Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
- url
- Link to the original release on the member's official site
- text
- Extracted body text (may be empty if the page could not be fetched)
- has_text
- 1 if body text was successfully extracted
- date_source
- How the publication date was determined
- bioguide_id
- Bioguide ID of the member
3,799 rows where state = "TX" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending
This data as json, CSV (advanced)
party 2
- Republican 2,924
- Democrat 875
year 1
- 2018 · 3,799 ✖
state 1
- TX · 3,799 ✖
chamber 1
- House 3,799
| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 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. Moscow 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. That 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. Then 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 … | 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 | 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. Every 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. The 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. In 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. # # # | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=398897 | Burgess Releases 2018 Year End Report | 2018-12-28 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Michael Burgess | B001248 | burgess.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement after publishing his 2018 Year End Report detailing key accomplishments and services for the 26th District. I began the 115th Congress with high expectations for what we could accomplish for North Texans. As this term concludes, it is clear we have achieved important legislative victories and made significant strides in areas where work remains. From committee hearings to town halls, case work to media interviews, I am committed to serving the 26th District to the best of my ability. As a Member of Congress, I have always made communicating with constituents one of my top priorities, and this annual report is one way I share my work on behalf of the 26th District of Texas. I hope North Texans review it and let me know how I can best serve them and their families as we look ahead to 2019. During 2018, Dr. Burgess: Authored and introduced 18 bills Hosted or attended more than 430 meetings Gave 80+ interviews Resolved 434 cases with federal agencies on behalf of constituents Received and responded to more than 50,000 pieces of correspondence Honored 19 student constituents entering the U.S. Service Academies Traveled more than 6,000 miles in North Texas For more, please read the complete 2018 Year End Report. ### | 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 | legacy | ***Press Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 28, 2018 Contact: Kate Stotesbery 202-225-4865 Service, Spirit, and Longevity: Remembering Richard Overton Washington, D.C. U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in remembrance of Austin veteran Richard Overton: 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. ### Follow Lloyd Doggett Facebook: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. — U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in remembrance of Austin veteran Richard Overton: "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." Follow 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 | 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. It 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. # # # | 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 | 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. Either we build (finish) the Wall or we close the Border one of Trump's four tweets about the border said in part. The 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. The 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. If 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. In 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. U.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. No, 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. Last month, surveyors were spotted near the National Butterfly Center in Mission, weeks after the federal government awarded contracts to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=398894 | Burgess Urges Senate to Fund Border Security, End Shutdown | 2018-12-27 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Michael Burgess | B001248 | burgess.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement on the current government shutdown. The defense of our nation must be Congress' first priority. Period. I urge the Senate to join the House and pass H.R. 695, the Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2019, which includes President Trump's requested funding to build an effective wall on our southern border and protect the American people. Any vote against this funding is not only a vote for this unnecessary government shutdown, but also a direct vote against secure borders and national security. ### | 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 | legacy | SAN ANTONIO - Condolences are pouring in for longtime county commissioner Paul Elizondo, who passed away suddenly Thursday morning. Elizondo served on the Bexar County Commissioners Court for 32 years. Paul 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. - Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff "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." - Mayor Ron Nirenberg Commissioner 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. - Commissioner Sergio Chico Rodriguez A 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. - Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar Commissioner 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. - Commissioner Kevin Wolff I 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. - Commissioner Tommy Calvert On behalf of our 1,400 members and the leade… | 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 | legacy | SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) Bexar County commissioner Paul Elizondo died Thursday. No word on the cause of his death, though he died at his home. For 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. My 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. A 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. The 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 b… | 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 | 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. Overton's cousin, Volma Overton Jr., said the family will miss the funny 112-year-old and that his memory will keep them going. "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." People 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. Gov. Greg Abbott called Richard Overton an "American icon and a Texas legend," in a statement. "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." People, including Rep. Lloyd Doggett, shared photos of the veteran and remembered his "service, spirit and longevity. Sen. John Cornyn simply said "A life well lived." Rep. Roger Williams said he had the honor of knowing Overton well and will miss him dearly. "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." Rep. 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." A 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 | legacy | ***Press Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 27, 2018 Contact: Kate Stotesbery 202-225-4865 Statement on the Passing of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo Washington, D.C. Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the sudden passing of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo today: 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. ### Follow Lloyd Doggett Facebook: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. — Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the sudden passing of Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo today: "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." Follow Lloyd Doggett | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://williams.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/nations-oldest-wwii-veteran-dies-in-austin-at-112 | Nation's Oldest WWII Veteran Dies In Austin At 112 | 2018-12-27 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Roger Williams | W000816 | williams.house.gov | legacy | AUSTIN, TEXAS Richard Arvin Overton, the nation's oldest living war veteran and the oldest man in the U.S. died Thursday in Austin at the age of 112 after a bout with pneumonia. Born near Bastrop, Texas, on May 11, 1906, Overton served a three-year stint in the U.S. Army during World War II. He fought in the 1887th Engineer Aviation Battalion during WWII, serving as a corporal in the South Pacific. Overton joined his all-black military unit in 1942, and became a skilled sharpshooter. After the war, Overton built a home in East Austin where he a neighborhood fixture usually out on his front porch puffing on a cigar while holding court as admirers spontaneously dropped by to meet him. "His front porch is his everything," VolmaOverton, his septuagenarian cousin who helped care for him, once told the Washington Post. "It's his throne. In interviews with myriad media outlets, Overton spoke of his fondness for cigars in which he indulged daily sometimes up to 12 smokes a day, he would note unabashedly. In interviews, he often credited his love of stogies, along with a splash of whiskey in his morning coffee and a steady diet of fried catfish and ice cream as secrets to his longevity. He also expressed a fondness for Dr. Pepper. He outlived two wives and close family members, and received countless honors and accolades along the way including a 2013 visit to the White House where he met President Barack Obama as a relative youngster of 107. He met Obama at the White House for breakfast ahead of a Veterans Day ceremony at the National Cemetery where he was honored. "His service on the battlefield was not always matched by the respect that he deserved at home," Obama said at the time. "But this veteran held his head high." Overton earlier this year came close to losing his home in East Austin once an enclave largely inhabited by a black and Latino working class that's been swept over by gentrification for the better part of a decade or so as an influx of younger residents are lured to trendy restaurants and bars and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://williams.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/oldest-living-wwii-veteran-dies-in-texas | Oldest living WWII veteran dies in Texas | 2018-12-27 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Roger Williams | W000816 | williams.house.gov | legacy | AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - A family member says the nation's oldest World War II veteran who was also believed to be oldest living man in the U.S. has died in Texas. Shirley Overton, whose husband was Richard's cousin, says the Army veteran died Thursday evening at a rehab facility in Austin. Overton had been recently hospitalized with pneumonia. Overton was in his 30s when he volunteered for the Army and was at Pearl Harbor just after the Japanese attack in 1941. He once said that one secret to his long life was smoking cigars and drinking whiskey, which he often was found doing on the porch of his Austin home. In 2013, he was honored by former President Barack Obama at a Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. U.S. Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, issued a statement expressing sympathy to Overton's family. Throughout my time in Congress, I have had the honor of getting to know Mr. Overton very well - sitting on his porch and listening to him tell stories are memories I will never forget. 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. I will miss him dearly and will continue to pray for his family during this difficult time. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called Overton "an American icon and a Texas legend." "With his quick wit and kind spirit he touched the lives of so many, and I am deeply honored to have known him. 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," he said. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://williams.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/reactions-to-the-passing-of-richard-overton-recall-a-texas-legend | Reactions to the passing of Richard Overton recall a 'Texas legend' | 2018-12-27 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Roger Williams | W000816 | williams.house.gov | 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. Overton's cousin, VolmaOverton Jr., said the family will miss the funny 112-year-old and that his memory will keep them going. "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." People 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. Gov. Greg Abbott called Richard Overton an "American icon and a Texas legend," in a statement. "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." People, including Rep. LloydDoggett, shared photos of the veteran and remembered his "service, spirit and longevity." Rep. Roger Williams said he had the honor of knowing Overton well and will miss him dearly. "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." Rep. Will Hurdshared 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." A Twitter account called EverythingTXshared a picture of the born-and-raised Texansmoking his signature cigar that he claimed helped him live a long life. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-williams-statement-on-the-passing-of-richard-overton | Rep. Williams Statement on the Passing of Richard Overton | 2018-12-27 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Roger Williams | W000816 | williams.house.gov | williams | https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | AUSTIN, TEXAS – Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin) released the following statement on the passing of the nation's oldest World War II veteran and Austin-resident, Richard Overton: "I join the Austin community and the entire country in mourning the loss of a great man, and our nation's oldest veteran, Mr. Richard Overton," said Rep. Williams. "Throughout my time in Congress, I have had the honor of getting to know Mr. Overton very well - sitting on his porch and listening to him tell stories are memories I will never forget. 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. I will miss him dearly and will continue to pray for his family during this difficult time." # # # | 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 | 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 | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://williams.