can have on a community. It's important to remember that in addition to quality administration of health care, health care research can bring long-term and wide-ranging benefit. That is why I am particularly delighted to announce these two grants to the MLK Family Clinic and UT Southwestern.\nThe award to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Clinic will bolster the facility's health care delivery and administrative procedures. The clinic has been serving southern Dallas County since 1986 and offers preventative, pediatric and women's health care. UT Southwestern has garnered a well-deserved reputation as one of the most prominent medical research entities in the nation, and the grant will fund new research into arboviruses, such as West Nile, that are transmitted through mosquitos and tics.\nIn spite of the attention and focus of many committed professionals, Texas has the nation's highest number of uninsured Americans, said Congresswoman Johnson. It is my hope that this funding will help lower that number and ultimately bring better quality of life to the people of District 30.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/service-spirit-and-longevity-remembering-richard-overton", "Service, Spirit, and Longevity: Remembering Richard Overton", "2018-12-28", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "***Press Release*** \n\t\t\t\tFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\t\t\t\tDecember 28, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t202-225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n Service, Spirit, and Longevity: Remembering Richard Overton  \nWashington, D.C.  U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in remembrance of Austin veteran Richard Overton:\nSaluting Richard Overton for his service, spirit, and longevity. One of the last of our World War II vets has passed away at 112. Pleased that he could share so many honors late in life including, here, getting the Healing Garden at our Veterans Clinic named in his honor. Joined by Mayor Adler, we shared a celebration of his life that he very much enjoyed.\n###\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/service-spirit-and-longevity-remembering-richard-overton", "Service, Spirit, and Longevity: Remembering Richard Overton", "2018-12-28", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in remembrance of Austin veteran Richard Overton:\n\n\"Saluting Richard Overton for his service, spirit, and longevity. One of the last of our World War II vets has passed away at 112. Pleased that he could share so many honors late in life including, here, getting the Healing Garden at our Veterans Clinic named in his honor. Joined by Mayor Adler, we shared a celebration of his life that he very much enjoyed.\"\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-reacts-president-trump-s-threat-shut-down-southwest-border", "Congressman Gonzalez Reacts to President Trumps Threat to Shut Down Southwest Border", "2018-12-28", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON - Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued the following statement in response to President Donald J. Trump'scomments that a full shutdown of the U.S. Southwest Border may be necessary to obtain funding for a border wall.\nIt is increasingly worrisome that the president is not kept accountable for his rhetoric - be it online or on any platform. No, Mr. President, you cannot shut down the Southwest Border as a bargaining chip for your useless border wall proposal. The American people need to understand that this action would have vast, terrible implications for American consumers and businesses. If I recall correctly, the biggest threats faced at the U.S.-Mexico Border this year have been the inhumane policies enacted by the Administration. We must be diplomatic and strategic in securing our borders. We must be diligent in protecting trade relations with our neighbors. And the president must exercise the decorum expected from the White House - even from his Twitter account.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vela.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/vela-gonzalez-push-back-border-tweets", "Vela, Gonzalez push back at border tweets", "2018-12-28", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Filemon Vela", "V000132", "vela.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Amid the partial federal government shutdown, President Donald Trump tweeted an ultimatum Friday morning directed at Congress: Fund his promised border wall or the United States-Mexico border will close.\nEither we build (finish) the Wall or we close the Border  one of Trump's four tweets about the border said in part.\nThe president's series of tweets about the border riled up Rio Grande Valley congressmen, who quickly fired back, both on the president's preferred social media platform and ina prepared statement.\n\nThe shutdown is a crisis of the president's own making, U.S. Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Brownsville, said in a tweet. To suggest that the appropriate response to his own crisis to shut down operations at our nation's border and cut off humanitarian aid to Central America is grossly foolish.\nIf he doesn't secure enough votes to fund the wall, one of his major 2016 campaign promises, Trump also threatened to cut off aid to countries fled by asylum seekers, tweeting, Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are doing nothing for the United States but taking our money.\nIn 2017, the U.S. spent about $257.3 million in Guatemala alone, with $30 million directed toward a counter-drug program headed by the U.S. Secretary of Defense, according to the United States Agency for International Development. That year, the U.S. directed $181 million to Honduras and $118.2 million to El Salvador.\nU.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-McAllen, responded to the president's tweets via a prepared statement and did not address the threat to cut off aid to Central American countries. He instead pushed back on threats directed at the border.\nNo, Mr. President, you cannot shut down the Southwest Border as a bargaining chip for your useless border wall proposal, the statement read. The American people need to understand that this action would have vast, terrible implications for American consumers and businesses.\nLast month, surveyors were spotted near the National Butterfly Center in Mission, weeks after the federal government awarded contracts to companies scheduled to build portions of the wall beginning in February, The Monitor previously reported.\nDemocrats, who Trump called obstructionist in one of Friday's tweets, take control of the House beginning Thursday and have signaled they are unwilling to fund more wall. Since assuming office in January 2017, the president has had a Republican-controlled congress.\nWe can secure our border in a sensible, cost-effective manner, that does not include an antiquated border wall, U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo, a member of the House appropriations committee, said in an emailed statement last week.\nThe House on Dec. 21 approved a spending bill that included $5.7 billion for border wall construction. A spending bill passed by the Senate two days prior, however, did not include funding for the president's wall, leading to a deadlock and the partial government shutdown.\nThough Trump omitted details about what his version of shutting down the border would look like and whether he would be willing to go as far as closing ports of entry, such as international bridges in Progreso, Pharr, Hidalgo, Mission and Donna, a Washington Post analysis of a border closure found there's very little he can do to shut down the border that would stand up legally.\nTrump, in a tweet, suggested the country go back to pre-NAFTA, before so many of our companies and jobs were so foolishly sent to Mexico.\nNAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, effective since New Year's Day in 1994, was designed to increase trade among the U.S., Canada and Mexico. NAFTA, which was negotiated this year, is set to be replaced in 2019 by the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA.\nWe must be diplomatic and strategic in securing our borders. We must be diligent in protecting trade relations with our neighbors, Gonzalez said in the statement. And the president must exercise the decorum expected from the White House  even from his Twitter account.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/ksat-condolences-pour-after-sudden-death-county-commissioner-paul-elizondo", "KSAT: Condolences pour in after sudden death of County Commissioner Paul Elizondo", "2018-12-27", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SAN ANTONIO - Condolences are pouring in for longtime county commissioner Paul Elizondo, who passed away suddenly Thursday morning.\nElizondo served on the Bexar County Commissioners Court for 32 years.\n\nPaul was my dearest friend. Over 17 years, we forged a strong partnership on the commissioners court. His life's work will leave a lasting impact on our community. I will miss him terribly.\n- Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff\n\"For over a generation, Paul Elizondo was an icon of the West Side and a force in Bexar County government and politics. His influence will be felt for decades to come. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.\"\n- Mayor Ron Nirenberg\nCommissioner Elizondo's passing is saddening to hear. He has been a friend and a mentor to many. His institutional wealth of knowledge of the county will be sorely missed, along with his antidote of humor and wittiness, that I will miss the most.\n- Commissioner Sergio Chico Rodriguez\nA life lived in the service of others is a life well lived. Nobody personified that more than Commissioner Paul Elizondo. His career in the military, as an educator, and as an elected official spanned decades and placed service to his community before all else.\n- Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar\nCommissioner Paul Elizondo was a champion for our veterans, his constituents, and Bexar County. He was also a mentor and friend, and I will miss him very much.\n- Commissioner Kevin Wolff\nI want to ask everyone to please say a prayer for Commissioner Elizondo's, family, friends, staff and community. As the dean of Commissioners Court his passing is a huge loss with over 60 years of public service from the time he was a Marine to today. His institutional knowledge is legendary and will be missed. I am comforted to know our last conversation was jovial as he told me about his days in the Texas Legislature. My sincerest condolences to the family and to his constituents who he so proudly served.\n- Commissioner Tommy Calvert\nOn behalf of our 1,400 members and the leadership of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo, Precinct 2.\nWe at the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, while at a loss for words, are proud of Commissioner Elizondo's legacy of service, not just in Precinct 2, but in Bexar County and beyond as a leader and champion for education, healthcare, environment and natural resources, veterans, and business growth and retention.\nHe was a fighter for what he believed in, such as equity in service and providing the opportunities for community betterment.\nSemper Fi, Commissioner. We salute you.\n- San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's Statement\nCommissioner Paul Elizondo was my mentor and friend. His wealth of knowledge about the County and the inner workings of government were invaluable to me. I will miss his passion, dedication, and most of all, his friendship.\n- County Manager David Smith\nWith a long life of commitment to Bexar County families, Paul earned having his name inscribed on the Justice Center Tower. He combined the feisty toughness of a Marine vet, the insights of a teacher, and the good humor and joy of a sax player in his legendary orchestra. As a personal friend since our work together decades ago in the Texas Legislature, I am saddened by his sudden passing. Let's remember Paul by renewing our own commitment to continue building a community that advances opportunity for all.\n- U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-35th District)\nI am deeply saddened at the passing of County Commissioner Paul Elizondo, he was a pillar of San Antonio's Westside community and a steadfast advocate for our City and our County.\nHe was a personal friend, an icon of San Antonio politics and a guiding presence during our City and County's recent economic surge.\nHis passing is untimely, as he and I were actively working on several District 5 initiatives such as the West Commerce Street Gateway and opioid crises intervention.\nThere are many people in our community who will fondly remember him and his orchestra playing at their wedding receptions or daughter's quinceanera.\nOur most heartfelt condolences go out to the Elizondo family. We will all do well to remember and emulate his true and dedicated service to our community.\nI will miss him greatly.\n- District 5 City Councilwoman Shirley Gonzales\nMy thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and constituents of Paul Elizondo during this difficult time. Today, the city of San Antonio and Bexar County has lost a true leader.\nHe leaves behind a legacy of music, military service and will be always remembered as an exemplary public servant throughout his 32 years of service as Bexar County Commissioner.\n- District 3 City Councilwoman Rebecca J. Viagran\nMy deepest condolences go out to the Elizondo family during this time. San Antonio has lost a deeply caring and thoughtful individual in County Commissioner Paul Elizondo.\nI am grateful to Commissioner Elizondo for his help on many issues; his extensive military and public service record; but above all, I am grateful for his friendship.\nCommissioner Elizondo's legacy will live on, and continue to have a positive impact on the residents of San Antonio for generations to come.\n- District 1 City Councilman Roberto Trevino\nMy deepest condolonces go out to the family of Commissioner Paul Elizondo during this difficult time. Commissioner Elizondo has been a force in Bexar County government and our community for decades and his impact and knowledge will be sorely missed. His legacy will live on for generations through his family and his countless accomplishments across Bexar County. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and colleagues as they celebrate his life and his legacy.\n- District 6 City Councilman Greg Brockhouse\nToday our community lost an icon with the passing of Commissioner Paul Elizondo. He was a true public servant who embodied a passion for the continued prosperity of our community. Thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.\nThe San Antonio Public Library has a longstanding relationship with Bexar County through an Interlocal agreement to provide library services to all county residents.\n- San Antonio Library Board of Trustees Chair Paul Stah", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/ktsa-bexar-co-commissioner-paul-elizondo-dies-83", "KTSA: Bexar Co. commissioner Paul Elizondo dies at 83", "2018-12-27", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News)  Bexar County commissioner Paul Elizondo died Thursday.\nNo word on the cause of his death, though he died at his home.\nFor over a generation, Paul Elizondo was an icon of the West Side and a force in Bexar County government and politics, San Antonio mayor Ron Nirenberg said in a statement Thursday. His influence will be felt for decades to come. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.\nMy deepest condolences go out to the Elizondo family during this time. San Antonio has lost a deeply caring and thoughtful individual in County Commissioner Paul Elizondo, councilman Roberto Trevino. I am grateful to Commissioner Elizondo for his help on many issues; his extensive military and public service record; but above all, I am grateful for his friendship. Commissioner Elizondo's legacy will live on, and continue to have a positive impact on the residents of San Antonio for generations to come.\nA life lived in the service of others is a life well lived, Bexar County sheriff Javier Salazar said in a statement. Nobody personified that more than Commissioner Paul Elizondo. His career in the military, as an educator, and as an elected official spanned decades and placed service to his community before all else.\nThe San Antonio business community is saddened by the news of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo's passing. Over his 36 years of dedicated public service, Commissioner Elizondo has been a champion of the underserved in our county and city, San Antonio Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Richard Perez said. Improving the quality and accessibility of healthcare for the most needy, addressing the most endemic flooding issue throughout the county, and preserving our rich heritage were but a few of the many vital projects Commissioner Elizondo shepherded through to completion. The University Health System expansion, the Alameda Theater renovation, and countless flood-control projects are a reality as a result of his commitment to the citizens of Bexar County. The business community will, in particular, miss his budgeting knowledge and focus on fiscal discipline. His impact on our community is deep, and we will miss his good work, his support, and his friendship.\nWith a long life of commitment to Bexar County families, Paul earned having his name inscribed on the Justice Center Tower, Rep. Lloyd Doggett said in a statement. He combined the feisty toughness of a Marine vet, the insights of a teacher, and the good humor and joy of a sax player in his legendary orchestra. As a personal friend since our work together decades ago in the Texas Legislature, I am saddened by his sudden passing. Let's remember Paul by renewing our own commitment to continue building a community that advances opportunity for all.\nElizondo was 83.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/kxan-reactions-passing-richard-overton-recall-texas-legend", "KXAN: Reactions to the passing of Richard Overton recall a 'Texas legend'", "2018-12-27", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "AUSTIN (KXAN)  Shortly after the news of World War II veteran Richard Overton's death, condolences and memories came pouring in from around Texas and the nation.\nOverton's cousin, Volma Overton Jr., said the family will miss the funny 112-year-old and that his memory will keep them going.\n\"We are truly blessed for everyone who has shown support and prayers, everyone who was encouraging to him and our family,\" Volma Overton Jr. said. \"We are so thankful.\"\nPeople gathered at a mural on 12th and Chicon Streets that depicts Overton. They sang songs in his honor and did two his favorite things: drank whiskey and smoked cigars.\nGov. Greg Abbott called Richard Overton an \"American icon and a Texas legend,\" in a statement.\n\"With his quick wit and kind spirit he touched the lives of so many, and I am deeply honored to have known him,\" Abbott wrote. \"Richard Overton made us proud to be Texans and proud to be Americans. We can never repay Richard Overton for his service to our nation and for his lasting impact on the Lone Star State.\"\nPeople, including Rep. Lloyd Doggett, shared photos of the veteran and remembered his \"service, spirit and longevity.\nSen. John Cornyn simply said \"A life well lived.\"\nRep. Roger Williams said he had the honor of knowing Overton well and will miss him dearly.\n\"Sitting on his porch and listening to him tell stories are memories I will never forget,\" Williams wrote. \"I am thankful for his service to our country, and I am eternally grateful to have had him in my life as a friend and role model.\"\nRep. Will Hurd shared a quote of Overton's that said \"You don't know when you get here. You don't know when you go. It's in God's hands. Hurd added that \"Our words will never be enough to fully show our gratitude for your selfless service. Fair winds and following seas, my friend.\"\nA Twitter account called EverythingTX shared a picture of the born-and-raised Texan smoking his signature cigar that he claimed helped him live a long life.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-passing-bexar-county-commissioner-paul-elizondo", "Statement on the Passing of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo", "2018-12-27", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "***Press Release*** \n\t\t\t\tFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\t\t\t\tDecember 27, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t202-225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n Statement on the Passing of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo \nWashington, D.C.  Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the sudden passing of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo today:\nWith a long life of commitment to Bexar County families, Paul earned having his name inscribed on the Justice Center Tower. He combined the feisty toughness of a Marine vet, the insights of a teacher, and the good humor and joy of a sax player in his legendary orchestra. As a personal friend since our work together decades ago in the Texas Legislature, I am saddened by his sudden passing. Let's remember Paul by renewing our own commitment to continue building a community that advances opportunity for all.\n###\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-passing-bexar-county-commissioner-paul-elizondo", "Statement on the Passing of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo", "2018-12-27", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the sudden passing of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo today:\n\n\"With a long life of commitment to Bexar County families, Paul earned having his name inscribed on the Justice Center Tower. He combined the feisty toughness of a Marine vet, the insights of a teacher, and the good humor and joy of a sax player in his legendary orchestra. As a personal friend since our work together decades ago in the Texas Legislature, I am saddened by his sudden passing. Let's remember Paul by renewing our own commitment to continue building a community that advances opportunity for all.\"\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/kxan-rep-doggett-trump-shutdown", "KXAN: Rep. Doggett on the Trump Shutdown", "2018-12-24", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "300 East 8th St, 4th Floor", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/msnbc-rep-doggett-s-interview-ali-velshi-trumpshutdown-and-us-involvement-0", "MSNBC: Rep. Doggetts Interview with Ali Velshi on #TrumpShutdown and U.S. Involvement in Yemen", "2018-12-24", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/msnbc-rep-doggett-s-interview-richard-lui-trumpshutdown-and-dreamers", "MSNBC: Rep. Doggetts Interview with Richard Lui on the #TrumpShutdown and Dreamers", "2018-12-23", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-s-statement-on-the-government-shutdown", "Congresswoman Johnsons Statement on the Government Shutdown", "2018-12-22", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson today released the following statement regarding the partial shutdown of the United States government:\nPresident Trump's forced government shutdown is a disservice to the hard-working professionals in the Federal government and to the American people. As Ranking Member of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I want to point out that our federal science agencies have a long history of working hard on research and education programs that return huge payoffs to the American people. Those agencies are basically closed for business today. As I've noted in previous shutdowns, as our competitors in other countries surge ahead in their R&D investments, we have basically shut down a large chunk of our federal science and technology enterprise. Shutting down the government is an embarrassment and the President should not be proud' of it.\nIt is important to consider that President Trump was presented with a bipartisan agreement to keep the government open and to keep paying the country's 800,000 federal employees while we come to terms on a full budget. Instead, President Trump chose to demand $5 billion for an unattainable and irresponsible border wall over the American people. This decision by the president, and the decision by the Republican leadership of the House to follow his lead, will leave the nation's federal employees  including almost 33,000 in Texas alone  without pay during the holiday season. The harm this shutdown will cause rests squarely with the President and his party.\nThis will not stop me and every member of the Democratic Party in Washington from continuing to work to keep the government funded. It is up to the president and House Republicans, however, to accept the terms the Senate has agreed to and that my Democratic colleagues in the House support. \n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-requests-answers-about-concertina-wire-removal-us-mexico", "Congressman Gonzalez Requests Answers About Concertina Wire Removal on U.S.-Mexico Border", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) on Thursday requested information fromU.S. Customs and Border ProtectionCommissioner Kevin K. McAleenan, citing concerns from constituentsregarding the continued presence and pending removal of concertina wire along the border.\nWithborderwall funding in peril for PresidentDonaldTrump, Congressman Gonzalezisconcerned about the orderly and complete removal of concertina wire, which presents a threat to wildlife andpeople living in South Texas and on the Southern border of the United States.In a recent letterto Commissioner McAleenan,CongressmanGonzalezrequested answers about where the wire was placed, and the plan for removing it.\nThe residents of the Rio Grande Valleydeserve answers to these questions and for the federal government to be responsible in theirdoings,Congressman Gonzalez said.We have learned that thefederalgovernment has a poor record of cleaning up construction sites, and when the military is also involved, orders need to be clear and thorough, always keeping in mind the good stewardship of federal resources.\nCongressman Gonzalez has repeatedly opposed the militarization of the border, and the border wall. Some of his most recent work culminated in an officialcommenton theborderwall.\n\nBelow is the letter in full:\n\nDecember 19, 2018\n\nThe Honorable Kevin K. McAleenan\nCommissioner\nU.S. Customs and Border Protection\n1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW\nWashington, DC 20229\n\nCommissioner McAleenan,\nI write today to express serious concerns that I share with my constituents about the militarization of our border, and the deployment of concertina wire. On behalf of our local leaders, who have already expressed their concerns to the agents and leadership on the ground, I request that your agency take personal responsibility for ensuring complete removal of this dangerous wire.\nThe deployment of this wire, as well as the militarization of the border is having a palpable effect on U.S.-Mexico relations and the daily lives of many who live in border communities like mine.We have U.S. Citizens who work in Mexico, Mexican citizens who work in the U.S., and relationships between companies on both sides of the border that are suffering due to the presence of U.S. troops, concertina wire, and other elements associated with armed conflict. My constituents and I understand that wire is being removed in certain areas, and there are plans to remove more.As such, I am requesting further information about these plans and ask that you please respond to my questions below about this process with specificity.\n Where was concertina wire deployed in Texas? Your response may include a map showing the location, or written statements providing reasonable information showing the same.\n\tHow much of the wire was permanently affixed to other border deterrent measures, and where?\n\tWhen can we expect the wire you identified in response 1 and 2 to be removed?\n\tHave you had reports of injuries to U.S. Citizens because of the wire?\n\tHave you had reports of wildlife getting caught in the wire?\n\tIf you are not able to provide a response to 4 or 5 above, why not?\n \nShould you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Fred Castro, Legislative Counsel, atfred.castro@mail.house.gov, or via phone at (202) 225-2531.\nRegards,\n\nVicente Gonzalez\nMember of Congress\n\n\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/joint-statement-speaker-ryan-continues-block-crucial-yemen-vote-and", "Joint Statement: Speaker Ryan Continues to Block Crucial Yemen VoteAnd American Bombs Keep Falling", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "UNITED STATES CONGRESS \n\t\t\t\tFor Immediate Release\n\t\t\t\t\tDecember 20, 2018 \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t(202) 225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\n Joint Statement: Speaker Ryan Continues to Block Crucial Yemen VoteAnd American Bombs Keep Falling \nWashington, D.C.  Congressmembers Lloyd Doggett, Barbara Lee, Jim McGovern, Ro Khanna, Mark Pocan, Tulsi Gabbard, and Peter Welch today called on Speaker Ryan to end his blockade on a crucial Yemen votethe resolution passed in the Senate with a bipartisan majority. Together, they released the following statement:\nWe urge Speaker Paul Ryan to end his blockade on behalf of President Trump and allow the House to vote on what has already been approved in the Senate by a bipartisan vote of 56 to 41: a resolution to withdraw U.S. support for Saudi forces in the bloody war in Yemen.