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://castro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/castro-statement-new-russian-sanctions,Castro Statement on New Russian Sanctions,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Joaquín Castro,C001091,castro.house.gov,,,legacy,"San Antonio, TX – Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the Obama Administration’s new sanctions on Russia for its interference in the United States’ 2016 election:   “I support the Administration’s actions against Russia’s interference in the U.S. election and will work in Congress to ensure these sanctions remain in place. We must defend our democracy and deter any actor who would attempt to obstruct our democratic processes. I look forward to the Administration providing a report to Congress in the coming days with further details on this matter.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/austin-american-statesman-county-gets-old-federal-courthouse-probate-court,Austin American Statesman: County Gets Old Federal Courthouse for Probate Court Expansion,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Taylor Goldstein  After a failed bond referendum and months of uncertainty, at least some of Travis County’s court space woes may soon be behind it. Officials announced Thursday morning that the federal government approved the county’s application to take the old U.S. courthouse at 200 W. Eighth St. for its probate court and clerks offices. “Thanks, Uncle Sam, for a wonderful Christmas present,” County Judge Sarah Eckhardt said with a big grin Thursday as General Services Administration Regional Administrator Sylvia Hernandez handed her the for-show deed. The 81-year-old building that has sat vacant for four years had been declared surplus by the federal government and will therefore be free of cost to the county. Travis County officials have been searching for a way to free up space in the overcrowded, aging Heman Marion Sweatt Courthouse several blocks away ever since about a year ago voters rejected a $287-million bond that would have paid for a new civil courthouse. “Although this gift from our federal partners does not solve all our overall court capacity issues long-term, it is a great reliever of our current overcrowding,” Eckhardt said, before thanking many federal, state and local supporters. County officials initially estimate it will cost $28 million to renovate the old building for modern use and to bring it up to code. They expect it will take until 2020 for it to open and that it will last the county until 2035. The county will have to preserve the building’s historic elements, as it is on the National Register of Historic Places. The building, constructed in 1936, has many Depression-era modern architectural details as seen in its central massing, rectangular form, vertical flow of window bays, decorative metal rails and geometric details, Hernandez said. U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, said the transfer of the building to Travis County represents an investment in not just the preservation of the building but in the system of justice. “What we have today really is an old home of justice, a very old home of justice through many decades, now once again acheiving its purpose as a place for justice for the future here in Travis County,” Doggett said. The county is still looking for sites for a new civil and family courthouse. The community advisory committee leading the search will bring its top three choices to the Commissioners Court likely in February.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/travis-county-catches-judicial-break,Travis County Catches a Judicial Break,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Michael King   “Anybody need a courthouse?” was not exactly the question posed by the U.S. General Services Administration, but the U.S. government's (technically, the National Park Service) disused 1936 courthouse just happened to match the pressing needs of the Travis County justice system. This morning, the transfer was completed. “I am thrilled by the opportunity to partner with the federal government on the preservation of this historic public building by maintaining it as a courthouse,” said Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt. “Although this gift from our federal partners does not solve our overall court capacity issues in the long-term, it is a great reliever of our current overcrowding at the nearby Heman Marion Sweatt Courthouse, another historic public building. The reuse plan for the historic federal courthouse enables Travis County to meet current and future Travis County Probate Court needs through 2035.” The morning press conference, on the courthouse steps at 200 West 8th Street, featured officials from the federal judiciary, Travis County, and U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, whom federal Judge Lee Yeakel and Eckhardt each credited for his “dogged” work to get the transaction done. After the November 2014 defeat of a bond to underwrite a new civil courthouse, Travis County had been left without a certain alternative to its overcrowded and increasingly dilapidated Heman Marion Sweatt Courthouse, and Commissioners Court had been searching for other solutions. Said Eckhardt, “Although this gift from our federal partners does not solve our overall court capacity issues in the long-term, it is a great reliever of our current overcrowding at the nearby Heman Marion Sweatt Courthouse, another historic public building. The reuse plan for the historic federal courthouse enables Travis County to meet current and future Travis County Probate Court needs through 2035.” Doggett was credited with monitoring and wrangling the various agencies with interest in the exchange – the General Services Administration, the National Park Service, the federal judiciary, and Travis County – and said with a smile, “From good words, today we proceed to good deeds” (obliquely referring to the literal transfer of the courthouse deed). “This success was the result of several levels of federal and county government working together,” Doggett said, “to ensure the building would remain a place where justice, and its historic architecture, are preserved.” The courthouse, built in 1935 and notable for its Art Deco and Art Moderne architectural details, has been vacant since the 2012 opening of the new federal courthouse on West Fifth St., and will need major renovations. Eckhardt said that Commissioners Court has budgeted $28 million from reserves and certificates of obligation to complete the renovations – to restore the interior and bring it up to current building codes will cost about $20 million, she said, with $8 million necessary specifically to adapt the structure for use by the County’s probate courts. That move will also relieve some of the overcrowding at the Heman Sweatt venue, Eckhardt said, adding, “Travis County will ensure that the historic federal courthouse continues to bear witness to our civic history. The County will undertake design, construction, and contingencies to prepare the building to meet code requirements and County occupancy by 2020.” Doggett particularly thanked Judge Eckhardt, Judge Yeakel, and GSA Administrator Sylvia Hernandez for their work to make the transfer possible, and concluded: “This deed ensures that the historic features of this landmark, inside and out, are preserved, and that it continues in the role originally envisioned as a home for justice—an old home for justice is now becoming a new home of justice. This building is more than its cream-colored limestone; it is built on more than its Texas gray granite base. It embodies the fundamental American belief that we are a nation of laws. Through the cooperation of many, today we ensure that the important work of justice continues here.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hurd-statement-administration-s-response-russian-hacking,Hurd Statement on Administrations Response to Russian Hacking,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"San Antonio, TX – Texas Congressman Will Hurd issued the following statement regarding the new sanctions against Russia announced by the Obama administration: “Months ago I called for this administration to respond to Russia's malicious cyber-attacks on American organizations by showing their ambassador to the door. While these sanctions took too long to be put into place, they are an important step in showing Russia and other adversaries that we will not allow these kinds of attacks to go unanswered. There is more we can do to keep American organizations and agencies safe from these cyber-attacks and I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress and the new administration to ensure that our cyber domain is fortified."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mccaul.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mccaul-statement-on-obama-administration-russia-sanctions,McCaul Statement on Obama Administration Russia Sanctions,2016-12-29,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael McCaul,M001157,mccaul.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX) issued the following statement regarding the Obama Administration's response to Russia's cyber interference and harassment: Chairman McCaul: I am pleased to see the Obama Administration is finally responding to Russian meddling, including by sanctioning key operatives and expelling Russian spies from the United States. But these actions are long overdue. For many months I have urged the Administration to respond to the election-related hacks, and for years I have pressed them to stand up to Russia and other cyber intruders. Instead, President Obama's look-the-other-way' foreign policy has emboldened Moscow time and again and opened us up to attack. I look forward to working with the incoming Trump Administration to make sure thatin the futureour response to such aggression is timely, decisive, and forceful enough to convince our adversaries not to do it again. See Chairman McCaul's recent op-ed on the issue, here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=398229,Burgess Releases 2016 Year-End Report,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade, released his 2016 Year-End Annual Report, a comprehensive review of a year’s work that showcases his legislative accomplishments, media presence, and constituent services and correspondence throughout 2016. Dr. Burgess notes that the annual report is part of his commitment to transparency with his constituents and a means of reflecting on and quantifying every function of both his Washington, D.C. and Lake Dallas district offices. “My top priority is to serve my constituents to the utmost of my ability. The people of the 26th District have entrusted me with the responsibility of this office  and I am honored to have that trust. An important part of this role is accountability. Six years of divided government have made it difficult, but still 2016 saw some successes and a significant number of priorities were achieved. This report acts as a vehicle to track my progress and identify areas of improvement as we look ahead to the 115th Congress.” Additionally, Dr. Burgess released an infographic that summarizes all his work during both sessions of the 114th Congress.Click here to view the 2016 report. Click here to view Dr. Burgess’ 114th Congress in review.