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/come-and-read-it-report-66 | Come and Read It Report | 2018-12-24 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Roger Williams | W000816 | williams.house.gov | legacy | Dear Texans, Merry Christmas and happy holidays to you and yours! With all the hustle and bustle during this time of year, it isoften easy to forgetwhat tomorrow is really all about - the birth of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.I hope this serves as a reminder to be kind to one another during the Christmas season and remember that there are many people who are unable to spend this time with loved ones. Iencourage you takea moment and think about the brave men and women in uniform, and our first responders,who cannot be with their families. They are spending today and tomorrow protecting this great nation so that all of you can enjoy time at home. Please join me in thanking them for their service, and praying for their safety, wherever they may be around the globe. Securing our Borders Last week, the Democrats once again chose to put open borders and illegal immigrants over the safety of American citizens. I joined many of my conservative colleagues in the House and proudly voted in favor of $5.7 billion in additional funding to defend and secure our southern border. I encourage our Senate counterparts to follow our lead and do the same. We must do everything in our power to protect thisnation, and we should not rest until it is properly done. I will continue to support President Trump and I will oppose any funding bill that does not fully fund his border request. High School Football State Champions Congratulations to the Grandview High School Zebras, who took home the Class 3A Division I State Championship last week! They defeated the Malakoff Tigers 35-21 and all of us in Texas-25 couldn't be more proud. Great job boys! I have included some articles and releases you may find interesting located on the right side of this newsletter. It is an honor and privilege to represent the people of Texas' 25th Congressional District and as always, please reach out to me with any issues and concerns that are important to you. In God we trust, Roger Williams Member of Congress | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4238 | Sen. Cruz: We Celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ, Our Promised Savior | 2018-12-24 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | HOUSTON, Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement in advance of Christmas Day: In this season of hope, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The promised Savior, born in Bethlehem, came that we may know Him and his everlasting love and redemption. Evidence of Christ's love can be found all across the Lone Star State. Just this week, high school students and others volunteered their time with Lubbock's Meals on Wheels to distribute more than 400 boxes of supplies for seniors. In Laredo, United Middle School students collected presents for children living at Casa De Misericordia, a shelter for survivors of domestic violence. And nearly 1,800 children in Georgetown received gifts from the Williamson County Sheriff's Office. All around us, there are stories of Texans sharing the joy of Christmas with their neighbors. We also remember our servicemen and women who are spending the holiday season far away from home at sea or deployed in a foreign land. We pray for their safe return. And we remember their families, who sacrifice enormously for our great country. Heidi and I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. May God continue to bless the great state of Texas and the United States of America. Sen. Cruz also released a video wishing America's armed forces and their families a Merry Christmas, and thanking them for their service. The video is being played overseas on the American Forces Network. Watch the full video here. A transcript is below. Hi, I want to take a moment to say thank you' for your dedicated service to our great country. Y'all represent the finest qualities of the United States: service to others and sacrifice of self. The enormous sacrifices you and your family make each day in order to secure our freedoms don't go unnoticed. America owes you, your families, and the generations of great Americans who have answered the call to defend our country a debt that we can never fully repay. As we prepare for a season of celebration, we are thinking of… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4239 | Sen. Cruz: 'Esta Navidad Celebramos El Nacimiento De Jesucristo, Nuestro Salvador Prometido' | 2018-12-24 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Hoy el Senador Ted Cruz (R-Texas) emiti la siguiente declaracin antes del Da de Navidad: En esta temporada de esperanza, celebramos el nacimiento de Jesucristo. El Salvador prometido, nacido en Beln, vino para que podamos conocer su amor eterno y redencin. La evidencia del amor de Cristo se puede encontrar en todo el estado de Texas. Justo esta semana, los estudiantes de secundaria y otros ofrecieron su tiempo en Lubbock distribuyendo ms de 400 cajas de suministros para personas mayores con la organizacion (can you add the o with the dash to organization) Meals on Wheels. En Laredo, los estudiantes de la escuela United Middle School recolectaron regalos para nios que viven en la Casa De Misericordia, un casa refugio para sobrevivientes de violencia domstica. Y casi 1,800 nios en Georgetown recibieron regalos de la Oficina del Sheriff del condado de Williamson. A nuestro alrededor, hay historias de Tejanos que comparten la alegra de Navidad con sus vecinos. Tambin recordamos a nuestros soldados que estn pasando la temporada lejos de casa desplegados en una tierra extranjera. Oramos por su regreso seguro y recordamos a sus familias, que sacrifican enormemente por nuestro gran pas. Heidi y yo le deseamos a usted y a su familia una Feliz Navidad y un Prospero Ao Nuevo. Que Dios contine bendiciendo el gran estado de Texas y los Estados Unidos de Amrica. El Sen. Cruz tambin public un video en el cual le desea a las fuerzas armadas de los Estados Unidos y a sus familias una Feliz Navidad, y le da las gracias por su servicio. El video se esta transmitiendo en el American Forces Network. Usted puede ver el video completo aqu. La transcripcin est debajo. Hola, quiero tomar un momento para decir gracias' por su servicio dedicado a nuestro gran pas. Ustedes representan las mejores cualidades de los Estados Unidos: el servicio a los dems y el sacrificio de s mismo. Los enormes sacrificios que usted y su familia hacen cada da, a fin de asegurar nuestras libertades no pasan por desapercibidos. Amrica le debe a… | 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-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 | legacy | 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 | legacy | Washington, DC Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson today released the following statement regarding the partial shutdown of the United States government: President 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. It 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. This 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. # # # | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://weber.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=487 | Weber Statement on Partial Government Shutdown | 2018-12-22 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Randy Weber | W000814 | weber.house.gov | legacy | Weber Statement on Partial Government Shutdown f t # e Washington, December 22, 2018 Washington, D.C. At the turn of midnight on December 22, 2018, the U.S. government went into a partial government shutdown. Congressman Randy Weber (R Friendswood) released the following statement:The House listened and sent the answer to the Senate. Rather than working together to better border security, Democrats shut down seven agencies. The Senate Democrats need to get in gear; it takes 60 votes. The ball is in their court. It's time they start listening to the American people and fund border security, disaster relief and our seven key agencies. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-feinstein-bill-modernize-cybertipline-signed-law | Cornyn, Feinstein Bill to Modernize CyberTipline Signed Into Law | 2018-12-22 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Cornyn | C001056 | www.cornyn.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) released the following statements after President Trump signed the CyberTipline Modernization Act into law: In the two decades since the Tipline began, online child exploitation has grown exponentially, Sen. Cornyn said. This legislation will allow the CyberTipline to adapt to the modern-day tactics of online predators. I'm grateful to President Trump for signing this legislation into law so NCMEC can continue to connect victims to the law enforcement resources they need. Child abduction and abuse are among the most heinous crimes, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's tipline is critical in the fight to protect children. Last year alone the tipline received more than 10 million reports of potential exploitation. Our legislation improves the tipline to ensure it's better equipped to coordinate with law enforcement and respond to the widespread use of the internet by child predators, said Sen. Feinstein. Background: The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) created the CyberTipline in 1998 to help prevent and stop the sexual exploitation of children. The CyberTipline provides the general public and technology industry with the ability to report online instances of child sexual exploitation, including child pornography. Congress enacted legislation related to the CyberTipline in 2008; however, the federal statute has not been revised since. Senators Cornyn and Feinstein introduced the CyberTipline Modernization Act to provide much needed updates to the statute to better reflect the current operation of the CyberTipline. Specifically, the CyberTipline Modernization Act will: Underscore the true purpose of the CyberTiplineto reduce the proliferation of online child sexual exploitation and prevent it from circulating online in the first place; Facilitate reporting to NCMEC for imminent or planned violations and provide an opportunity for intervention before further harm to a child; Address new trends … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-klobuchar-bill-fight-human-trafficking-signed-law | Cornyn, Klobuchar Bill to Fight Human Trafficking Signed Into Law | 2018-12-22 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Cornyn | C001056 | www.cornyn.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statements after their bipartisan legislation, the Abolish Human Trafficking Act, was signed into law by President Trump.The legislation strengthens and reauthorizes key programs supporting survivors of human trafficking and provides resources to law enforcement officials working to combat modern-day slavery. By equipping law enforcement with resources to better fight against human trafficking and connecting survivors with the support they need, we can help those affected restore their lives. Sen. Cornyn said. Human trafficking is a heinous crime that must be eradicated, and I'm grateful to the Trump Administration for making it a priority. As a former prosecutor, I have seen firsthand the horrors of human traffickingand it's happening in our own backyards, Sen. Klobuchar said. This bipartisan legislation is a major step forward in the fight against human trafficking. This law will strengthen and reauthorize critical programs that support survivors and improve the tools available to federal, state, and local law enforcement. Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), along with Senators Bob Corker (R-TN), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Dean Heller (R-NV), Ron Wyden (D-OR), MarcoRubio (R-FL), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Orrin Hatch (R-UT), joined as original cosponsors of the legislation. Sens. Cornyn and Klobuchar were the authors of the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, a 2015 law that increased the resources and tools available for combatting human trafficking in the United States. The Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act ensures American law enforcement agencies areequipped to fight this crime, while helping victims rebuild their lives by using fines and penalties against their exploiters to fund restorative services and compensation. The Abolish Human Trafficking Act enhances and expands the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. Background on the Abolish Human Trafficking … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-peters-bill-improve-efficiency-and-boost-safety-us-ports-entry-becomes-law | Cornyn, Peters Bill to Improve Efficiency and Boost Safety at U.S. Ports of Entry Becomes Law | 2018-12-22 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Cornyn | C001056 | www.cornyn.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTONU.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Gary Peters (D-MI) released the following statements after President Trump signed their United States Ports of Entry Threat and Operational Review Act into law. This bill, which they jointly authored, would initiate an in-depth analysis of the strengths, opportunities, and vulnerabilities of land, sea, and air ports of entry so that we can promote more efficient trade and travel across our borders while targeting vulnerabilities to decrease illegal activity. Trade and travel through Texas' many ports of entry spur our state's economy, connect cross-border communities, and provide jobs for millions of Texans, so it's important we ensure ports have the resources and information they need to run efficiently and safely, said Sen. Cornyn. I'm grateful to the Trump Administration for their support of this critical bill that will affect millions of Texans. Michigan is home to two of our nation's busiest trade crossings, and our economy relies on our ports of entry to securely and efficiently move goods and travelers across our border, said Senator Peters. I'm pleased this bipartisan bill has been signed into law to ensure Michigan's ports have the necessary resources to keep our state a thriving hub for international commerce. The United States Ports of Entry Threat and Operational Review Act requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit a threat and operational analysis of ports of entry, including: current and potential threats posed by individuals and organized groups seeking to exploit security vulnerabilities at ports of entry or to unlawfully enter the United States through such ports of entry; methods and pathways used to exploit security vulnerabilities at ports of entry; improvements needed at ports of entry to prevent the unlawful movement of people, illicit drugs, and other contraband across our borders; improvements needed to enhance travel and trade facilitation and reduce wait times at ports of entry; processes conducted at ports of entry that do not … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=298 | 115th Congress Accomplishments | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Jodey C. Arrington | A000375 | arrington.house.gov | arrington | https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 | scraper | It is a profound honor and blessing to represent you and your family in our nation’s capital. West Texas is more than the energy basin and breadbasket for the United States – it’s the backbone of our nation’s traditional values. I hope you are as pleased as I am with the record of results from our first term. Our overarching goal was to rein in the federal government, renew our commitment to the Constitution, be a strong voice for Rural America, and restore power back to “We the People.” Here are some of the ways we advanced our conservative principles and West Texas values during our first term in Congress: rebuilt the military and restored our readiness, supported the President to secure the border and stop illegal immigration, grew our economy and created jobs through tax cuts and regulation reduction, repealed Obamacare’s individual mandate, improved services to our veterans by enhancing the GI Bill and increasing accountability at the VA, increased access to healthcare for people in rural communities, introduced the only bi-partisan term limits legislation endorsed by President Trump, and defended our constitutional rights and traditional American values by protecting the 2nd Amendment and State sovereignty in public education. In addition, President Trump signed five pieces of legislation into law that we introduced on behalf of the good people of West Texas, improving agriculture, rural healthcare, and veteran services. We also led efforts to restore cotton to the Farm Bill safety net and secure the new B-21 bomber at Dyess - two generational opportunities with billions in economic impact to West Texas. Furthermore, as Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Economic Opportunity Subcommittee, I spearheaded legislation to improve accountability and quality of care at the VA. On the Farm Bill conference committee, I ensured that the 2018 Farm Bill gave our farmers and ranchers the certainty and security they need to feed and clothe the American people. In spite of our accomplishments during the 115th Congress, ther… | 1 | 2026-04-07T12:09:11Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://babin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2316 | Babin Comments on Secretary Mattis Service | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Brian Babin | B001291 | babin.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36) released the following statement regarding the announced retirement of Secretary of Defense James Mattis after four decades of public service. “The American people are losing a very smart, tough and patriotic public servant in Secretary of Defense General James “Mad Dog” Mattis. His departure will leave a big void, and we will miss his leadership, experience and knowledge. Our enemies feared and respected him and our friends appreciated him.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z | ||