\nIf Speaker Ryan will not heed our voices or those of his Republican Senate colleagues, we hope that in this holiday season he will at least heed the voice of the suffering. The U.N. recently estimated that every 10 minutes, a child dies in Yemen. When the American-backed Saudi coalition attacked a school bus, killing 40 little children, scrawled across the bomb were markings showing that it was made in America.\nLet's stop America's role in what is currently the world's worst humanitarian crisis; Republican leadership must let the House vote to end U.S. involvement. To stop the suffering from increasing, permit a vote to stop American bombs from falling.\n###\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/joint-statement-speaker-ryan-continues-block-crucial-yemen-vote-and-american", "Joint Statement: Speaker Ryan Continues to Block Crucial Yemen Vote\u2014And American Bombs Keep Falling", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressmembers Lloyd Doggett, Barbara Lee, Jim McGovern, Ro Khanna, Mark Pocan, Tulsi Gabbard, and Peter Welch today called on Speaker Ryan to end his blockade on a crucial Yemen vote\u2014the resolution passed in the Senate with a bipartisan majority. Together, they released the following statement:\n\n\"We urge Speaker Paul Ryan to end his blockade on behalf of President Trump and allow the House to vote on what has already been approved in the Senate by a bipartisan vote of 56 to 41: a resolution to withdraw U.S. support for Saudi forces in the bloody war in Yemen.\n\nIf Speaker Ryan will not heed our voices or those of his Republican Senate colleagues, we hope that in this holiday season he will at least heed the voice of the suffering. The U.N. recently estimated that every 10 minutes, a child dies in Yemen. When the American-backed Saudi coalition attacked a school bus, killing 40 little children, scrawled across the bomb were markings showing that it was made in America.\n\nLet's stop America's role in what is currently the world's worst humanitarian crisis; Republican leadership must let the House vote to end U.S. involvement. To stop the suffering from increasing, permit a vote to stop American bombs from falling.\"\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-applauds-passage-of-first-step-act", "Congresswoman Johnson Applauds Passage of First Step Act", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson today released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Formerly Incarcerated Reenter Society Transformed Safely Transitioning Every Person Act, or First Step Act, sending the bill to the President's desk for his signature:\nThe First Step Act represents a milestone in our quest for true criminal justice reform. This piece of legislation makes improvements to our justice system that correct current issues by allowing judges more discretion in sentencing, limiting the harsh potency of mandatory minimums, and adding $75 million in funding to prevent recidivism.\nAdditionally, we were able to secure the retroactive application of the Fair Sentencing Act, which will make 4,000 currently imprisoned individuals eligible for early release, and this bill brings relief to sentencing disparities, which overwhelmingly affect African Americans and other minorities. These are all reasons why I joined my colleagues in voting to pass this bill out of the House today.\nWhile there is much more that needs to be accomplished to truly achieve the criminal justice reform we all seek, I am heartened by the good this will bring once it becomes law. It restores hope to some who felt that even what was agreed upon in this legislation was beyond reach and will stand out as a bipartisan success that weathered a difficult legislative process to passage.\nCongressional Democrats will continue our work to pass reforms that build on the progress of the First Step Act, and I remain committed to join them in this effort.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-reacts-administration-s-plans-withdraw-us-armed-forces", "Congressman Gonzalez Reacts to Administrations Plans to Withdraw U.S. Armed Forces from Syria", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued the following statement in response to theTrump Administration's plansto withdraw U.S. Armed Forces and support from the embattled country of Syria.\nThe Administration's sudden decision to pull U.S. Armed Forces out of Syria is more than troubling and could yield grave diplomatic and humanitarian consequences. Think before you leap, Mr. President. ISIS has yet to face defeat. Pulling our troops out places us in uncharted geopolitical territory and only serves to empower Russia, Iran, ISIS, and the Assad regime. I demand transparency, a detailed explanation on this withdrawal, and the Administration's plans to bring peace, security, and stability to the people of Syria.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-statement-waste-57-billion-taxpayer-dollars-useless-border", "Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Waste of $5.7 Billion in Taxpayer Dollars for a Useless Border Wall", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued the following statement after the House passedH.R. 695, a spending package that includes $5.7 billion for a physical barrier on the U.S.-Mexico Border.\nIf this goes throughin the Senate,the President of the United States, along withmany House Republicans, just cost the American people almost six billion of their hard-earned dollars. Thiswalldoes not secure our border. This is not the solution. Mr. President, my fellow colleagues, you have made a serious mistake, which will cause the government to potentially shutdown. So much for Merry Christmas.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402925", "Rep. Cuellar Announces Resources for Brightwood College Students", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced that the Department of Education (ED) is providing resources to Brightwood College students affected by the December 7th closing of the Education Corporation of America (ECA) in Laredo, TX. This announcement comes as a result of ECA's abrupt closure of dozens of institutions nationwide, affecting thousands of students. Students are encouraged to apply for a closed school loan discharge, if they meet certain criteria.\r\nCongressman Cuellar stated, It is our responsibility to ensure that every student, regardless of their economic background, is prepared to compete in a 21st-century, competitive job market. These students, who have been unfairly deprived of their educational investment, must be justly compensated. I would like to thank Laredo College and TAMIU for their efforts in helping students continue to pursue a higher education. It is my hope that the Department of Education is able to provide them with the federal assistance that they so greatly deserve.\r\n\r\nStudents Eligible to Apply\r\nStudents may be eligible for a closed school loan discharge based on their attendance period at Brightwood College. \r\nStudent loan borrowers (and parents who took out PLUS loans on behalf of students) may be eligible for a 100-percent discharge of their federal student loans borrowed to attend the school under either of the following circumstances:\r\n \r\n    \r\n    Brightwood closed while the student was enrolled, and they did not complete their program because of the closure. If a student was on an approved leave of absence, they are considered to have been enrolled at the school; OR\r\n    \r\n \r\n \r\n    \r\n    The student withdrew from all classes 120 days or less prior to the school closing. This requires active enrollment at Brightwood on or after August 9, 2018.\r\n    \r\n \r\n\r\nTransfer of Course Credits\r\nLaredo College and Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) are offering their services to students who are interested in seeing if they are eligible for transfer. Students may contact the following offices for assistance:\r\n\r\nLaredo College Office of Enrollment and Student Services\r\nFort McIntosh Campus\r\nLerma Pea Building, Room 116\r\nWest End Washington Street\r\nLaredo, Texas 78040\r\nTelephone: (956) 721-5109\r\n\r\nSouth Campus\r\nBilly Hall Student Center, Room 113\r\n5000 South Zapata Highway\r\nLaredo, Texas 78046\r\nTelephone: (956) 794-4109\r\n\r\nTexas A&M International University Office of Admissions\r\nZaffirini Success Center, Suite 129\r\n5201 University Boulevard\r\nLaredo, Texas 78041\r\nTelephone: (956) 326-2200\r\nAdditional resources include various state agencies working in coordination with the Department of Education to transfer student course credits to other local institutions. The following Texas offices are participating:\r\n\r\nTexas Department of Licensing and Regulation\r\n920 Colorado Street\r\nAustin, TX 78701\r\nPhone: 512-463-6599\r\nWebsite: www.tdlr.texas.gov \r\nTexas Higher Education Coordinating Board\r\n1200 East Anderson Lane\r\nAustin, TX 78752\r\nPhone: 512-427-6101\r\nWebsite: www.thecb.state.tx.us \r\n\r\nTexas Work Force Commission\r\n101 East 15th Street\r\nAustin, TX 78778\r\nPhone: 512-936-3100\r\nWebsite: www.twc.texas.gov \r\n\r\nThe ED is working on an institution-by-institution basis to facilitate these transfers of course credits. For more information on services offered by the ED to address the ECA school closings, visit www.StudentAid.gov/eca. Students can find resources to help transfer credits to another school, obtain their academic records, explore Pell grant eligibility, and more.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rusal-ruse-doggett-trump-admin-lifting-sanctions-russian-aluminum", "Rusal Ruse: Doggett on Trump Admin Lifting Sanctions on Russian Aluminum Producer", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "***Press Release*** \n\t\t\t\tFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\t\t\t\tDecember 19, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t202-225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\n\n Rusal Ruse: Doggett on Trump Admin Lifting Sanctions on Russian Aluminum Producer \nWashington, D.C.  Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the Trump Administration lifting sanctions on Rusal, a company controlled by sanctioned Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska. Rep. Doggett previously uncovered that the Trump Administration granted a tariff exemption to Rusal USA.\nPresident Trump is sliding another big gift under Vladimir Putin's Christmas Tree: lifting sanctions on Russian aluminum producer Rusal. Administration endorsement of what appears to be a shell game brokered by a sanctioned Russian bank, VTB Bank, involving one of Putin's closest buddies, Oleg Deripaska, only encourages Putin to pursue his destabilizing activities around the world. If, after Congressional review, this is what it appearsa Rusal rusethen we should reject this latest Trump scam.\n###\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rusal-ruse-doggett-trump-admin-lifting-sanctions-russian-aluminum-producer", "Rusal Ruse: Doggett on Trump Admin Lifting Sanctions on Russian Aluminum Producer", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the Trump Administration lifting sanctions on Rusal, a company controlled by sanctioned Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska. Rep. Doggett previously uncovered that the Trump Administration granted a tariff exemption to Rusal USA.\n\n\"President Trump is sliding another big gift under Vladimir Putin's Christmas Tree: lifting sanctions on Russian aluminum producer Rusal. Administration endorsement of what appears to be a shell game brokered by a sanctioned Russian bank, VTB Bank, involving one of Putin's closest buddies, Oleg Deripaska, only encourages Putin to pursue his destabilizing activities around the world. If, after Congressional review, this is what it appears\u2014a Rusal ruse\u2014then we should reject this latest Trump scam.\"\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402923", "Rep. Cuellar: Supports Strong Border Security Without a 14th Century Wall", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As a member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) understands the importance of keeping the federal government funded. Congress has passed five of twelve spending bills in FY19, which leaves seven bills, which are set to expire at midnight on December 21. These bills include funding for the Department of Homeland Security, the federal agency at the center of the debate regarding President Trump's border wall. \r\nLast January, Congressman Cuellar spoke with President Trump during a bipartisan meeting at the White House, explaining why a border wall is not an effective policy and enumerating a variety of security measures that would help strengthen operations at the U.S.-Mexico border. A year later, he still stands behind his remarks. He stated the following: Last week, President Trump boasted that he would be proud' to shut down the government. Let me be clear: We cannot afford a senseless government shutdown. The last major government shutdown in 2013 cost the American economy 120,000 jobs and $24 billion. A shutdown is a wasteful disservice to the American taxpayer, who has a right to expect the government to operate uninterrupted and at full capacity. As I have indicated to President Trump in the past, we need effective border security. As a lifelong border resident, I speak with constituents, landowners, and law enforcement professionals regularly, and they agree that a massively expensive barrier is nothing more than a 14th Century solution to a 21st Century challenge. Congress should allocate funding towards technology, equipment, border personnel, ports of entry infrastructure, as well as security and economic development in Central America and Southern Mexico, in order to secure our border in a sensible, cost-efficient manner. We need to focus on solutions that work. I strongly encourage the President to reconsider funding for the wall, and keep the government open.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWatch Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) discuss alternatives\r\nto constructing a border wall with President Trump during a\r\nbipartisan meeting at the White House on January 9, 2018 above. Source: NowThis\r\nNews", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/gentle-forceful-voice-progress-remembering-gus-garcia", "Gentle, Forceful Voice for Progress: Remembering Gus Garcia", "2018-12-17", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "***Press Release*** \n\t\t\t\tFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\t\t\t\tDecember 17, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t202-225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\n Gentle, Forceful Voice for Progress: Remembering Gus Garcia \nAustin, T.X.  Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the passing of his longtime friend, former Mayor Gus Garcia:\nFor decades, Gus and Marina have been a great team for our community. Gus provided a gentle but forceful voice for public education, equal opportunity, the environment, and active participation by Hispanics in public decision-making and every aspect of our community. We have shared innumerable strategy sessions, press events, rallies, pachangas, and celebrations of progress, while always seeking to accomplish more. He has been my longtime friend, advisor, and, for many years, my personal accountant. We can best salute Gus's valued legacy by continuing to work for an inclusive, just community that lives up to his vision of what our city can be.\nCongressman Doggett, former Mayor Gus Garcia, Ambassador Rosalba Ojeda, former Consul General of Mexico in Austin, and State Representatives Rodriquez and Naishtat at a 2013 celebration hosted by the Fiesta de Independencia Foundation, which Gus founded.\n###\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/gentle-forceful-voice-progress-remembering-gus-garcia", "Gentle, Forceful Voice for Progress: Remembering Gus Garcia", "2018-12-17", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Austin, T.X. \u2014 Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the passing of his longtime friend, former Mayor Gus Garcia:\n\n\"For decades, Gus and Marina have been a great team for our community. Gus provided a gentle but forceful voice for public education, equal opportunity, the environment, and active participation by Hispanics in public decision-making and every aspect of our community. We have shared innumerable strategy sessions, press events, rallies, pachangas, and celebrations of progress, while always seeking to accomplish more. He has been my longtime friend, advisor, and, for many years, my personal accountant. We can best salute Gus's valued legacy by continuing to work for an inclusive, just community that lives up to his vision of what our city can be.\"\n\nCongressman Doggett, former Mayor Gus Garcia, Ambassador Rosalba Ojeda, former Consul General of Mexico in Austin, and State Representatives Rodriquez and Naishtat at a 2013 celebration hosted by the Fiesta de Independencia Foundation, which Gus founded.\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-highlights-potential-threats-government-shutdown-urges", "Congressman Gonzalez Highlights Potential Threats of Government Shutdown, Urges Prompt Passage of Funding Package", "2018-12-17", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today warned fellow Members of Congressand the American peopleabout the threats and effects of a potential government shutdown.\nWithPresident Donald J. Trump's threat of a government shutdown, Congressman Gonzalez has remained staunch in his efforts to oppose funding for a physical barrier on the U.S.-Mexico Border, instead calling for more modern, practical solutions to border security.According to a newNPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist Poll, 57 percent of Americans recommend that President Trump seek a compromise on border security funding, preventing a government shutdown.\nThe American people are watching a poorly written reality television show, instead of a functioning, bipartisan Congress with real solutions,Congressman Gonzalez said.Enough is enough. Congress needs to get its act together, passa funding package that keeps the government open, eliminate the risk of putting countless government services in jeopardy, and do so before the American people abandonthefaiththey place inelected officials.\nCongressman Gonzalez has highlighted potential effects of a government shutdown here:\nMore Than 420,000 Federal Employees Working Without Pay.Frontline federal employees, including law enforcement and public safety personnel, would begin working without pay three days before Christmas. This includes around 14,000 FBI agents, 54,000 Customs and Border Protection agents, 6,000 Forest Service firefighters  as well as the Secret Service, including President Trump's detail.\nNearly 400,000 Federal Employees Furloughed Days Before Christmas.In addition to federal employees working without pay, hardworking federal employees at agencies like the Department of Transportation, the Department of Commerce, and NASA will be sent home December 22, depriving the American people of vital services and plunging the workers and their families into uncertainty.\nUndermining Public Safety.Training programs for state and local law enforcement will be cancelled. The Department of Justice's civil litigation efforts against bad actors will stop. Payments to crime victims will be put on hold.\nPutting American Diplomats at Risk.A shutdown makes it harder for the State Department to physically protect diplomatic personnel and facilities overseas, while also limiting State's critical risk assessments that inform advisory warnings for American tourists traveling internationally.\nHalting Consumer Protection Efforts.Most staff at the Federal Trade Commission, the Federal Communications Commission, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission will be furloughed. Customer service at the IRS will be suspended. Many services for identity theft victims will cease.\nStopping Small Business Support.The Small Business Administration would shut down its role in the federal contracting process and stop approving loan applications, blocking access to federally-assisted loans for millions of small businesses, making it harder to create jobs and grow the economy.\nSlowing Home Mortgage Applications.The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) would stop processing loans and mortgage approvals, putting families trying to buy a new home or refinance an FHA-insured mortgage into financial limbo.\nCutting Off Services for Farmers.As producers are beginning to make their plans for next year's planting season, the Department of Agriculture will be forced to close Farm Service county offices across the country and stop providing assistance to farmers already hit hard by the Trump trade war.\nClosing National Parks.All services for visitors to National Park Service sites  such as visitors' centers, interpretative programs, and restrooms  will be suspended at the height of the holiday season. Law enforcement staffing will be sharply curtailed, so visitors' safety will be put at risk.\nCongressman Gonzalez has a proven record of reaching across the aisle to work on commonsense, bipartisan legislation and policies. The congressman is hopeful that once again, resolve can be found, and the government will stay open.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vela.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/texas-border-congressman-airs-spacex-border-wall-concerns", "Texas border congressman airs SpaceX border wall concerns", "2018-12-16", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Filemon Vela", "V000132", "vela.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONU.S. Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Brownsville, a leader in the effort to block Democratic House leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., from becoming speaker, settled for a compromise last week that caps her time in the post, but he came away with an unexpected bonus: a direct line to Pelosi on a critical issue for his district  the border wall.\nWith President Donald Trump threatening to shut down the government if he doesn't get $5 billion for a wall, Pelosi has met privately with Vela over his strong opposition to a wall and concerns about a barrier interfering with the spaceport being built by SpaceX outside Brownsville.\nI met with her the day she met with Trump, Vela said, referring to Tuesday's antagonistic Oval Office meeting with Trump, Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. And I walked into her office after she'd just gotten off the phone with him. Pelosi was praised by Democrats for standing up to Trump during the heated conversation, attended by reporters, over border wall funding.\nThe border wall is obviously really important to me, said Vela. She handled that issue really well in her meeting with Trump. The president followed up with Pelosi in a telephone call.\nA shutdown is a real possibility, Vela said.\nAt the same time, Pelosi also was negotiating with the half dozen or so ringleaders opposed to her becoming speaker again  she was speaker from 2007 to 2011  and reached out to Vela. I had a long conversation with her about the wall, he said of his 45-minute talk in Pelosi's office, a meeting that contributed to his agreeing that Pelosi be speaker for a limited time.\nBy the next day, Pelosi, who also was talking to other dissidents, had agreed to a plan that would enable her to serve as speaker through 2022, opening the door to a new generation of leaders and giving her the votes she needs to be elected speaker Jan. 3. Nancy and I have no questions on the table, said Vela. I have her full-fledged support.\nAnd one of the most important issues to him is securing protection for SpaceX's spaceport, under construction at Boca Chica beach outside Brownsville by excluding government-built barriers on about 20 miles of the property.\nI'm going to vote no' to any package that has a nickel of wall funding, he said. But he wants whatever package that emerges from discussions between Congress and the White House to protect the SpaceX project in his district.\nMeanwhile, another Texas border congressman, Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo, also is working with Pelosi to get compromise language that protects wildlife refuges and cultural areas on the border if lawmakers can reach a deal with Trump.\nCuellar, a member of the House Appropriations Committee and a Pelosi lieutenant who was just promoted to be a chief deputy whip, is worried that Trump is entrenched in a 14th century solution to border security and may be willing to have a partial government shutdown.\nHe wants everything on the wall, Cuellar said. We're saying border security is personnel, resources at the ports of entry, technology. ... He just wants to fulfill his campaign promise.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-doggett-reacts-affordable-care-act-ruling-texas", "Congressman Doggett Reacts to Affordable Care Act Ruling in Texas", "2018-12-15", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "***Press Release***\n\n\t\t\t\tFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\t\t\t\tDecember 15, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t202-225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\n Congressman Doggett Reacts to Affordable Care Act Ruling in Texas \nWashington, D.C.  U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement in reaction to federal judge in Texas striking down the entire Affordable Care Act last night:\nThis horrendous ruling is the judicial equivalent of filling the stockings with lumps of coal. Millions of familiesincluding those with pre-existing conditionsnow face the uncertainties of print denials, inadequate coverage, exorbitant premiums, and lack of basic care. If not reversed on appeal, we must find a legislative way of preventing this Republican conspiracy from denying Americans health care.\n###\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-doggett-reacts-affordable-care-act-ruling-texas", "Congressman Doggett Reacts to Affordable Care Act Ruling in Texas", "2018-12-15", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement in reaction to federal judge in Texas striking down the entire Affordable Care Act last night:\n\n\"This horrendous ruling is the judicial equivalent of filling the stockings with lumps of coal. Millions of families\u2014including those with pre-existing conditions\u2014now face the uncertainties of print denials, inadequate coverage, exorbitant premiums, and lack of basic care. If not reversed on appeal, we must find a legislative way of preventing this Republican conspiracy from denying Americans health care.\"\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-opposes-aca-individual-mandate-ruling", "Congresswoman Johnson Opposes ACA Individual Mandate Ruling", "2018-12-15", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dallas, TX  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson today released the following statement after a federal judge ruled the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate unconstitutional, resulting in great uncertainty for the American health care market:\nIn six, years, the Affordable Care Act has brought millions of Americans health care for the first time in their lives, and despite these successes, Republicans have sought to undermine it and therefore jeopardize the health care for a great many American families. This outcome has been realized by the decision adjudicated by a federal judge in Texas. It is crucial to keep in mind that after failing to repeal the ACA, the Republican campaign to undermine and handicap the seminal health care law of our generation.\nWhile the legal ramifications of this judicial decision remains unclear, I want those who believe in the fundamental right of universal health care to understand how fragile even our most profound legislative achievements are in these politically uncertain and unstable times.\nAs an individual who began my career as a nurse and the first nurse to ever be elected to Congress, I know the positive impact access to quality health care can make on the lives of countless American families. It is this firm conviction that will power me to join my Democratic colleagues in the majority of the new Congress to pass comprehensive health care reforms that expand health care coverage throughout this country. This is my promise to the American people and my constituents of District 30.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402916", "Rep. Cuellar Announces $84,000 for New Shuttle Bus for Webb County", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Cuellar Announces $84,000 for New Shuttle Bus for Webb County \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington  | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        December 14, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      \r\nToday, Congressman\r\nHenry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $84,000 in federal funding for Webb County to\r\npurchase a new public shuttle bus from the Federal Transit Administration\r\n(FTA). This new addition to the County's bus fleet will improve transit\r\noperations in rural areas, increasing public transportation for disabled and\r\nelderly individuals in Webb County. Funds for this grant program were provided\r\nthrough the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). \r\n\r\nIncreasing\r\naccess to unrestricted public transportation for commuters in the 28th\r\nDistrict of Texas is a top priority for Congressman Cuellar. Presently, there\r\nare six bus routes which cover most of the rural areas of Webb County. The new\r\nshuttle bus will increase public transit access for rural residents who lack\r\nsufficient transportation options, including low-income and senior citizens. \r\n\r\nResidents\r\nin Webb County and in rural areas across the country deserve the same access to\r\npublic transportation afforded to urban areas, said Congressman Cuellar.