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/114th-congress-promoting-energy-growth-and-securing-our-environment,114th Congress: Promoting Energy Growth and Securing Our Environment,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN—During the 114th Congress, major pieces of legislation were enacted to help speed up a plan to protect the Texas Gulf Coast, end the outdated ban on exporting crude oil, and reform the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Texas Coastal Protection in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) (Passed House 12/8/16, passed Senate 12/10/16, became law 12/16/16) Includes a major provision from Senator Cornyn’s COAST Act to help streamline the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ coastal surge protection study along Texas’ upper Gulf Coast. Requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to take into consideration certain studies already developed by the Gulf Coast Community Protection and Recovery District (GCCPRD) while completing its Coastal Texas Protection & Restoration Study. Ending of the Crude Oil Export Ban (Passed the Senate as part of the 2015 Omnibus Appropriations Bill 12/16/15, passed the House 6/8/16, became law 6/22/16) Lifts the 40-year ban on the export of crude oil, put in place during the 1973 Arab oil embargo. Will reduce global reliance on countries like Russia and Iran for energy needs. Toxic Substances Control Act (Passed House 6/23/15, passed Senate 12/17/15, became law 6/22/16) Provides the EPA with direct tools to obtain testing information on chemical substances, improving the former lengthy process Restructures the way existing chemicals are evaluated and regulated by prioritizing scientific evaluations. Encourages transparency at the EPA regarding trade secrets and scientific decision making. Energy Improvement Act of 2015 (Passed Senate 3/27/15, passed House 4/21/15, became law 4/30/15) Establishes a voluntary, market-driven approach to aligning the interests of commercial building owners and their tenants to reduce energy consumption. Exempts certain electrical resistance water heaters used for demand response from pending Department of Energy regulation. Requires federal agencies to coordinate with OMB, DOE, and EPA to develop and implantation strategy for the maintenance, purchase, and use of energy saving technologies. Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety Act of 2016 (Passed Senate 3/3/16, passed House 6/8/16, became law 6/22/16) Reauthorizes the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) through 2019. Requests an assessment of Integrity Management programs for natural gas and liquid pipelines. Encourages PHMSA to investigate and report on advanced mapping technologies for pipeline networks. Ensure coordination and collaboration on research, development, and technology between PHMSA, industry and public sector stakeholders. National Park Service Centennial Act (Passed House 12/6/16, passed Senate 12/10/16, became law 12/16/16) Establishes a Centennial Challenge Fund to help maximize private donations to our National Parks, as well as a National Park Foundation Endowment. Makes needed changes to the National Park Foundation structure to ensure leadership continuity and establish annual appropriations for non-administrative purposes. Eliminates barriers for Public Lands Corps participants to gain federal appointment and promotes Tribal participation on the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2936,Sen. Cruz: History Will Record Obama and Kerry As Relentless Enemies of Israel,2016-12-28,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement in response to Secretary of State John Kerry's speech concerning Israel today:  ""Like bitter clingers, President Obama and Secretary Kerry are spending every last minute of this administration wreaking havoc domestically and abroad. With their last breath in office, they have struck at Israel, through the United Nations and through today's disgraceful speech. ""These acts are shameful. They are designed to secure a legacy, and indeed they have: history will record and the world will fully understand Obama and Kerry as relentless enemies of Israel. Their actions were designed to weaken and marginalize Israel, and to embolden its enemies.  ""Today's speech -- like Kerry's 2014 remarks likening Israel to an apartheid state -- will enflame rising anti-Semitism in Europe. It will encourage the mullahs who hate Israel and hate America. And it will facilitate 'law-fare,' growing legal assaults on Israel through transnational legal fora.  ""Kerry's speech drew a stunning moral equivalence between our great ally Israel and the Palestinian Authority, currently formed in a 'unity' government with the vicious terrorists of Hamas. Secretary Kerry declared the Hamas regime in Gaza ‘radical,’ in the same way he declared the duly-elected government of Israel ‘extreme.’ He declared vicious terrorism sponsored by Hamas equal to Israeli settlements in West Bank. And he equated Israel's celebration of its birth with the Palestinian description of this event as the ‘disaster.’ His speech attempted to lay out an historic and seismic shift towards the delegitimization of our ally, Israel, and the further empowerment of the Palestinian Authority.  ""Kerry's central conclusion, that 'Israel can either be Jewish or democratic, it cannot be both' is an inanity that passes as profound only in Ivory Tower faculty lounges. There are roughly 50 majority-Muslim countries in the world. There is one -- only one -- Jewish state. And yet, for Kerry and Obama, that is too much.  The Israeli Knesset has 17 elected Arab members. It has Muslim members and Christian members. In contrast, one searches in vain for Muslim countries that have elected Jewish representatives.   ""It is a sign of their radicalism and refusal to defend American interests, that Obama and Kerry choose to attack the only inclusive democracy in the Middle East -- a strong, steadfast ally of America -- while turning a blind eye to the Islamic terrorism that grows daily.  ""America is an unshakable friend of Israel, and we are horrified at what has transpired this week.   ""I believe Obama's and Kerry's shameful conduct will backfire. That it will be short-lived, and will inspire a bipartisan repudiation of their radical anti-Israel agenda. ""All Americans who understand the value of the U.S.-Israel alliance must immediately and unequivocally reject their false and dangerous narrative, and reassert our fundamental commitment to Israel's security. Thankfully, Congress and the incoming administration can and I hope will take decisive action to intercept the administration’s final and desperate Hail Mary, and that should begin with eliminating U.S. funding to the U.N., unless and until this disgraceful resolution is reversed.  ""I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle as well as the incoming administration to chart a new path forward based on America's national security interests and clear-eyed reality, not on the Obama administration's globalist agenda and wishful thinking."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://castro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/castro-statement-prime-minister-abe-s-visit-pearl-harbor,Castro Statement on Prime Minister Abes Visit to Pearl Harbor,2016-12-27,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Joaquín Castro,C001091,castro.house.gov,,,legacy,"San Antonio, TX – Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), founding co-chair of the U.S.-Japan Caucus and member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding Japanese Prime Minister Shinzō Abe’s visit to Pearl Harbor today with President Barack Obama:    “In the 75 years since the tragic loss of life at Pearl Harbor, the United States and Japan have built an alliance that seeks to foster peace and stability around the world. Both President Obama and Prime Minister Abe have shown great leadership in positioning our nations’ partnership for a future of mutual trust and strength. Today’s historic visit exemplifies that common vision.    “The United States and Japan have a precious friendship imbued with reverence for the past and enduring hope for our shared path ahead. In the years to come, we must protect and fortify our strategic relationship to ensure it can overcome any challenge and continue to provide leadership for people everywhere.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kaygranger.house.gov/press-release/granger-statement-administrations-refusal-veto-one-sided-un-resolution-against-israel,Granger Statement on Administration's Refusal to Veto One-Sided U.N. Resolution Against Israel,2016-12-24,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Kay Granger,G000377,kaygranger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Fort Worth, TX – Congresswoman Kay Granger (TX-12), Chairwoman of the House Appropriations State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee, issued the following statement after the Administration did not veto the one-sided United Nations anti-Israel resolution. “I never thought I would see the day when the United States of America would not stand with our longtime ally Israel. President Obama could have and should have stopped this from happening. This hurts the efforts toward peace in the region. I agree with Donald Trump that we should seriously reexamine our financial support of the U.N. and the countries that supported this treacherous action.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://culberson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398617,Culberson Statement on Texas Receiving $177 Million in Disaster Relief Funding,2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Culberson,C001048,culberson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Culberson Statement on Texas Receiving $177 Million in Disaster Relief Funding f t # e Houston, December 23, 2016 Congressman John Culberson (TX-07) released the following statement regarding the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s announcement that Texas will receive an additional $177 million in disaster relief funding. “Texas, specifically Houston, has experienced several extreme weather events resulting in millions of dollars of damage to homes and businesses. I am pleased that the State will receive $177 million of the funding allocated in the continuing resolution to assist in the rebuilding efforts. “The State will decide where to allocate this money, and I will continue to advocate that Harris County receive their fair share to help Houstonians repair after the Memorial Day and Tax Day floods.”   f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://culberson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398618,Culberson Statement on President Obama’s Betrayal of Israel,2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Culberson,C001048,culberson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Culberson Statement on President Obama’s Betrayal of Israel f t # e Washington, DC, December 23, 2016 Congressman John Culberson (TX-07) released the following statement after the Obama Administration allowed the UN Security Council to adopt a resolution condemning Israeli settlement construction. ""President Barack Obama shamefully and brazenly betrayed Israel today in the United Nations.  Without any warning, and in a complete reversal of unwavering American support, President Obama has unilaterally and seriously damaged Israel's negotiating position in the ongoing peace talks.   ""Israel is a beacon of freedom and democracy in the Middle East and America has a profound moral, legal and spiritual obligation to be the sword and shield of Israel.  No other nation can say they have been a more loyal friend to America throughout their existence than the State of Israel.   ""I stand ready to help President Trump immediately begin to undo the immense damage that President Obama has done to American and Israeli strength and security.”   f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://mccaul.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mccaul-nominates-texas-students-for-acceptance-to-us-service-academies,McCaul Nominates Texas Students for Acceptance to U.S. Service Academies,2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael McCaul,M001157,mccaul.house.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN, TX — Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10) announced today that he has nominated 25 Texas students for acceptance to the esteemed United States service academies.  The students are recommended based on their academic performance, leadership skills, extracurricular involvement, and character. “One of the most rewarding parts of my job is to nominate such outstanding young Texans to our nation’s service academies,” McCaul said.  “Competing with the best and brightest of America’s youth, this nomination signifies years of hard work and dedication.  Their decision to serve our country in uniform is admirable, and I am confident the future of our nation is in good hands.” The service academies include the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO.; the Military Academy at West Point, NY; the Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD.; and the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY.   