| 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 | 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. Withborderwall 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. The 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. Congressman Gonzalez has repeatedly opposed the militarization of the border, and the border wall. Some of his most recent work culminated in an officialcommenton theborderwall. Below is the letter in full: December 19, 2018 The Honorable Kevin K. McAleenan Commissioner U.S. Customs and Border Protection 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20229 Commissioner McAleenan, I 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. The 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… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://kevinbrady.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401309 | Brady stands with Trump; condemns Democrats putting partisanship over national security | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Kevin Brady | B000755 | kevinbrady.house.gov | legacy | Brady stands with Trump; condemns Democrats putting partisanship over national security Its a simple choice; open government or open borders f t # e Washington, December 21, 2018 Washington, DC Congressman Kevin Brady (R-TX-08) released the following statement after voting for legislation to fund the government and secure the border: For me this was a simple choice stand with President Trump, keep the government open and build the border wall. Democrats would prefer to have open borders, despite the risk this poses to our national security and the thousands of Border Agents who risk their lives to protect our sovereignty and secure the border. This is political gamesmanship at its worst. The safety and security of our citizens and our homeland are not pawns, and Pelosi and Schumer should be ashamed for treating them as such. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://marchant.house.gov/?p=24954 | Marchant Votes to Build the Wall and Secure our Borders | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Kenny Marchant | M001158 | marchant.house.gov | legacy | Marchant Votes to Build the Wall and Secure our Borders Congressman Kenny Marchant (TX-24) released this statement after the House passed legislation to secure our borders and fund the government: Last night I voted to pass common sense legislation to build the wall, provide disaster assistance to necessary areas, and keep the government open. said Marchant. In one month Speaker Pelosi will not allow us to put the security and safety of the American people first and secure our borders. We need to fulfill the will of the people and most of the feedback I've received from my district is to vote to fund the wall. We can't allow the dysfunction of Washington and the Democrats putting party over country to put our citizens safety in jeopardy. The constant flow of opioids and Illegal immigration at our southern border has gone unchecked for too long. Congress needs to put the safety of Americans first and keep our promise of securing the border. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://marchant.house.gov/?p=24957 | Marchant Statement on the Resignation of Defense Secretary James Mattis | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Kenny Marchant | M001158 | marchant.house.gov | legacy | Marchant Statement on the Resignation of Defense Secretary James Mattis Congressman Kenny Marchant (TX-24) released this statement after the Secretary of Defense James Mattis announced he will be leaving his post at the end of February: Mr. Mattis joined the Marine Corps Reserve at 18 years old looking to make a positive difference in the world, and has served his country tirelessly in his more than four decades in uniform, said Marchant. Over the years he has earned a reputation among his colleagues and the defense community for integrity and good judgement, garnering the respect and trust of presidents, lawmakers, and the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Defense Secretary Mattis has faithfully carried out missions both military and civilian, always working to protect the American people and our allies. His tenure at the Department of Defense will be remembered for leading the effort to defeat ISIS, rebuilding our military, and protecting the American people. I thank him for his lifelong commitment to our national security and steadfast leadership in times of conflict. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://ratcliffe.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=330 | Rep. John Ratcliffe votes for $5.7 billion wall funding | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Ratcliffe | R000601 | ratcliffe.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://ratcliffe.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=331 | Trump signs Ratcliffe bill to modernize federal government | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Ratcliffe | R000601 | ratcliffe.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://thornberry.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398368 | Thornberry on temporary funding bill | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | William Thornberry | T000238 | thornberry.house.gov | legacy | Thornberry on temporary funding bill f t # e Washington, December 21, 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Jordan Hunter December 21, 2018 (202) 225-3706 Thornberry on temporary funding bill WASHINGTON- U.S. Congressman Mac Thornberry (R-Clarendon) released the following statement after the House passed a stopgap spending bill that contains $5.7 billion for border construction and almost $7.8 billion in disaster relief aid.I voted to support a bill that keeps the government open, improves border security, and provides disaster relief aid. The House passed this bill by 217 to 185. The budget process is dysfunctional, but this bill provides a path forward while funding border security and disaster relief, two things the country needs. The Senate should pass it. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-new-criminal-justice-reform-law-brings-texas-model-nationwide | Cornyn: New Criminal Justice Reform Law Brings Texas Model Nationwide | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Cornyn | C001056 | www.cornyn.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after President Trump signed the First Step Act into law, which includes Senator Cornyn's prison reform provisions: I've worked for years to bring the Texas model of successful prison reform nationwide, and this law will help us close the revolving door of recidivism for Americans looking for a second chance on life. This is a great example of what we can achieve when we bring ideas that work from our home states the laboratories of democracy - to Congress. The First Step Act was a whole of government effort that required input from both sides of the aisle and law enforcement groups to make this bill stronger, and I'm gratified by President Trump's support. The First Step Act includes provisions from Senator Cornyn's prison reform legislation, which was modeled after Texas' successful reforms. Background on Senator Cornyn's Prison Reform Provisions: Risk Assessment: Requires the Department of Justice to develop risk assessment tools that will assess the recidivism risk of all eligible offenders. Reducing Prison Spending: Focuses limited Bureau of Prison resources on those most likely to commit future crimes and shifts lower-risk inmates to less restrictive conditions, reducing prison costs and freeing up resources for law enforcement. Expanded Recidivism-Reduction Programming: Requires the Bureau of Prisons to provide evidence-based recidivism reduction programming to all eligible offenders. Partnerships with Faith-Based and Community-Based Organizations: Promotes efficient and effective recidivism reduction programming by requiring, the Bureau of Prisons to partner with private organizations, including non-profits, to enhance existing efforts. Credit toward Prerelease Custody: Incentivizes low-risk and non-violent inmates to reduce their risk profile by allowing eligible inmates who successfully complete recidivism reduction programs to earn credit toward time in pre-release custody. Improving Prisoner Reentry: Requires the federal pro… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=news&id=4253 | Ted Cruz Is Right: Make El Chapo Pay for the Wall | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | By: Daniel John Sobieski It would be poetic justice, is deliciously named, and wouldn't cost the taxpayers a dime. It doesn't make Mexico pay for the wall, just one particular Mexican who has done great injury to the people of the United States and who is responsible for a major part of drugs flooding into the United States. It is legislation introduced by Sen.Ted Cruz of Texas last year -- the Ensuring Lawful Collection of Hidden Assets to Provide Order (E.L.C.H.A.P.O.) Act which would use fund confiscated from drug dealers like El Chapo and traffickers to pay for border security. As Cruz explained after introducing his bill in April of 2017: Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced a bill calling for the use of $14 billion seized from cartel drug lord Joaquin El Chapo Guzman to be used to pay for the President's border wall between the U.S. and Mexico. Fourteen billion dollars will go a long way toward building a wall that will keep Americans safe and hinder the illegal flow of drugs, weapons, and individuals across our southern border, Senator Cruz stated, according to a statement obtained by Breitbart Texas from the senator's office The Texas senator said that leveraging criminally forfeited assets from El Chapo and other Mexican cartel members and drug dealers can offset the wall's cost and make meaningful progress toward achieving President Trump's stated border security objectives. Some might dismiss this idea as a campaign gimmick intended to help Cruz in his tough 2018 reelection bid, but it is an idea whose time has definitely come. El Chapo is responsible for many crimes against his people and ours, including the murder of Border Patrol agent Brian Terry using a weapon supplied by presidential wannabe and former Obama AG Eric Holder: We assume Holder reads the morning paper and has heard of the 40 assault weapons illegally purchased under the Phoenix ATF's Fast and Furious operation that somehow wound up in the home of Sinaloa cartel enforcer Torres "the Jaguar" Marrufo. If he has, we suspe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=news&id=4257 | Senate passes commercial space bill | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | By: Jeff Foust WASHINGTON The Senate approved legislation Dec. 20 to reform commercial space regulations and extend the life of the International Space Station, but the passage may be too late for this bill to become law. The Senate approved by unanimous consent the Space Frontier Act, S. 3277, a bill introduced in July by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and co-sponsored by Sens. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) The Senate Commerce Committee had favorable reported the bill in August. The bill approved by the full Senate includes several changes to the one that cleared the committee. Among its new provisions are sections calling for studies on the joint use of military facilities for commercial launches and on ways to improve the integration of launches and reentries into the national airspace system. It also renames the Office of Space Commerce within the Commerce Department as the Bureau of Space Commerce to be led by an Assistant Secretary for Space Commerce, a change sought by the Commerce Department to elevate the importance of the office. The bill authorizes $10 million a year for the bureau for fiscal years 2020 through 2024. While the bill is devoted primarily to reforms of commercial launch and remote sensing regulations, it also extends authorization to operate the ISS from 2024 to 2030. Cruz and Nelson included that extension after expressing opposition to the administration's plan in its fiscal year 2019 budget request to end direct funding of the ISS in 2025. The version passed by the Senate does include a new section authorizing NASA to start a low Earth orbit commercialization program to encourage the fullest commercial use and development of space by the private sector of the United States. NASA sought to start such a program in its 2019 budget request that could lead to installation of commercial modules on the ISS and, later, commercial space stations. The Space Frontier Act takes the critical step of continuing the operations and utilization of the International Space Stat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4237 | Sens. Cruz, Jones Applaud House Passage of Civil Rights Cold Case Legislation | 2018-12-21 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today the U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation led by U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Doug Jones (D-Ala.) to require the review, declassification, and release of government records related to unsolved criminal civil rights cases. Sens. Cruz and Jones have led a months-long bipartisan effort to provide public access to unsolved civil rights crime documents through their Civil Rights Cold Case Records Collection Act. U.S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) led the companion legislation in the House. Their bill will now go to the President's desk to be signed into law. This week has been a historic week for justice, Sen. Cruz said. Crimes committed against Americans seeking their rightful place in the American dream during the civil rights movement too often went unsolved. But this bill seeks to right these historic wrongs by disclosing case records so that the public may pursue leads and document these tragic events. I am grateful my colleagues in the House recognize the importance of this issue, and am proud to have worked with Sen. Jones on this bipartisan bill. It is my hope that, with additional sunlight to these cold cases, there will be revelation, justice, and closure where it has long been lacking. This legislation has made a remarkable journey from its conception in a high school classroom to its passage in Congress today. From the students who first brought their draft bill to my attention years ago to the journalists and researchers who study these civil rights cold cases to my colleagues Senator Ted Cruz and Representative Bobby Rush, this was truly a team effort to do the right thing by these victims and their families. While we can't change history, we can and should do whatever we can to seek truth and healing. Today, we took an important step forward in the effort to ensure justice delayed is not justice denied, said Senator Jones. I was delighted when Senators Jones and Cruz introduced companion legislation to my bill, H.R. 1272, and I am even more excited to see that thi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://gohmert.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398675 | DHS: Jesus, Mary and Joseph could have earned asylum in U.S. | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Louie Gohmert | G000552 | gohmert.house.gov | legacy | Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen assured members of Congress Thursday that Jesus, Mary and Joseph would have qualified for asylum in the U.S. as they fled King Herod. That turned out to be a point of contention as Ms. Nielsen testified to the House Judiciary Committee, fielding angry questions and denunciations from Democrats who say the Trump administration has been cruel to migrants. Rep. Luis V. Gutierrez, Illinois Democrat, was the most pointed, saying a Trump administration transported back to biblical times would have left Jesus to his death. A Jesus Christ who had to flee for his life, with Mary and Joseph, Mr. Gutierrez said. Thank God there wasn't a wall that stopped him from seeking refuge in Egypt. Thank God that wall wasn't there, and thank God there wasn't an administration like this or too would have perished on the 28th, the day of innocents, when Herod ordered the murder of every child under two years of age. The Feast of the Holy Innocents, celebrated on Dec. 28, commemorates the events recorded in the Book of Matthew describing in which Herod the Great, fearing the prophesy of the rise of a King of the Jews, has children executed. Joseph, warned in a dream, had fled with his family to Egypt. Rep. Louie Gohmert, Texas Republican, was indignant at that Mr. Gutierrez's denunciation, saying it was part of an overall campaign of slander against Ms. Nielsen and other administration officials. Mr. Gohmert asked Ms. Nielsen to alleviate Mr. Gutierrez's worries over the Holy Family, saying Herod's persecution of children seemed like a reason for asylum. Wouldn't they be eligible for asylum in the United States? he wondered. Yes, Ms. Nielsen assured him. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://gohmert.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398676 | Gohmert Introduces Bill That Removes Liability Protections for Social Media Companies That Use Algorithms to Hide, Promote, or Filter User Content | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Louie Gohmert | G000552 | gohmert.