\r\nThis new shuttle bus will provide an additional mode of transportation, making\r\nbus travel in Laredo safer and more accessible for citizens and visitors alike.\r\nI would like to recognize the Federal Transit Administration, the Texas\r\nDepartment of Transportation, and Webb County for focusing on the needs of this\r\ncommunity. I additionally thank Webb County Judge Tijerina and County\r\nCommissioners for their efforts in securing this much needed resource.\r\n\r\n  \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402918", "Rep. Henry Cuellar Named Chief Deputy Whip in the 116th Congress", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Henry Cuellar Named Chief Deputy Whip in the 116th Congress \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        December 14, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      WASHINGTON Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28), along with Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), G.K. Butterfield (NC-01), Peter Welch (VT-AL), and Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shelia Jackson Lee (TX-18), Dan Kildee (MI-05), and Pete Aguilar (CA-31), was named Chief Deputy Whip by House Majority Whip-Elect James E. Clyburn for the 116th Congress. The Congressman released the following statement regarding this new position: \r\n\r\nI would like to thank House Majority Whip-Elect Clyburn for providing me with this great leadership opportunity. It is a great honor to be named Chief Deputy Whip for this upcoming Congress, where I promise to work in a bipartisan manner and serve the American people. \r\n\r\nAs we enter the majority, it is critical that we continue to reach across the aisle at finding common-sense legislative solutions to the issues we face. I look forward to working with the Whip team and my fellow colleagues to perform this role with the utmost dignity and dedication.\r\n\r\n\r\n###\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402920", "Rep. Cuellar Appreciates Sending Troops Home for the Holidays", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Cuellar Appreciates Sending Troops Home for the Holidays \r\n   \r\n    \r\n      Calls for Remaining troops to be Sent Home Early \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        December 14, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      WASHINGTON  Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) has continually called for U.S. Troops on the border to be sent home for the holidays and to not extend their mission past the expiration date. Today, the Congressman released the following statement in response to reports showing that hundreds of troops will be sent home this week:\r\n\r\nI am encouraged to see that many of the U.S. active-duty personnel currently deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border are returning home this week, especially in time for the holidays. I supported ending the mission of our troops on the border before the original December 15th deadline, and request the remaining active-duty troops be returned to their home bases to celebrate the holidays with their loved ones. Ending this mission on the border sends a clear message to the American people that our dedicated U.S. Customs and Border Protection law enforcement personnel are fully capable of securing our border.\r\n\r\n###\r\n\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402921", "El Congresista Cuellar agradece el envo de tropas a casa para las vacaciones", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "El Congresista Cuellar agradece el envo de tropas a casa para las vacaciones \r\n   \r\n    \r\n      Pide que las tropas restantes sean enviadas a casa antes de la fecha prevista \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        December 14, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      WASHINGTON - El Congresista Henry Cuellar (TX-28) ha pedido continuamente que las tropas de los Estados Unidos en la frontera se enven a sus hogares para las vacaciones y que no se extienda su misin ms all de la fecha de vencimiento. Hoy, el Congresista emiti la siguiente declaracin en respuesta a informes que muestran que cientos de soldados sern enviados a casa esta semana:\r\nMe alienta ver que gran parte del personal de servicio activo de los EE. UU. actualmente desplegado en la frontera de EE. UU. y Mxico regresara a casa esta semana, especialmente a tiempo para las vacaciones. Apoy el finalizar la misin de nuestras tropas en la frontera antes de la fecha lmite original del 15 de diciembre, y solicito que las tropas de servicio activo restantes sean devueltas a sus bases para celebrar las fiestas con sus seres queridos. El finalizar esta misin en la frontera enva un mensaje claro al pueblo estadounidense de que nuestro personal dedicado a la aplicacin de la ley de Aduanas y Proteccin Fronteriza de los EE. UU. est totalmente capacitado para asegurar nuestra frontera.\"\r\n\r\n###\r\n\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-announces-28-million-grant-for-children-s-hospital", "Congresswoman Johnson Announces $2.8 Million Grant for Childrens Hospital", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dallas, TX  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson today announced that the Department of Health and Human Services awarded Children's Medical Center Dallas with a $2,887,257 grant. The funding will enhance the Children's Graduate Medical Education Payment Program.\nChildren's Hospital is a world-class medical institution, which serves families by providing, at times, life-saving care for the young. I am delighted to announce that Children's will receive additional funding to help train the next generation of medical professionals who will care for children that have taken ill, said Congresswoman Johnson. As someone who began my career as a nurse offering medical care, I believe there a few causes more deserving of this funding than teaching new doctors and nurses to offer care for the young. It is a great pleasure to congratulate Children's Hospital on receiving this award.\nThe grant funding period runs through September 30, 2019.\n  \n\t# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/repveasey-leads-letter-with-nm-and-tx-lawmakers-to-demand-answers-on", "Rep.Veasey Leads Letter with NM and TX Lawmakers to Demand Answers on Death of 7-Year-Old Migrant Child in CBP Custody", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Marc A. Veasey", "V000131", "veasey.house.gov", "veasey", "https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Young girl's tragic death \"raises significant questions about the leadership at DHS and CBP's ability to appropriately respond to the humanitarian crisis happening at our southern borders and the agency's ability to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future.\"\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-N.M.), Marc Veasey (D-Texas) and Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) wrote to leadership of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) demanding an immediate investigation into the tragic death of a 7-year-old girl from Guatemala who died on December 8, 2018, after being taken into custody with her father by CBP in Lordsburg, N.M.\n\n\"Her death raises significant questions about the leadership at Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and CBP's ability to appropriately respond to the humanitarian crisis happening at our southern borders and the agency's ability to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future,\" the lawmakers wrote.\n\n\"We learned through news outlets that the child and her father turned themselves into CBP agents on the night of December 6, 2018, and that the following morning the child fell ill around 5:00 am and at approximately 6:25 am she began having seizures,\" the lawmakers said. \"According to CBP, emergency responders measured her body temperature at 105.7 degrees, and she was flown to Providence Children's Hospital in El Paso, Texas for medical care, where she later passed away. The hospital listed her cause of death as septic shock, fever and dehydration. According to a statement released by CBP, the child \u2018reportedly had not eaten or consumed water for several days.'\"\n\n\"We remain deeply concerned about the Administration's anti-immigrant enforcement policies against individuals who pose no threat to the nation, as well as the administration's policies and practices that may be causing asylum seekers to attempt a dangerous journey crossing between the ports of entry,\" the lawmakers said.\n\n\"Additionally, it is unacceptable that it took more than a week for reports of the child's death to become public. Congress requires CPB to report the death of any individual in CBP custody within 24 hours including relevant details regarding the circumstances of the fatality,\" they wrote.\n\nThe lawmakers requested a full investigation into the tragic death of this child, as well as a number of actionable items to ensure accountability and reform, including:\n\n-a specific timeline of events concerning CBP's actions in this tragic incident;\n\n-a meeting with the CBP commissioner;\n\n-a complete accounting from CBP about what may have informed its response to this situation; a detailed report about wait times for families and children seeking to present at every port of entry;\n\n-a detailed report of the metering policies at each port of entry;\n\n-a commitment from CBP to start complying with the report language from the FY18 Appropriations Act, and also follow up in a timely manner with any reporting on investigations related to the deaths in custody; and\n\n-a detailed report from CBP on its standard of care for all adults and minors who enter their custody.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://vela.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressmen-vela-cuellar-and-gonzalez-laud-over-27-million-hidalgo", "Congressmen Vela, Cuellar, and Gonzalez Laud Over $27 Million for Hidalgo County Head Start", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Filemon Vela", "V000132", "vela.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressmen Filemon Vela (TX-34), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), and Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Office of Head Start has awarded a continuation grant of $27,236,014 to Hidalgo County Head Start. This grant will help implement comprehensive child development programs that prepare young students, ages three to four, from low-income families for pre-school.\nThe grant will allow Hidalgo County Head Start to continue serving children and families in South Texas. Children participating in this program are given access to educational, nutritional, health, social, and special services. For 35 years, the program has sought to promote school readiness and developmental achievement.\nThe Head Start program strengthens families and our community by providing children with quality education early in their development,said Congressman Vela.This funding is a critical investment in the education of our future leaders and will help ensure that South Texas children and their families have the tools they need to succeed.\nHead Start is a tremendously successful program, having served thousands of children and families in my district,said Congressman Cuellar.For years, it has contributed a great deal to the community by providing students with an array of comprehensive services and opportunities to shape a path for success. These funds are not only an investment in our children's education, but an investment in their future.\nThis is great news  we must always keep the door of opportunity open for every child in the 15th District of Texas,Congressman Gonzalez said.The Head Start program empowers students to expand their horizons and continues to prepare children for success both in school and beyond. In Congress, I will work to ensure that federal dollars are never limited when it comes to the academic success of our children. \nTeresa Flores, Executive Director of the Hidalgo County Head Start Program, expressed her enthusiasm about the federal funding for the program:\nWe are grateful to Congressman Gonzalez for his support in the continued funding of our program to provide comprehensiveHeadStartservices to the neediest families in our county,Executive Director Flores said.It will also continue to fund the 752 employees, 33% who are former parents, and who serve the program in the areas of education, family services, health services, staff development, human resources, mental health services, field operations, finance, special services, transition, nutrition and transportation.Our program also developed andsustains successful partnerships with ten school districts to prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.The districts include: Pharr San Juan Alamo, McAllen, Weslaco, Mission, La Joya, Edinburg, Monte Alto, Hidalgo, Mercedes, and Edcouch.We will also continue to assist staff in securing higher education degrees for early education and provide financial resources and release time to fill in our classroom teaching vacancies.\nThe grant is a continuation application to fund the program for 3,690 students served in 185 classrooms throughout the county for fiscal year 2019. This is project is a five-year grant beginning July 1, 2016 and ending on June 30, 2021.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402917", "Congressmen Cuellar, Gonzalez, Vela Laud Over $27 Million for Hidalgo County Head Start", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressmen Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), and\r\nFilemon Vela (TX-34) today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and\r\nHuman Services' (HHS) Office of Head Start has awarded a continuation grant of\r\n$27,236,014 to Hidalgo County Head Start. This grant will help implement\r\ncomprehensive child development programs that prepare young students, ages\r\nthree to four, from low-income families for pre-school.\r\n\r\nThe grant will allow Hidalgo County Head Start to continue serving\r\nchildren and families in South Texas. Children participating in this program\r\nare given access to educational, nutritional, health, social, and special\r\nservices. For 35 years, the program has sought to promote school readiness and\r\ndevelopmental achievement.\r\n\r\nHead\r\nStart is a tremendously successful program, having served thousands of children\r\nand families in my district, said Congressman Cuellar. For years, it\r\nhas contributed a great deal to the community by providing students with an\r\narray of comprehensive services and opportunities to shape a path for success.\r\nThese funds are not only an investment in our children's education, but an\r\ninvestment in their future.\r\n\r\nThis is great news  we must always keep the door of opportunity\r\nopen for every child in the 15th District of Texas, Congressman Gonzalez\r\nsaid.The Head Start program empowers students to expand their\r\nhorizons and continues to prepare children for success both in school and beyond.\r\nIn Congress, I will work to ensure that federal dollars are never limited when\r\nit comes to the academic success of our children.\r\n\r\nThe Head Start program strengthens\r\nfamilies and our community by providing children with quality education early\r\nin their development, said Congressman Vela. This funding is a\r\ncritical investment in the education of our future leaders and will help ensure\r\nthat South Texas children and their families have the tools they need to\r\nsucceed.\r\n\r\nTeresa Flores, Executive Director of the Hidalgo County Head Start\r\nProgram, expressed her enthusiasm about the federal funding for the program:\r\n\r\nThe grant is a continuation application to fund the program for\r\nour 3,690 served in 185 classrooms throughout the county for fiscal year 2019.\r\nThis is project is a five year grant beginning 7/01/2016 and ending on\r\n6/30/2021,Executive Director Flores said.We are grateful\r\nto Congressman Gonzalez for his support in the continued funding of our program\r\nto provide comprehensiveHeadStartservices to the neediest\r\nfamilies in our county. It will also continue to fund the 752 employees,\r\n33% who are former parents, and who serve the program in the areas of\r\neducation, family services, health services, staff development, human\r\nresources, mental health services, field operations, finance, special services,\r\ntransition, nutrition and transportation. Our program also developed\r\nandsustains successful partnerships with ten school districts to prepare\r\nchildren for kindergarten and beyond. The districts include: Pharr San\r\nJuan Alamo, McAllen, Weslaco, Mission, La Joya, Edinburg, Monte Alto, Hidalgo,\r\nMercedes, and Edcouch. We will also continue to assist staff in securing\r\nhigher education degrees for early education and provide financial resources\r\nand release time to fill in our classroom teaching vacancies.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/demanding-house-action-rep-doggett-passage-historic-senate-yemen", "Demanding House Action: Rep. Doggett on Passage of Historic Senate Yemen Resolution", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "***Press Release***\n\t\t\t\tFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\t\t\t\tDecember 13, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t202-225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\n\nDemanding House Action: Rep. Doggett on Passage of Historic Senate Yemen Resolution\n\nWashington, D.C.  U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement in reaction to the historic Senate vote to limit presidential war powers in Yemen:\nThis powerful vote, the Trump Administration's disgraceful coverup for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmanmost recently by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo before the House todayand the daily deaths of more and more Yemeni children all demand action by the House. The Senate rejected the Administration's claim that its activities in Yemen are not subject to the War Powers Act: The House must do the same.Even if he remains committed to being a Trump apologist, Speaker Ryan should complete his tenure by following the example of Senate Republicans to reverse course and permit a full and fair debate on similar resolutions next week.\nAnd yesterday, as Republicans hid the provision to end House debate within a rule on the Farm Bill, Rep. Doggett gave a speech which you can watch here, with a short excerpt below:\nWhat cruel ironythat this rule dealing, in part, with too much food in America may starve millions in Yemen. This rule today prohibits a fair debate and vote here, because Republican leaders know that so many members of both parties can no longer stomach the atrocitiesatrocities that are supported by American tax dollars.\nThey fear that a bipartisan majority of this House would reject what has become a wretched stain on our Nation.Last month, this same Trump enablers buried consideration of our resolution with a bill about gray wolves. Today, they bury Yemenis with a bill about American agricultural abundance. As Americans celebrate a joyous Christmas, the Trump Administration will continue writing the epitaph for the mass graves in Yemen. Let's reject this rule today and put a stop to this egregious wrongdoing.\n\n###\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/demanding-house-action-rep-doggett-passage-historic-senate-yemen-resolution", "Demanding House Action: Rep. Doggett on Passage of Historic Senate Yemen Resolution", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement in reaction to the historic Senate vote to limit presidential war powers in Yemen:\n\n\"This powerful vote, the Trump Administration's disgraceful coverup for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman\u2014most recently by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo before the House today\u2014and the daily deaths of more and more Yemeni children all demand action by the House. The Senate rejected the Administration's claim that its activities in Yemen are not subject to the War Powers Act: The House must do the same. Even if he remains committed to being a Trump apologist, Speaker Ryan should complete his tenure by following the example of Senate Republicans to reverse course and permit a full and fair debate on similar resolutions next week.\"\n\nAnd yesterday, as Republicans hid the provision to end House debate within a rule on the Farm Bill, Rep. Doggett gave a speech which you can watch here, with a short excerpt below:\n\n\"What cruel irony\u2014that this rule dealing, in part, with too much food in America may starve millions in Yemen. This rule today prohibits a fair debate and vote here, because Republican leaders know that so many members of both parties can no longer stomach the atrocities\u2014atrocities that are supported by American tax dollars.\n\nThey fear that a bipartisan majority of this House would reject what has become a wretched stain on our Nation. Last month, this same Trump enablers buried consideration of our resolution with a bill about gray wolves. Today, they bury Yemenis with a bill about American agricultural abundance. As Americans celebrate a joyous Christmas, the Trump Administration will continue writing the epitaph for the mass graves in Yemen. Let's reject this rule today and put a stop to this egregious wrongdoing.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-and-utrgv-announce-almost-100000-bilingual-enrichment", "Congressman Gonzalez and UTRGV Announce Almost $100,000 for Bilingual Enrichment Courses", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today announced that the National Endowment of the Humanities (NEH) has awarded $99,991 to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's(UTRGV)Project SSTARC (Social Studies Through Authentic and Relevant Content): Promoting Humanities Learning in Elementary Schools.\nProject SSTARCis a two-year collaborative project between the Center for Bilingual Studies and the Center for Mexican American Studies at UTRGVand local school districts in the Rio Grande Valley. The project aims to provide an opportunity for local elementary school (kindergarten through 5th grade) teachers to gain better knowledge of local and regional history, create relevant social studies content for their students in both English and Spanish, and disseminate the content on a wide scale to enrich the schooling experience of studentsby introducingthem to authentic and relevant humanities content early on in their lives.\nWe must immerse young minds in social studies without limitations,Congressman Gonzalez said.I amgrateful this new funding will help UTRGV and Project SSTARC prevail in breaking down language barriers and building up student academic success.\nCommunity engagement is one of UTRGV's top priorities, and we are thrilled that this grant will allow the university to provide support to elementary school teachers throughout the Valley, said UTRGV President Guy Bailey. I thank Congressman Gonzalez and everyone at UTRGV who assisted in obtaining this grant.\nThe Project Director, Dr. J. Joy Esquierdo, is a professor in UTRGV's Bilingual and Literacy Studies Department and the Director of the Center for Bilingual Studies.\nThis grant award is a great opportunity for elementary teachers in the Rio Grande Valley to deepen their understanding of how local history, people, and events can enhance and enrich the curriculum delivered in the classrooms,Dr. Esquierdo said.I look forward to collaborating with the humanities scholars, elementary teachers, and the grant team to provide the Social Studies lesson plans and projects celebrating and highlighting the rich history of the Rio Grande Valley.\nDr. Esquierdoexplained that the project will bring together four scholars of Mexican American Studies to develop content to deliver to K-5 teachers at two different four-day workshops. The scholars' content, that includes learning modules and presentations with recommended readings, will be housed online. Each year 21 elementary teachers will attend these workshops. At the workshops, teachers will collaborate to design authentic curriculum units that will include lesson plans based on the scholars' presentations. Teachers will then refine and implement these lessons over the following fall. Project directors and key personnel will conduct site visits to observe the teachers implementing the lesson plans and providing feedback. The second set of workshops will focus on refining and adding supplemental materials to the curriculum units with the guidance of the humanities scholars and project personnel. In late fall 2020, UTRGVwill offer a one-day conference free of charge for anestimated 100 elementary teachers. The participating Project SSTARC teachers will present the newly designed Social Studies curriculum and Project Directors will also deliver talks regarding the project. Additionally, the curriculum units with the lesson plans will be housed online for greater dissemination in both Spanish and English.\nThe project takes advantage of the unique assets of both the Centers of Bilingual Studies and Mexican American Studies at UTRGV as well as the humanities scholars associated with those centers, and the history of the region. The region's history, large Mexican American population, and enthusiasm from teachers and scholars make UTRGV the ideal location to implement such a curriculum. Moreover, it will help enhance UTRGV's reputation as a Hispanic Serving Institution that shares the rich history of the region with young students.\nCongressman Gonzalez plans to continue offering a helping hand to UTRGV academic success programs and helping every child reach their maximum potential.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-gonzalez-vela-cuellar-laud-over-27-million-hidalgo-county-head", "Congressmen Gonzalez, Vela, Cuellar Laud Over $27 Million for Hidalgo County Head Start", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), Filemon Vela (TX-34), and Henry Cuellar (TX-28) today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Office of Head Start has awarded a continuation grant of $27,236,014 to Hidalgo County Head Start. This grant will help implement comprehensive child development programs that prepare young students, ages three to four, from low-income families for pre-school.\nThe grant will allow Hidalgo County Head Start to continue serving children and families in South Texas. Children participating in this program are given access to educational, nutritional, health, social, and special services. For 35 years, the program has sought to promote school readiness and developmental achievement.\nThis is great news  we must always keep the door of opportunity open for every child in the 15th District of Texas,Congressman Gonzalez said.The Head Start program empowers students to expand their horizons and continues to prepare children for success both in school and beyond. In Congress, I will work to ensure that federal dollars are never limited when it comes to the academic success of our children.\nThe Head Start program strengthens families and our community by providing children with quality education early in their development,said Congressman Vela.This funding is a critical investment in the education of our future leaders and will help ensure that South Texas children and their families have the tools they need to succeed.\nHead Start is a tremendously successful program, having served thousands of children and families in my district,said Congressman Cuellar.For years, it has contributed a great deal to the community by providing students with an array of comprehensive services and opportunities to shape a path for success. These funds are not only an investment in our children's education, but an investment in their future.\nTeresa Flores, Executive Director of the Hidalgo County Head Start Program, expressed her enthusiasm about the federal funding for the program:\nWe are grateful to Congressman Gonzalez for his support in the continued funding of our program to provide comprehensiveHeadStartservices to the neediest families in our county, Executive Director Flores said.It will also continue to fund the 752 employees, 33% who are former parents, and who serve the program in the areas of education, family services, health services, staff development, human resources, mental health services, field operations, finance, special services, transition, nutrition and transportation.Our program also developed andsustains successful partnerships with ten school districts to prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.The districts include: Pharr San Juan Alamo, McAllen, Weslaco, Mission, La Joya, Edinburg, Monte Alto, Hidalgo, Mercedes, and Edcouch.We will also continue to assist staff in securing higher education degrees for early education and provide financial resources and release time to fill in our classroom teaching vacancies.