Final selection for admission to the service academies will be selected by the officials at each respective academy this spring.  Students who are interested in learning more about service academy nominations can visit McCaul’s website: https://mccaul.house.gov/services/military-academy-nominations. Nomination to a service academy by Congressman McCaul does not ensure a student will be accepted.  Students who were nominated to multiple academies will choose which to attend should they be admitted to more than one institution. The nominees are as follows: Harris County Tyler Fausset 2017 graduate of Waller High School U.S. Air Force Academy Cameron Goulden 2017 graduate of Klein Oak High School U.S. Military Academy Montana Grosch  2017 graduate of Cy-Fair High School U.S. Naval Academy Jonathan Hardegree 2016 graduate of Cinco Ranch High School U.S. Military Academy Hannah Hirst 2017 graduate of Faith West Academy U.S. Naval Academy Brynna Johnson 2017 graduate of Cypress Ranch High School U.S. Military Academy Katy Klare 2017 graduate of Waller High School U.S. Air Force Academy Halee Lewis 2017 graduate of Cypress Ranch High School U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Nicola Longo 2017 graduate of Cypress Woods High School U.S. Military Academy Angelo Luna 2017 graduate of Tomball Memorial High School U.S. Naval Academy Robert Martinolli 2017 graduate of Cypress Ranch High School U.S. Military Academy Braden Page 2017 graduate of Cypress Creek High School U.S. Naval Academy Andrew Pool 2017 graduate of Tomball Memorial High School U.S. Naval Academy Jack Ray 2017 graduate of Cypress Ranch High School U.S. Naval Academy Dustin Read 2017 graduate of Klein Oak High School U.S. Air Force Academy Matthew Semrick 2017 graduate of Cypress Ranch High School U.S. Air Force Academy   Lee County Reed Marshall 2017 graduate of Ramstein High School U.S. Air Force Academy   Travis County Anthony Atwell 2017 graduate of St. Stephen’s Episcopal School U.S. Naval Academy Joseph Canterbury 2017 graduate of St. Michael’s Catholic Academy U.S. Military Academy Jordan Felan 2017 graduate of Hendrickson High School  U.S. Naval Academy Nishanth Kalavakolanu 2017 graduate of Liberal Arts and Science Academy U.S. Air Force Academy Hyunki Lee 2017 graduate of Westwood High School U.S. Air Force Academy Mitchell McDonald 2017 graduate of Pflugerville High School U.S. Naval Academy Grace McElroy 2017 graduate of Anderson High School U.S. Military Academy   Waller County Joseph Woodring 2016 graduate of Katy High School U.S. Air Force Academy Congressman Michael McCaul has represented the 10th District of Texas since 2005.  Currently, he serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security and senior member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-veasey-state-rep-nicole-collier-and-other-elected-officials,"Congressman Veasey, Mayor Betsy Price, State Rep. Nicole Collier and Other Elected Officials to Hold Press Conference Regarding Fort Worth Police Department Incident",2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Marc Veasey,V000131,veasey.house.gov,,,legacy,"Fort Worth, Texas – Today at 2 PM CT, Congressman Marc Veasey, Mayor Betsy Price, State Representative Nicole Collier, Commissioner Roy Brooks, Councilmember Kelly Allen Gray, and other local elected officials, will host a press conference to discuss the recent incident involving a mother, her daughters, and a Fort Worth Police officer. NEW LOCATION: The event will take place today at 2 PM CT at Fort Worth City Hall, located at 1000 Throckmorton Street in Fort Worth, Texas. Who: Congressman Marc Veasey Mayor Betsy Price State Representative Nicole Collier Commissioner Roy Brooks Councilmember Kelly Allen Gray Other Local Elected OfficialsWhat:  Press Conference to Discuss Fort Worth Police Department IncidentWhen:  TODAY Friday, December 23, 2016 at 2 PM CTUPDATED LOCATION FORT WORTH CITY HALL 1000 Throckmorton Street Fort Worth, TX 76102MEDIA: Members of the press interested in covering this event can RSVP by contacting Nelly Decker at nelly.decker@mail.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/veasey-statement-on-united-nations-security-council-resolution-on-israel,Veasey Statement on United Nations Security Council Resolution on Israel,2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Marc Veasey,V000131,veasey.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dallas / Fort Worth, TX - Congressman Marc Veasey, TX-33, released the following statement in response to the United Nation's Security Council's decision to vote on resolution regarding Israel: ""I urge the President to respect our country's longstanding history of supporting a two-state solution between the residents of Israel and the Palestinians. The United Nations Security Council resolution as proposed undermines the ability for these two parties to come to the table and resolve their issues in a way that upholds the security of one our greatest allies in the Middle East and respects the Palestinian people by placing sole responsibility for decades of violence on Israel. Any long-term solution must result from direct bilateral negotiations and the United States has a responsibility to support these goals."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mccaul.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mccaul-statement-following-the-us-abstaining-from-the-un-vote,McCaul Statement following the U.S. abstaining from the UN vote,2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael McCaul,M001157,mccaul.house.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN, TX Chairman Michael McCaul (TX-10) issued the following statement regarding the Administration's refusal to veto the anti-Israel UN resolution. Chairman McCaul:""Today's vote at the UN is deplorable and undermines efforts at lasting peace. President Obama's refusal to stand firm with our great ally Israel doesn't respect the strong, deep relationship our two countries have shared for decades. I look forward to working with President-elect Trump next year to let Israel know that we have their back and we will not waver in our support."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sessions.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-pete-sessions-leads-group-thank-troops-during-christmas-season,Chairman Pete Sessions Leads Group to Thank Troops During the Christmas Season,2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Pete Sessions,S000250,sessions.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - This week Congressman Pete Sessions, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules, led a bipartisan congressional delegation featuring Congressman Bill Keating (D-MA), Congressman Pat Meehan (R-PA), Congressman Paul Cook (R-CA), Congressman David Cicilline (R-RI), and Congressman Dan Newhouse (R-WA) to visit men and women who serve in our nation’s armed forces during the Christmas season at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska, United States Forces Korea headquarters and Camp Humphreys in Seoul, Korea, Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan,  Yokota Airbase in Tokyo, Japan, and Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii.“From the 28,500 American soldiers in the Republic of Korea, to the thousands of men and women in uniform on the island of Okinawa, to the troops on the shores of Pearl Harbor, the brave servicemen and women who we have met over the last week have made a steadfast commitment to protecting our freedom both at home and abroad. It was an honor and a privilege to personally thank these men and women - especially at Christmastime - for putting their lives on the line day in and day out to defend our great nation. Our troops represent the very best of our country and I deeply appreciate their unwavering commitment to ensuring the United States of America remains the greatest country in the world,” said Chairman Pete Sessions.   Chairman Pete Sessions, Congressman Bill Keating, Congressman Pat Meehan, Congressman Paul Cook, Congressman David Cicilline, and Congressman Dan Newhouse with service members at Camp Humphreys in KoreaCongressman Dan Newhouse, Congressman Paul Cook (USMC, Ret.), and Congressman Pat Meehan eating lunch with service members at Camp Humphreys in Korea Congressman Pat Meehan thanking an airman in Okinawa after an aerial tour of the island Chairman Pete Sessions thanking a soldier from Dallas, Texas in Okinawa Chairman Pete Sessions, Congressman Bill Keating, Congressman Pat Meehan, and Congressman David Cicilline applauding service members at Yokota Airbase in Tokyo. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard from Hawaii joins Congressman David Cicilline, Congressman Bill Keating, Chairman Pete Sessions, Congressman Pat Meehan, and Congressman Dan Newhouse at the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2932,Sen. Cruz: Happy Chanukah,2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HOUSTON, Texas – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released the following statement on the eve of Chanukah: “Heidi and I wish a very Happy Chanukah to the Jewish people. This holiday is a time to commemorate the heroic revolt that triumphed over repression, restoring religious freedom and leading to the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem. During the Festival of Lights, we are particularly grateful for our close ally Israel, who protects the right to freely worship, stands as a beacon of liberty, and brings light to one of the darkest regions in the world. As the celebration begins tomorrow evening and the menorah is lit for eight nights, we join all those in observance, particularly the Jewish community in Texas whom I'm proud to represent, in remembering the great miracle that happened there.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2933,"Sen. Cruz: At Christmas, We Celebrate the Birth of Our Savior",2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,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:                        “At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of our Savior. Two thousand years ago, in a manger on the outskirts of Bethlehem in the land of Judea, Christ came to save the world.            “The season of hope that touches every corner of the world also extends to every corner of our great state. From Mission Arlington’s annual Christmas Store helping thousands of families find toys and gifts for their children, to Lubbock’s U Can Share food drive raising $187,000 and more than 351,000 pounds of food and counting; from the Houston Children’s Charity’s Adopt-A-Family blessing needy families with Christmas joy, to the Austin Police Department’s Operation Blue Santa providing meals and toys delivered by Santa’s Helpers, Texans are coming together to help those in need with Texas-sized hearts and Texas-sized generosity. “They serve in the spirit of the true grace of Jesus Christ that asks not for repayment or reward. Theirs is the gift of hope; their work the work of humble servants. “I pray that each and every one you find joy and peace this Christmas, and enjoy a happy, healthy, and restful New Year with your family and friends. May God bless you, and may He continue to bless our nation and the great state of Texas.”  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2934,Cruz News: The Season of Hope,2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 23, 2016            Greetings, At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of our Savior. Two thousand years ago, in a manger on the outskirts of Bethlehem in the land of Judea, Christ came to save the world.             