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Louie Gohmert (TX-01) released the following statement regarding the introduction his bill, H.R.7363, that amends section 230 of the Communications Act of 1934: Social media companies like Facebook, Twitter, and Google are now among the largest and most powerful companies in the world. More and more people are turning to a social media platform for news than ever before, arguably making these companies more powerful than traditional media outlets. Yet, social media companies enjoy special legal protections under Section 230 of the Communications Act of 1934, protections not shared by other media. Instead of acting like the neutral platforms they claim to be in order obtain their immunity, these companies have turned Section 230 into a license to potentially defraud and defame with impunity. Representatives of social media companies have testified in Congressional hearings that they do not discriminate against or filter out conservative voices on their platforms. But for all their reassurances, the disturbing trend continues unabated. Employees from some of these companies have communicated their disgust for conservatives and discussed ways to use social media platforms and algorithms to silence and prevent income to conservatives. In one hearing, one of the internet social media executives indicated a desire to be treated like Fox News. Fox News does not have their immunity and this bill will fulfill that unwitting request. Since there still appears to be no sincere effort to stop this disconcerting behavior, it is time for social media companies to be liable for any biased and unethical impropriety of their employees as any other media company. If these companies want to continue to act like a biased medium and publish their own agendas to the detriment of others, they need to be held accountable. Congressman Gohmert is the Vice Chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security, as well as the Vice Chairman of the Natural Resources Committee. Prior to being elected to serve i… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=165 | Arrington Supports Spending Measure With Border Wall Funding | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Jodey C. Arrington | A000375 | arrington.house.gov | arrington | https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 | scraper | Today, Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX19) released the following statement after the House passed a short-term spending bill that included $5.7 billion for border security and $7.8 billion for disaster relief. “We have a national security crisis in our country, and our Commander-in-Chief has asked for the necessary resources to defend our sovereign borders and protect our citizens and communities,” said Arrington. “I am proud to stand with him in his efforts to secure the border and stop illegal immigration by voting to give him the funding he requested for the border wall and other physical barriers. “There is no country without borders; there is no freedom without security; and the first and most important job of the federal government is to keep the American people safe.” | 1 | 2026-04-07T12:09:11Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=166 | Arrington on USDA's Proposed SNAP Rule | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Jodey C. Arrington | A000375 | arrington.house.gov | arrington | https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 | scraper | Today, Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX19) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a proposed rule that would “restore the original intent of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)” by tightening state waivers for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD). “I applaud Secretary Perdue and the Trump Administration for finishing the job House Republicans started to ensure that able-bodied adults on Food Stamps work in order to receive assistance,” said Arrington. “I am proud that 18 of the 21 House-passed reforms to the Food Stamp Program made it in the final 2018 Farm Bill. “We have a growing economy and millions of surplus jobs – it’s time we pull those in poverty up and out of the welfare trap of government dependence and ensure those who are capable of working do so.” See USDA’s press release here. See the proposed rule here. | 1 | 2026-04-07T12:09:11Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| 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 | legacy | UNITED STATES CONGRESS For Immediate Release December 20, 2018 Contact: Kate Stotesbery (202) 225-4865 Joint Statement: Speaker Ryan Continues to Block Crucial Yemen VoteAnd American Bombs Keep Falling Washington, 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: 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. If 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. Let'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. ### Follow Lloyd Doggett Facebook: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—And 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. — 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—the resolution passed in the Senate with a bipartisan majority. Together, they released the following statement: "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. If 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. Let'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." Follow 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 | 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: The 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. Additionally, 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. While 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. Congressional 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. # # # | 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 | 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. The 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. # # # | 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 | 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. If 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. # # # | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hurd-statement-significant-chinese-cyber-aggression | Hurd Statement on Significant Chinese Cyber Aggression | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Will Hurd | H001073 | hurd.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC In response to the recent announcement by the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation to counter Chinese national security threats, former CIA undercover officer and cybersecurity entrepreneur U.S. Representative Will Hurd (TX-23), who chairs the House IT Subcommittee and serves on the Homeland Security and Intelligence Committees, issued the following statement: We are in a hot war with China, and cyber space is the battle space. I've said time and time again that we must play nice with nice guys, and tough with tough guys. This is no different. There must be consequences for digital attacks that compromise our national security.' China views hacking as a means to attain leadership in advanced technology and 21st century great power politics and is currently working to improve its position at the expense of other nations. This systemic breach was undertaken by a hacking group, APT 10, with clear links to the Chinese Ministry of State Security, clearly violating our countries' shared cyber commitments from the 2015 Xi-Obama Memorandum. I applaud today's announcement, which sets a clear tone that the United States has zero tolerance for China's deliberate efforts to steal our information and technology. Attribution is a deterrent against future cyber attacks, and we must continue to expose bad actors that threaten our intellectual property and national security.' As Chair of the IT Subcommittee I have been working since 2015 to improve our federal government's ability to defend our digital infrastructure against cyberattacks. I am pleased that last night, the House and Senate passed a bipartisan national security package that ensures the Department of Homeland Security has the authorities to do just that, including establishing a process for the federal government to address critical supply chain risks to our digital infrastructure. I urge the President to sign the SECURE Technology Act into law as soon as possible so we can begin to take action.' | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://kaygranger.house.gov/media/press-releases/lowey-granger-statement-acquittal-ngo-workers-egypt | Lowey, Granger Statement on Acquittal of NGO Workers in Egypt | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Kay Granger | G000377 | kaygranger.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Representatives Nita M. Lowey (D-NY-17) and Kay Granger (R-TX-12), incoming Chairwoman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on the acquittal of 43 NGO workers who had been prosecuted by the Egyptian government: While the Egyptian government should not have targeted NGO workers in the first place, we are pleased that the rule of law eventually prevailed in the Egypt. With a number of challenges in the region, we welcome this step in the right direction, but we continue to be concerned with the state of human rights in Egypt. The U.S.-Egypt relationship is a deep and historic one built on shared interests and honest communication, and one that we will continue to advance as incoming Chairwoman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee. We look forward to working with the Egyptian government to grow our mutual understanding and to advance human rights for all Egyptians. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://kevinbrady.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401307 | First Step Act passes House with Bradys support | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Kevin Brady | B000755 | kevinbrady.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC After passage in the Senate on Tuesday, the First Step Act was passed by the House on Thursday with overwhelming support from both sides of the aisle. We can be smart and tough on crime at the same time, said U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady (R-TX-08) after voting in favor of the bill. A number of provisions in the First Step Act mirror many of the same reforms the Texas legislature has implemented at the state level, which has a proven record of saving tax dollars, reducing crime rates, and lowering Texas incarceration rate. This is no get out of jail free card, but a chance for inmates to utilize meaningful employment and training opportunities, and other evidence-based programs to help reduce recidivism. This is a win for the inmates, their families, the taxpayers and our communities. I applaud President Trump and his Administration for making this a priority. The First Step Act requires the Department of Justice (DOJ) to construct an individualized risk-and-needs assessment for every offender upon being sentenced. Subsequently, the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) would offer inmates a tailor-made recidivism reduction plan, which could include resources such as mental health care, anger-management courses, vocational training and other resources. If these programs are successfully completed, low and minimum risk prisoners will begin to earn time credits for pre-release custody. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://olson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/olson-urges-reevaluation-of-syria-withdrawal | Olson Urges Reevaluation Of Syria Withdrawal | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Pete Olson | O000168 | olson.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Rep. Pete Olson (TX-22) today released the following statement regarding President Trump's plan to withdraw U.S. military troops from Syria: As a Navy veteran, I believe our commander in chief mustlisten to our generals and military on the ground. These warfighters say we must maintain a presence in Syria to contain the threat of a weakened but very potent ISIS. I share their concerns over an abrupt withdrawal from the region. This decision is a victory for Russia and their efforts to influence the region and, much like the previous administration's decision to withdraw from Iraq prematurely, may strengthen the hands of not only ISIS but also Iran. Much of the progress our military has made in the war to end the ISIS caliphate will be lost. I urge the president to reconsider this decision immediately. ### Media Contact: Cate Cullen 202-225-5951 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://poe.house.gov/2018/12/co-chairmen-poe-connolly-applaud-passage-of-georgia-support-act | CO-CHAIRMEN POE & CONNOLLY APPLAUD PASSAGE OF GEORGIA SUPPORT ACT | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Poe | P000592 | poe.house.gov | legacy | Co-Chairmen of the Georgia Caucus,U.S. Congressmen Ted Poe (R-TX)andGerald Connolly (D-VA)released the following statements after the House passed H.R. 6129, the bi-partisan Georgia Support Act. The legislation reasserts the United States' support for Georgia's sovereignty and opposition to the forceful and illegal Russian invasion of Abkhazia and Tskhinivali region/South Ossetia. "The Republic of Georgia is a beacon of democracy in a part of the world that has long struggled to break the legacy of Soviet oppression," said Congressman Poe, the co-chair of the Congressional Georgia Caucus. "While Georgia successfully achieved independence in 1991, Moscow has persistently attempted to bully the small nation back into its orbit -- even going to the extent of invading and occupying a third of Georgia's territory. As Georgia's friend and ally we have a duty to help the Georgian people resist Russia's aggression. That is why I am proud to join my counterpart on the Georgia Caucus, Rep. Gerry Connolly, in introducing the Georgia Support Act. This important bill not only sends a message to the Kremlin that Congress opposes its violations of Georgian sovereignty and territorial integrity, but we are ready to back it up with action. By passing this bill, we are enhancing Georgia's ability to defend itself and taking steps to target Russians who commit brutal human rights atrocities against the Georgian people." "I am proud that the House has passed the Georgia Support Act, which strengthens the vital U.S.-Georgia partnership, a strategically important relationship in a critical part of the world, said Congressman Connolly, co-chair of the Congressional Georgia Caucus. This bill demonstrates the United States' robust support of Georgia's sovereignty, continued democratic development, and security, especially in the face of Russian aggression. The Georgia Support Act builds on previous efforts to bolster Georgia's territorial integrity by authorizing sanctions against those responsible for or complicit in human rights … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://poe.house.gov/2018/12/poe-and-connolly-congratulate-salome-zurabishvili-as-first-female-president-of-georgia | POE AND CONNOLLY CONGRATULATE SALOME ZURABISHVILI AS FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT OF GEORGIA | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Poe | P000592 | poe.house.gov | legacy | Congressmen Ted Poe (R-TX) and Gerald Connolly (D-VA), Chairmen of the Georgia Caucus, issued the following statement on the election of ruling party candidate and former Georgian foreign minister, Salome Zurabishvili,as the first female president of Georgia: Congratulations to our friends in the Republic of Georgia on the historic election of Salome Zurabishvili as their first female president, said Reps. Poe and Connolly. This election demonstrates the continued development of Georgia's young democracy. Despite the challenges their country faces, Georgians have shown their strong commitment to freedom, the rule of law, and thepeaceful transfer of power. We reiterate the concerns of election observers regarding the abuse of state resources for partisan campaigning and urge Georgian authorities to address these issues todemonstrate their commitment tofully fair and transparent elections. The United States, as a close ally of Georgia, stands ready to work with President Zurabishvili and to support her nation's integration with the transatlantic community. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://ratcliffe.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=329 | Rep. Ratcliffe praises Trump administrations actions against China's state-sponsored cyber espionage | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Ratcliffe | R000601 | ratcliffe.house.gov | legacy | 0 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | |||