\nThe grant is a continuation application to fund the program for 3,690 students served in 185 classrooms throughout the county for fiscal year 2019. This is project is a five-year grant beginning July 1, 2016 and ending on June 30, 2021.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402906", "Rep. Cuellar Votes in Support of Farm Bill", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) joined his colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives by voting for H.R. 2, the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018, also known as the Farm Bill. The bill, which passed the House by a vote of 369-47, will extend all agriculture and nutrition programs for the next five years, that includes support for farmers and ranchers in Texas and across the country. This legislation passed the U.S. Senate, and now moves to the President's desk to be signed into law.\r\nThis bill is a direct investment for our farmers and cattle ranchers, said Congressman Cuellar. It will also ensure that Americans in rural and urban areas across the country continue to be provided with the safest and most abundant food supply in the world. Specifically, this legislation will modernize our agriculture support systems, save American taxpayer dollars, and offer our farmers and ranchers certainty on how American agriculture policy will be regulated.\r\nCongressman Cuellar continued, I would like to thank House Agriculture Chairman Mike Conaway (TX-11), Ranking Member Collin Peterson (MN-7), and my fellow colleagues for working across the aisle to get this crucial bill passed.\r\n\r\nNutrition & Hunger\r\nThis bill preserves crucial benefits for millions of Texans and their families, such as:\r\n Reauthorizes SNAP for five years;\r\n Expands funding for food banks with $206 million for The Emergency Food Assistance; Program (TEFAP), which helps supplement the diets of low-income Americans, including the elderly;\r\n Makes donating fluid milk for food banks and other feeding programs easier; and\r\n Provides $238 million for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which works to improve the health of low-income elderly persons by supplementing their diets with nutritious foods.\r\n\r\nSupport for Farmers & Ranchers\r\n Maintains the core provisions of the federal crop insurance program, which is permanently authorized;\r\n Increases farm loan authorization level from $4.23 billion to $10 billion, including a 50 percent set-aside for direct operating loans for beginning farmers and ranchers;\r\n Combines and establishes mandatory funding for important programs to promote U.S. agricultural exports;\r\n Improves the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs and offers producers choices;\r\n Allows farmers to update their program yields, boosting their eligibility to receive support;\r\n Increases marketing loan rates to improve farmers' cash flow and access to credit when prices are low during harvest time;\r\n Updates limits on Farm Service Agency (FSA) farm loans to keep pace with increasing costs and land values; and\r\n Expands access to FSA farm loans for veteran and beginning farmers.\r\n\r\nPartnerships with HSIs\r\n Reauthorizes National Institute of Food and Agriculture education grants programs for Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs), which prepare underrepresented students for careers related to the food, agricultural, and natural resource systems. HSIs in South Texas include: Laredo College, South Texas College, Texas A&M International University, University of Texas at San Antonio, and the University of the Incarnate Word.\r\n\r\nConservation\r\n The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which received $1.75 billion for FY19, would receive $2.03 billion by FY23. The program helps agricultural producers confront challenges while conserving natural resources like soil, water and air. Through EQIP, the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides agricultural producers with financial resources and one-on-one help to plan and implement improvements and conservation practices. Using these practices can lead to cleaner water and air, healthier soil and better wildlife habitat, all while improving agricultural operations for farmers in the 28th District;\r\n Increases the amount of land allowed under the Conservation Reserve Program, which pays farmers not to produce crops on environmentally sensitive land; and\r\n $450 million annually for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, which provides financial and technical assistance to help restore, protect, and enhance agricultural lands and wetlands.\r\n\r\nRural Development & Transparency \r\nThis legislation includes provisions that helps struggling rural hospitals to gain better financial footing, reauthorizes critical rural water and sewer infrastructure programs, and boosts technical assistant for rural development programs in rural communities.It additionally increases USDA transparency. Provisions include:\r\n $350 million annually for new broadband infrastructure. New projects would have to be in areas where at least 90 percent of households are unserved by broadband, instead of 15 percent under current law;\r\n $82 million for Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants, which help rural communities use the unique capabilities of telecommunications to connect to each other and the world;\r\n $65 million for Rural Business Development Grants;\r\n $50 million for Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants;\r\n Requires USDA to establish a rural health liaison; and\r\n Improves transparency through annual reports of USDA lending activity. \r\n\r\nAnimal & Plant Health\r\n $120 million from FY19 through FY22, and $30 million annually after that, for animal disease management programs, including research on cattle fever ticks;\r\n Beginning in FY23, $18 million for a new National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program;\r\n Funding would also be allocated for a new National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank and for the National Animal Health Laboratory Network;\r\n Provides $25 million annually for a new Citrus Trust Fund for research into citrus diseases and pests; and\r\n $15 million annually for five years for USDA to establish a National Plant Diagnostic Network to monitor threats to plant health. \r\n\r\nFor more information about the Farm Bill's provisions, please click here.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-greens-statement-2019-open-enrollment-period", "Congressman Al Green's Statement on 2019 Open Enrollment Period", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Al Green", "G000553", "algreen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Houston, TX) - On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, Congressman Al Green made the following statement regarding the severity of enrolling in a health plan before open enrollment ends on Saturday, December 15, 2018:\nAs the deadline for open enrollment rapidly approaches, I urge all of my constituents and everyone in this country to be sure to secure healthcare coverage for 2019. According to Community Health Choice, more than 185,000 constituents of the Ninth Congressional District of Texas, which I am proud to serve, do not have health insurance. This includes residents of both Fort Bend County and Harris County. In 2018, 13% of Fort Bend County's uninsured population were eligible for Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and 17% were eligible for premium tax credits. In 2018, 13% of the Harris County's uninsured population were eligible for Medicaid or CHIP and 15% were eligible for premium tax credits.\nIf you do not have health insurance, please sign up for coverage at www.HealthCare.gov. If you feel you cannot afford coverage, visit www.HealthCare.gov to learn more about Medicaid and tax credit eligibility. For free, in-person assistance, call 1-800-318-2596 or visit Localhelp.HealthCare.gov. For assistance in other languages, visit www.HealthCare.gov/Language-Resource/. Healthcare coverage is a life or death decision. Please, get covered. Make the December 15, 2018 deadline your lifeline to health care. Your life could depend on it.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/passing-asia-reassurance-initiative-act-ensuring-trade-partners-support", "Passing Asia Reassurance Initiative Act: Ensuring Trade Partners that Support Human Rights & Rule of Law", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "***Press Release*** \n\t\t\t\tFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\t\t\t\tDecember 12, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t202-225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\n Passing Asia Reassurance Initiative Act: Ensuring Trade Partners that Support Human Rights & Rule of Law \nWashington, D.C.  U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, spoke on the floor of the House today before passage of the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act, and in support of amending the Section 302 of the bill. Rep. Doggett gave a speech which you can watch here, and provided these comments:\nAs approved by the Senate, this resolution responds appropriately to the vacillation and confusion over the Trump Administration's foreign policy. But in today's amendment to Section 302 of the bill, we commit not only to support continued engagement and friendship in the Asia Pacific region, but to advance through our trade negotiations the values for which America has long been recognized as a beacon of hope. That beacon should leave no corner of the globe in the dark, and it must reach Asia.\nOur economic relations must be rooted in shared respect for human rights and adherence to the rule of law. It takes more than simply an opportunity to increase exports to justify a new agreement with a trading partner. With this new Section 302, Congress doesn't support just any trade agreement, but only those agreements with partners that actually respect, promote, and adhere to the rule of law. By its very terms, when considered together with Title IV, this amended resolution does not, for example, justify trade agreements with Myanmar (formerly Burma) after its murderous ethnic cleansing of its Rohingya residents, nor does it offer any support to the Trump Administration's July 26 declared intent to reward the tyrant of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte.\nThis country, under this government, is simply an unacceptable choice as a potential trading partner. Though Trump's Hug-a-Thug approach has repeatedly preferred foreign tyrants over committed allies, I believe that human rights is not a luxury. It is central to American values and the security of American families.\n###\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/suffering-rising-and-american-bombs-keep-falling-doggett-speech-house", "Suffering is Rising and American Bombs Keep Falling: Doggett Speech on House Floor as GOP Stifles Debate on Yemen", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "***Press Release*** \n\t\t\t\tFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\t\t\t\tDecember 12, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t202-225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\n Suffering is Rising and American Bombs Keep Falling: Doggett Speech on House Floor as GOP Stifles Debate on Yemen \nWashington, D.C.  U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, spoke on the floor of the House today on GOP attempts to again block a vote on U.S. support for the Saudi coalition in Yemen. As Republicans stifle this provision within a rule on the Farm Bill, Rep. Doggett gave a speech which you can watch here, and which is reproduced in part below, as prepared:\nWhat cruel ironythat this rule dealing, in part, with too much food in America may starve millions in Yemen. As this Congress invests in food for America, we pour tax dollars into stripping Yemeni children of theirs. In that remote place of which most Americans know little, 85,000 children have died and another 12 million are on starvation's brink. This very day, more children will be lost to starvation and disease. In an eloquent plea this week, Nick Kristof reports on an eight-year-old boy who is starving and has limbs like sticks He gazes stolidly ahead, tuning out everything, [as his] body focuses every calorie simply on keeping the organs functioningweighing just over 30 pounds.' He notes, United Nations officials warn that this could become the worst famine in a generation.' And Mr. Kristof rightly concludes, The bottom line: Our tax dollars are going to starve children.'\nSuffering is rising and American bombs keep falling.When the Saudi coalition attacked a school bus, killing 40 little children, scrawled across the bomb were markings that meant: Made in America.\nWith today's rule, Trump's enablers here in Congress tell him to keep it up. To keep supporting the murderous Saudi regime for whom they can see no evil and hear no evil, even when there is a recording of the Saudi murder and dismemberment of an American resident available to listen to. This rule today prohibits a fair debate and vote here, because Republican leaders know that so many members of both parties can no longer stomach the atrocities.Atrocities that are supported by American tax dollars. They fear that a bipartisan majority of this House would reject what has become a wretched stain on our Nation. Last month, this same Trump enablers buried consideration of our resolution with a bill about gray wolves; today they bury Yemenis with a bill about American agricultural abundance.\nAs Americans celebrate a joyous Christmas, the Trump Administration will continue writing the epitaph for the mass graves in Yemen. Let's reject this Rule today and put a stop to this egregious wrongdoing.\n###\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/passing-asia-reassurance-initiative-act-ensuring-trade-partners-support-human", "Passing Asia Reassurance Initiative Act: Ensuring Trade Partners that Support Human Rights & Rule of Law", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, spoke on the floor of the House today before passage of the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act, and in support of amending the Section 302 of the bill. Rep. Doggett gave a speech which you can watch here, and provided these comments:\n\n\"As approved by the Senate, this resolution responds appropriately to the vacillation and confusion over the Trump Administration's foreign policy. But in today's amendment to Section 302 of the bill, we commit not only to support continued engagement and friendship in the Asia Pacific region, but to advance through our trade negotiations the values for which America has long been recognized as a beacon of hope.That beacon should leave no corner of the globe in the dark, and it must reach Asia.\n\nOur economic relations must be rooted in shared respect for human rights and adherence to the rule of law. It takes more than simply an opportunity to increase exports to justify a new agreement with a trading partner. With this new Section 302, Congress doesn't support just any trade agreement, but only those agreements with partners that actually respect, promote, and adhere to the rule of law. By its very terms, when considered together with Title IV, this amended resolution does not, for example, justify trade agreements with Myanmar (formerly Burma) after its murderous ethnic cleansing of its Rohingya residents, nor does it offer any support to the Trump Administration's July 26 declared intent to reward the tyrant of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte.\n\nThis country, under this government, is simply an unacceptable choice as a potential trading partner. Though Trump's Hug-a-Thug approach has repeatedly preferred foreign tyrants over committed allies, I believe that human rights is not a luxury. It is central to American values and the security of American families.\"\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/suffering-rising-and-american-bombs-keep-falling-doggett-speech-house-floor", "Suffering is Rising and American Bombs Keep Falling: Doggett Speech on House Floor as GOP Stifles Debate on Yemen", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, spoke on the floor of the House today on GOP attempts to again block a vote on U.S. support for the Saudi coalition in Yemen. As Republicans stifle this provision within a rule on the Farm Bill, Rep. Doggett gave a speech which you can watch here, and which is reproduced in part below, as prepared:\n\n\"What cruel irony\u2014that this rule dealing, in part, with too much food in America may starve millions in Yemen. As this Congress invests in food for America, we pour tax dollars into stripping Yemeni children of theirs. In that remote place of which most Americans know little, 85,000 children have died and another 12 million are on starvation's brink. This very day, more children will be lost to starvation and disease. In an eloquent plea this week, Nick Kristof reports on \u2018an eight-year-old boy who is starving and has limbs like sticks He gazes stolidly ahead, tuning out everything, [as his] body focuses every calorie simply on keeping the organs functioning\u2026weighing just over 30 pounds.' He notes, \u2018United Nations officials warn that this could become the worst famine in a generation.' And Mr. Kristof rightly concludes, \u2018The bottom line: Our tax dollars are going to starve children.'\n\nSuffering is rising and American bombs keep falling. When the Saudi coalition attacked a school bus, killing 40 little children, scrawled across the bomb were markings that meant: Made in America.\n\nWith today's rule, Trump's enablers here in Congress tell him to keep it up. To keep supporting the murderous Saudi regime for whom they can see no evil and hear no evil, even when there is a recording of the Saudi murder and dismemberment of an American resident available to listen to. This rule today prohibits a fair debate and vote here, because Republican leaders know that so many members of both parties can no longer stomach the atrocities. Atrocities that are supported by American tax dollars. They fear that a bipartisan majority of this House would reject what has become a wretched stain on our Nation. Last month, this same Trump enablers buried consideration of our resolution with a bill about gray wolves; today they bury Yemenis with a bill about American agricultural abundance.\n\nAs Americans celebrate a joyous Christmas, the Trump Administration will continue writing the epitaph for the mass graves in Yemen. Let's reject this Rule today and put a stop to this egregious wrongdoing.\"\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-applauds-farm-bill-conference-report-s-passage-out", "Congresswoman Johnson Applauds Farm Bill Conference Reports Passage Out of the House", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson today applauded the passage of the Conference Report to H.R. 2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018. As the ranking member on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Congresswoman Johnson was selected to serve on the Conference Committee assigned to merge the House and Senate versions of the legislation, also referred to as the Farm Bill.\nThe Farm Bill is an important piece of legislation that is designed to anticipate and address the needs of farmers over the next five years and tackle the issue of food insecurity for those who are less fortunate, said Congresswoman Johnson. While the version of the bill passed earlier this year by the House failed to strike a balanced approach, I am happy to say that this compromised version does exactly that. This bill maintains current benefit levels for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) while also ensuring that none of the program's recipients who direly need its benefits are kicked off the program. This means millions of Americans can rest assured that programs like SNAP will continue to keep food on the table in their time of need.\nThe passage of this bill received strong support from key stakeholders, including the Texas Farm Bureau, Feeding America, The Humane Society of the United States, and the AARP. \nThe bill now heads to the president's desk for his signature.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-lauds-passage-bipartisan-2018-farm-bill", "Congressman Gonzalez Lauds Passage of Bipartisan 2018 Farm Bill", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018. Congressman Gonzalez supported H.R. 2 alongside 369 fellow representatives. The measure passed the Senate yesterday by a vote of 87-13 and now heads to the President's desk for signature.\nI am proud to support the 2018 Farm Bill, a product of true bipartisanship and compromise that will bring certainty and relief to the farmers and ranchers, families, seniors, and veterans that call Central and South Texas home. By passing this bill, Congress has signaled its support for cattle, citrus, cotton, sorghum, and sugar; committed to investments in rural broadband, healthcare, and infrastructure; and preserved the integrity of vital risk management, conservation, and nutrition programs that sustain and lift up our communities. I would like to thank my friend, Ranking Member Collin Peterson, and the entire Conference Committee for their work to deliver a Farm Bill that works for the 15th District of Texas.\nThe Farm Bill Conference Report supports good-paying rural jobs, strengthens the critical farmer safety net and bolsters opportunity in America's small towns through rural development, sustainable conservation, research and energy initiatives. It:\n Extends Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish (ELAP) to cover the inspection of cattle fever tick;\n\tExtends Sugar Policy in continued support of sugar growers in the Rio Grande Valley;\n\tEstablishes a $25 Million Citrus Trust Fund to support the Emergency Citrus Disease Research and Extension Program and combat harmful pests and diseases that are harmful to the citrus industry;\n\tCreates the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program, which serves to address the risk of introduction and the spread of animal pests and disease affecting livestock;\n\tIncludes a Cattle Fever Tick Program that is designed to receive research and extension grants to assist ranchers and landowners and develop advanced methods for eradication of cattle fever ticks;\n\tImproves the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs and allows farmers to update their program yields;\n\tIncreases marketing loan rates to improve farmers' cash flow and access to credit;\n\tUpdates overall limits on FSA farm loans to keep pace with increasing costs and land values;\n\tMakes no cuts to the conservation title  maintains Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Stewardship Program, the nation's largest working lands conservation program, with separate funding;\n\tImproves water quality and soil health by encouraging farmers to plant cover crops, targets infrastructure investments to small town water systems to protect drinking water, and funds the Small Watershed Program and Dam Rehab;\n\tCombines and establishes mandatory funding to help farmers stay globally competitive through initiatives that help to develop and expand their business in overseas markets;\n\tExpands high-speed internet access in rural communities, expands telemedicine and community facility investments to help combat the opioid abuse epidemic, and strengthens mental health resources within the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance network;\n\tIncreases job training opportunities to help SNAP participants find and keep good-paying jobs.\n \n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vela.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/spacex-may-be-new-barrier-trump-s-border-wall", "SpaceX May Be New Barrier for Trumps Border Wall", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Filemon Vela", "V000132", "vela.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Four years ago, Elon Musk, the brash, outspoken Silicon Valley entrepreneur, strolled into South Texas for the groundbreaking of a site for SpaceX, his private rocket company.\nJoining Mr. Musk were Representative Filemon Vela, Democrat of Texas, and Rick Perry, who was governor of Texas at the time and is now President Trump's energy secretary.\nOn that windy September day, the trio smiled and dug shovels into a mound of dirt in front of a large sign: Future home of SpaceX's South Texas launchpad.\nThe rural tract of land that was supposed to be home to a commercial spaceport now stands in the path of Mr. Trump's border wall. Mr. Musk is just one of the potentially hundreds of private landowners in Texas who would be disrupted by the president's desire to build abig, beautifulwall.\nThe border wall was a signature campaign promise for Mr. Trump, but Democrats oppose it. Congress has said it would provide up to $1.6 billion for border security this year, but Mr. Trump wants $5 billion for his wall alone  and is nowthreatening to shut down the governmentwithout it.\n\nHere is where things stand on Mr. Trump's proposed wall.\nSo how much of the wall is already being built?\nA year ago, the Trump administration unveiledwall prototypesat the border in San Diego in a $20 million showcase of imposing barriers stretching up to 30 feet high and made of steel bars, concrete slabs and metal spikes.\nBut construction still has not begun on a new wall  despite Mr. Trump's repeated promises to build it along the nearly 2,000-mile border with Mexico, at an estimated cost of $25 billion.\nIn the 2018 fiscal year, Congress provided $1.6 billion for border security, much of it to repair existing barriers. The Department of Homeland Security has already spent millions of dollars to replace fences in California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.\nAdditionally, last year's funding was to pay for 33 miles of a new wall in the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas, where 41 percent of all migrants apprehended on the southwestern border are stopped.\nIn November, Customs and Border Protection awarded two contracts for border wall construction there:$145 million fora six-mile leveesystemin the Border Patrol's McAllen Station area, and$167 millionfor an eight-mile leveein the Rio Grande Valley sector.\nTogether, the two projects will mark the first brand-new section of wall to be built under the Trump administration. Construction is expected to begin in February.\nDo good fencesreallymake good neighbors?\nThe new wall in the Rio Grande Valley could potentially encroach on hundreds of landowners, farmers and companies near the border.\nFor example, the six miles of wall near the Texas border city of McAllen is slated to cut through a100-acre butterfly refuge, blocking access to the wildlife sanctuary and, effectively, shutting it down.\nAnd then there's SpaceX. Its launch site is still under construction in Boca Chica Village, a small community wedged between the border town of Brownsville and the Gulf Coast.\nIn an email, James Gleeson, a SpaceX spokesman said Customs and Border Protection and its parent agency, the Department of Homeland Security, recently asked to conduct a survey on the property.\nAt this time, SpaceX is evaluating the request and is in communication with D.H.S. to further understand their plans, Mr. Gleeson said.\nHow long would it take to build the rest of the wall?\nFirst, Congress must approve the funding  and Mr. Trump faces an uphill battle in getting it.\nMost Democrats have questioned whether a wall will, in fact, stop migrants from illegally entering the United States. Even some Republicans doubt its utility. Representative Will Hurd, Republican of Texas, has called the wall the most expensive and least effective way to secure the border.\nBut even if Congress approves the amount Mr. Trump wants, construction most likely will stall  perhaps indefinitely.\nThat's because seizing property from landowners is a legally tricky process that can take years. Most of the land along the border where Mr. Trump wants to build the wall is in Texas, and is privately owned  as Kevin K. McAleenan, the commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, confirmed to senators on Tuesday.\nAnd landowners who oppose the wall, and may not take kindly to seeing their property appropriated, are likely to try to block it in court.\nLegal challenges by landowners who objected when the administration of President George W. Bush tried to build a border wall in South Texas in 2008 have dragged on for over a decade. There are still 82 cases pending from that time, according to Efrn Olivares, a lawyer with the Texas Civil Rights Project in Alamo, Tex., who is representing several landowners.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vela.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-vela-supports-passage-farm-bill-conference-report", "Rep. Vela Supports Passage of Farm Bill Conference Report", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Filemon Vela", "V000132", "vela.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington Today, Congressman Filemon Vela (D-TX) supported passage of the 2018 Farm Bill Conference Committee Report after earlier this week adding his signature as a negotiator to the completed report. This measure, which finalizes the House and Senate agreement for the landmark 2018 Farm Bill, was passed on the floor of the House of Representatives late this afternoon. As the only Texas Democrat selected to serve as a conferee representing the House Agriculture Committee, Congressman Vela advocated for agricultural issues that affect Texas.