The season of hope that touches every corner of the world also extends to every corner of our great state. From Mission Arlington’s annual Christmas Store helping thousands of families find toys and gifts for their children, to Lubbock’s U Can Share food drive raising $187,000 and more than 351,000 pounds of food and counting; from the Houston Children’s Charity’s Adopt-A-Family blessing needy families with Christmas joy, to the Austin Police Department’s Operation Blue Santa providing meals and toys delivered by Santa’s Helpers, Texans are coming together to help those in need with Texas-sized hearts and Texas-sized generosity. They serve in the spirit of the true grace of Jesus Christ that asks not for repayment or reward. Theirs is the gift of hope; their work the work of humble servants. I pray that each and every one you find joy and peace this Christmas, and enjoy a happy, healthy, and restful New Year with your family and friends. May God bless you, and may He continue to bless our nation and the great state of Texas. Keep Texas Strong,  Ted Cruz Sen. Cruz: The UNSC Has No Authority Over Israel's Sovereignty Sen. Cruz released the following statement rebuking the United Nations Security Council for its latest attempt to delegitimize the nation of Israel: ""With hundreds of thousands dead in Syria, jihadist refugees mowing down Christmas shoppers in Berlin and the People's Republic of China weaponizing its artificial islands in the South China Sea, it is ridiculous that the United Nations Security Council would even consider wasting its time condemning Israel for building on its own sovereign territory,"" Senator Cruz said. ""The UNSC, which over and over has pursued avenues to delegitimize the nation of Israel, has no authority on this matter. The Obama Administration should be ashamed for not immediately signaling our intent to veto this resolution and any others like it, which should be emphatically and unconditionally opposed by all member states who value our alliance with Israel."" Read the full release here. Sen. Cruz: We Must Redouble Our Resolve to Partner With Our Allies, Prevent a Broader Outbreak of Violence Sen. Cruz released the following statement in the wake of radical Islamic terror attacks across the globe: “Heidi’s and my prayers are with the victims and families impacted by the recent, vicious rash of attacks in Jordan, Turkey, and Germany. They are a grim reminder that ISIS, al Qaeda, and other radical Islamic terrorist groups are not confined to the so-called caliphate in Syria and Iraq. Both by infiltrating the streams of refugees pouring into Europe and through an aggressive campaign of online radicalization, terrorists have been seeded throughout the west, waiting for the signal to strike. These are not lone wolves with mysterious personal motivations for their attacks--they are a coordinated pack attempting to undermine our civilization, which is by its nature anathema to their jihad.  We must redouble our resolve to partner closely with our allies to prevent a broader outbreak of violence that might very well hit us here at home.”   Read the full release here. Sen. Cruz: Happy Chanukah Sen. Cruz released the following statement on the eve of Chanukah: “Heidi and I wish a very Happy Chanukah to the Jewish people. This holiday is a time to commemorate the heroic revolt that triumphed over repression, restoring religious freedom and leading to the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem. During the Festival of Lights, we are particularly grateful for our close ally Israel, who protects the right to freely worship, stands as a beacon of liberty, and brings light to one of the darkest regions in the world. As the celebration begins tomorrow evening and the menorah is lit for eight nights, we join all those in observance, particularly the Jewish community in Texas whom I'm proud to represent, in remembering the great miracle that happened there."" Sen. Cruz Calls On the Smithsonian to Include A Fair and Accurate Portrayal of the Incredible Life of Justice Clarence Thomas Sen. Cruz sent a letter to leaders of the Smithsonian Institution urging them to include an accurate legacy and biography of Clarence Thomas in the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Justice Thomas rose through segregation and discrimination to become a leading voice for originalism on the Supreme Court of the United States, but the recently opened museum fails to recognize his extraordinary accomplishments in any exhibit.  “As much as I am grateful for the museum and its efforts to preserve and promote the indispensable, yet oft-neglected, contributions of African Americans to the collective history of our nation, I believe the museum has made a mistake by omitting the enormous legacy and impact of Justice Thomas, as well as his compelling background,” Cruz wrote. “In summary, Justice Thomas climbed from Pin Point, Georgia, prejudice, and poverty to the pinnacle of the legal profession, to where he is now an intellectual leader on a Supreme Court that is more influential than ever in the most powerful nation on earth.” Full coverage of Sen. Cruz’s here and read the letter in its entirety here. Distinguished Organizations Spreading Christmas Cheer         Mission Arlington’s annual Christmas Store assists over 8,000 people with gifts, food and trees every Holiday season. Each family that enters the store are able to shop for the gifts their family needs for Christmas. Along with volunteers that can aid the shopper in picking out gifts, the non-profit also provides on-site child care for the parents while they shop.        Lubbock’s U Can Share Food Drive has been raising food and funds for all those in need across the South Plains for 33 years. They have already gone above their goal and received $187,000 and 351 pounds to provide families with food this Christmas season.       Houston Children’s Charity’s Adopt-A-Family has made many Christmas wishes come true by providing less fortunate families with toys, housewares, clothing and/or other needed items. Last year the organization touched 578 families with 1,558 children. This year, with individuals and corporate sponsors, they are expected to bring Christmas joy to more families in the Houston area.      Austin Police Department’s Operation Blue Santa has been serving the Austin area since 1972. This year, with the help of Austin’s citizens, businesses, and civic groups, the non-profit gave a full holiday meal and wrapped Christmas gifts to over 4,500 families.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2935,Sen. Cruz Statement on Obama Administration's Betrayal of Israel at the U.N. Security Council,2016-12-23,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement after the Obama administration today failed to exercise its veto to defeat a discriminatory anti-Israel resolution at the United Nations Security Council: ""For eight long years, the Obama administration has worked systematically to undermine the nation of Israel.  They actively worked to defeat Prime Minister Netanyahu, and illegally used U.S. taxpayer funds to do so.  Never has there been a more anti-Israel Administration, and today's United Nations vote is the culmination of their systemic agenda to weaken Israel and strengthen its enemies.   ""I agree with the senior Israeli government official who said today: 'President Obama and Secretary Kerry are behind this shameful move against Israel at the UN....The U.S. administration secretly cooked up with the Palestinians an extreme anti-Israeli resolution behind Israel’s back which would be a tailwind for terror and boycotts.' ""Every Obama foreign policy official should be ashamed of today's UN resolution, and any official who disagrees with or hopes to avoid the anti-Israel legacy of this Administration should resign on principle today. ""I also emphatically second the call of my colleague Sen. Lindsey Graham that the consequences of this disgraceful UN resolution should be severe.  I look forward to working with Sen. Graham, and with the incoming Administration of President-elect Trump, to significantly reduce or even eliminate U.S. funding of the United Nations, and also to seriously reconsider financial support for the nations that supported this resolution.  For those who have put your name to this despicable attack on Israel, you did so with full knowledge of the consequences of your actions. ""And for those who acquiesced or facilitated the UN resolution--especially President Obama, Secretary Kerry, and Ambassador Power--history will record your abiding and shameful legacy undermining our friend and ally Israel.  I am hopeful at least some Senate Democrats will choose to repudiate your anti-Israel actions, and I am grateful that the new Administration has committed to once again restoring our strong and unequivocal support for the Nation of Israel."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kaygranger.house.gov/press-release/granger-calls-administration-veto-one-sided-un-resolution-against-israel,Granger Calls on Administration to Veto One-Sided U.N. Resolution Against Israel,2016-12-22,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Kay Granger,G000377,kaygranger.house.gov,,,legacy,"Fort Worth, TX – Congresswoman Kay Granger (TX-12), Chairwoman of the House Appropriations State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee, issued the following statement in advance of the vote on the one-sided United Nations anti-Israel resolution. “This resolution highlights the U.N.’s warped priorities and hostility toward Israel.  Passing this resolution will accomplish only one thing – undermining the prospect of direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians.  The U.N. is not and will never be a legitimate venue for this matter.  The Administration must stand with Israel and veto this resolution.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://marchant.house.gov/?p=24421,Marchant Statement on UN Israel Resolution,2016-12-22,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Kenny Marchant,M001158,marchant.house.gov,,,legacy,"Marchant Statement on UN Israel Resolution WASHINGTON, DC – December 22, 2016: U.S. Congressman Kenny Marchant (TX-24) issued the following statement on the United Nations Security Council vote on an anti-Israel resolution: “This posturing at the UN is nothing but an attempt to delegitimize the democratic State of Israel,” said Marchant. “The Administration must veto this resolution – before it further strains the cooperation by both parties to engage in direct negotiations. President-Elect Trump correctly stated that long maintained peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians will only come through direct negotiations between the parties. The United Nations must not interfere through harmful resolutions in those negotiations.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2931,Sen. Cruz: The UNSC Has No Authority Over Israel's Sovereignty,2016-12-22,2016,2016-12,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 rebuking the United Nations Security Council for its latest attempt to delegitimize the nation of Israel:                        ""With hundreds of thousands dead in Syria, jihadist refugees mowing down Christmas shoppers in Berlin and the People's Republic of China weaponizing its artificial islands in the South China Sea, it is ridiculous that the United Nations Security Council would even consider wasting its time condemning Israel for building on its own sovereign territory,"" Senator Cruz said. ""The UNSC, which over and over has pursued avenues to delegitimize the nation of Israel, has no authority on this matter. The Obama Administration should be ashamed for not immediately signaling our intent to veto this resolution and any others like it, which should be emphatically and unconditionally opposed by all member states who value our alliance with Israel."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://flores.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398897,Flores Statement on Obamas Drilling Ban in Arctic and Atlantic,2016-12-21,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Bill Flores,F000461,flores.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representative Bill Flores (R-Texas) released the following statement regarding President Obama’s ban on offshore drilling in parts of the Arctic and Atlantic:“President Obama’s continuing efforts to appease radical special interest groups in the waning days of his administration is beyond the pale.  His recent actions to restrict access to energy exploration in the Arctic and Atlantic will impede energy development, economic growth and job growth, while putting our national security at risk.  This overreaching midnight action will be reversed.  As House Speaker Paul Ryan clearly stated yesterday, ‘Presidents don’t write laws. Congress does.’ I will work with my fellow colleagues and President-elect Trump to overturn President Obama’s ‘energy-denier’ agenda.  