| https://thornberry.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398366 | House passes tax bill before the end of the year | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | William Thornberry | T000238 | thornberry.house.gov | legacy | House passes tax bill before the end of the year f t # e Washington, December 20, 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Jordan Hunter December 20, 2018 (202) 225-3706 House passes tax bill before the end of the year WASHINGTON- The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 88, the Retirement, Savings, and Other Tax Relief Act. This bill passed the House by a vote of XXX to XXX. It is important that we continue to work on legislation that brings relief to hardworking Americans. Last year, we took a step in reforming our tax code by passing tax reform. Earlier this year, the House passed tax reform 2.0. Now, we are taking a third step to continue to help our economy thrive, Thornberry said. With our progress on tax reform, we have seen a lot of growth in our economy, Americans keeping more of the money they earn, and jobs being created. Highlights: Includes special tax relief benefits forindividuals and businesses affected by recent natural disasters; Helps businesses provide retirement plans for their workers and helps families to start saving earlier; Makes key technical corrections to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act; Further delays several Obamacare taxes, including the medical device tax and health insurer tax; Makes the railroad track maintenance credit permanent; and Updates the IRS and makes taxpayer service the focus of the agency. ### … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://thornberry.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398367 | Thornberry on Mattis retirement | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | William Thornberry | T000238 | thornberry.house.gov | legacy | Thornberry on Mattis retirement f t # e Washington, December 20, 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:Jordan Hunter December 20, 2018 (202) 225-3706 Thornberry on Mattis retirement WASHINGTON-U.S. Congressman Mac Thornberry (R-Clarendon) released the following statement after Secretary Mattis announced his retirement:"In January 2017, Congress took an extraordinary action by passing a law that allowed James N. Mattis to serve as Secretary of Defense. The only other time it has been done was for General George C. Marshall. Speaking in support of the legislation on the House Floor I said, 'I know of no one more respected, more admired in the field of national security today than General Mattis.' His service as Secretary over the last two years have only added to the luster of his name."Americans and freedom-loving people around the world have rightfully trusted his steady hand and sound judgmentleadingthe United States Department of Defense. He inspired and motivated the men and women serving in our military. His personal integrity and forthright manner have been a modelforpublic servants, whether military or civilian."I am incredibly grateful to him for being willing to serve, for fulfilling his duties with such extraordinary commitment to American national security, and for the close working relationship he fostered with the Congress." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://weber.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=486 | Weber Statement on House Amended Continuing Resolution with Border Security Funding | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Randy Weber | W000814 | weber.house.gov | legacy | Weber Statement on House Amended Continuing Resolution with Border Security Funding f t # e Washington, December 20, 2018 Washington, D.C. On Thursday, December 20, 2018, the U.S. House of Representatives sent an amended version of the Senate's Continuing Resolution back to the Senate for final approval. The amended bill funds the remaining seven agencies of the government through February 2019, while also providing $5.71 billion for border security and $7.8 billion for disaster relief. Congressman Randy Weber (R Friendswood) released the following statement:The People's House knows our constituents want to see the border properly funded and secured. Our President heard that message, and the House resolved to plus up our border funding. Our border needs securing, and having survived Hurricane Harvey, I know first hand the critical need for disaster funding. My colleagues and I were elected to serve our districts. We have a job to do, and House Republicans did just that. It is now time for the Senate to take a stand for the desires of the American people. I actively encourage them to accept our amendment to the bill and avoid a partial government shut down. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-peters-bill-improve-efficiency-and-boost-safety-us-ports-entry-passes-senate | Cornyn, Peters Bill to Improve Efficiency and Boost Safety at U.S. Ports of Entry Passes Senate | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Cornyn | C001056 | www.cornyn.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTONU.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Gary Peters (D-MI) released the following statements after the United States Ports of Entry Threat and Operational Review Act passed the Senate. This bill, which they jointly authored, would initiate an in-depth analysis of the strengths, opportunities, and vulnerabilities of land, sea, and air ports of entry so that we can promote more efficient trade and travel across our borders while targeting vulnerabilities to decrease illegal activity. Texas boasts some of the most active ports of entry in the United States, and reviewing the vulnerabilities and inefficiencies at these ports will help us to better facilitate legitimate trade and travel, said Sen. Cornyn. I'm grateful to Sen. Peters and all my colleagues in the Senate for supporting this bill critical for international trade, travel, and security. The day-to-day operations of businesses in Michigan and throughout the country depend on the secure flow of goods through our ports,said Senator Peters.I am pleased the Senate has passed this bipartisan bill to provide our ports with the resources needed to effectively handle increased levels of trade and travel, and ensure small business owners and entrepreneurs across Michigan can continue to sell their products in the global marketplace. The United States Ports of Entry Threat and Operational Review Act requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit a threat and operational analysis of ports of entry, including: current and potential threats posed by individuals and organized groups seeking to exploit security vulnerabilities at ports of entry or to unlawfully enter the United States through such ports of entry; methods and pathways used to exploit security vulnerabilities at ports of entry; improvements needed at ports of entry to prevent the unlawful movement of people, illicit drugs, and other contraband across our borders; improvements needed to enhance travel and trade facilitation and reduce wait times at ports of entry; processes conducted at ports o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4231 | Sen. Cruz Introduces NASA Authorization Act of 2018 | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) this week introduced the NASA Authorization Act of 2018. This bipartisan legislation is the product of a series of hearings and establishes a legislative marker to build upon in the 116th Congress. The legislation supports an overall budget of $21.545 billion for fiscal year 2019 which would sustain NASA and ensure continued progress for our nation's existing national space initiatives and investments. This is crucial as we look to advance space exploration and assert the United States' leadership in the final frontier. Sens. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), and Ed Markey (D-Mass) are co-sponsors. As chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Space, Science, and Competitiveness, Sen. Cruz has been a strong advocate for fortifying the United States' leadership in space. He led a series of hearings leading to the introduction of the NASA Authorization Act of 2018, which focused on topics including: America's future exploration of Mars, support for scientific missions in the search for life beyond Earth, and the future of America's ability to maintain its leadership in space. For decades the United States has been a leader on the global stage and advanced exploration by pushing humans further than they've ever gone before, Sen. Cruz said. I am proud of this bipartisan legislation, and firmly believe that we are in a strong position to continue to build upon this bill in the 116th Congress to create an opportunity for a new generation of Americans to witness a new chapter in history: American boots stepping foot on the surface of Mars. Additionally, this bill will provide new commercialization opportunities in low-Earth orbit which will help a private sector commercial space flourish. Most importantly, this bill maximizes the return of American taxpayers' dollars that have been invested towards the operation and utilization of the International Space Station. The full bill text may be viewed here. Highlights of the NASA Authorization Act of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4233 | Sens. Cruz, Nelson, Markey Applaud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Space Frontier Act | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) today issued the following statements after the Senate passed their bipartisan Space Frontier Act (S.3277) by a unanimous vote of approval. In July, Sens. Cruz, Nelson, and Markey introduced this legislation to fortify America's leadership in space exploration, continue operations for the International Space Station (ISS) through 2030, and reign in overreaching regulations to support further development of the commercial space sector. For over half a century the United States has been the global leader in space. The Space Frontier Act not only ensures that the United States will remain the global leader in space exploration, but reduces regulatory barriers to allow a vibrant commercial economy to flourish in space, Sen. Cruz said. The Space Frontier Act takes the critical step of continuing the operations and utilization of the International Space Station through 2030, ensures that the United States won't cede low-Earth orbit to China, and enacts meaningful reforms to modernize our nation's launch and re-entry regulations, and streamlines nongovernmental Earth observation regulations. I am proud to have worked with Senators Nelson and Markey on this bipartisan legislation, and urge my House colleagues to take swift actions to pass our bill and send it to the President's desk to be signed into law. Reforms in this bill will help commercial space companies get to two launches a day in Florida, Sen. Nelson said. As a result, jobs will continue to soar as rockets roar off the launch pads. Extending the life of the International Space Station well into the next decade, as this bill does, will also ensure America remains a leader in space exploration. Passage of the Space Frontier Act is not just one small step, it is one giant leap that gets us that much closer to the next Great Space Age, Sen. Markey said. I am proud of the Subcommittee's hard work on this bipartisan piece of legislation, especially my partners Senator Cruz… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4234 | Sen. Cruz Announces Staff Updates | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today announced new staff roles in his Senate D.C. office. Effective immediately, Sean McLean will be fulfilling the role of Legislative Director, and Austin Smithson as the Domestic Policy Advisor. Sean and Austin have been exceptional assets to my office and the people of Texas, serving as experts for their legislative portfolios while helping to secure numerous victories for the Lone Star State and all Americans, Sen. Cruz said. I am confident that they will continue the fight for freedom and economic growth as they advance into their new roles. And I look forward to working with each of them as we head into a new legislative session to represent the values and concerns of Texans in Washington. Sean McLean, Legislative Director: McLean has over a decade of experience working in the United States Congress, and for the past four years has handled the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation portfolio for Sen. Cruz. In addition to handling issues before the full committee, McLean has also managed Sen. Cruz's priorities as the chairman of the Subcommittee on Space, Science, and Competitiveness. Under McLean's leadership, Sen. Cruz has passed five bipartisan bills that have been signed into law by Presidents Obama and Trump. Previously, McLean worked for U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) for over seven years in a number of positions, including Legislative Director. Austin Smithson, Domestic Policy Advisor: Smithson, a native of Tyler, most recently served as Director of the Hurricane Harvey Working Group' in Sen. Cruz's D.C. office, where he oversaw the office's response to Hurricane Harvey and worked to ensure Texans and Texas communities impacted by the storm received the federal assistance needed to recover and rebuild. Prior to that, Smithson served as Legislative Counsel for Sen. Cruz, handling issues critical to Texas, including energy, agriculture, environment, and transportation. Before joining Cruz's office, he was Legislative Director… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4235 | Sen. Cruz Introduces the End Palestinian Terror Salaries Act of 2018 | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today introduced the End Palestinian Terror Salaries Act of 2018. The bill imposes sanctions against Palestinian officials who provide financial rewards for Palestinian terror attacks. The text of the bill may be viewed here. Palestinian terrorists have wounded or killed more than a dozen Israelis over the last few months, including 45-year old American-Israeli Ari Fuld, Sen. Cruz said The Palestinian government continues to provide hundreds of millions of dollars each year rewarding such terrorists and their families, providing an incentive for ever more violence. It's past time for Congress to impose direct costs on the Palestinian officials who manage the programs that provide these rewards. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4236 | Sen. Cruz, Rep. Smith's Student Empowerment Act Passes U.S. House | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Rep. Jason Smith (R-Mo.) today issued the following statements applauding the House passage of the Student Empowerment Act, which expands the use of 529 College Savings Plans to allow families to save for K-12 education expenses. This important legislation builds upon the biggest school-choice initiative in American history by enabling public, private, and homeschool families to use a 529 savings account for everyday educational expenses, ensuring that every family is able to use these tax-advantaged accounts to pay for their child's elementary and secondary education, Sen. Cruz said. By investing in the next generation of students and expanding school choice, we're allowing more families to access a quality education that truly fits their child's needs, and to escape the one-size-fits-all approach to education. The Student Empowerment Act will help working families pay for their children's everyday K-12 education expenses, no matter where they attend school, said Congressman Smith. Parents know better than Washington about what's right for their children, and this legislation will allow families to save for the expenses unique to their children's needs. It will also end wrongful discrimination against families who homeschool their children, because every family has the right to choose where their children receive their education. I thank Senator Cruz for his partnership on this important issue to expand school choice and uphold individual liberty. Eligible expenses would include tuition, books and instructional materials, tutoring expenses, fees for exams related to college admissions, and educational therapy for students with disabilities. Additionally, the Student Empowerment Act would allow all families to use tax-free 529 savings accounts, regardless of where their children receive their education. It would change current law, which does not permit families to use 529 savings accounts for homeschool expenses. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=video&id=4232 | Sen. Cruz Encourages Senate Colleagues to Pass the Space Frontier Act | 2018-12-20 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | Central TX (512) 916-5834 300 E 8th Suite 961 Austin, TX 78701 Email North TX (214) 599-8749 Lee Park Tower II 3626 N. Hall St. Suite 410 Dallas, TX 75219 Email Southeast TX (713) 718-3057 The Mickey Leland Federal Building 1919 Smith Street Suite 9047 Houston, TX 77002 Email South/Cen. TX (210) 340-2885 9901 IH-10W Suite 950 San Antonio, TX 78230 Email East TX (903) 593-5130305 S. Broadway Suite 501 Tyler, TX 75702 Email South TX (956) 686-7339 200 S. 10th St Suite 1603 McAllen, TX 78501 Email Washington, D.C. (202) 224-5922 404 Russell Washington, DC 20510 Contact | 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 | 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. Congressman 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. Students Eligible to Apply Students may be eligible for a closed school loan discharge based on their attendance period at Brightwood College. Student 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: 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 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. Transfer of Course Credits Laredo 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… | 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 | legacy | ***Press Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 19, 2018 Contact: Kate Stotesbery 202-225-4865 Rusal Ruse: Doggett on Trump Admin Lifting Sanctions on Russian Aluminum Producer Washington, 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. 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 appearsa Rusal rusethen we should reject this latest Trump scam. ### Follow Lloyd Doggett Facebook: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. — 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. "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—a Rusal ruse—then we should reject this latest Trump scam." Follow Lloyd Doggett | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hurd-bill-supporting-libraries-passes-house | Hurd Bill Supporting Libraries Passes House | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Will Hurd | H001073 | hurd.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Today, the Housepassed the Museum and Library Services Act (S. 3530), a bipartisan initiative to ensure the continued success of our libraries and museums across the nation originally introduced by Senator Reed (D-RI). U.S. Representative Will Hurd (TX-23) joined representatives Reps. Raul Grijalva (AZ-03), Leonard Lance (NJ-07) and David McKinley (WV-01) to introduce the House companion and push the bill to the finish line. Our public libraries, especially in rural areas, go far beyond simply providing books. They serve as the primary provider of literacy programming, technology training and job seeking assistance in many communities I represent across South and West Texas,said Hurd, who represents more than one hundred public libraries, college libraries and school districts in the 23rd District of Texas.The grant funding authorized through this bill directly serves libraries across our state and is vital for their continued success. I am glad my colleagues came together today in a bipartisan manner to support this bill, and I will continue to ensure that South and West Texans can continue to access quality educational resources. Libraries are centers of community life, providing opportunities for millions of Texans to discover their passion, and pursue education and career goals. On behalf of the Texas Library Association's more than 6,000 members, we'd like to thank Representative Hurd and Senator Reed for supporting our libraries, and for their leadership on the reauthorization of the Museum and Library Services Act,saidDana Braccia, Executive Director of the Texas Library Association. We thank Representative Hurd and Senator Reed for their leadership in support of the important work of the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the thousands of libraries across the United States,said Mark Smith, Librarian and Director of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.The Museum and Library Services Act will help state library agencies like ours in all states and territories continue t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hurd-national-security-bill-passes-house | Hurd National Security Bill Passes House | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Will Hurd | H001073 | hurd.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Today, the House of Representatives passed the SECURE Technology Act, a bipartisan national security package that ensures our Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel have the resources needed to keep Americans safe from global threats in today's interconnected world. The bill combines three bipartisan initiatives previously introduced in both the House and Senate that will ensure that DHS has the authorities to keep our digital infrastructure safe from cyber attacks. Cyber security is national security. Not a day goes by that our critical infrastructure isn't targeted by bad actors from every corner of the Globe, said Hurd, a former CIA undercover officer who serves on the House Homeland Security and Intelligence Committees. The SECURE Technology Act ensures that our federal agencies can better mitigate the risks to our networks and supply chains. I'm proud that my colleagues and I came together to support this bipartisan initiative to keep Americans safe across the finish line, and I'll continue to do all that I can to deliver real results back home. This bipartisan bill strengthens our national security by: Creating guidelines for addressing security vulnerabilities at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); Establishing a bug bounty program at DHS to incentivize personnel to find and fix potential holes in their system; Establishing a process for the federal government to address critical supply chain risks. This proposal includes Majority Leader McCarthy's Public-Private Cybersecurity Cooperation Act (H.R. 6735), Senator Hassan (D-NH) and Portman's (R-OH) Hack the Department of Homeland Security of 2018 (S. 1281) and Senator McCaskill (D-MO) and Lankford's (R-OK) Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act of 2018 (S. 3085). | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mccaul.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mccaul-s-statement-on-the-president-s-recent-announcement-on-us-forces | McCaul’s Statement on the President’s Recent Announcement on U.S. Forces in Syria | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Michael T. McCaul | M001157 | mccaul.house.gov | mccaul | https://mccaul.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee and a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement following President Trump's recent announcement on U.S. forces in Syria: Congressman McCaul: "I have been very supportive of President Trump's actions over the last two years to crush the so-called Caliphate in Iraq and Syria. We have retaken almost all of the territory once controlled by ISIS and put them on the run. However, I am concerned by today's reports that America has started an immediate withdrawal of all of our troops, as well as our diplomats who are charged with helping those impacted by ISIS to rebuild. "Such a move is premature and could empower ISIS to regroup and rebuild, inspire Assad to slaughter scores of innocent Syrians, strengthen Russia in the region, and embolden Iran and its Shia proxies to fill the void we've left behind. By removing our presence in Syria, we put our ally Israel in a very dangerous situation with having to deal with a growing Iranian military presence on its border. "History has taught us that when we completely disengage from a hostile area, it emboldens our enemies to continue their belligerent actions. I am hopeful that President Trump and his national security team can explain how this immediate withdrawal is in America's best interest." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4229 | Sen. Cruz Introduces Bill to Establish the Position of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) this week introduced a bill to establish a new position of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space within the Department of Defense. Since being elected to the Senate, Sen. Cruz has served as a leader on space issues and an advocate for American military superiority in space. Successfully competing in space requires leaders who are empowered to advocate and allocate the resources they need to secure American leadership in this new domain, Sen. Cruz said. My legislation will establish a new Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space, which would ensure the Pentagon adequately prioritizes the issue and that the Senate is able to provide oversight. This legislation also requires that one of the first tasks of the new Assistant Secretary is bringing emerging technologies critical for advancing U.S. national interests into the Department of Defense. Establishing the Assistant Secretary is a prerequisite to creating a robust military approach to space. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4230 | Sen. Cruz: Continuing Resolution is a 'Missed Opportunity' to Build the Wall | 2018-12-19 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement in opposition to the continuing resolution: The American people gave us a clear mandate: secure the border and build the wall. I have long called for building a wall as a necessary step in defending our border and stopping the flow of illegal immigration into our country. To that end, I introduced the EL CHAPO Act and the WALL Act two bills that would offset the cost of completing the wall and securing our border. Unfortunately, this continuing resolution fails to reflect these priorities by not sufficiently securing the border. This is a missed opportunity to deliver on the promises made to the American people. Further, this bill continues to fund sanctuary cities, which are defying the law and making Americans less safe. We should instead pass Kate's Law, a bill I introduced that would put criminal illegal immigrants in jail so they cannot prey on innocent Americans. Congress must do better. I will continue to fight for a better path that respects the will of the American people. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| 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 | 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. Last 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. Watch Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) discuss alternatives to constructing a border wall wi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-lawmakers-boosting-ai-cyber-workforce-gov-t-industry-2019 | House Lawmakers Boosting AI, Cyber Workforce in Govt, Industry in 2019 | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Will Hurd | H001073 | hurd.house.gov | legacy | House lawmakers announced plans to improve the use of artificial intelligence andincrease the government's cyber workforce through new bills in 2019 that would provide funding and set standards in the public and private sectors, Federal News Networkreported Monday. Reps. Will Hurd, R-Texas, and Robin Kelly, D-Ill., said they want to increase coordination between the government andindustry to explore and expand investments inAI technologies. Artificial intelligence matters because it will impact every single industry, Hurd said. We need to make sure we are aligning research in the federal government and the private sector, to make sure we are aligning the standards for the workforce, and we are training the workforce of the future. We need to make sure we are working with our international partners on this. The Texas representative said he's working on a cyber national guard bill to increase the number cyber experts in the future.Hurd also aims to push the Senate to increase its budget for the Technology Modernization Fund in 2019 after the House agreed to provide $150M in the coming year. Meanwhile, Kelly also plans to introduce a separate bill to improve the security of connected devices by requiring basic cybersecurity standards on government-purchased Internet of Things devices. Kelly and Hurdserve in the House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on IT. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/immigrant-children-be-released-faster-tornillo-tent-city-hhs-policy-change | Immigrant children to be released faster from Tornillo tent city with HHS policy change | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Will Hurd | H001073 | hurd.house.gov | legacy | Undocumented immigrant children willbereleased quicker from the Tornillo tent city and othersheltersafter a policy change regarding the fingerprinting of sponsors' households. Abacklog ofFBI background checksof sponsor families had been blamed fordelaying the release of unaccompanied immigrant children held in Tornillo and other government-contracted shelters across the nation. The Department of Health and Human Services on Tuesday announced that it waschanging the way it conducts background checks, which will speed up the release of children. Fingerprints and FBI background checks still will be required of all sponsors but not from all members of a sponsor's household, an HHS spokesperson said. A search of U.S. Department of Homeland Security arrest records is still part of the sponsor background check, HHS said. The government will continue to conduct a public records check of all adults in a household "to ensure child safety," HHS said in a statement. There wereabout 2,800 children, ages 13-17, as of last weekat the controversial tent city at the Tornillo border port of entry outside El Paso, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Several members of Congress have called on the Trump administration to close the facility, saying that children belong with their parents or relatives instead of being detainedbythe government. Whenchildren are released from shelters, they are placed with a relative or sponsor in the United States as their cases gothrough immigration court proceedings. The temporary shelter in Tornillo opened in June and initially housed about 300 children before significantly expanding. Also in June, the government put into place a new policy that required all sponsors and household members to be fingerprinted as part of the background check. HHS saidthat the fingerprint background checks of all household members had generally not found additional child welfare risks and that the fingerprints checks had increased the time children spent at the shelters. HHS reports that 79 pe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://williams.house.gov/media-center/newsletters/come-and-read-it-report-65 | Come and Read It Report | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Roger Williams | W000816 | williams.house.gov | legacy | Dear Texans, It's one of our favorite times of the year- high school football playoffs! In Texas, we know that means early morning practices, decking out in school colors, and braving the coldto watchour players leave itall out on the field for a shot at the state title. Last weekend, our very own Grandview High SchoolZebrasdefeated the Yoakum Bulldogs, 28-14, and are nowheaded to the State Championship! The game will take place this Thursday, December 20, at 7pm CT at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. While I cannot be there due to votes taking place in Washington, I will be cheering for the Zebras that day! Photo credit: TexasHSFootball.com Legislative Update Last week: we voted on 10 pieces of legislation, including the Farm Bill, which will provide economic stability to farmers and ranchers in our district, and around the country. I had the opportunity to preside over the House floor of the US Capitolone final time during the 115th Congress. It has been a true honor serving with these men and women the past two years on behalf of Texas' 25th District, and I look forward to two more! I have included some articles and releases you may find interesting located on the right side of this newsletter. It is an honor and privilege to represent the people of Texas' 25th Congressional District and as always, please reach out to me with any issues and concerns that are important to you. In God we trust, Roger Williams Member of Congress | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-texas-shows-criminal-justice-reform-works | Cornyn: Texas Shows Criminal Justice Reform Works | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Cornyn | C001056 | www.cornyn.senate.gov | legacy | We've seen these changes implemented across the country at the state level, including my home state of Texas.' We were able to reduce our incarceration rate and our crime rate by double-digits at the same time.' The odds of these individuals leaving prison and becoming more productive members of society should be higher than the odds of a coin flip.' I'm proud to be a cosponsor of this legislation, and I look forward to voting yes when it comes up for a vote later today or tomorrow.' WASHINGTON On the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the First Step Act and highlighted provisions to reduce recidivism based off successful reforms in Texas. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn's floor remarks are below, and video can be found here. Almost everybody in prison will serve their time and get out of prison. The question for us is, will they be better prepared to live life on the outside in a productive way, or will they simply reengage in a turnstile? We've seen these changes implemented across the country at the state level, including my home state of Texas, which have yielded incredible results. So using sorts of recidivism reduction programs that are included in the First Step Act at the state level, we were able to reduce our incarceration rate and our crime rate by double-digits at the same time. We're not just talking about money. We're talking about human potential. We're investing in the men and women who want to turn their lives around once they're released from prison, and we're investing in so doing in stronger and more viable communities, and we're investing tax dollars into a system that helps produce stronger citizens. That's what this legislation tries to do and that's why it's gained such broad support on both sides of the aisle. The odds of these individuals leaving prison and becoming more productive members of society should be higher than the odds of a coin flip. I'm proud to be a cosponsor of this legislation, and I look forward to voting yes when it comes up for a vote later today or tomorrow. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/senate-passes-cornyn-backed-criminal-justice-reform | Senate Passes Cornyn-Backed Criminal Justice Reform | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Cornyn | C001056 | www.cornyn.senate.gov | legacy | We've seen these changes implemented across the country at the state level, including my home state of Texas, which has yielded incredible results.' This bill is our opportunity to make meaningful changes in our criminal justice system. An opportunity to begin fixing a problem that plagues our country and our opportunity to take a model that's been working in the states for more than a decade and use it to benefit all Americans.' WASHINGTONSenator John Cornyn (R-TX) made the following remarks on the Senate floor prior to the Senate passing the First Step Act, criminal justice reform legislation largely based on his prison reform bill: We've seen these changes implemented across the country at the state level, including my home state of Texas, which has yielded incredible results. We can be smarter on crime and produce better results at a lower cost, and that message and those things that have followed have been enormously successful. By investing in these education and training programs - these recidivism reduction programs - we can ensure that people who get out of prison, more of them will actually stay out of prison. This bill is our opportunity to make meaningful changes in our criminal justice system. An opportunity to begin fixing a problem that plagues our country and our opportunity to take a model that's been working in the states for more than a decade and use it to benefit all Americans. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4226 | Bipartisan Jones-Cruz Bill to Release Civil Rights Cold Case Records Passes Full Senate | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Doug Jones (D-Ala.) announced that their bipartisan Civil Rights Cold Case Records Collection Act has passed through the full Senate by unanimous consent. Sens. Cruz and Jones introduced the legislation in July to require the review, declassification, and release of government records related to unsolved criminal civil rights cases. Despite being nearly 50 years old, many of these documents are not publicly available and some remain classified unnecessarily. Since its introduction, Sens. Cruz and Jones have worked together to earn support for the bill both at the committee level and in the full Senate. During the civil rights movement, far too many violent crimes committed against black Americans went unsolved, Sen. Cruz said. This bill attempts to address this injustice by disclosing case records so that the publicincluding private detectives, historians, victims, and victims' familiesmay access these files, pursue leads, and document these tragic events. I want to thank Sen. Jones for his efforts on this important bill. It is my hope that this bill will bring justice for the victims, closure to their families, and another victory for the legacy of the civil rights movement. This legislation means a great deal to the families and communities that have been impacted by these civil rights-era crimes, and I am so proud that we have been able to move the bill quickly through the Senate this year, said Senator Jones, a former U.S. Attorney. I understand well how important it is to confront the darkest moments in our history so that we can begin to heal and move forward together. This bill will unlock records that can help us better understand that history and give victims' families a chance at a sense of closure. I thank Senator Cruz for his partnership in this effort and I look forward to seeing this bill move through the House and to the President's desk. Since its introduction, the legislation has earned bipartisan support and has brought renewed national attenti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4227 | Sens. Cruz, Cotton Introduce Resolution Encouraging the United States to Recognize Israel's Sovereignty Over Golan Heights | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) introduced a Senate resolution encouraging the United States to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. The full text of the resolution may be read here. Israel's northern border is threatened by Iranian forces and their proxies in Lebanon and Syria, including Hezbollah's 150,000 rockets, armed drones, newly discovered terror tunnels, and more. Meanwhile, with the Ayatollahs' help, Bashar al Assad's regime is on the verge of securing victory in Syria's civil war. He may soon turn his attention back to threatening the Jewish state. Sens. Cruz and Cotton said. Israel gained possession over the Golan Heights in a defensive war over 50 years ago, and has responsibly controlled the area ever since. It's past time for the United States to recognize reality by affirming Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. The following is the full text of the resolution: Expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States should recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Whereas, until 1967, Syria controlled the Golan Heights and used the topographical advantage it provided to attack Israeli troops and civilians; Whereas, in June 1967, Syria intensified its attacks against Israel from the Golan Heights, and Israel captured the Golan Heights in a defensive war; Whereas, in October 1973, the Golan Heights provided Israel with critical strategic depth to repel a surprise attack by Syrian forces; Whereas, on September 1, 1975, President Gerald Ford provided a diplomatic assurance to Israel that the U.S. will support the position that an overall settlement with Syria in the framework of a peace agreement must assure Israel's security from attack from the Golan Heights and that the U.S. has not developed a final position on the borders. Should it do so it will give great weight to Israel's position that any peace agreement with Syria must be predicated on Israel remaining on the Golan Heights; Whereas, in October 1991, Secretary o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=4228 | Sen. Cruz Applauds Senate Passage of First Step Act | 2018-12-18 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today released the following statement after Senate passage of the First Step Act: From my first days in the Senate, I have been a strong advocate for criminal justice reform. The First Step Act is a major bill that moves our system in the direction of greater justice. It lowers mandatory minimums for non-violent drug offenders and increases anti-recidivism programs to help offenders better reenter society, while excluding violent offenders from early release from federal prison. The First Step Act both helps nonviolent, low-level offenders transition back into society while at the same time protecting public safety. It will create greater opportunities for offenders to be rehabilitated, and will reduce the costs of our federal prison system while protecting public safety. Too many young men, particularly young black men, face long mandatory prison sentences for nonviolent drug offenses; this bipartisan legislation corrects that injustice. And it will focus our law enforcement resources where they are most needed: preventing violent crime. I want to thank the bill sponsors for working with me to amend the bill in order to explicitly exclude violent felons from its coverage. With my amendment adopted, I was proud to vote in favor of this bill in the Senate, and I look forward to its passage in the House and signing by the President. ### | 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 | legacy | ***Press Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 17, 2018 Contact: Kate Stotesbery 202-225-4865 Gentle, Forceful Voice for Progress: Remembering Gus Garcia Austin, T.X. Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the passing of his longtime friend, former Mayor Gus Garcia: 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. Congressman 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. ### Follow Lloyd Doggett Facebook: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. — Congressman Lloyd Doggett released the following statement in reaction to the passing of his longtime friend, former Mayor Gus Garcia: "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." Congressman 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. Follow 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 | 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. WithPresident 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. The 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. Congressman Gonzalez has highlighted potential effects of a government shutdown here: More 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. Nearly 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. Undermining Public Safety.Training programs for state and local law enforcement will be cancelled. The Department of Justice's civil liti… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/hurd-hill/hurd-hill-spirit-season | Hurd on the Hill: The Spirit of the Season | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Will Hurd | H001073 | hurd.house.gov | legacy | There is a spirit of joy and giving in the air this time of year that goes unmatched, no matter the occasion celebrated. From getting together with family and loved ones to giving back to those in need, the holidays bring out the best in each of us and our nation as a whole. As this season continues, I encourage everyone to take time to reflect on this spirit of the season and carry a perspective of kindness, civility and cooperation into the New Year. We live in a nation more divided than ever. And although bringing up politics is typically frowned upon at a family gathering, my fear is that we are unable to put our labels of Democrat or Republican aside and work for the common good of our communities. One of the founding principles of our nation is the freedom of speech, or put alternatively, the ability to disagree. Through civil discourse and competition of ideas, we have created a democracy that has allowed Americans to prosper. We must come together as a nation and show the world our ability to disagree civilly, and that more unites us than divides us. For this experiment called America' to continue to thrive, we must be able to disagree with one another, without being disagreeable. One of the things I consistently hear when I'm back home crisscrossing South and West Texas is that folks fear our country is on the wrong track. I understand why you all feel this way I often feel the same after seeing pointless partisan bickering in Congress. However, what I have seen during my time in Congress is that bipartisanship is a real thing, and it is the only way to ensure that everyone's voices are heard. For example, last week alone, Congress saw three major bipartisan wins that deliver real results back home, from saving your hard-earned taxpayer dollars and keeping you safe to providing certainty for TX-23's more than 9,000 working farms and ranches. On Wednesday, I held my final hearing as Chair of the IT Subcommittee in the House, which oversees how our federal government is storing and protecting your informa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/ai-cyber-workforce-top-house-it-subcommittee-priorities-2019 | AI, cyber workforce at the top of House IT subcommittee priorities for 2019 | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Will Hurd | H001073 | hurd.house.gov | legacy | Artificial intelligence and the cyber workforce will be front and center when the House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on IT comes back for the 116thCongress. Both Reps. Will Hurd (R-Texas) and Robin Kelly (D-Ill.), currently the chairman and ranking member of the subcommittee, respectively, said they want to see progress across the government in both of these areas. While it's still unclear what the shape of the committee and subcommittees will look like and whether Hurd and Kelly will switch roles both say they plan to remain involved in federal IT and management issues. Hurd said no matter how things come together, he will continue to work in a bipartisan fashion on IT oversight, starting with a focus on AI. We need a national AI strategy. Artificial intelligence matters because it will impact every single industry, Hurd said onAsk the CIO. Most immediately when it comes to cybersecurity, the future of cybersecurity will be good AI versus bad AI. We need to make sure we are aligning research in the federal government and the private sector, to make sure we are aligning the standards for the workforce and we are training the workforce of the future and we need to make sure we are working with our international partners on this so we are driving how artificial intelligence and ethics of AI are in the future and not China. Kelly said she agreed with Hurd that agencies need to work with the private sector on investments and development of AI capabilities. We are seeing countries like China put far more investment into it than we have so I think we need to look at that, she said. I think hearing from agencies who are using it and whether there are pilots we can do in certain agencies. Expanding efforts around AI The executive branch already is busy looking at different aspects of AI. But Hurd is concerned there is a lack of coordination. The Trump administration, for instance,created an AI task forcein May under its Office of Science and Technology Policy. The group plans to release an updated vers… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/hhs-latest-agency-begin-figure-fitara-out | HHS is latest agency to begin to figure FITARA out | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Will Hurd | H001073 | hurd.house.gov | legacy | As the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee marked the fourth anniversary of the passage of the Federal IT Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA) with the releases of the seventhiteration of its scorecard, there was plenty to celebrate. No agency received an F grade for the first time. While there were no As either, there were 11 Bs and every agency either improved or stayed the course. The intent of the scorecard, as my colleague and original co-author of FITARA [Rep. Gerry] Connolly (D-Va.) has pointed out, is not to paint agencies with a scarlet letter. Rather, our intent is to incentivize behaviors and actions that result in better managed and more secure IT resources, said Rep. Will Hurd, (R-Texas), chairman of the IT subcommittee, in his opening statement. And it's that goal of driving and incentivizing a specific set of behaviors that came through in thislatest scorecardmore than ever before. The changed behaviors can be seen at the agency level whether it's the Commerce Department's acting CIO Rod Turkexercising his oversightmuscles over the bureau's IT spending, or the Transportation Department's decision tofreeze IT spendingback in 2016 to address cybersecurity challenges and then in 2017 to add more oversight to IT spending. For many agencies, complying with the law doesn't mean getting all As and staying out of the cross-hairs of the committee. It means CIOs can stop talking about getting a seat at the table and start exercising their authorities to affect real change. The bi-annual hearings, in many ways, are a reminder that at least House lawmakers are watching with high expectations. These hearings and our consensus on the issue of federal information technology procurement sends a message to agencies that the Oversight and Government Reform Committee is serious about agency implementation of the Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act or FITARA and we are not going to take our foot off of the gas pedal until we achieve full implementation of the law, regardless of who is in the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://poe.house.gov/2018/12/december-17th-december | December 17th - December 21st | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Poe | P000592 | poe.house.gov | legacy | Monday 12.17.18 Pakistan's army chief has approved death sentences for 15 people convicted by military courts of involvement in attacks that killed 32 security forces and two civilians. A military statement issued Sunday says Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa also approved prison terms for 20 alleged militants. It says they were involved in attacks on security forces and Christians, and the destruction of educational institutions. It did not say when the men would be executed. Military trials are not open to the public in Pakistan, but defendants can hire their own lawyers. The Taliban released ashort statementtoday confirming that representatives of its political office are set to meet with an American delegation tomorrow (Dec. 17). The face-to-face is to take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). And according to the Taliban, [r]epresentatives of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and [the] United Arab Emirates will also attend the meeting.Notably absent from the Taliban's statement is any mention of the Afghan government. The jihadists have publicly rejected any talks with President Ghani's government, repeatedly describing it as an illegitimate puppet of the US. Fighting against the Islamic State group inits last enclave in eastern Syriais going very well, a U.S. official said Saturday as U.S.