\nThe Farm Bill sets federal agricultural policy for the next five years. America's land and natural resources, trade opportunities, rural communities, and farmers and ranchers all benefit from strong agricultural policy. The Farm Bill increases food security and helps Americans access the nutritious foods they need to keep their families healthy.\nThe bill we negotiated protects critical nutrition priorities. Food programs like SNAP and TEFAP help ensure that, in a country of great abundance, children, seniors, veterans, the disabled, and the most vulnerable do not go hungry,said Congressman Vela.I successfully worked to include a $25 million Citrus Trust Fund through the Specialty Crop Research Initiative and a National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program, and I secured protections for cotton and sugar programs that are important to the South Texas economy.\nThe Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will no longer face harmful additional work requirements initially proposed in an effort to remove recipients from the program. The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) will have a funding increase of $20 million to assist local food banks and organizations with distributing foods to communities.\nThe $25 Million Citrus Trust Fund was established to support the Emergency Citrus Disease Research and Extension Program in an effort to combat pests and diseases that are harmful to the citrus industry. Over the last several years, South Texas citrus growers have taken on the fight againstHuanglongbing, commonly known as Citrus greening disease. This trust fund will ensure that growers and scientists have the necessary tools to eradicate the disease once and for all.\nThe establishment of the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program serves to address the risk of introduction and the spread of animal pests and disease affecting U.S. Livestock. In addition to this program, the 2018 Farm Bill includes a Cattle Fever Tick Program that is designed to receive research and extension grants to assist ranchers and landowners and develop advanced methods for eradication of cattle fever ticks. The combination of these resources will help landowners and ranchers throughout Texas, and the entire country by preventing the further spread of harmful pests, assuring the future success of the U.S. cattle industry.\nCotton and other commodity farmers will now have the opportunity to re-elect their crop coverage through the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs, with the option of changing their enrollment yearly beginning in 2021. Additionally, all farmers will now have the ability to update their yields in an effort to determine fair and accurate PLC payments.\nAfter a tough fight over the U.S. Sugar Program earlier this year, the conference report maintains most of the existing program, with an added increase to the raw sugar cane loan rate.\nCongressman Vela added,The passage of this bill is a step in the right direction for the American people. \nThe bill, passed yesterday in the Senate, will now go to the President to be signed into law.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-doggett-reacts-president-trump-s-threat-trumpshutdown", "Congressman Doggett Reacts to President Trumps Threat of #TrumpShutdown", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "***Press Release*** \n\t\t\t\tFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\t\t\t\tDecember 11, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tContact: Kate Stotesbery \n\t\t\t\t202-225-4865\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\n Congressman Doggett Reacts to President Trump's Threat of #TrumpShutdown \nWashington, D.C.  U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, released the below statement in response to President Trump's threat today that he was proud to shut down the government for border security:\nTruly amazing. Trump is once again threatening he will shut down the government in order to force U.S. taxpayers to pay for his wasteful wall. Particularly in this holiday season, the impact of a Trump Shutdown would be felt by families across America, including in our community.\n###\nFollow Lloyd Doggett\nFacebook:https://www.Facebook.com/RepLloydDoggett | Twitter: @RepLloydDoggett| Instagram: @RepLloydDoggett", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-doggett-reacts-president-trumps-threat-trumpshutdown", "Congressman Doggett Reacts to President Trump\u2019s Threat of #TrumpShutdown", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lloyd Doggett", "D000399", "doggett.house.gov", "doggett", "https://doggett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, released the below statement in response to President Trump's threat today that he was \"proud to shut down the government for border security\":\n\n\"Truly amazing. Trump is once again threatening he will shut down the government in order to force U.S. taxpayers to pay for his wasteful wall. Particularly in this holiday season, the impact of a Trump Shutdown would be felt by families across America, including in our community.\"\n\nFollow Lloyd Doggett", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-announces-over-45000-funding-transportation-fellowships", "Congressman Gonzalez Announces Over $45,000 in Funding for Transportation Fellowships at UTRGV", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has awarded $45,500 to the Dwight David Eisenhower Transportation Fellowship Program (DDETFP) at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV).\nThis funding will help support fellows in the program to cover tuition, fees, stipend, and a one-time travel cost for theupcomingTransportation Research Board Annual (TRB) Meeting in Washington, D.C.\nI commend the U.S. Department of Transportation for this award and applaud UTRGV's involvement in the DDETFP,Congressman Gonzalez said.This is how we keep ourcommunitieson the road to success  by encouraging and assisting bright minds in the midst of post-secondary educationand empowering them to develop the infrastructure solutions of tomorrow.\nStudent success and expanding educational opportunities are two of UTRGV's core priorities, and these grants will help enhance the academic experience of our students,said UTRGV President Guy Bailey.I thank Congressman Gonzalez and everyone at UTRGV who assisted in obtaining this grant.\nDDETFP was developed in to assist students pursuing degrees in transportation-related disciplines. UTRGV utilizes the fellowship program through its University Transportation Center for Railway Safety (UTCRS) in the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Interested students can receive awards from $1,500 - $10,000.\nInthe U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Gonzalez remains committed to keeping federal grants, like UTRGV's DDETFP funding, flowing to the 15th District of Texas. The congressman encourages students to seize these opportunities and become valuable assets. For more information on how prospective UTRGV students can apply, clickhere.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-statement-passing-deported-army-veteran-carlos-torres", "Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Passing of Deported Army Veteran Carlos Torres", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued the following statementafter learningof the death of deported Vietnam War Army Veteran, Carlos Torres.\nPrior todeportation, Mr. Torresresided inthe Rio Grande Valley. In 2017, Congressman Gonzalez introduced H.R. 3429,the Repatriate Our Patriots Act, that would create a pathway to citizenship for deported veterans who held a clean record prior to military service.\nCarlos Torres served this country, and in return, this country failed him. After serving in the U.S. Army, on the front lines in the Vietnam War, Mr. Torres was denied a path to citizenship and deported. He fought for a home that turned him away, and in the end, he neversawthat home again. There is no excuse for this. No military service member should die in vain. The Repatriate Our Patriots Act mustbe enacted into law so that this never happens again.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-statement-president-trump-s-shutdown-remarks", "Congressman Gonzalez Statement on President Trumps Shutdown Remarks", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued a statement today after President Donald J. Trump was quoted saying, I am proud to shut down the government for border security, during a meeting with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Speaker-designate Nancy Pelosi.\nPresident Trump is willing to put a halt on government funding and services while also taking credit for it. The President of the United States is the last person who should advocate for shutting down our government, and it is clear fromhistelevised admissions thathe isunwilling to negotiate, and that indeedhe ismaking a demand. Theremust be nofunding allocated for a border wall  that's final.While the President continuesobstructing our government,I will work with likeminded pragmatists on both sides of the aisletoeffectively secureour borders throughthe use of low-cost,modern technology.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/top-dems-release-new-staff-report-on-equifax-breach-finding-stronger", "Top Dems Release New Staff Report on Equifax Breach Finding Stronger Laws Needed to Thwart Future Cyber Attacks", "2018-12-10", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, ranking member of the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology, and Congressman Elijah E. Cummings, ranking member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, today issued a new Democratic staff report in response to a Republican staff report on the Committees' joint investigation into the 2017 Equifax data breach.\nUnfortunately, Committee Republicans issued a report without including Democratic suggestions to prevent data breaches in the future, Cummings and Johnson said. This was a missed opportunity to convert the Committees' oversight efforts into concrete reforms that would help prevent future data breaches, hold companies accountable, and protect American consumers and their sensitive personal information.\nShortly after Equifax announced its breach, both Committees initiated a joint investigation into the cause of and measures to help prevent future breaches. The investigation was a rare bipartisan initiative. The Committees conducted interviews of company executives and reviewed thousands of pages of company documents. In addition, Democratic staff met with consumer advocacy groups.\nThe Republican staff report merely reiterated findings by media outlets and the Government Accountability Office about Equifax's cybersecurity vulnerabilities and the company's lack of preparedness to protect breach victims. \nIn contrast, the Democratic staff report provides detailed legislative and oversight recommendations to better protect consumers from future cyberattacks, including: \n requiring federal financial regulatory agencies to report their efforts to protect consumers from cybertheft and identify areas Congress could enhance agencies' authorities to achieve that goal; \n\trequiring all federal contractors to comply with established cybersecurity standards and guidance;\n\tenacting a comprehensive notification law that governs how data breach victims should be notified; and\n\tamending the Federal Trade Commission Act to strengthen civil penalties for private sector violations of consumer data security requirements.\n Click here to read the Democratic staff report.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-gonzalez-and-cuellar-announce-over-13-million-water-and-waste", "Congressmen Gonzalez and Cuellar Announce Over $13 Million for Water and Waste Disposal Solutions in Guadalupe County", "2018-12-10", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and Henry Cuellar (TX-28) today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded Guadalupe County's Green Valley Special Utility District (SUD) $13,816,000 in Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants.\nTheWater and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Programhelps communities and organizations provide long-term, low interest loans for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage and waste disposal, and storm water drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas.\nIt is crucial that Central and South Texans can go about their daily lives, knowing that water and waste disposal infrastructureisup-to-date,Congressman Gonzalez said.I thank the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Green Valley Special Utility District for working to ensure the health and safety of our citizens remains a top priority.\nToday's funding is a great investment in water infrastructure for residents in Guadalupe County,said Congressman Cuellar.These funds will not only provide households with better water services, but will also help meet heightened state treatment standards and the demands of this growing community. I would like to thank Congressman Vicente Gonzalez, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Green Valley Special Utility District for engaging in this critical mission.\nThe funding will be dispersed through three Rural Development projects: An investment of$3,096,000for a wastewater buy-in project which involves purchasing capacity in two outside systems; An investment of$5,290,000will be used to construct two one-million gallon elevated storage tanks at Plant 3 and Plant 4; An investment of$5,430,000will be used to provide service along Weil Road which is located within the ETJs of the cities of Santa Clara and Cibolo.\nState and local government entities, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribesmay apply forthis program. Funding can be used for rural areas and towns with populations of 10,000 or less, tribal lands in rural areas, and Colonias. Applicants canconfirmeligibilityhere.\nEligible applicants can either apply online by visiting theRD Apply tool, or through one of USDA Rural Development'sstate or field office. For more information regarding term dates, funding purposes, and additional requirements can be found on the program's main page.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-johnson-announces-169-million-head-start-grant-for", "Congresswoman Johnson Announces $1.69 Million Head Start Grant for District 30 Montessori Lumin Education", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson today announced that the Department of Health and Human Services awarded a $1,694,735 grant to Lumin Education, an East Dallas Montessori. The grant was administered under the department's Early Head Start program which targets pre-school aged children and families.\nInvesting in early childhood education is an investment in our future, said Congresswoman Johnson. The benefits of exposing children at a young age to the classroom sets them on a trajectory of increased knowledge, better social skills and a lifelong appreciation of learning. I am delighted to congratulate Lumin Education on receiving this funding and look forward to the great number of District 30 residents and children they will be able to serve in the coming years.\nThe funding will be allocated for the upcoming 2019 calendar year.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-encourages-south-texas-residents-apply-available-census", "Congressman Gonzalez Encourages South Texas Residents to Apply for Available Census Position", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) is encouraging eligible applicants in the 15th District of Texas to apply for an available Work At Home (WAH) position assigned to the Area Census Office (ACO) in McAllen, Texas.\nThis is a bilingual position for applicants fluent in English and Spanish. This is also a Time Limited Appointment, initial appointment is not to exceed September 30, 2020. This appointment may be extended at management's discretion.\nThis Census opportunity allows area residents to represent and improve their communities  directly from home, Congressman Gonzalez said.It is critical that the 15th District of Texas report accurate, full numbers during the 2020 Decennial Census. It is my hope that every available position, including Work At Home positions, can fulfill this goal.\nResponsibilities for the WAH position include:\n Directly supervise approximately 10-15 Census Field Supervisors and approximately 3-5 clerks.\n\tProvide group and individual training, monitors daily assignments and provides advice and guidance to subordinate staff.\n\tMaintain effective public relations with the community within the office boundaries, such as the local news media, community leaders and organizations, and local government officials.\n\tEstablish an effective working relationship with traditionally hard to enumerate populations or with specific populations indigenous to the area within the office boundaries which incumbent is responsible for, including community, religious, or other characteristics.\n\tAssure that specific levels of quality and progress of field operations are being met through analysis of various computer-generated reports and observation.\n\tReview and analyze cost, quality, and progress reports to assure operations are coordinated within prescribed time allocations and quality and cost-efficient standards.\n\tFluently speak Spanish in order to make and answer calls that may come from the Spanish population and organizations that service the Spanish community in the Area Census Office (ACO) geographical area.\n\tPresent information to audiences that predominately speak Spanish and translate and develop targeted information and promotional materials from Spanish to English and English to Spanish when necessary.\n To be eligible for a Census position, you must:\n Be at least 18 years old.\n\tHave a valid Social Security number.\n\tBe a U.S. citizen.\n\tHave a valid email address.\n\tComplete an application and answer assessment questions. (Some assessment questions are available in Spanish. However, an English proficiency test may also be required.)\n\tBe registered with the Selective Service System or have a qualifying exemption, if you are a male born after Dec. 31, 1959.\n\tPass a Census-performed criminal background check and a review of criminal records, including fingerprinting.\n\tCommit to completing training.\n\tBe available to work flexible hours, which can include days, evenings, and/or weekends.\n The application is now open and will close on December 10, 2018.For more information on this WAH position and how to apply, please visit https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/518069000.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-gonzalez-and-vela-urge-leader-pelosi-denounce-increased-spending", "Congressmen Gonzalez and Vela Urge Leader Pelosi to Denounce Increased Spending Plans for Border Wall", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Today, Congressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and Filemon Vela (TX-34) called on House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi to strongly oppose any funding of physical barriers along the southern border in the Fiscal Year 2019 spending bill.\nIn a letter addressed to Leader Pelosi, Congressmen Gonzalez and Velaaskedthe Leader to push back against Senate Leadership's consent to fund physical barriers along the southwest border. The congressmenemphasized thatsignificant harmhas already been caused by existing barriers, citing increased flooding and environmental damage to border communities as results of said barriers.\nWe had an agreement and we need to stick to it,Congressman Gonzalez said. We need to be focused on real border security solutions, not the President's obsession with a obtaining funding for a physical barrier. No more funding. Plain and simple.\nEnough is enough,said Rep. Vela. The idea of fundingmore physical barriers along the Southern border should not beon the table for democrats. I am calling on Leader Pelosi to make it clear to her leadership colleagues in the Senate that fundingphysical barriersisanon-starter.\nTo view the letter,click here.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-denounces-attempts-to-stifle-the-will", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Denounces Attempts to Stifle the Will of the People In Wisconsin and Michigan and attempts to Steal Ballots in North Carolina", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robin K. Chand\nDecember 6, 2018   202-225-3816\nPress Statement\n\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Denounces Attempts to Stifle the Will of the People In Wisconsin and Michigan and attempts to Steal Ballots in North Carolina\n\nJackson Lee: All told, together with voter suppression tactics, and politically and racially gerrymandered legislative districts, this represents yet another anti-democratic tactic employed by the GOP in an attempt cling on to power, despite the fact that their policies were just rejected at the ballot box. I encourage all fair-minded individuals and entities across the land to speak out against this effort and protect our democratic form of government.\n\nWASHINGTON, DC  Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations, and senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget, released this statement following the discovery that absentee ballots in North Carolina's Ninth Congressional District were stolen, and GOP-controlled state legislatures in Wisconsin and Michigan are acting to subvert the will of voters by using lame duck sessions to strip powers of incoming Democratic governors:\n\nLast month, fueled by record turnout for a Midterm election, and widespread disapproval of the President, the Republican party and their policies, voters went to the polls and delivered resounding victories to Democrats. Democrats won control of the House of Representatives, wrestled control of seven Governors' offices, and won nearly 400 state legislative districts. Across the nation, House Democratic candidates won a resounding 54% of the vote and a victory margin of 8.4 million votesthe largest in history.\n\nThe period following the election has been marked by ugly power grabs, and other issues related to the election. North Carolina has been especially problematic. A state whose racial gerrymandering laws were so onerous the law was considered to disenfranchise certain voters with almost surgical precision, North Carolina once more finds its self at the fore of questionable, undemocratic conduct. This is most apparent in the Ninth Congressional District of North Carolina, where it has been revealed that wholesale theft of absentee ballots occurred, calling into question the final tally. I call upon state officials in North Carolina to refrain from certifying the results from this race until an investigation has occurred, and in the event of certification does occur, I urge the House of Representatives not to seat the certified Republican winner until the matter is fully investigated and resolved.\n\nYet, this is not the only instance of GOP efforts to frustrate the popular will. In Michigan and Wisconsin, GOP lawmakers are using their lame duck sessions to radically constrict the powers of the incoming governor. In both cases an incoming Democrat is replacing an outgoing Republican. The practical effect of this move is constricting the powers of those duly elected to serve the people.\n\nIt is especially odious that this is happening after an election, and after the will of the people has been gauged, and after they have chosen a different course. All told, together with voter suppression tactics, and politically and racially gerrymandered legislative districts, this represents yet another anti-democratic tactic employed by the GOP in an attempt cling on to power, despite the fact that their policies were just rejected at the ballot box. I encourage all fair-minded individuals and entities across the land to speak out against this effort and protect our democratic form of government.\n\n###\n\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is a Democrat from Texas's 18th Congressional District. She is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary and Homeland Security and is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-denounces-the-trump-organization-s", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Denounces the Trump Organizations Decision to Rent 500 Hotel Rooms to Saudi Arabia Following the Inauguration and Urges Oversight hearings on possible Violations of the Emoluments Clause", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robin K. Chand\nDecember 6, 2018   202-225-3816\nPress Statement\n\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Denounces the Trump Organization's Decision to Rent 500 Hotel Rooms to Saudi Arabia Following the Inauguration and Urges Oversight hearings on possible Violations of the Emoluments Clause\n\nJackson Lee: However, in light of yesterday's story in the Post, the more likely explanation for Trump's obsequiousness to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and his deference to its crown prince, is that he and his family have significant, undisclosed financial interests with the Kingdom. Thus, it appears that the foreign policy of the United States is being improperly influenced by the personal financial interests of the president. We will be certain, of course, when the President is forced to release his tax returns and the American people can seefor themselvesthat the President's interests and motivations appear to be improperly influenced by his own pecuniary interests. To protect the nation against this type of betrayal, is precisely why the Framers included the Emoluments Clause in our Constitution.\n\nWASHINGTON, DC  Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations, and senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget, released this statement following a report in the Washington Post indicating that following Trump's election, a lobbyist for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia booked 500 rooms at the Trump Hotel in Washington, D.C.:\n\nYesterday the Washington Post reported that shortly after Election Night 2016, and it was apparent that Donald Trump had secured a majority of votes in the Electoral College, lobbyists working for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) had reserved 500 hotel rooms in the Trump Hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue, in Washington D.C., changing reservations from a non-Trump owned property. This follows other reports that the KSA has been increasing occupancy at properties also owned by the President, in Chicago and New York. Furthermore, it appears that lobbyists secured rooms on behalf of a veterans group. If true, this represents a rather cynical attempt to cloak the Trump Organization's questionable business activity by using a veterans group to distract from this unseemlyand possibly illegalact. But, then again, nothing more can be expected from a man who, thus far during his almost 23 months as President, has failed to visit troops while they are serving overseas. If true, and given the headlines of the last two months, this represents a serious concern that merits investigation for many reasons.\n\nIn October 2018, an American national and columnist for the Washington Post who was critical of KSA, Jamal Khashoggi, walked into the Saudi Embassy in Istanbul, Turkey, and never was seen alive again. American intelligence agencies assessed with high confidence that Mr. Khashoggi was dismembered, and his body parts disintegrated after they were placed in acid. In the face of this intelligence assessment, the Kingdom has steadfastly denied any involvement in Khashoggi's murder, and it has also sought to deny the role played by the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammad bin Salman (MBS). Moreover, to add insult to injury, the President has yet again doubted the assessment of our intelligence communities with glibness, simply dismissing MBS's and KSA's role as unproven and ultimately immaterial, because the KSA is purchaser of military equipment from the United States and to criticize Mr. Khashoggi's murderers would be detrimental to the financial health of the United States.\n\nHowever, in light of yesterday's story in the Post, the more likely explanation for Trump's obsequiousness to the KSA, and his deference to MBS, is that he and his family have significant, undisclosed financial interests with the Kingdom. Thus, it appears that the foreign policy of the United States is being improperly influenced by the personal financial interests of the president. We will be certain, of course, when the President is forced to release his tax returns and the American people can seefor themselvesthat the President's interests and motivations appear to be improperly influenced by his own pecuniary interests. To protect the nation against this type of betrayal, is precisely why the Framers included the Emoluments Clause in our Constitution.\n\nWhile the President may try to stonewall legitimate requests to inspect his tax returns as a means of conducting oversight, Democrats are poised to fill the vacuum left by GOP inaction and determine how and why the foreign policy of the United States is being influenced by these factors. During the weeks and months leading up to the November 2018 elections, Democrats pledged to clean up corruption and make Washington work for everyday Americans. When the current occupant of the White House looks the other way on the premediated murder of an American national, Congressional oversight is required to determine the reasons for this betrayal of American values. So Americans can rest assured that when the 116th Congress begins, Democrats will conduct oversight on this and other matters. As Justice Brandeis observed, sunlight is the best disinfectant.'