I remain committed to advancing a 21st century energy strategy to lower energy costs, improve economic opportunity, reduce geopolitical instability around the world and achieve American energy security.""To learn more about Congressman Flores' ideas regarding energy, check out the plan he coauthored with former Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal entitled: ”Organizing Around Abundance:  Making America An Energy Superpower”.  Congressman Bill Flores represents the 17th District of Texas and is an entrepreneur, former energy executive, Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC)  and member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/veasey-statement-on-texas-decision-to-remove-planned-parenthood-from,Veasey Statement on Texas Decision to Remove Planned Parenthood from Medicaid Program,2016-12-21,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Marc Veasey,V000131,veasey.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dallas / Fort Worth, TX - Congressman Marc Veasey, TX-33, released the following statement after Governor Abbott and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission announced that it would remove Planned Parenthood from its Medicaid program: “Once again Governor Abbott and his administration have proved that they do not value the health and well-being of Texas’ low-income residents. The removal of Planned Parenthood from the Medicaid program means that Texas women will no longer have access to critical preventative and reproductive healthcare from a trusted medical provider for services such as breast cancer screenings, birth control, and HIV testing. Texas Republicans’ outdated views on family planning do nothing to empower women and their families for success in the 21st century.  Planned Parenthood offers a critical health life-line for those who are uninsured because of Texas Republicans failure to expand Medicaid coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Texas Republicans must be reminded that under the ‘freedom to choose’ Medicaid provision, they cannot pick and choose which providers are suitable for Texas women based off their political agenda. Despite Texas Republicans’ continued attacks on Planned Parenthood, I will continue to offer my unwavering support for the good work the organization does on behalf of low-income women in Texas and nationwide. As the lead Texas member in the amicus brief in support of Whole Women’s Health v. Cole, I fought alongside reproductive care advocates as Texas Republicans attempted to shut down reproductive healthcare centers through its harmful HB-2 law that restricted abortion access statewide. I will continue to stand alongside Texas women, families, and Planned Parenthood in the fight to expand access to care.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2930,ICYMI: News Coverage of Cruz Letter to Smithsonian Institution,2016-12-21,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Numerous news outlets have taken note of U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz's (R- Texas) letter to the Smithsonian Institution yesterday. In it, he urged museum leaders to include an accurate legacy and biography of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas in the National Museum of African American History and Culture. “As much as I am grateful for the museum and its efforts to preserve and promote the indispensable, yet oft-neglected, contributions of African Americans to the collective history of our nation, I believe the museum has made a mistake by omitting the enormous legacy and impact of Justice Thomas, as well as his compelling background,” Cruz wrote. Read the letter in its entirety here. Following is a summary of news coverage: AP: GOP senator: Museum ignores Clarence Thomas’ accomplishments “Republican Sen. Ted Cruz says the Smithsonian has made a mistake by not including the ""extraordinary accomplishments"" of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas in the new National Museum of African American History and Culture… In the letter, Cruz says the first and only other African-American Supreme Court justice, Thurgood Marshall, is briefly praised in the museum. He suggests an exhibit on Marshall and Thomas and their different judicial approaches.”  The Blaze: Ted Cruz writes letter demanding that Clarence Thomas be added to African-American History Museum “Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz wrote a letter Monday urging the Smithsonian museum of African-American History and Culture add Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to its museum…Thomas has not been included in the museum, which opened earlier this year, despite being one of the most influential black lawyers in American history, and one of only two black judges to ever grace the Supreme Court.”  Breitbart: Ted Cruz: African American Museum Should Include Clarence Thomas Exhibit “Cruz, along with six other GOP senators, introduced a resolution that said Thomas should have a “prominent place” in the museum, the Hill reported… ‘In a quarter century, Justice Thomas has carved out one of the more profound and unique legacies in the court’s history,’ Cruz added…Cruz said Thomas’s character and achievements deserve a permanent place in our nation’s historical record.”  Conservative Review: Must-read Letter: Ted Cruz Calls on Smithsonian to Correct Clarence Thomas Snub “United States Senator Ted Cruz is calling on the leaders of the Smithsonian Institution to include a fair portrayal of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas’s legacy in the museum’s “Making a Way Out of No Way” exhibit…In a letter addressed to the African-American museum director, Sen. Cruz described Thomas’ life as “uniquely compelling in the annals of United States history, African-American or otherwise”  CNN: Cruz: Give Clarence Thomas a place in the African-American museum “Sen. Ted Cruz says the new African-American museum honoring black history has made ""a mistake"" by not featuring Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas… Cruz, a former Supreme Court law clerk, said he became ""deeply disturbed"" to discover Thomas' omission from the museum…‘I am simply requesting that a fair and accurate portrayal of his powerful story be included, for the great benefit of millions of future museum-goers,"" Cruz wrote.”  The Hill: Cruz: African-American museum needs Clarence Thomas exhibit “Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) says the Smithsonian's African-American history museum should feature Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas in its exhibits… Cruz was one of six GOP senators who introduced a resolution earlier this month arguing Thomas should have a ‘prominent place’ in the museum. In his letter, Cruz proposes an exhibit comparing Thomas and Marshall.” Red State: Cruz Seeks To Have Justice Thomas’ Legacy More Prominently Displayed In Smithsonian “Texas Senator Ted Cruz is going to bat for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, the second African-American to hold a position on the nation’s High Court… Cruz petitioned the Smithsonian Institute, asking that they correct the mistake that resulted in Thomas’ legacy being reduced to a short mention of the Anita Hill scandal during his confirmation hearing.”  Washington Free Beacon: Ted Cruz Demands Recognition of Clarence Thomas in New Black History Museum “In a letter to the museum’s curators, Sen. Ted Cruz (R., Texas) wrote he was ‘deeply disturbed’ by the omission, hailing Thomas as ‘an African American who survived segregation, defeated discrimination, and ascended all the way to the Supreme Court’… Cruz said Thomas’ rise as ‘an intellectual leader’ on the high court given his difficult upbringing deserved full recognition.” The Washington Times: Ted Cruz ‘deeply disturbed’ by Clarence Thomas omission from African American history museum “Sen. Ted Cruz has called on the Smithsonian Institution to recognize Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas‘ “incredible contributions to the country,” saying he was “deeply disturbed” to learn that the black conservative does not have a prominent display at the National Museum of African American History and Culture…Mr. Cruz wrote a letter to Smithsonian leaders on Monday, saying they “made a mistake by omitting the enormous legacy and impact” of Justice Thomas from the recently opened museum in northwest Washington.” The Weekly Standard: Cruz Asks Smithsonian to Correct 'Mistake' of Obscuring Justice Thomas at Museum “Texas senator Ted Cruz petitioned the Smithsonian Institution Monday to correct what he called its ""mistake [of] omitting the enormous legacy and impact of Justice Thomas"" at the new National Museum of African American History and Culture…The museum has received criticism for allegedly slighting the nation's second African American justice… The former Supreme Court clerk suggested that Thomas be featured more prominently alongside former Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, the first African American on the High Court.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=400789,Rep. Cuellar Issues Statement Regarding New Surge of Immigrants Headed for U.S.-Mexico border,2016-12-20,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) has issued the following statement regarding information detailing a new surge of immigrants from Haiti, Africa, Asia and the Middle East headed to the U.S. southern border. “I recently spoke with the Ambassador of Costa Rica to the United States, Roman Macaya, regarding a pending immigration crisis on their border and which will soon have major impacts here at the U.S. border. According to Ambassador Macaya, roughly 40,000 migrants from Haiti, as well as Africa, Asia and the Middle East, will enter Costa Rica through their border with Panama this next year. They will then attempt to work their way up to the U.S.-Mexican border. Currently, migrants in Costa Rica are blocked from moving further north by the Nicaraguan military. “However, if the Cuban crisis this past year has shown, they will likely soon find their way to our border, putting additional stress on our already thinly-stretched humanitarian resources; not to mention our immigration judges, who are working through a backlog of over half a million immigration cases. “This past year, we struggled through a surge of approximately 56,000 Cuban migrants running up through Central America to our border, mostly through my hometown of Laredo, Texas, due to the archaic Cuban Adjustment Act policy and unprecedented benefits the U.S. provides exclusively for Cubans. This was in addition to the swell of 137,366 Central American children and families from Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador.  Many of the Haitians arriving at our border were previously working in Brazil. However, due to the economic downturn in that country, they are seeking a path to the United States.  Many have learned from smugglers and through social media that when they arrive at a port of entry or get picked up by the border patrol to claim they are seeking either a refugee status or asylum for a credible fear of persecution in their home country. This allows them to be granted a “Notice to Appear” for an asylum hearing and they are either briefly detained or allowed to enter the U.S. on their own recognizance.   ""I continue to call on the State Department and my colleagues in Congress to stop playing defense on our goal line at the border and look for ways in which we can assist our Central and South American neighbors to try and stem this tide of illegal migration. This past year we provided $750 million in aid for Central America. However, it was tied up with so many certification requirements that little of that money has actually been executed at this point. I’m hopeful that that money will be obligated in the upcoming days. Furthermore, I’m working with my colleagues to provide our justice system with the immigration judges and necessary infrastructure to cut down on the backlog of immigration cases. In FY16 we were able to provide the Justice Department with 55 new immigration judges and had a deal worked out in the FY17 House Appropriations Act to provide 25 more. I will continue to work with my colleagues to find solutions to make changes to these processes at the border.