-backed Syrian fighters battled the extremists on the edge of the largest urban area they still hold. Spokesman for the U.S.-led Coalition Col. Sean Ryan's comments came a day after the U.S.-backedSyrian Democratic Forcescaptured the town of Hajin, the largest urban area controlled by ISIS in the enclave. Ryan said ISIS still poses a threat and its fighters are regrouping, planting improvised explosives devices to slow the progress of SDF offensives. He added that the end days of ISIS in the enclave they hold near Iraq's border are getting closer, however, they still have the capability for coordinated attacks, and the fight is not over. A bomb blast in a northwestern Syrian town held by Turkish-backed opposition forces killed at lea… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-criminal-justice-reform-clears-key-vote | Cornyn: Criminal Justice Reform Clears Key Vote | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Cornyn | C001056 | www.cornyn.senate.gov | legacy | These reforms and these outcomes are real, and I've been working with my colleagues in the Senate Judiciary Committee since 2013 to try to bring these reforms now to the national level. And the First Step Act is our opportunity to do just that this week in the Senate.' The current bill has undergone some major improvements over the last few weeks which I'm very proud of.' More than three-quarters of the bill was based on the CORRECTIONS Act that Senator Whitehouse and I introduced in 2014, which is the prison reform component of the legislation.' The bill has been endorsed by a number of important groups, including the National Association of Counties, the Texas Municipal Police Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, and the Council of State Governments.' I'm confident that the Senate will pass this bill, and we can soon send it to the president's desk for his signature.' WASHINGTON On the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the recent changes made to the First Step Act and the resulting endorsements from key law enforcement groups. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn's floor remarks are below, and video can be found here. This legislation is based on prison reform but has taken on some additional attributes relative to how we sentence and how judges sentence people convicted of various crimes. In Texas, in 2007 or thereabouts, we had some far-sighted, visionary leaders actually who decided instead of just being tough on crime, which Texas has always had a reputation for, we needed to be smart on crime, too. When I say we saw both a reduction in the incarceration and crime rates, let me give you a couple of numbers. From 2005 to 2016, the Texas FBI index crime plummeted by more than 34 percent. In the same period, the incarceration rate dropped 23 percent. That's pretty shocking and surprising numbers. The crime rate went down 34 percent. The incarceration rate dropped 23 percent. You would think the opposite would be true, that with incarceration rates going down, the crime rate would go up, but because… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/news/cornyn-klobuchar-bill-fight-human-trafficking-heads-president%E2%80%99s-desk | Cornyn, Klobuchar Bill to Fight Human Trafficking Heads to President’s Desk | 2018-12-17 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | John Cornyn | C001056 | www.cornyn.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statements after their bipartisan legislation, the Abolish Human Trafficking Act, passed the Senate after being amended by the House of Representatives.The legislation strengthens and reauthorizes key programs supporting survivors of human trafficking and provides resources to law enforcement officials working to combat modern-day slavery. Human trafficking is modern-day slavery, and we cannot turn a blind eye to this human rights crisis, Sen. Cornyn said.By training law enforcement to spot and connect victims with the support they need, we can help them rebuild their lives. I'm grateful to my colleagues in the House for recognizing the importance of this legislation, and I look forward to the President signing it into law soon. As a former prosecutor, I have seen firsthand the horrors of human traffickingand it's happening in our own backyards. This bipartisan legislation is a major step forward in the fight against human traffickingit strengthens and reauthorizes critical programs that help support survivors and improves the tools available to federal, state, and local law enforcement, said Sen. Klobuchar. Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), along with Senators Bob Corker (R-TN), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Dean Heller (R-NV), Ron Wyden (D-OR), MarcoRubio (R-FL), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Orrin Hatch (R-UT), joined as original cosponsors of the legislation. Sens. Cornyn and Klobuchar were the authors of the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, a 2015 law that increased the resources and tools available for combatting human trafficking in the United States. The Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act ensures American law enforcement agencies areequipped to fight this crime, while helping victims rebuild their lives by using fines and penalties against their exploiters to fund restorative services and compensation. The Abolish Human Trafficking Act enhances and expands the… | 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 | 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. With 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. I 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. The 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. A shutdown is a real possibility, Vela said. At 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. By 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. And one of the most important issues to him is securing protection for SpaceX's space… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=blog&id=4225 | Cruz News: December 16, 2018 | 2018-12-16 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Ted Cruz | C001098 | www.cruz.senate.gov | legacy | December 16, 2018 Greetings, This week, the House of Representatives passed two of my bipartisan bills addressing the national security interests of the United States. TheNICA Actimposes targeted sanctions and establishes conditions for U.S. approval of international loans to the Government of Nicaragua, ensuring the Ortega regime will be held accountable for its systemic corruption, human rights violations, and assault on democratic order. I had the pleasure of participating in aFacebook Live discussionwith Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.) where we urged President Trump to sign our bill into law, and talked about our shared hope for a free Nicaragua. I am also pleased the House passed mybipartisan billto impose sanctions on Iran-backed groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis for their use of civilians as human shields. For years, the international community has failed to hold these groups accountable. By passing this bill, the United States is sending a message that it will not turn a blind eye to terrorist war crimes, that those who use civilians as human shields are the ones responsible for endangering civilians, and that they will be held accountable. In the weeks after Hurricane Harvey made landfall, Congress passed theCruz-Cornyn-Rubio bill,which among other items, eliminated the tax penalty for hurricane survivors who wanted to withdraw from retirement accounts to pay for the costs of repairs from storm damages. Retirement account withdrawals must be made by December 31, 2018 a deadline that is quickly approaching. If you are still in the process of rebuilding and recovering from the ravages of Harvey, I strongly urge you to contact your tax advisor or for more information go to the IRS website atirs.gov. I am encouraged by the progress we have seen in the Texas communities affected by Hurricane Harvey, and will continue working each day to ensure Texas rebuilds stronger than before. Please read below for an update from this last week. Keep Texas Strong, Ted Cruz Sen. Cruz and Rep. Mark Meadow… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=164 | Arrington at Wreaths Across America Ceremony in Abilene | 2018-12-15 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Jodey C. Arrington | A000375 | arrington.house.gov | arrington | https://arrington.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 | scraper | Today, Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX19) joined the Abilene community to honor and remember fallen soldiers during the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery. “The freedoms and opportunities we enjoy as Americans are only possible because of the service and sacrifice of our men and women in the armed forces,” said Congressman Jodey Arrington. “We all must do our part to ensure we pass down to our children a culture of honor and respect for those who wore the uniform – they’ve earned it!” Remarks given as keynote speaker: “Mr. Cooper, thank you for that kind introduction, thank you to the leadership of the men and women of Dyess, and thank you to all the volunteers and everyone who has contributed to make this very special event possible and bring us all together in honor of our veterans. It’s great to be home in West Texas with so many friends. “When I started this job, I knew I would get to be a voice for Ag, but I didn’t anticipate I’d have the joy and blessing to serve those who have borne the battle as a member of the VA Committee. “As a guy who didn’t serve in the military, I’m proud to represent over 40,000 veterans in West Texas and rural America. I’m proud of the work we’ve done to make sure our veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned and the service that reflects the same level of excellence they demonstrated in service to our country. “As was said before, right now there are thousands of Wreaths Across America ceremonies taking place in cemeteries and memorial sites across our land. Wreaths Across America is yet another testament to the patriotism and charitable spirit that has always reflected the true character of our country. What started as a simple act of kindness from one family in Maine has grown into a powerful annual tradition where families and fellow Americans throughout our nation come to remember our fallen heroes, and to celebrate the freedoms and the American ideals they fought to defend. “I’m proud that today’s event takes place right here in th… | 1 | 2026-04-07T12:09:11Z | 2026-06-27T23:11:43Z |
| 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 | legacy | ***Press Release*** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 15, 2018 Contact: Kate Stotesbery 202-225-4865 Congressman Doggett Reacts to Affordable Care Act Ruling in Texas Washington, 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: This 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. ### Follow Lloyd Doggett Facebook: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. — 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: "This horrendous ruling is the judicial equivalent of filling the stockings with lumps of coal. Millions of families—including those with pre-existing conditions—now 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." Follow 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 | 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: In 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. While 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. As 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. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://weber.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=485 | Weber Statement on Initial Draft of Proposal for Coastal Barrier Protection Plan | 2018-12-15 | 2018 | 2018-12 | Republican | House | TX | Randy Weber | W000814 | weber.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently conducting a five-and-a-half year study on how to best protect the lives and homes of Texans living along the Gulf Coast. Congressman Randy Weber (R Friendswood) and Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) sponsored legislation directing the Army Corps to expedite that study protecting our Gulf Coast. The Corps released a Tentatively Selected Plan (TSP), and that plan is now undergoing a public comment period. Congressman Weber released the following statement:The initial proposal has been released, and there is work to be done. There is clearly a need for protection along the Gulf Coast we have a lot of people in harm's way when the next storm surge comes barreling up our coast. The TSP released by the USACE is only a preliminary draft and conversation starter to solicit feedback from our residents and should in no way be considered the final plan. While I don't endorse any specific plan at this time, I am in regular conversation with USACE to better understand the study, plans and impact on our district. I encourage everyone impacted to submit their comments, questions and concerns either in person or online to the Corps. It is vitally important that all who are impacted weigh in on this important issue and that USACE be made well aware of all of our concerns. I am hearing a great deal both from those concerned with where the barrier and levees could be placed, as well as from those supportive of coastal barrier protection. I am listening to everyone and appreciate everyone's input. I am particularly concerned with any potential use of eminent domain. Only through thoughtful, robust, productive conversations will we get the best system to protect our children, our families, our lives, and our homes. Please be assured: This is one of my top priorities. I am tracking the progress of this plan very closely. The TSP is the first iteration of the plan; it will not be the last. I cannot stress how important your opinion is as we aim toward a wo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
Advanced export
JSON shape: default, array, newline-delimited, object
CREATE TABLE [releases] (
[url] TEXT PRIMARY KEY,
[title] TEXT,
[date] TEXT,
[year] TEXT,
[month] TEXT,
[party] TEXT,
[chamber] TEXT,
[state] TEXT,
[member_name] TEXT,
[bioguide_id] TEXT,
[domain] TEXT,
[scraper] TEXT,
[source] TEXT,
[date_source] TEXT,
[text] TEXT,
[has_text] INTEGER,
[collected_at] TEXT,
[updated_at] TEXT
);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_date]
ON [releases] ([date]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_year]
ON [releases] ([year]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_party]
ON [releases] ([party]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_chamber]
ON [releases] ([chamber]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_state]
ON [releases] ([state]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_bioguide_id]
ON [releases] ([bioguide_id]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_has_text]
ON [releases] ([has_text]);