\n\nAdditionally, Americans can also rest assured that while the President is currently trampling over our traditions and undermining our institutions, our federal government's other branches are filling the void. The President's apparent violations of the Emoluments Clause are currently the subject of two active lawsuits in our federal courts. A judge in one of those lawsuits has recently permitted discovery to proceed, so that we may learn the sources of the President's possible conflicts of interest. This may explain why China's recent transgressions into the South China Sea have been unmet by an American response at the same time it has approved trademarks for the President's daughter; or, why the President continues to publicly deny the Intelligence Community's unanimous assessment that Russia conspired to interfere with the 2016 election.\n\nThe time has come for the American people to learn more about what motivates this individual who lost the popular vote by 3,000,000 votes and whose public statements invite skepticism about his true allegiance(s). Fortunately for all Americans who share these concerns, the 116th Congress will provide some relief from two years of unchecked behavior and confounding actions. A better deal awaits.\n\n###\n\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is a Democrat from Texas's 18th Congressional District. She is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary and Homeland Security and is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-statement-on-pearl-harbor-remembrance", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day 2018", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robin K. Chand\nDecember 7, 2018   202-225-3816\nPress Statement\n\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day 2018\n\nJackson Lee: Unfortunately with each day that passes, we lose to time another member of the Greatest Generation. This week, the nation paused and said farewell to a remarkable member of that era, our 41st president of the United States. As we remember him and the entire Bush Family, let us also remember and keep in our hearts all who fought and died in service of freedom and liberty, and especially those whom we lost today 77 years ago, and who fought in World War II, and who forever will be known as the greatest generation.\n\nWASHINGTON, DC  Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations, and senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget, released this statement on Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day 2018:\n\nToday marks the 77th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. On December 7, 1941, Japanese military executed a surprise attack on our Naval bases. The next day, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt declared the day of the attack as one which will live in infamy. The attack precipitated our entry into World War II.\n  \n\tThe five years which would follow set the table for the second half of the 20th century. Due to the valiant and heroic efforts of our nation's fighting forces, together with our allies, the United States would lead the Allied Forces to victory,establish itself as a hegemonic power, and safeguard liberty for the liberal western order for all the days to come. With this power came great responsibility and the days since World War II have seen an America which has underwritten the global democratic order for over seven decades.\n\nThe fighting forces of that time are often referred to as the Greatest Generation. Unfortunately with each day that passes, we lose to time another member of the Greatest Generation. This week, the nation paused and said farewell to a remarkable member of that era, our 41st president of the United States. As we remember him and the entire Bush Family in our hearts, let us also remember and keep in our hearts all who fought and died in service of freedom and liberty, and especially those whom we lost today 77 years ago, and who fought in World War II, and who forever will be known as the greatest generation.\n\n###\n\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is a Democrat from Texas's 18th Congressional District. She is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary and Homeland Security and is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-statement-on-the-president-s-intent-0", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement on the Presidents Intent to Nominate Heather Nauert as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Contact: Robin Chand\nDecember 7, 2018   202-228-3816\n\nPress Statement\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement on the President's Intent to Nominate Heather Nauert as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations\n\nJackson Lee  As a key member of our foreign policy team, the position of United States Ambassador to the United Nations is too important to be given to a political novice as a personal favor. The position requires expertise of issues disrupting the global order, experience dealing with competing international interests, and an ability to persuade and mobilize leaders to discern shared interests and act accordingly. Instead, the president has nominated a television personality, and not much more, much the same way the country elected a television personality, and not much more, and we are collectively daily living with the consequences.\n\nWashington, DC  Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Budget and Homeland Security, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations, issued this statement following news the President intends to nominate Heather Nauert as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations:\n\nThis morning, the President announced his intention to nominate Heather Nauert to serve as the Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations. If confirmed, she will follow in the tradition of diplomatic legends, such as: Adlai Stevenson, Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Jeanne Kirkpatrick, Andrew Young, Madeline Albright, Tom Pickering, Susan Rice and the man whom we lost and mourned this week, the 41st President of the United States: George Herbert Walker Bush.\n\nThe United States Mission to the United Nations is a representation of our nation's commitment to maintain a freer, safer world since well before the formation of the United Nations. Which is why the intent to nominate Heather Nauert is all the more confounding. At best, Ms. Nauert has fleeting political or policy experience. Her sole qualifications for the position appears to be a congenial television manneri.e., time served as an anchor on the President's favorite morning television news show, and later as press secretary of the State Departmentand a positive rapport with our current Secretary of State. If confirmed, she would be the third Fox News television personality whom the President has selected for service in the administration.\n\nA closer look at her qualification yields no tangible training or experience for the position to which she will be nominated. In this respect, nominating individuals unqualified for the positions in which they would serve is a proud tradition for the Trump Administration, and Ms. Nauert's likely nomination follows in a long line of dubious appointments, such as: his son-in-law to lead our efforts to bring peace to the Middle-East; his personal bodyguard to be head of Oval Office Operations; the president's personal medical doctor to serve the Secretary of the Veterans Administration; a former surgeon, with no experience in urban planning or municipal issues, to be Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; and a stay-at-home grandmother, and sister of a putative subject of the Special Counsel's investigation into Russian interference into the 2016 election to be the nation's education secretary.\n\nBut, as a key member of our foreign policy team, the position of United States Ambassador to the United Nations is too important to be given to a political novice as a personal favor. The position requires expertise of issues disrupting the global order, experience dealing with competing international interests, and an ability to persuade and mobilize leaders to discern shared interests and act accordingly. Instead, the president has nominated a television personality, and not much more, much the same way the country elected a television personality, and not much more, and we are collectively daily living with the consequences. I implore the United States Senate to conduct a fulsome and searching inquiry of this candidate, and her fitness to serve in this position, and to subject her to the most exacting scrutiny to ensure that she is equipped to discharge the responsibilities attendant to this position.\n\n###\n\nSheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas, is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security and the Budget. She is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-statement-on-the-president-s-intent-to", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement on the Presidents Intent to Nominate Bill Barr to be the Next Attorney General", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Contact: Robin Chand\nDecember 7, 2018   202-228-3816\n\nPress Statement\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement on the President's Intent to Nominate Bill Barr to be the Next Attorney General\n\nJackson Lee  The president has announced that he intends to nominate an individual who, if confirmed, will serve as the nation's top law enforcement officer. He will have domain over a wide range of critical legal issues, including civil rights, voting rights, our criminal justice system, and many others. This nomination should be subjected to the same rigors as any other nominee to assess his fitness for this position. And, when his confirmation hearings begin, I plan to attend those hearings and submit testimony concerning this nomination. Yet this nominee must also make clear his impartiality and objectivity with respect to one critical additional issue: it is vital that any Attorney General confirmed by the Senate only receive his/her commission after pledging not to interfere with the Special Counsel's investigation. Anything short of this assurance amounts to a tacit endorsement of the President's now three-year assault on the rule of law.\n\nWashington, DC  Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Budget and Homeland Security, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations, issued this statement following news that the President intends to nominate William Barr to serve as Attorney General:\n\nEarlier today, the President announced his intention to nominate William Barr to be the next Attorney General of the United States. This would be his third Attorney Generalthe first drew the President's ire and was unceremoniously forced out of the position for failing to reverse his recusal from the Special Counsel's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and whether that crime was aided and abetted by members of the Trump Campaign. The second and current Attorney General does not possess the background, training and experience for the position, is not Senate confirmed, is of a dubious appointment which is currently the subject of many legal actions in federal court.\n\nWhile Mr. Barr is undoubtedly qualified for the position, it is not his educational pedigree which is problematic. Instead, Mr. Barr has made a series of statements touching upon the Special Counsel's investigation that call into question his objectiveness, and whether he can be relied upon to successfully execute the mandates of the Special Counsel's investigation. For example, Mr. Barr has questionedimplicitlythe impartiality of the team assembled by the Special Counsel, implying that there must be more balance in the political affiliations of the members of the Special Counsel's team. This is not a benign statement. It, and others he has made, directly bear upon critical issues, witnesses and cross-sections of the Special Counsel's investigation.\n\nIndeed, the work done by the Special Counsel is critical to Americans' confidence in our election systems, to ensure that the interference by a hostile, foreign adversary does not ever again occur, and bring those nefariously involved in the 2016 election to justice. I have long been concerned with ensuring the Special Counsel is permitted to continue his investigation. This is why over a year ago, I introduced H.R. 3654, the Special Counsel Independence Protection Act, which garnered the support of over 150 members of Congress. I am also proud that substantial portions of H.R. 3654 were incorporated into H.R. 5476, the Special Counsel Independence and Integrity Act, which I introduced with Congressman Jerry Nadler, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee, and Congressman Steve Cohen, the Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution. If enacted into law, H.R. 5476 would permit an affected Special Counsel to require judicial ratification of any termination, during the pendency of which the investigation would be stayed, and immune from any interference from the President, or others. If the President proceeds with his intention, I encourage the United States Senate to conduct a fulsome and searching inquiry of this candidate, and his fitness to serve in this position.\n\nThe timing of this news is also noteworthy. Today, a number of critical events are scheduled to occur: former FBI Director Comey is to testify in a transcribed interview before the House Judiciary Committee; also, sentencing memoranda from the Special Counsel as they relate to Michael Cohen, the President's former trusted personal attorney, and Paul Manafort, the president's former campaign manager are also due to be filed today. If past is prologue, these filings are sure to shed more light on exactly how and the extent to which Russia interfered with our election in 2016.\n\nThe president has announced that he intends to nominate an individual who, if confirmed, will serve as the nation's top law enforcement officer. He will have domain over a wide range of critical legal issues, including civil rights, voting rights, our criminal justice system. This nomination should be subjected to the same rigors as any other nominee to assess his fitness for this position. And, when his confirmation hearings begin, I plan to attend those hearings and submit testimony concerning this nomination. Yet this nominee must also make clear his impartiality and objectivity with respect to one critical additional issue: it is vital that any Attorney General confirmed by the Senate only receive his/her commission after pledging not to interfere with the Special Counsel's investigation. Anything short of this assurance amounts to a tacit endorsement of the President's now three-year assault on the rule of law.\n\n\n###\n\nSheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas, is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security and the Budget. She is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vela.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressmen-vela-and-gonzalez-urge-leader-pelosi-denounce-increased", "Congressmen Vela and Gonzalez Urge Leader Pelosi to Denounce Increased Spending Plans for Border Wall", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Filemon Vela", "V000132", "vela.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressmen Vela and Gonzalez Urge Leader Pelosi to Denounce Increased Spending Plans for Border Wall\nWashington, DC  Today, Congressmen Filemon Vela (TX-34) and Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) called on House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi to strongly oppose any funding of physical barriers along the southern border in the Fiscal Year 2019 spending bill.\nIn a letter addressed to Leader Pelosi, Congressmen Vela and Gonzalezaskedthe Leader to push back against Senate Leadership's consent to fund physical barriers along the southwest border. The congressmenemphasized thatsignificant harmhas already been caused by existing barriers, citing increased flooding and environmental damage to border communities as results of said barriers.\nEnough is enough,said Rep. Vela. The idea of fundingmore physical barriers along the Southern border should not beon the table for democrats. I am calling on Leader Pelosi to make it clear to her leadership colleagues in the Senate that fundingphysical barriersisanon-starter.\nWe had an agreement and we need to stick to it,Congressman Gonzalez said. We need to be focused on real border security solutions, not the President's obsession with a obtaining funding for a physical barrier. No more funding. Plain and simple.\nTo view the letter,click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-eddie-bernice-johnson-connects-older-adults-with-financial", "Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Connects Older Adults with Financial, Health Care Resources at 2018 Senior Living Conference", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dallas, TX  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson on Monday hosted the 2018 Senior Living Conference for the older adults of the 30th Congressional District of Texas. The annual conference, now in its third year, connected attendees with resources focused on health care and financial planning to better enhance quality of life for senior citizens.\nAttendees received valuable information on senior preparedness from keynote speaker Ja'net Pearson of Portfolio Resident Services, as well as resources on health care and medical treatment from panelists Carolyn Toliver, of Community Council Advancing Solutions; Rev. Freedom McAdoo, from the DFW Faith Health Collaborative Community; Leslie Makhani, of Sonic Insurance Agency; and Ashley Smith, of Crescent Medical Center Lancaster during the conference hosted at the Lancaster Recreation Center.\nAt this moment in our country, people are living longer than ever. This also means that people must prepare for the challenges that come with a longer life as well, said Congresswoman Johnson. I have hosted this conference so seniors can become aware of what steps they need to take to secure their financial stability, maintain the ability to make decisions about their future for themselves, while still receiving the proper health care they need. \nMore than a dozen organizations were on hand to offer information on resources designed to specifically benefit seniors, including institutions such as Parkland hospital, which provided free blood pressure screenings.\nThe response from this year's conference has been wonderfully supportive of our efforts, said Congresswoman Johnson. And I'm delighted to continue supporting our seniors as long as I breathe.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-gonzalez-hurd-and-senator-cornyn-introduce-legislation-help", "Congressmen Gonzalez, Hurd and Senators Cornyn, Cruz Introduce Legislation to Help Identify Remains of Missing Migrants", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONCongressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and Will Hurd (TX-23) today joinedSenators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) tointroduce theMissing Persons and Unidentified Remains Act of 2018, a billto help local jurisdictions improve the recording and reporting of missing persons and unidentified remains foundin South Texas.\nOur nation has a chance to put more resources into helping identify the remains of missing persons, and to bring closure to families who know not whether to grieve, or continue the search,Congressman Gonzalez said.This piece of legislation would provide much-needed resources directed at finding answers for families across the U.S. Southwest Border. Passing this bill will help our ranchers and farmers, our counties, and our local sheriffs. I thank Congressman HurdandSenator Cornyn for coming together to craft this bipartisan and bicameral piece of legislation.\nOur border communities have experienced the very real consequences of the treacherous journey travelled by many seeking to come to this country,said Sen. Cornyn.My hope is that this bill will help local communities identify those who have gone missing, process unidentified remains, and invest in forensic equipment to provide closure to families in the United States and abroad.\nCommunities in Texas and all along our southern border have experienced firsthand the human tragedy of illegal immigration,Sen. Cruz said.I am proud to join with my colleagues to ensure our local law enforcement officials are equipped with the forensic equipment and resources they need to identify remains found on the border, and solve cases of missing persons.\nUntil we address the root causes of mass migration flows from Central America, individuals will continue to make the perilous journey north,said Hurd, who represents more of the U.S.-Mexico border than any other Member of Congress. This bipartisan bill helps prevent tragic deaths along the border by expanding CBP's rescue and apprehension capabilities. In addition, it mitigates the burdens placed on state and local governments to identify perished individuals with the dignity they deserve. I am proud to join my fellow Texans Rep. Gonzalez and Sen. Cornyn in providing a solution for this very real challenge faced by law enforcement agencies across my district.\n\nThe Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains Act of 2018:\n expands eligibility to apply for grants under Jennifer's Lawto state and local governments, accredited government-funded CODIS forensic laboratories, medical examiners, accredited publicly-funded toxicology, crime, and university forensic anthropology center laboratories, and non-profit organizations that work with state and county forensic offices for entry of data into CODIS of NamUS\n\tauthorizes use of grant funds to cover costs\n\t\tincurred since FY17 for transportation, processing, identification, and reporting of missing persons and unidentified remains\n\t\t\tof hiring additional DNA case analysts and technicians, fingerprint examiners, and forensic odontologists and anthropologists needed to support identificationefforts\n\t\t\tof purchasing state-of-the-art forensic and DNA-typing and analytical equipment\n\t\t\n\tadds privacy protections for biological family reference samples uploaded into CODIS(Combined DNA Index System) by precluding disclosure of such information to Federal or state law enforcement agencies for law enforcement purposes\n\texpands CBP's legal authority to purchase and deployment of up to 170 self-powering 9-1-1 cellular relay rescue beaconsto mitigate migrant deaths on the southern border\n\trequires reporting to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and the National and Missing Unidentified Persons System (NamUS)regarding missing persons and deceased individuals found in each applicant's jurisdiction\n\tadds reporting requirements for the NamUS Programregarding the number of unidentified person cases, anthropology cases, suspected border crossing cases, and associations made\n\tadds reporting requirements for CBP and GAOon unidentified remains and use of rescue beacons\n Endorsements:National Criminal Justice Association; South Texans' Property Rights Association; Texas Border Coalition;League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC);Church World Service; Colibri Center for Human Rights; Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, U.S. Provinces; Franciscan Action Network; Friends Committee on National Legislation (Quakers); Hope Border Institute; Kino Border Initiative; La Frontera Ministries International, Inc.; Latin America Working Group (LAWG); Leadership Conference of Women Religious; National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd; National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights; Sisters of Mercy of the Americas - Institute Justice Team; South Texas Human Rights Center; Southern Border Communities Coalition; Washington Office on Latin America.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402893", "Rep. Cuellar: Barbed Wire in Laredo Comes Down", "2018-12-05", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LAREDO, TEXAS -- Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding the removal of barbed wire on the border in Laredo, Texas.\r\nI just spoke toDirector of the Joint Task Force-WestManny Padilla,who informed me that they will be removing barbed wire in Laredo that was prepared by the troops in recent months as an attempt to impede the oncoming migrant caravan at the border.This is a welcomed change, and I am encouraged to see that a resolution has been agreed upon. Ido understand that if circumstances change in the future, we will need to look for ways in which we can reinforce our border security.\r\nI would like to thankManny Padilla, local Border Patrol Chief Felix Chavez, along with CBPDirector David Higgerson,for their continued work on this issue.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402894", "Rep. Cuellar: Se remueve alambre de pas en Laredo", "2018-12-05", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LAREDO, TEXAS -- Hoy, el Congresista Henry Cuellar (TX-28) emiti la siguiente declaracin con respecto a la remocin del alambre de pas en la frontera en Laredo, Texas:\r\n\r\n\"Acabo de hablar con el Director de la Fuerza de Tarea Conjunta-West Manny Padilla, quien me inform que retirarn el alambre de pas en Laredo, que fue preparado por las tropas en los ltimos meses como un intento de impedir la caravana de inmigrantes que se aproxima a la frontera. Este es un cambio bien recibido, y me alienta ver que se haya acordado una resolucin. Entiendo que si las circunstancias cambian en el futuro, tendremos que buscar formas en las que podamos reforzar nuestra seguridad fronteriza.\r\n\r\n\"Me gustara agradecer a Manny Padilla, al Jefe de la Patrulla Fronteriza local Flix Chvez, junto con el Director de Aduanas y Proteccion Fronteriza David Higgerson, por su trabajo continuo en este tema.\"\r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-applauds-new-medicare-drug-pricing-rule-aimed-lowering", "Congressman Gonzalez Applauds New Medicare Drug Pricing Rule Aimed at Lowering Prescription Drug Prices", "2018-12-04", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today announced that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has issued aproposed rulethat lowers prescription drug costs and increases transparency surrounding Medicare Parts C and D.\nIn May 2018, Congressmen Gonzalez and Doug Collins (GA-09) introduced the bipartisan H.R. 5958,the PHAIR Pricing Act of 2018, to lower drug costs to Medicare recipients at the point of sale. The new rule includes language from this bill.\nMedicare recipients deserve transparency,Congressman Gonzalez said.Prescription drug prices should not be decided behind acurtain and the final cost should not be equal to almost 50 percent above the negotiated price. The road to fixing the America's prescription drug market may be long, but I commend the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services fortaking this important step.\nCongressman Gonzalez haspledgedto make it his mission in Congress to make affordable, accessible healthcare and prescription drugs readily available to Central and South Texans.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-attends-inauguration-mexican-president-andr-s-manuel-l-pez", "Congressman Gonzalez Attends Inauguration of Mexican President Andrs Manuel Lpez Obrador", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) recently attended the inauguration of Mexican President Andrs Manuel LpezObradorin Mexico City, Mexico.\n\nCongressman Gonzalez with the congressional delegation before the inauguration of Mexican President Andrs Manuel LpezObrador.\nThis was a new day, and a new beginning, for Mexico and the entire Western Hemisphere,Congressman Gonzalez said.I congratulate President LpezObradorand look forward to working with him to charta new path forwardin U.S.  Mexico relations. Central and South Texans can expect both governmentsto take concrete steps toincrease border security,stabilize Central America,shorten wait times at our international bridges, raise food safety standards, reduce non-tariff trade barriers, improve supply chain security, and lower costs for consumers while ensuring trade that is equitable and just for all North Americans.\nInAugust, Congressman Gonzalez met with PresidentLpezObrador'sChief of Staff, Mr. Alfonso Romo, with U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Congressman Ruben Kihuen (NV-04) as part of a bipartisan delegation to discuss trade, border security, and methods to strengthen bilateral U.S.-Mexico relations.\nWith the transition from the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Congressman Gonzalez has looked forward to discussing how the new Mexican Administration can bolster local economies and open doors for communities in Central and South Texas. The congressman plans to review the agreement as it makes its waytowardapproval in Congress.\nCongressman Gonzalez alsoinvitedPresidentLpezObradorto visitthe U.S. and the 15th District of Texas to continue discussions on matters that affect the U.S.-Mexico Border.\n\nRead the full letter below:\n\nDecember 1, 2018\n\n\nDear President Andrs Manuel LpezObrador,\n\nFirst and foremost, please accept my sincerest congratulations on the occasion of your inauguration. My colleagues, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, U.S. Congressman Ruben Kihuen, and I enjoyed meeting with your Chief of Staff, Mr. Alfonso Romo, this past August in Mexico City. It is clear that we have a mutual interest in seeing our countries thrive and in making the investments necessary to do so. As such, I would like to extend an invitation for you to visit the Rio Grande Valley now that you have been sworn in as President of Mexico.\nAs you know, NAFTA has transformed the Rio Grande Valley and northern Mexican states of Tamaulipas, Nuevo Len, Coahuila and Chihuahua, as well as many other states throughout Mexico. Trade between our great countries has tripled since the agreement came into effect in the mid-90s. Imports from NAFTA partners have increased 307% to $614 billion, and exports have increased 271% to $525 billion.\nThat aside, there are outstanding issues that remain unresolved, even in the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. While the trade pact does include important updates regarding rules of origin and labor standards, it fails to address insecurity along the border and throughout major highway corridors in Mexico that lead to the United States. This insecurity raises the cost of doing business and serves as barrier to free and fair trade. If we partner to stabilize the region, we can bring greater certainty to businesses, attract investment, and expand opportunity in South Texas and Northern Mexico. This is one of several areas in which I believe we can cooperate for the betterment of both countries and their people.\nHaving spent many summers of my young life in Monterrey, Nuevo Len, with my mother's family, and now living and representing the border, I am committed to strengthening the relationship between our two nations and opening doors for future generations on both sides of the border. I am confident that by working together we can achieve real results.\nI look forward to welcoming you to the Rio Grande Valley and working together to advance collaboration between Mexico and the United States. I wish you a seamless transition in your first days as the 58th president of the United States of Mexico. Should you have any questions, or need more information about the visit, please contact my Chief of Staff, Jose Borjon.\n\nSincerely,\n\n\n\n\nVicente Gonzalez\nMember of Congress\n\n\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-statement-on-the-passing-of-the-41st", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement on the Passing of the 41st President of the United States George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release Contact: Robin Chand\nDecember 1, 2018(202) 2253816\nPress Statement\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement on the Passing of the 41st President of the United States George H.W. Bush\n\nJackson LeeThroughout his long time in public life, he demonstrated unwavering fidelity to country, and it manifested itself in several ways, but is best articulated by President Bush himself, during his 1989 inaugural address: I've spoken of a thousand points of light, of all the community organizations that are spread like stars throughout the nation doing good. I will go to the people and the programs that are the brighter points of light and I will ask every member of my government to become involved. The old ideas are new again because they are not old, they are timeless: duty, sacrifice, commitment, and a patriotism that finds its expression in taking part and pitching in.'\nWashington, D.C.- Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, of the 18th Congressional District of Texas, issued this statement on the death of George H. W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States:\nHis was a life of love: for God, for Country, and for family. George H.W. Bush, whom we lost yesterday at the age of 94, was a giant among men. He served our nation for most of the last seven decades, in so many of the institutions and sectors that make our country great.\nWe were all very lucky to have him as long as we did. As the second youngest naval aviator, he was shot down during one of countless flights in the Pacific theater of World War II, leaving him stranded in the ocean for many hourshis life in danger and with rescue uncertain. Fortunately for him and the hundreds of millions of people across the globe who were touched by his leadership and mourn him today, he would be found alive and brought home. That night in September 1944 would prove fateful to this man, and the country he would serve and that we all love. When he returned home, he married the woman who would be by his side for 73 years and serve as our nation's First Lady, Barbara Pierce Bush. Theirs was a bond so strong that it is perhaps no coincidence that they left us within mere months of one another. Together, they created a prolific and legendary American political dynasty dedicated to public service, including: a son who would serve as governor of Texas and later become the 43rd President, George W. Bush; and Jeb Bush, who would serve two terms as governor of Florida.\nPresident George H.W. Bush's life was one marked by service to country: in the military, as a member of the United States House of Representatives from Texas, as part of our nation's diplomatic corps, as director of the Central Intelligence Agency, and as Vice President of the United States, before he would be elected the 41st President of the United States. His tenure as our nation's Chief Executive is one for which we should all be grateful, as he presided over a remarkable period of geopolitical transition and progress, including the end of the Cold War, the fall of the Berlin Wall, the successful administration of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and a commitment to denuclearization as a means to achieve diplomatic ends.\nAnd, he did not let electoral defeat diminish him or his commitment to public service. When they were both former presidents, George H.W. Bush and his successor the man who would deny him reelectionBill Clinton, joined together to help victims following the devastating tsunami in Indonesia in 2004, and to help hurricane victims in New Orleans following Katrina. Throughout his long time in public life, he demonstrated unwavering fidelity to country, and it manifested itself in several ways, but is best articulated by President Bush himself, during his 1989 inaugural address: I've spoken of a thousand points of light, of all the community organizations, that are spread like stars throughout the nation doing good. I will go to the people and the programs that are the brighter points of light and I will ask every member of my government to become involved. The old ideas are new again because they are not old, they are timeless: duty, sacrifice, commitment, and a patriotism that finds its expression in taking part and pitching in.'\nI know that today, people across the land and indeed the world are remembering this giant of American life. Of course, those of us in Houston also mourn and celebrate a neighbor, whom we loved, whose life we remember, and whose presence in our community is something we will forever cherish. Though he has departed, we are grateful for the time we shared with him and for his service to our nation. I mourn the passing of this statesman, but also celebrate his life. In this time, I extend my deepest sympathies to the entire Bush Family and hold them close in my heart. May God bless President George H.W. Bush, the entire Bush Family, and may he rest in peace.\n###\nSheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas, is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security and the Budget. She is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-travels-today-to-washington-dc-to", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Travels Today to Washington, D.C., to Participate in the Congressional United States Capitol Rotunda Arrival Ceremony for Former President George H.W. Bush as he lies in State", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release Contact: Robin Chand\nDecember 3, 2018(202) 2253816\nPress Statement\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Travels Today to Washington, D.C., to Participate in the Congressional United States Capitol Rotunda Arrival Ceremony for Former President George H.W. Bush as he lies in State\n\nJackson LeeThroughout these tributes you will hear of the many times former President George H.W. Bush and the late Barbara Bush touched people's lives personally. We all would wonder just how people with so many responsibilities could take time to reach out to young students, neighbors and just plain people. Elwyn, my husband, and I will always remember the very special package that came wrapped from China to us as a wedding gift from then-ambassador Bush and Mrs. Bush. George H.W. Bush's life from the very beginning was, in and of itself, a thousand points of life. We will dearly miss him. As the nation mourns him, we say we love youGeorge H.W. Bushand we will miss you.\nWashington, D.C.- Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, of the 18th Congressional District of Texas, issued this statement on her plans to pay her respects to former President George H.W. Bush:\nThe series of tributes coming forth in honor of former President George H.W. Bush, whom we lost on Friday at the age of 94, will undoubtedly speak of the impact he had on people's lives. Yet, no recognition of this giant would be complete without mentioning Houston, the home of the Bush family for many decades. I applaud my beloved hometown of Houston as we honor the 41st President of the United States this evening at 7pm for a citywide ceremony. However, while I would otherwise attend this event, as a senior member of the United States House of Representatives and of the delegation representing Texas in the United States Congress, I will travel to Washington, D.C., later today and at 5pm, I will participate in an arrival ceremony for the casket carrying the body of our beloved former president, representing part of the congressional district that President George H.W. Bush represented during his service as a member of the House of Representatives. Then, on Wednesday, I will attend the funeral services for President George H.W. Bush at the National Cathedral, where on behalf of a grateful nation, I will pay my respects on behalf of all in the Eighteenth Congressional District.\n###\nSheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas, is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security and the Budget. She is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-veaseys-statement-on-the-passing-of-george-hw-bush", "Rep. Veasey's Statement on the Passing of George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Marc A. Veasey", "V000131", "veasey.house.gov", "veasey", "https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "\"Today the world lost a leader and a countryman. George H. W. Bush personified all the traits of a Texan - willing to work together, show restraint when necessary, make tough decisions for the betterment of all Americans, and demonstrate deep loyalty to country. We honor his memory and his family through their time of mourning and celebration of life.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402889", "Rep. Cuellars Statement on the Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Cuellar's Statement on the Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        December 1, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement on the passing of former President George H.W. Bush:\r\nToday, we remember President George H.W. Bush and the incredible legacy that he leaves behind. His unyielding leadership, commitment and servitude to his family and to our country will be matched by none.\r\nGeorge H.W. Bush was a loving husband and father, a WWII veteran and consummate public servant, leading our country as the 41st President. He also served in many other capacities such as Vice President, Congressman from Texas, Director of the CIA and Ambassador to the UN. His commitment to public service and to our nation leave behind an everlasting legacy that inspires us and generations to come.My heartfelt condolences go to the Bush family during this difficult time.\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402890", "Rep. Cuellar: We are Ready to Work with Mexican President", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding the inauguration of Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador:\r\n\r\nIt was an honor for me to have attended the inauguration of Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. I am looking forward to working with President Lopez Obrador and his administration on a variety of matters important to both countries. Mexico is one of our most important allies and we deeply value our relationship. For this reason, we must work with the President's administration on issues that are essential to both countries including trade, security, drug trafficking, crime, legal immigration, and border infrastructure. I hope the new administration will continue addressing these issues in collaboration with the U.S. as it has in the past.\r\nDuring my visit to Mexico City, I had the opportunity of meeting with President Lopez Obrador's new cabinet, and high-level officials, including senators, congressman and the President of the House of Representatives Mario Delgado to discuss these collaborative efforts and we are looking forward to continue working closely with the Mexican government during this transition. I will continue working with my colleagues in Congress towards this goal by introducing bipartisan legislation that supports this partnership, such as the US-Mexico Economic Partnership Act I introduced with Representative McCaul, which would foster educational and economic development opportunities with our friends from the southern border.\r\nI also hope that we continue working with the new president on security initiatives that promote the safety and well-being of our citizens in border towns and throughout our communities. Bilateral initiatives by Mexico and the U.S. are essential tools that enable both nations to address issues such as organized crime and drug trafficking. If we want to ensure both sides continue to thrive economically, we must work together.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402891", "Rep. Cuellar: Estamos listos para trabajar con el nuevo Presidente de Mxico", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON- Hoy, el Congresista Henry Cuellar (TX-28) emiti la siguiente declaracin con respecto a la toma de protesta del Presidente de Mxico Andrs Manuel Lpez Obrador:\r\nFue un honor para m haber asistido a la toma de protesta del Presidente de Mxico Andrs Manuel Lpez Obrador. Espero continuar trabajar con el Presidente Lpez Obrador y su administracin en una variedad de asuntos importantes para ambos pases. Mxico es uno de nuestros aliados ms importantes y valoramos profundamente nuestra relacin. Por este motivo, debemos trabajar con la administracin del Presidente en temas que son esenciales para ambos pases, incluidos el comercio, la seguridad, el trfico de drogas, el crimen, la inmigracin legal y la infraestructura fronteriza. Espero que la nueva administracin contine abordando estos problemas en colaboracin con los Estados Unidos como lo ha hecho en el pasado.\r\n\"Durante mi visita a la Ciudad de Mxico, tuve la oportunidad de reunirme con el nuevo gabinete del Presidente Lpez Obrador, y funcionarios de alto nivel, incluyendo senadores, congresistas y el Presidente de la Cmara de Representantes de Mxico Mario Delgado, para discutir estos esfuerzos de colaboracin y esperamos seguir trabajando estrechamente con el gobierno mexicano durante esta transicin. Continuar trabajando con mis colegas en el Congreso para lograr este objetivo mediante la introduccin de una legislacin bipartidista que respalde esta asociacin, como la Ley de Asociacin Econmica Mxico-EE. UU. Que introduje con el Representante McCaul, que fomentara las oportunidades de desarrollo educativo y econmico con nuestros amigos del sur. frontera.\r\nTambin espero que sigamos trabajando con el nuevo presidente en iniciativas de seguridad que promuevan la seguridad y el bienestar de nuestros ciudadanos en las ciudades fronterizas y en todas nuestras comunidades. Las iniciativas bilaterales de Mxico y los Estados Unidos son herramientas esenciales que permiten a ambas naciones abordar temas como el crimen organizado y el narcotrfico. Si queremos asegurarnos de que ambas partes continen prosperando econmicamente, debemos continuar trabajando juntos.\"\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://algreen.house.gov/press-release/congressman-al-greens-statement-passing-president-george-hw-bush", "Congressman Al Green's Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Al Green", "G000553", "algreen.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Al Green's Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush                                              \n              Dec 1, 2018      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n          \n  \n    \n    \n    (Houston, TX) - Congressman Al Green released the following statement regarding the passing of 41st U.S. President George H.W. Bush on Friday, November 30, 2018:\n\"Shortly after being elected to Congress, I was pleasantly surprised when I received a statement indicating that former President George H.W. Bush desired to meet with me. After overcoming my sense of disbelief, I honored his request and had a private meeting with him in Houston, Texas. It was much longer than I expected and ended with him giving me some sage advice: because others will have an agenda for you, one of your most difficult challenges will be setting an agenda for yourself. Truer words were never spoken.\n\"President George H.W. Bush, may you rest in peace knowing your legacy of service, dignity, and respectability are among the hallmarks of your presidency. The presidency didn't define you. You defined your presidency. My condolences to his family and friends.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-eddie-bernice-johnson-releases-statement-after-passing-0", "Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Releases Statement after Passing of President George H. W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dallas, TX  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement on the passing of former President George Herbert Walker Bush:\nPresident George Herbert Walker Bush was one of a kind. His grace and leadership guided our country through the Cold War and brought the conflict to a peaceful end. Few leaders have ever given as much of their life to this country as our 41st president did in his 94 years. I consider myself fortunate to have known the Bush family for many years and know that President Bush instilled in all of his children and grandchildren that a life of noble service to our nation is a life lived to its fullest.\nMy condolences are with his family, friends, and all those with whom he served in the United States Navy, the United States Congress, the United Nations, the Central Intelligence Agency and the White House. \nI pray that as he joins his beloved Barbara, may he rest in peace. \n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gonzalez-statement-passing-president-george-hw-bush", "Congressman Gonzalez Statement on the Passing of President George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today issued the following statement in response to the passing of the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush:\nToday, we mourn the loss of the 41st U.S. President, a father, a patriot, and a fellow Texan. As a public servant and a decorated service member, President Bush, Sr. set a high bar for decency and civility. This morning my thoughts are with the president's family as they remember their father and grandfather, and also with the American people as they celebrate the life of a statesman. May he soon reunite with his friends; loved ones; and his beloved wife, Barbara.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402886", "Reps. Cuellar and Gonzalez Release Statement Following Conversation with Leader Schumer on Border Wall Funding", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Reps. Cuellar and Gonzalez Release Statement Following Conversation with Leader Schumer on Border Wall Funding \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        November 30, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      WASHINGTON Today, Congressmen Henry Cuellar (TX-28) and Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) released the following statement after a conversation with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer regarding border wall funding:\r\nWe want to thank Leader Schumer for discussing our real concerns with providing unnecessary wall funding to the President. We are pleased to agree that we should be focused on real border security, and not the President's campaign obsession with a concrete wall. We look forward to continuing to work with Leader Chuck Schumer, Leader Nancy Pelosi, and the leadership of the Appropriations Committee to ensure the President's $5 billion wall does not become a reality.\r\n\r\n###\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402887", "Rep. Cuellars Bill to Rename Pleasanton Post Office Passes House", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Cuellar's Bill to Rename Pleasanton Post Office Passes House \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        November 30, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      WASHINGTON Yesterday, U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced the successful passage of H.R. 1210, a bill he authored to rename the post office located 122 W. Goodwin Street, Pleasanton, Texas, as the \"Pleasanton Veterans Post Office. The bill passed the House and will now move to the Senate. \r\n\r\nAcross my district, there are many examples of fine men and women who have honorably served our country, Congressman Cuellar said. A great example would be Judge Robert Bob L. Hurley of Pleasanton, Texas, who served in the United States Air Force as a medic and eventually rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was a non-commissioned officer of the US Air Force Academy Cadet Medical Clinic  Medical Records and Appointments Department. He would go on to become President of two different companies and serve his hometown as a councilmember and as mayor, and was eventually elected Atascosa County Judge, where he has served since 2014. We owe our freedom to veterans like Judge Hurley, which is why I am recognizing him with the dedication of this post office.\r\n\r\nCongressman Cuellar also thanked local veteran caregivers for their service to those returning home from duty. I would also like to take a moment to thank the veterans' organizations throughout my district for their tireless work in providing the care our veterans need.\r\n\r\nRead a copy of the bill text here. \r\n\r\n\r\n###\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402888", "Rep. Cuellars Bill to Rename Encinal Post Office Passes House", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Cuellar's Bill to Rename Encinal Post Office Passes House \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        November 30, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      WASHINGTON Yesterday, U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced the successful passage of H.R. 1211, a bill he authored to rename the post office located 400 N. Main Street, Encinal, Texas, as the \"Encinal Veterans Post Office. The bill passed the House and will now move to the Senate. \r\n\r\nCongressman Cuellar stressed the importance of naming this post office in honor of all veterans by stating, Across my district, there are many examples of fine men and women who have honorably served our country. A great example would be Judge Frank Weikel of Encinal, Texas, who enlisted in the United States Navy after high school and served for eight years.After his discharge from the Navy he worked at several companies before serving on the Encinal City Council and as Mayor Pro Tempore.Eventually, he would be elected Justice of the Peace for Precinct 2 in La Salle County. We owe our freedom to veterans like Judge Weikel, which is why I am recognizing him with the dedication of this post office. \r\n\r\nThe Congressman also thanked local veteran caregivers for their service to those returning home from duty. I would also like to take a moment to thank the veterans' organizations throughout my district for their tireless work in providing the care our veterans need.\r\n\r\nRead a copy of the bill text here. \r\n\r\n\r\n###\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-eddie-bernice-johnson-recognizes-stem-students-at-2018-app", "Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Recognizes STEM Students at 2018 App Challenge Reception", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Eddie Johnson", "J000126", "ebjohnson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dallas, TX  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson on Monday recognized the participants of the 30th Congressional District of Texas' 2018 Congressional App Challenge at a reception she hosted for the students and their families. More than 100 middle and high school students, who attend schools within District 30, participated in the competition that focuses on developing science and technological innovation in youth.\nMore than 55 apps were built and submitted by participating students. The winning app, named EZ Voter, offers voters and constituents an easier method to communicate with their representatives on specific issues under consideration in Congress. Skyline High School student, Stephen Dodge Suprun, designed and submitted the app which won first-place.\nThis App Challenge is one of many efforts I put forward to engage our young people and encourage them to pursue their future dreams, but it is unique. This is the one program that serves as a platform for the youth to create practical solutions to challenges we face at this very moment, said Congresswoman Johnson. This is why I am delighted to recognize each one of you today, for your imagination and innovation. If you all continue to carry the same determination and passion for science, your horizons are limitless.\nThe apps were graded on several factors, including aesthetic appeal and ease of use, by five judges, who work in the science, technology, engineering and mathematic fields in Dallas-Fort Worth. Remember Me- Alzheimer's Helper and  Sonia Learning Center (S.L.C.) were awarded second and third place, respectively and were recognized at the reception hosted at Per Scholas, an information technology school that offers training and professional development courses.\nThe Congressional App Challenge is a component of Congresswoman Johnson's efforts to connect with the youth and expose them to better personal and professional opportunities. She also hosts the Youth Summit and Diversity Dialogue, the Math and Science Lecture Series and the Youth Crime Prevention Summit each year.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-attends-the-inauguration-of-mexican", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Attends the Inauguration of Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and Looks Forward to Holding High-Level, Bilateral Discussions to Address Problems of Mutual Concern to Both Countries", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release Contact: Robin Chand\nNovember 30, 2018(202) 2253816\nPress Statement\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Attends the Inauguration of Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and Looks Forward to Holding High-Level, Bilateral Discussions to Address Problems of Mutual Concern to Both Countries\n\nJackson LeeDuring my visit to the Mexican Federation, I look forward to participating in high-level meetings to consider ways we can address the humanitarian and diplomatic issues emanating from our shared border.\nWashington, D.C.- Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a Senior Member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget, and the Ranking Member on the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations, issued this statement on the occasion of the inauguration of the next president of Mexico, and on the need to engage in a frank discussion to solve issues of mutual concern to both nations:\nAs a senior member of the United House of Representatives, I am honored to be the senior member of a delegation of members of Congress to Mexico to attend the inauguration of the incoming President, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. This event comes at an important time in the relationship of our countries and the history of our two republics. This moment for the Mexican people coincides almost two years after our nation experienced a change of leadership.\nOur neighbor to the south, Mexico, is one of our nation's most important allies. Mexico is one of America's largest trading partners. To illustrate, last year trade between our two countries surpassed $500 billion, aided in no small part by the North American Free Trade Agreement, a signature accomplishment of President Bill Clinton. NAFTA's success was not limited to trade. The pact brought our two neighbors closer together, fostered better relations on the continent, and improved the ability to collaborate on issues important to the health and safety of citizens of both countries.\nOne such challenge confronting our countries is presently occurring at our southern border. The failure of both countries to adequately anticipate the cascading and commensurate issues arising from the immigration issue. One such cascading issue is the health and safety of men, women and children actively waiting to claim asylum or otherwise migrate to the United States. Heavy rain and other periodic inclement weather has posed conditions hazardous to health, and conducive to waterborne and other diseases. Because the prospect for widespread contagion is real, both Mexico and the United States must provide medical staff to ensure that these occasions for disease do not evolve to present regional threats.\nIn the United States, we need comprehensive immigration system which includes border security, and guidelines for the conduct of these border agents who, it should be reminded, work for the American people. Border patrol agents are equipped with millions of dollars of equipment in the form night vision goggles, utility vehicles, and other resources. These resources must only be deployed consistent with universal humanitarian norms.\nThe situation also calls for a comprehensive process for dealing with an international human rightthe right to seek asylum to escape persecution. This includes courts, judges and lawyers equipped to handle the process as it is unfolding in the United States, and also those who can collaborate with Mexico to this end. For Mexico and its neighbors to the south, I call on Central American countries from where these migrants are emanating, and the countries they traversed on the way to our border, to consider ways in which this crisis can be curtailed, and the plight of these human beings lightened. I also call on Mexico to create a humanitarian zone, equipped with clean water facilities for all seeking asylum. Rather than creating hysteria, the United States President should instead make a commitment to processing these asylum claims in an orderly fashion.\nDuring my visit to the Mexican Federation, I also look forward to participating in high-level meetings to consider ways we can address the humanitarian crisis at our shared border. As a senior member of Congress whose district is home to one of the nation's busiest ports and is one of the largest cities by the border, both issues are of vital importance to me, and the constituents I represent in the Eighteenth District of Texas.\nAs part of this bilateral dialogue, I also look forward to a robust exchange of frank and innovative solutions to some of our respective nations' shared challenges. This moment represents an opportunity for both nations to confront and tackle the issues which, from time-to-time, challenge the relationship between our two republicsanchors of democracy, partners in peace, working together for the good all people.\n###\nSheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas, is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security and the Budget. She is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-commemorates-world-aids-day-2018", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Commemorates World Aids Day 2018", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Contact: Robin Chand\nNovember 30, 2018   202-228-3816\nPress Statement\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Commemorates World Aids Day 2018\n\nJackson Lee Our focus on HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness will be to ensure all of our friends, relatives, and children live healthy and full lives. We must continue to strengthen  not weaken  our national and international efforts to combat AIDS and other infectious diseases so that we may achieve the goal of an AIDS-free generation.\n\nWashington, D.C.  Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a Senior Member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget, and the Ranking Member on the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations, and a former member of the House Committee on Science, Space & Technology, issued this statement on World AIDS Day:\n\nTomorrow marks World AIDS Day and affords us the opportunity to reflect on our progress in the fight against the global AIDS pandemic and to rededicate ourselves to ending the disease once and for all. We have made great strides since the first World AIDS Day in 1988 by dramatically expanding investments in HIV/AIDS prevention, care, treatment, and research. Strong advocacy has paved the way for the Ryan White Act, the Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS Initiative, growing investments in NIH research, and an end to the ban on federal funds for syringe exchange. Beyond our borders, our efforts have extended care to millions in the developing world, through increased resources for PEPFAR and the Global Fund.\n\nOur investments have saved lives  preventing millions of new HIV cases, expanding access to improved treatments, and enabling medical advances that help HIV/AIDS patients live longer and healthier. While our efforts have grown, we still only reach half of all people eligible for HIV treatment; and more must be done.\n\nWe must continue to work with programs and clinics, like the Harris County Hospital District (HCHD), who are treating and caring for patients with HIV/AIDS. Our focus on HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness will be to ensure all of our friends, relatives and children live healthy and full lives. We must continue to strengthen  not weaken  our national and international efforts to combat AIDS and other infectious diseases so that we may achieve the goal of an AIDS-free generation.\n\nFinally, we must honor the memory of those we have lost and act on our hope, optimism, and determination to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Together, we can stand hand in hand and continue the fight against AIDS.\n\n###\n\nSheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas, is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security and the Budget. She is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/press-statement-congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-urges-the-president-to", "Press Statement  Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Urges the President to Withdraw the Nomination of Thomas Farr to a Seat on the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Robin Chand\nNovember 30, 2018 202-228-3816\nPress Statement\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Urges the President to Withdraw the Nomination of Thomas Farr to a Seat on the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina\n\nJackson Lee  Thomas Farr has devoted his legal career to suppressing votes and intimidating and disenfranchising voters, specifically African American voters. In addition, he has actively undermined the rights of workers who have experienced workplace discrimination. And, he defended a car rental franchisee that violated the civil rights of African Americans by discriminating against them regarding terms, conditions and prices. I am gratified that a majority of the Senate is now on record in opposition to this nominee. I urge the President to formally withdraw the nomination.\n\nWashington, DC  Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary and Homeland Security, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations, and Member of the House Budget Committee, issued the following statement following Senate rejection of Thomas Farr to be a United States District Judge for the Eastern District of North Carolina:\n\nAs the confirmation process has unfolded, Thomas Farr has been revealed to have made a career of suppressing voters and intimidating African American voters. Thomas Farr has a dismal record in opposition to voting rights and worker rights. Moreover, he has a decades-long record of defending voter suppression tactics, including Voter ID laws and racial gerrymandering. In addition, he has actively undermined the rights of workers who have experienced workplace discrimination by successfully fighting to invalidate a county ordinance that protected employees from discrimination. And, his defense of a car rental company in a lawsuit for denying African Americans the right to rent cars on the same terms as white customers, was among his most egregious acts, and crystallized the reasons to oppose this individual, and which is why he failed to win confirmation by the United States Senate.\n\nIn 1992, Tom Farr served as counsel for former Senator Jesse Helms. In that role, he defended the campaign against the United States Department of Justice's complaints of voter intimidation after the Helms Campaign sent post cards to 100,000 African American voters claiming they were ineligible to vote and may be arrested if they voted. This would not be the last time Mr. Farr would make such a representation. The United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, before which Mr. Farr appeared to defend North Carolina's election laws criticized the law Mr. Farr sought to uphold by stating that it targeted African American voters with almost surgical precision.' The concerns surrounding gerrymandered legislative districts is not new as the practice denies the longstanding principle of one person one vote, but it reached new heights in response to the districts drawn by North Carolina with the aid of Thomas Farr. For example, in the 2018 midterm elections, Republicans received approximately 50% of the aggregate vote total for congressional elections, but won 10 of 13 congressional elections. This practice, of course, is not foreign to Texas, which some scholars have noted is the poster child of gerrymandered districts.\n\nThomas Farr is no ordinary nominee. Indeed, the rejection of this judicial nomination represents a rare moment where partisanship yielded to decency, and an act which represents a victory not only for the State of North Carolina, but also for our whole nation. In view of the strong opposition of Republican Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, it is clear that this individual lacks the support in the Senate to be seated. Accordingly, the President should act swiftly to withdraw this nomination and avert the stain on the federal judiciary that this nominee would represent.\n\n###\n\nSheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas, is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security and the Budget. She is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402884", "Cuellar and Gonzalez Lead Letter to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer Opposing Funding for a Border Wall", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONToday, Congressmen Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), and ten other Democratic members sent a letter expressing their opposition to Leader Schumer's recent comments establishing Senate Democrats' starting negotiating position of $1.6 billion for a border wall. In the letter, the members made clear that the Democrats should not accept any funding in the FY 2019 Homeland Security Appropriations bill.The other ten members include Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Juan Vargas (CA-51), Mark Takano (CA-41), Al Green (TX-09), Lou Correa (CA-46), Raul Grijalva (AZ-07), Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), Norma Torres (CA-35), and Member-Elect Veronica Escobar (TX-16). \r\nCongressman Cuellar said, As a lifelong border resident, I understand firsthand the implications that a border wall would have on our communities. That is why I oppose all allocation of funds towards a border wall, which is a 14th-century solution to a 21st-century problem. Instead of enacting a concrete wall, we should allocate funding towards technology, equipment, border personnel, and economic development in Central America. I strongly encourage Leader Schumer to reconsider and clarify that Democrats should accept no funding for a wall. I thank my fellow colleagues for joining me in spearheading this important issue, making it clear that we will not negotiate when it comes to a border wall.\r\n\r\nWe need all hands on deck to oppose frivolous border wall spending proposals  that includes Leader Schumer, Congressman Gonzalez said. Recently, I submittedofficial correspondenceto U.S. Customs and Border Protection in response to the agency's public comment period. The report articulated how a border wall on the U.S.-Mexico Border would: further inflame U.S.-Mexico relations; fail to deter illegal immigration; lead to economic and agriculture losses; endanger public lands and wildlife; create flood hazards; encroach on private property rights; and infringe on the property rights of Native Americans.\r\n\r\nSee attached copy of the letterhere.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402885", "Cuellar y Gonzlez dirigen una carta al lder de la minora en el Senado, Chuck Schumer,  en oposicin al financiamiento para un muro fronterizo", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON Hoy, los Congresistas Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) y otros diez miembros demcratas enviaron una carta en la que expresaban su oposicin a los recientes comentarios del lder Schumer sobre la posicin de negociacin inicial de los demcratas del Senado de $1.6 mil millones para un muro fronterizo. En la carta, los miembros dejaron en claro que los demcratas no deberan aceptar ningn financiamiento en el proyecto de ley de Asignaciones de Seguridad Nacional del ao fiscal 2019. Los otros diez miembros incluyen a Joaqun Castro (TX-20), Juan Vargas (CA-51), Mark Takano (CA-41), Al Green (TX-09), Lou Correa (CA-46), Ral Grijalva (AZ- 07), Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), Norma Torres (CA-35) y la miembro electa Veronica Escobar (TX-16).\r\n\r\nEl Congresista Cuellar dijo: Como residente de la frontera, entiendo de primera mano las implicaciones que un muro fronterizo tendra en nuestras comunidades. Por eso me opongo a toda asignacin de fondos hacia un muro fronterizo, el cual es una solucin del siglo XIV a un problema del siglo XXI. En lugar de promulgar un muro de concreto, deberamos asignar fondos para tecnologa, equipos, personal de fronteras y desarrollo econmico en Amrica Central. Incito al Lder Schumer a que reconsidere y que deje en claro que los demcratas no deben aceptar fondos para un muro. Agradezco a mis por trabajar conmigo en dirigir este importante tema, dejando en claro que no vamos a negociar cuando se trata de un muro fronterizo.\"\r\n\r\n\"Necesitamos todas las manos en la cubierta para oponernos a las frvolas propuestas de gastos del muro fronterizo- incluyendo al Lder Schumer, \" dijo el Congresista Gonzlez. Recientemente, present correspondencia oficial a la Oficina de Aduanas y Proteccin Fronteriza de los Estados Unidos en respuesta al perodo de comentarios pblicos de la agencia. El informe articul cmo un muro fronterizo en la frontera de EE. UU. y Mxico podra: daar an ms las relaciones entre EE. UU.-Mxico; no disuadir a la inmigracin ilegal; conducir a prdidas econmicas y agrcolas; poner en peligro las tierras pblicas y la vida silvestre; crear peligros de inundacin; invadir los derechos de propiedad privada; e infringir los derechos de propiedad de los nativos americanos.\"\r\n\r\nVer copia adjunta de la carta aqu.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402892", "Los Congresistas Cuellar y Gonzalez emiten declaracin tras conversacin con el lder Schumer en cuanto a los fondos para el muro fronterizo", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Los Congresistas Cuellar y Gonzalez emiten declaracin tras conversacin con el lder Schumer en cuanto a los fondos para el muro fronterizo \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        November 29, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      \"Queremos agradecer al lder Schumer por discutir nuestras preocupaciones en cuanto a proporcionar fondos innecesarios al presidente. Nos complace acordar que debemos centrarnos en la seguridad real de las fronteras, y no en la obsesin de la campaa del Presidente con un muro de concreto. Esperamos continuar trabajando con el Lder Chuck Schumer, la Lder Nancy Pelosi y el liderazgo del Comit de Asignaciones para asegurar que el muro de $5 mil millones de dlares del Presidente no se convierta en una realidad.\"\r\n###\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-gonzalez-and-cuellar-release-statement-following-conversation", "Congressmen Gonzalez and Cuellar Release Statement Following Conversation with Leader Schumer on Border Wall Funding", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON Today, Congressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement after a conversation with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer regarding border wall funding:\nWe want to thank Leader Schumer for discussing our real concerns with providing unnecessary wall funding to the President. We are pleased to agree that we should be focused on real border security, and not the President's campaign obsession with a concrete wall. We look forward to continuing to work with Leader Chuck Schumer, Leader Nancy Pelosi, and the leadership of the Appropriations Committee to ensure the President's $5 billion wall does not become a reality.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gonzalez.house.gov/media/press-releases/gonzalez-and-cuellar-lead-letter-senate-minority-leader-chuck-schumer-opposing", "Gonzalez and Cuellar Lead Letter to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer Opposing Funding for a Border Wall", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Vicente Gonzalez", "G000581", "gonzalez.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTONToday, Congressmen Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), and ten other Democratic members sent a letter expressing their opposition to Leader Schumer's recent comments establishing Senate Democrats' starting negotiating position of $1.6 billion for a border wall.\nIn the letter, the members made clear that the Democrats should not accept any funding in the FY 2019 Homeland Security Appropriations bill.The other ten members include Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Juan Vargas (CA-51), Mark Takano (CA-41), Al Green (TX-09), Lou Correa (CA-46), Raul Grijalva (AZ-07), Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), Norma Torres (CA-35), and Member-Elect Veronica Escobar (TX-16).\nWe need all hands on deck to oppose frivolous border wall spending proposals  that includes Leader Schumer,Congressman Gonzalez said.Recently, I submittedofficial correspondenceto U.S. Customs and Border Protection in response to the agency's public comment period. The report articulated how a border wall on the U.S.-Mexico Border would: further inflame U.S.-Mexico relations; fail to deter illegal immigration; lead to economic and agriculture losses; endanger public lands and wildlife; create flood hazards; encroach on private property rights; and infringe on the property rights of Native Americans.\nCongressman Cuellar said,As a lifelong border resident, I understand firsthand the implications that a border wall wouldhave on our communities. That is why I oppose all allocation of funds towards a border wall, which is a 14th-century solution to a 21st-century problem. Instead of enacting a concrete wall, we should allocate funding towards technology, equipment, border personnel, and economic development in Central America. I strongly encourage Leader Schumer to reconsider and clarify that Democrats should accept no funding for a wall. I thank my fellow colleagues for joining me in spearheading this important issue, making it clear that we will not negotiate when it comes to a border wall.\nSee attached copy of the letterhere.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-statement-following-today-s-guilty-plea", "Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement Following Todays Guilty Plea by the Presidents Former Personal Attorney", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Sheila Jackson Lee", "J000032", "jacksonlee.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Contact: Robin Chand\nNovember 29, 2018   202-228-3816\nPress Statement\nCongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement Following Today's Guilty Plea by the President's Former Personal Attorney\n\nJackson Lee  Today's plea by Mr. Cohen represents yet another milestone in the Special Counsel's investigation, which the president has dismissed as a witch hunt. For a witch hunt, the Special Counsel's investigation has found many witches. To date, the Special Counsel's investigation has returned indictments and secured convictions or guilty pleas from over three dozen individuals, including the President's first national security advisor, his campaign chairman, his deputy campaign chairman, his personal attorney, a former foreign policy advisor and dozens of associates of the Kremlin.\n\nWashington, DC  Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Budget and Homeland Security, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations, issued this statement following today's guilty plea by the president's former lawyer to the Special Counsel:\n\nThis morning, in a federal courthouse in Manhattan, Michael Cohen, the president's trusted former personal lawyer, pleaded guilty to a criminal charge related to the Special Counsel's investigation into Russian interference and whether and to what extent this crime was aided and abetted by associates of the Trump Campaign. Specifically, Mr. Cohen was found to have lied to the United States Senate Select Committee on Intelligence regarding whether associates of the Trump Organization were pursuing business opportunities during the 2016 presidential campaign.\n\nThese developments follow a whirlwind of developments in recent weeks. For example, Special Counsel Mueller rescinded the plea agreement reached with Paul Manafort, the president's former campaign manager, over allegations that Mr. Manafort lied during his discussions with the Special Counsel. While that was unfolding, the President terminated his Attorney Generalwhose recusal from the Russia investigation, spurred by a perceived conflict of interest was the impetus for the Special Counsel's investigationwas terminated and replaced by an ally of the President. Just this week, an individual considered to be privy to information related to WikiLeak's dissemination of stolen emails designed to harm the campaign of Hillary Clinton reneged on his plea agreement with the Special Counsel's office. Meanwhile, the public has been watching the president publicly dangle promises of pardons in front of witnesses perceived to be in the crosshairs of the Special Counsel's investigation, and those uniquely positioned to incriminate the President, his associates, and members of his family for wholesale wrongdoing. And, just this morning, law enforcement raided the German offices of Deutsche Bank, which is infamous for being the only bank willing to lend money to Donald Trump following his many filings for bankruptcy.\n\nLying to Congress is a serious crime, and undermines Congress's constitutional duty to conduct oversight of the Executive Branch. Today's plea by Mr. Cohen represents yet another milestone in the Special Counsel's investigation, which the president has dismissed as a witch hunt. To be certain, for a witch hunt, the Special Counsel's investigation has found many witches. To date, the Special Counsel's investigation has returned indictments and secured convictions or guilty pleas from over three dozen individuals, including the President's first national security advisor, his campaign chairman, his deputy campaign chairman, his personal attorney, a former foreign policy advisor and dozens of associates of the Kremlin.\n\nIndeed, the work done by the Special Counsel is critical to Americans' confidence in our election systems, to ensure that the interference by a hostile, foreign adversary does not ever again occur, and bring those nefariously involved in the 2016 election to justice. I have long been concerned with ensuring the Special Counsel is permitted to continue his investigation. This is why over a year ago, I introduced H.R. 3654, the Special Counsel Independence Protection Act, which garnered the support of over 150 members of Congress. I am also proud that substantial portions of H.R. 3654 were incorporated into H.R. 5476, the Special Counsel Independence and Integrity Act, which I introduced with Congressman Jerry Nadler, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee, and Congressman Steve Cohen, the Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution. If enacted into law, H.R. 5476 would permit an affected Special Counsel to require judicial ratification of any termination, during the pendency of which the investigation would be stayed, and immune from any interference from the President, or others.\n\n###\n\nSheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas, is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary, Homeland Security and the Budget. She is a Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/media-advisory-rep-veasey-holds-6th-annual-job-fair", "Rep. Veasey Holds 6th Annual Job Fair in Dallas", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Marc A. Veasey", "V000131", "veasey.house.gov", "veasey", "https://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "DFW job seekers to meet face-to face with major state and national employers like Bell Helicopter, Southwest Airlines, AT&T, and various State and local offices.\n\nDallas, TX \u2013 On Monday, December 3rd, Congressman Veasey will host his 6th annual free Job Fair in Dallas with more than 80 actively hiring employers in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex. There will be several professional development workshops including opportunities for veterans who need help transitioning into the civilian workforce, one-on-one resume consultants, second chance employment, and job search tips.\n\nCongressman Veasey is also pleased to welcome employers like Bell Helicopter, Southwest Airlines, AT&T and various state and local offices that represent a diverse set of fields, including public safety, manufacturing, service, health care, education and other industries.\n\nWHO:\n\nCongressman Marc Veasey\n\n80+ DFW hiring employers\n\nDATE:\n\nMonday, December 3rd, 2018\n\nTIME:\n\n8:30a.m.-1p.m.\n\nLOCATION:\n\nMountain View College gymnasium\n\n4849 W. Illinois Ave. Dallas, TX\n\nMEDIA:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-06-27T23:10:16Z"], ["http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402869", "Rep. Cuellar Looks Forward to Working with New Mexican President", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Henry Cuellar", "C001063", "cuellar.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Cuellar Looks Forward to Working with New Mexican President \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington | Olya Voytovich, DC Press Secretary (202-226-1583); Leslie Martinez, District Press Secretary (956-286-6007),\r\n        November 28, 2018\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      WASHINGTON  Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) released the following statement regarding the Mexican Presidency election results: \r\n\r\n\r\nCongratulations to Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on winning the election and becoming the next President of Mexico. Mexico is one of our most important allies and we value our relationship. I look forward to working with the new Mexican Administration on issues that are essential to both countries including NAFTA, security, immigration, and border infrastructure. Mexico should be seen as an ally and not as an enemy as some people see it. The Rio Grande/Rio Bravo River does not divide us, but rather unites us as two countries. This is a critical time for the U.S. and Mexico and I will continue to work to develop our binational cooperation.\r\n\r\n\r\n###\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 875, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Democrat", "p1": "TX", "p2": "2018"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=TX&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 875, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=TX&year=2018", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=TX&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 875, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=TX&year=2018&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=TX&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "TX", "label": "TX", "count": 875, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2018", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=TX&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "2018", "label": "2018", "count": 875, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=TX", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2018-11-28,http~3A~2F~2Fcuellar~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D402869", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=TX&year=2018&_next=2018-11-28%2Chttp~3A~2F~2Fcuellar~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D402869&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 432.9867949709296, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}