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=400790,Rep. Henry Cuellar Successfully Passes Law to Rename Zapata Post Office to Honor Veterans,2016-12-20,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) today announced that the President has signed H.R. 5591, a bill he authored to rename the post office located at 810 North U.S. Highway 83 in Zapata, Texas, as the “Zapata Veterans Post Office.” The bill has previously passed in both the House and Senate. A press conference will be held in Zapata at a future date. “In Zapata and across my district, there are many examples of fine men and women who have honorably served our country, which is why I introduced legislation to honor their defense of our country,” Congressman Cuellar said. “Zapata is home to approximately 503 veterans, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The six Treviño brothers of Zapata, all World War II veterans, are one of many great examples of Zapata’s brave veterans. Teodoro, Leopoldo, Antonio, Anselmo, Filberto Jr., and Jose Manuel Treviño performed many acts of bravery, including taking down enemy plans and protecting soldiers by using their own bodies as shields. Their courage and dedication to our nation demonstrate what it really means to be an American. “Veterans all across our nation, just like the Treviño brothers, share a wonderful love for country, which is why I am recognizing our veterans with the dedication of this post office. I also thank the Veterans Services Office in Zapata County, one of many organizations that work tirelessly to provide the essential care to those who have returned home from service, as well as my colleagues in the House and Sen. John Cornyn and Sen. Ted Cruz for their support that helped pass this bill,” Cuellar added. In September, Rep. Cuellar spoke in favor of H.R. 5591. View video here: https://youtu.be/9IbFLfT4n6o",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/blog-posts/putins-hack-what-difference-does-it-make,Putin's Hack: What Difference Does It Make,2016-12-20,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"Putin’s Hack: What Difference Does It Make? All the hack amounted to was to shine a light on the cynicism and arrogance of John Podesta and the mandarins of the left. Dec. 15, 2016 3:35 p.m. ET Regarding your editorial “Russian Hackers and American Hacks” (Dec. 12): Not since 1939 and the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact has any political party engaged in such an opportunistic and amoral alliance with Russia as the Democratic Party has now done. If the goal of Russia’s hacking was to sow seeds of doubt about American democracy, it would have failed miserably. All the hack amounted to was to shine a light on the cynicism and arrogance of John Podesta and the mandarins of the left. This was already widely known. The Democratic Party appears intent on elevating what would otherwise be just another unsuccessful Russian escapade into something of relevance and credibility by insisting that Donald Trump got elected because of their influence. The Democrats are doing this out of pure political expediency, desperation at losing all power and a resolute refusal to do anything other than deny the real reason for its loss: the unlinking of the vast middle of America from the far left that is at the heart of the rot of a once-great party. John L. Rogitz San Diego The claims that Vladimir Putin interfered in our national election to help Mr. Trump are nonsense. As president of the U.S., Mr. Trump would be an unknown quantity to Mr. Putin. It is far more likely that Mr. Putin would have preferred to deal with Hillary Clinton as president, having outmaneuvered Secretary of State Clinton at every encounter. Steve Plemenos Whippany, N.J. The Democrats’ concern over allegations of foreign actors hacking critical U.S. systems appear irresponsibly selective. Where was their outrage and concern when foreign actors allegedly executed a cyberattack against the Office of Personnel Management in March 2014? Where was their outrage and concern when foreign actors compromised the White House communications systems in October 2014? What penalty did President Obama impose on the hacking governments to deter future attacks? Democrats who are deeply concerned with the possibility of Russian cyberattacks don’t appear to be equally invested in exploring how Hillary Clinton’s failure to use the secure state.gov email when she served as secretary of state may have contributed to these or other security breaches? Concerns about the hacking of Clinton campaign manager John Podesta and the Democratic National Committee’s systems are legitimate, but don’t entitle Mr. Podesta to lead a ludicrous partisan attempt to invalidate the 2016 presidential election results by challenging the individual casting of electoral votes. Michael P. Mulhall Rockville Centre, N.Y. If indeed the Russians hacked into John Podesta’s email, they have simply exposed the highly unethical behavior that exists at the highest levels of the Democratic Party. That should be the story that is reported and emphasized. John Payne Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. The evidence of Mr. Putin’s hostility toward Hillary Clinton has long been public and was covered in the press before the election. Mr. Putin was infuriated at Mrs. Clinton for her public denunciation of the December 2011 Russian parliamentary elections as having been unfair and unfree. She also said the Russian people deserved leaders who were accountable to them, clearly suggesting that Mr. Putin was not, and that any position he held as the Russian head of state was achieved through a rigged election. That denunciation, though very likely true, was also designed, in part, to label Mr. Putin as an illegitimate head of state and was used as part of U.S. efforts to foil Mr. Putin’s international diplomacy. Not surprisingly, Mr. Putin looked for an opportunity to reciprocate. The Russian hacking of the DNC and Podesta emails enabled him to do so. Edward T. McDermott Darien, Conn. It is all well and good for Democrats to blame Russian hackers. But if Russian hackers can penetrate the DNC website, how secure does Mrs. Clinton’s private email server look now? Richard J. McGowan Indianapolis Weren’t the actions taken by the Democratic Party against Bernie Sanders a manipulation of the primaries? Is this not another attempt by the Democratic Party to avoid taking responsibility for its election losses? First it was the fault of the director of the FBI. Then it was the Constitution’s fault because of the Electoral College. Then it was the fault of the integrity of the voting systems of the U.S. James Morse Bakersfield, Calif. Is there any evidence that the leaked documents are inaccurate or invalid? Weren’t the DNC and the Clinton campaign harmed by their own words? Sunshine, from any source, can still be a good disinfectant.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://olson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/olson-statement-on-obama-offshore-drilling-action,OLSON STATEMENT ON OBAMA OFFSHORE DRILLING ACTION,2016-12-20,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Pete Olson,O000168,olson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Pete Olson (TX-22) this evening issued the following statement in response to President Obama's last ditch effort to halt offshore oil and gas drilling as he leaves office:   “After working tirelessly to shut down the coal industry on his watch, Obama is now leaving the offshore drilling industry with a parting 'gift'. It's disappointing that the Obama Administration continues to say no to domestic energy development. America needs a comprehensive energy plan for our Outer Continental Shelf exploration. This Administration’s actions are counterproductive and do nothing to help our nation to realize its energy potential. I'm confident President-elect Trump will act swiftly to undo this short-sighted action and strengthen our nation’s energy security and job creation."" ### Media Contact: Melissa Kelly 202-225-5951",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/114th-congress-encouraging-trade-benefit-texans,The 114th Congress: Encouraging Trade to Benefit Texans,2016-12-20,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN – During the 114th Congress, several pieces of legislation became law to help Texas farmers, ranchers and small businesses sell their goods to international customers and improve the flow of commerce across our borders: Trade Promotion Authority (Passed House 6/18/15, passed Senate 6/24/15, became law 6/29/15) Reduces barriers for American products to be sold to the 96 percent of the world’s consumers that live outside the United States. Enables Texas farmers, ranchers and small businesses to sell their goods and services in new markets around the world and to compete in the global economy. Cross Border Trade Enhancement Act (Passed Senate 11/29/16, passed House 12/6/16, passed Senate again 12/10/16, became law 12/16/16) Promotes public-private partnerships to boost staffing and make infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry without adding to the national deficit. Developed with input from border community leaders and transportation industry stakeholders following successful pilot program agreements, including at the Paso Del Norte Bridge in El Paso. Starr-Camargo Bridge Charter Extension (Passed Senate 3/17/16, passed House 5/16/16, became law 5/20/16) Grants the Starr-Camargo International Bridge in Rio Grande City, TX permanent operating authority, allowing the bridge to continue connecting communities across the Rio Grande. American Manufacturing Competitiveness Act (Passed House 4/27/16, passed Senate 5/10/16, became law 5/20/16) Reforms the process for local businesses to petition the federal government for tariff relief to temporarily reduce or eliminate tariffs on imported products that are not made in the United States but are vital for production and manufacturing in states like Texas. Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act (Passed House 2/12/15, passed Senate 5/14/15, passed House again 12/11/15, passed Senate again 2/11/16, became law 2/24/16) Reauthorizes the Customs and Border Patrol Agency, strengthens trade enforcement laws, and adds new protections for intellectual property rights. Trade Preferences Extension Act (Passed House 6/11/15, passed Senate 6/24/15, passed House again 6/25/15, became law 6/29/15) Continues trade programs that assist developing countries and provide important benefits for American workers and consumers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/114th-congress-protecting-american-interests-home-and-abroad,The 114th Congress: Protecting American Interests At Home and Abroad,2016-12-20,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN – The 114th Congress passed several bills that are now law to protect American interests at home and abroad, including legislation to help boost our nation’s defenses against cyberattacks, ensure the men and women in our military have access to the most up-to-date equipment, and to override a Presidential veto to ensure families of victims of terrorist attacks are able to pursue justice: Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act (Passed Senate 10/27/15 and became law as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016 12/18/15) Provides for greater sharing of information to address the rampant and growing cyberattacks facing our country. Improves ability for federal government to deter future cyberattacks, and helps both public and private sectors act more nimbly to respond to attacks when detected. National Defense Authorization Act (Passed House 12/2/16, passed Senate 12/8/16, became law 12/14/16) Includes a pay raise for the men and women in our military, and ensures the armed forces will have access to the most up-to-date equipment. Authorizes needed improvements at our Texas military facilities, including projects at Fort Hood, Joint Base San Antonio, Red River Army Depot, and Ellington Field. Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (Passed Senate 5/17/16, passed House 9/9/16, vetoed 9/23/16, passed Senate over veto 9/28/16, passed House over veto 9/28/16, became law 9/28/16) Allows families of victims of terror attacks on U.S. soil to sue the foreign states that fund terrorism and permit them to hold accountable those who aid and abet terrorism. Passed the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate unanimously, and became law after Congress overrode a Presidential veto. Iran Sanctions Extension Act (Passed House 11/15/16, passed Senate 12/1/16, became law 12/15/16) Provides Congress and future administrations the tools necessary to re-impose sanctions lifted as part of the President’s Iran nuclear deal, and push back against Iranian hostile actions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2929,"Sen. Cruz: We Must Redouble Our Resolve to Partner With Our Allies, Prevent a Broader Outbreak of Violence",2016-12-20,2016,2016-12,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 in the wake of radical Islamic terror attacks across the globe: “Heidi’s and my prayers are with the victims and families impacted by the recent, vicious rash of attacks in Jordan, Turkey, and Germany. They are a grim reminder that ISIS, al Qaeda, and other radical Islamic terrorist groups are not confined to the so-called caliphate in Syria and Iraq. Both by infiltrating the streams of refugees pouring into Europe and through an aggressive campaign of online radicalization, terrorists have been seeded throughout the west, waiting for the signal to strike. These are not lone wolves with mysterious personal motivations for their attacks--they are a coordinated pack attempting to undermine our civilization, which is by its nature anathema to their jihad.  We must redouble our resolve to partner closely with our allies to prevent a broader outbreak of violence that might very well hit us here at home.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=400788,"Governor Abbott, Senator Cornyn And Congressman Cuellar Call on DHS to Request Flight Hours for Operation Phalanx",2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Governor Greg Abbott, Senator John Cornyn and Congressman Henry Cuellar today doubled down on their demand that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security should officially request flight hours for Operation Phalanx and the U.S. Department of Defense should agree to provide the assistance upon hearing word that the last Phalanx flight took off earlier this month.  Operation Phalanx is a program through which the National Guard provides aerial surveillance, detection, and situational awareness capabilities in support of Border Patrol. Congress provided full funding for Operation Phalanx in Fiscal Year 2016. Given that the government is currently operating under a Continuing Resolution, that full funding remains. While Operation Phalanx will officially end on December 31st if there is not an approved request for additional flight hours for 2017, according to the National Guard, the aerial support flights have ended and they will be terminating contracts for hanger space and housing. CBP Commissioner Kerlikowske had last month sent a letter to Brian McKeon, the Department of Defense Under Secretary for Policy, expressing appreciation for DoD’s support. While this letter was welcomed, it did not make a formal request for support.   Abbott, Cornyn and Cuellar previously sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson requesting information on why the Department has chosen not to request flight hours for 2017 and on how the Department plans to fill in the gaps this lack of support will present.  That letter has not yet been responded to.    To read the full letter, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/hurd-hill/hurd-hill-bringing-computer-science-middle-school-students,Hurd on the Hill: Bringing Computer Science to Middle School Students,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"Coding is the language of the 21st Century economy. If our students can’t speak it, they will be left behind. We must do a better job preparing our students for the jobs that don’t exist yet—and we’ve got to start at an earlier age.  Over 42,000 computer jobs go unfilled in Texas each year because we do not produce enough computer scientists—and these jobs pay over twice the average salary in Texas. As a former computer science major at Texas A&M, this problem is close to my heart. There is no reason we should be missing the opportunity to prepare students for these high paying jobs. The majority of students do not have access to computer science courses until high school. What is more interesting, is that according to a recent State law, most 8th graders must now select one of five “endorsement” tracks, which influences their course curriculum throughout high school.  Students interested in computer science would theoretically choose the STEM endorsement track. But how are they supposed to know that they are interested in computer science if they have never been exposed to it? Therein lies the problem: the vast majority of our middle schools do not offer computer science at all. Right now, the pipeline that produces Computer Science professionals starts at the high school level. That is why I have been working with several members of the public, private, and non-profit sectors, to develop a plan that provides earlier access to quality computer science education for our kids. In partnership with the University of Texas Center for STEM Education and non-profit organization Bootstrap, my curriculum initiative will train middle school teachers to integrate computer science into State-approved mathematics curriculums. Intel, Dell, Facebook, Brocade, and Toyota of Texas have agreed to generously fund the training, and the first training workshop will be held March 23 – 25 in San Antonio. Because the curriculum is taught through existing math classes, schools do not need additional teachers or classes. Forty middle school teachers from across the 23rd Congressional District of Texas may participate at little to no cost so that they can implement the program in the classroom in fall 2017. This could potentially expose at least 5,000 students in the 23rd Congressional District of Texas to Computer Science. It’s exciting that the public and private sectors are working together to produce real returns for the community, and it is my hope that we inspire many more students to pursue careers in computer science. If you are a superintendent, principal, teacher or parent and would like more information, visit Hurd.House.Gov/CS or contact my office at 210-921-3130. Hurd on the Hill: Trayendo Ciencias Informáticas a Estudiantes de Escuelas Secundaria Preparando a los estudiantes para la economía del siglo XXI Codificación es el idioma de la economía del siglo XXI. Si nuestros estudiantes no saben hablarlo, ellos serán dejados atrás. Necesitamos hacer un mejor trabajo de preparar a nuestros estudiantes para trabajos que aún no existen—y tenemos que comenzar a una temprana edad. Más de 42,000 trabajos de computación no son llenados en Texas cada año porque no producimos suficiente especialistas de computación—y estos trabajos pagan doble del salario común en Texas. Como un estudiante del estudio de ciencias de computación en Texas A&M, este problema es de mucho interés para mí. No hay ninguna razón para que nosotros no aprovechemos la oportunidad de preparar a estudiantes para trabajos bien pagados. La mayoría de estudiantes no tienen acceso a cursos de ciencias de computación hasta la preparatoria. Más interesante aun, según la reciente ley estatal, la mayoría de los estudiantes en el octavo grado deben seleccionar uno de cinco  caminos de “aprobación”, lo cual influye sus cursos de currículo para el resto de su tiempo en la preparatoria. Estudiantes interesados en las ciencias de computación en teoría eligieran el camino de aprobación de STEM. Pero ¿cómo van a saber si están interesados en las ciencias de computación si jamás han sido expuestos? Allí está el problema: la mayoría de nuestras escuelas secundarias no ofrecen cursos de ciencias de computación. Actualmente, la ruta que produce a especialistas de ciencias de computación empieza en la preparatoria. Es por eso que yo he estado trabajando con varios miembros del sector público, privado, y organizaciones sin fines de lucro para desarrollar un plan que ofrece acceso a educación de calidad de ciencias informática para nuestros hijos. En colaboración con el Centro Para La Educación de STEM de la Universidad de Texas y la organización sin fines de lucro, Bootstrap, mi iniciativa del currículo entrenara a maestros de la secundaria como integrar ciencias de computación en currículos de matemáticas, que sean aprobados por el estado. Intel, Dell, Facebook, Brocade, y Toyota de Texas generosamente se han puesto de acuerdo para financiar el entrenamiento, y el primer taller se llevara a cabo el 23-25 de marzo en San Antonio. Como el currículo será enseñado por medio de clases de matemáticas ya existentes, las escuelas no necesitaran maestros o clases adicionales. Cuarenta maestros de la secundaria a lo largo del Distrito Congressional 23 de Texas pueden participar a un costo mínimo o sin costo para implementar el programa en las clases el otoño del 2017. Esto potencialmente puede exponer por lo menos a 5,000 estudiantes en el Distrito Congressional 23 a las ciencias de computación. Es emocionante que los sectores públicos y privados estén trabajando juntos para producir beneficios reales para la comunidad y es  mi deseo que podamos inspirar a muchos más estudiantes a seguir carreras en ciencias de computación. Si es un superintendente, principal, maestro o padre y quisiera más información, visite a Hurd.House.Gov/CS o comuníquese con mi oficina al 210-921-3130.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://marchant.house.gov/?p=24419,Marchant Announces Priorities for 115th Congress,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Kenny Marchant,M001158,marchant.house.gov,,,legacy,"Marchant Announces Priorities for 115th Congress WASHINGTON, DC – December 19, 2016: U.S. Congressman Kenny Marchant (TX-24) issued this statement outlining his top priorities for the 115th Congress: President Obama’s disastrous healthcare law, “Obamacare,” must be fully repealed. Every year since this law passed, Americans woke up to another broken promise by the Obama administration. The President’s un-affordable and disastrous health care law has collapsed on itself, and hardworking North Texans have suffered the consequences. Families are stuck paying higher premiums, with fewer choices and less access to their doctors. Conservatives have consistently offered plans to repeal and replace Obamacare, with real, patient-centered solutions. The false promise that was Obamacare must be fully repealed at the start of the new year. Our country’s broken immigration system fell victim to the current administration’s unwillingness to enforce our nation’s immigrations laws. Our focus in the new year should be to secure our border, enforce the immigration laws that are already on the books that are the law of the land. We must get to work on simplifying our tax code. In the new year, Congress should work to provide Americans with a simpler, flatter, and fairer tax code. Both the tax code and the IRS are broken. It is Congress’ responsibility to develop policies that deliver job growth, simplify the tax code, and restructure the broken IRS. We cannot continue to live with a tax code that is doomed to punish hard work, savings and entrepreneurship. Lowering rates and putting more hard-earned wages back into the pockets of workers will greatly benefit all of us in North Texas. Our debt exploded under President Obama. Meaningful action needs to be taken to get spending and our debt under control. That includes adopting a Balanced Budget Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. We must explore fiscally conservative approaches that build a healthier economy and reduce deficits in both the short and long-term.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://ratcliffe.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ratcliffe-langevin-us-israel-cybersecurity-legislation-signed-law,"Ratcliffe, Langevin U.S.-Israel cybersecurity legislation signed into law",2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Ratcliffe,R000601,ratcliffe.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Legislation introduced by Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-Texas) and Rep. Jim Langevin (D-R.I.) was signed into law Friday to strengthen collaborative cybersecurity research and development efforts between the United States and Israel. The pair of lawmakers introduced the United States-Israel Advanced Research Partnership Act of 2016 (H.R. 5877) in July after returning from a congressional delegation trip to Israel that focused on addressing key cybersecurity issues facing both countries.   “My work as a cybersecurity subcommittee chairman over the past two years has focused on ensuring American citizens are protected from the growing national security threats posed by malicious cyber actors who intend to do our nation harm. I’m glad I was able to work closely with Rep. Langevin to craft legislation to advance this important fight that is now the law of the land,” Ratcliffe said. “Cybersecurity is the national and economic security challenge of our time, and we must use every resource at our disposal to support research, foster innovation, and fortify our cyber defenses. This must include a collaborative approach that allows us to work with our leading partners, like Israel, to develop new technologies for our cyber incident responders,” Langevin said. “Passage of this law will enhance cybersecurity for the United States and Israel, putting us on a shared path toward innovative solutions to the threats we face. I look forward to continuing to work with Chairman Ratcliffe to strengthen our relationship with Israel, including by passage of the United States-Israel Cybersecurity Cooperation Enhancement Act next Congress.” The lawmakers said their meetings with top Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Defense Moshe Ya’alon, laid a critical foundation for their U.S.-Israel cybersecurity legislation. “When Rep. Langevin and I traveled to Israel earlier this year, our discussions with Israeli national security and cybersecurity leaders revealed the immense wealth of untapped potential we can leverage together to collectively vamp up our efforts to combat growing cyber threats. We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to work more closely with a country that’s a proven pioneer in cyber science and a top leader in cyber expertise,” Ratcliffe said. The United States-Israel Advanced Research Partnership Act expands a successful binational research and development program at the Homeland Security Advanced Research Projects Agency to include cybersecurity technologies. This collaboration between DHS and the Israeli Ministry of Public Security helps new products through the “valley of death” between basic and early-phase applied research and successful commercialization, and will help both countries develop solutions to the unique security problems found in the cyber domain. Ratcliffe chairs the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection and Security Technologies. Langevin is a senior member of the House Homeland Security Committee, and the co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/114th-congress-advancing-smart-healthcare-reforms,The 114th Congress: Advancing Smart Healthcare Reforms,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN—During the 114th Congress, several pieces of legislation were enacted into law that help will modernize and improve our health care system as Congress prepares to replace Obamacare with more affordable and effective access to medical care. 21st Century Cures Act (Passed House 11/30/16, passed Senate 12/7/16, became law 12/13/16) Removes barriers to sharing and analyzing the growing amount of health data generated in research and clinical studies, increasing research collaboration. Incorporates the patient perspective into the drug development and regulatory review process by modernizing clinical trials and strengthening the FDA’s ability to consider direct experiences. Supports young emerging scientists through the “Next Generation of Researches Initiatives” and loan repayment programs. Requires the Director of the NIH to develop a six-year coordinated strategy for biomedical research investments, collaboration and research, and biomedicine. Major Provisions of the Mental Health and Safe Communities Act (Passed as part of the 21st Century Cures Act and became law 12/13/16) Allows law enforcement to use existing funding to create pre-trial screening and assessment programs to identify mentally ill offenders, provide need-based treatment, and develop post-release supervision plans, including judicially-administered Assisted Outpatient Treatment programs. Uses federal grant funding to expand the use of Crisis Intervention Teams, who are trained to respond to mental health crises and prevent acts of violence. Enables existing federal funding to be used to provide treatment, mentoring, and other transitional services to mentally-ill offenders leaving custody. Ensuring Proper Payments for Dedicated Cancer Centers (Passed as part of the 21st Century Cures Act and became law 12/13/16) Protects patient access to Dedicated Cancer Centers, like MD Anderson in Houston, by exempting qualifying cancer centers from Medicare payment reductions that are set to go into effect on January 1, 2017. Medicare Long-Term Care Hospital Moratorium Exception (Passed as part of 21st Century Cures Act and became law 12/13/16) Provides regulatory relief for Long-Term Care Hospitals (LTCHs) by qualifying for a “mid-build” exception to the current moratorium on bed expansion. Ensuring Removal of Terminated Providers from Medicaid and CHIP Act (Passed as part of 21st Century Cures Act and became law 12/13/16) Ensures federal funds are not paid to health care providers who have been terminated from the Medicaid, Medicare, or CHIP programs. Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (Passed the Senate 3/10/16, passed the House 5/13/16, became law 7/22/16) Expands substance abuse prevention and educational efforts, and establishes treatment and intervention programs throughout the country. Increases resources to identify and treat individuals who have a substance use disorder and are incarcerated. Reauthorizes task forces to combat heroin and methamphetamine abuse as well as treatment programs for pregnant and postpartum women. Expands the availability of opioid overdose reversal drugs to first responders and law enforcement agencies.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/114th-congress-empowering-crime-victims,114th Congress: Empowering Crime Victims,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN—During the 114th Congress several major pieces of legislation were enacted empowering victims of crime, including bills to help reduce the rape kit backlog and strengthen resources for law enforcement to arrest human traffickers. Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015 (Passed Senate 4/22/15, passed House 5/19/15, became law 5/29/15) Strengthens law enforcement tools to help authorities rescue victims and take down human traffickers and the organized criminal networks who support them. Provides victims of sexual exploitation, slavery, and human trafficking with resources to heal and restore their lives. Targets predators who purchase trafficked women and encourages partnerships at the federal, state and local level. Justice for All Reauthorization Act of 2016 (Passed Senate 6/16/16, passed House 11/29/16, became law 12/16/16) Gives our law enforcement the resources to arrest violent offenders and reauthorizes grant funding for local and state law enforcement to help reduce the nationwide rape kit backlog. Provides resources for forensic labs while protecting the innocent by improving access to post-conviction DNA testing. Strengthens crime victims’ rights in the courtroom, increases access to restitution and restorative services like housing, and reauthorizes important law enforcement investigative programs. Survivors’ Bill of Rights Act (Passed House 9/6/16, passed Senate 9/28/16, became law 10/7/16) Ensures sexual assault survivors in federal criminal cases are notified before an evidence collection kit is destroyed, can request preservation of the kit, and are informed of important results. Requires the Attorney General and the United States Department of Health and Human Services to convene a joint working group on best practices regarding the care and treatment of sexual assault survivors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/114th-congress-funding-our-highways-and-boosting-infrastructure,The 114th Congress: Funding Our Highways and Boosting Infrastructure,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN – During the 114th Congress, a number of measures to improve Texas and the nation’s infrastructure became law, including a long-term highway funding bill, legislation to streamline legitimate commerce at our ports of entry, and a measure to help speed up the Army Corps of Engineers’ effort to protect Texas’ Gulf Coast region from a major natural disaster. Key transportation developments during the 114th Congress include: The FAST Act (Passed Senate 7/30/15, passed House 12/3/15, passed Senate again 12/3/15, became law 12/4/15) A five-year highway and transit funding bill, the first of its kind in over a decade. Provides certainty to implement much-needed, economy-boosting projects that strengthen our nation's infrastructure and make our transportation systems safer. Includes language that gives Texas flexibility to invest in infrastructure along the border. Designates new high priority interstate corridors in Texas. Cross Border Trade Enhancement Act (Passed Senate 11/29/16, passed House 12/6/16, passed Senate again 12/10/16, became law 12/16/16) Promotes public-private partnerships to boost staffing and make infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry without adding to the national deficit. Developed with input from border community leaders and transportation industry stakeholders following successful pilot program agreements, including at the Paso Del Norte Bridge in El Paso. Starr-Camargo Bridge Charter Extension (Passed Senate 3/17/16, passed House 5/16/16, became law 5/20/16) Grants the Starr-Camargo International Bridge in Rio Grande City, TX permanent operating authority, allowing the bridge to continue connecting communities across the Rio Grande. Texas Coastal Protection (Included in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act, which Passed House 12/8/16, Passed Senate 12/10/16, became law 12/16/16) Includes a major provision from Senator Cornyn’s COAST Act to help streamline the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Coastal Texas Protection & Restoration Study along Texas’ upper Gulf Coast. Requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to take into consideration certain studies already developed by the Gulf Coast Community Protection and Recovery District (GCCPRD) while completing its Storm Surge Suppression Study.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/114th-congress-reforming-education-future-generations,The 114th Congress: Reforming Education for Future Generations,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN – During the 114th Congress, key laws were enacted to help return education decisions to parents and local communities, including the first major reforms to the education system in more than a decade, and reauthorizing and expanding a program to encourage innovative approaches to teaching students: Every Student Succeeds Act (Passed Senate 12/2/15, passed House 12/10/15, became law 12/10/15) First major reforms to our education system in more than a decade. Prevents Washington from imposing Common Core standards and puts educational decision-making back where it belongs: in the hands of Texas school districts, teachers, and parents. Reauthorization of the Education Flexibility Partnership Act (Passed Senate 12/2/15, passed House 12/10/15, became law 12/10/15) Reauthorized and expanded as part of an amendment to the Every Student Succeeds Act authored by Senator Cornyn. Allows districts and schools flexibility in the implementation of federal education programs in exchange for enhanced accountability for students’ performance. Ensures that states have the freedom to leverage federal funds to increase efficiency and encourage innovation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/114th-congress-supporting-our-law-enforcement,The 114th Congress: Supporting Our Law Enforcement,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"AUSTIN—During the 114th Congress several important pieces of legislation were passed into law that will help support those who protect our communities, including bills to expand active shooter training, increase resources for mentally ill offenders, and help reduce the nationwide rape kit backlog. POLICE Act of 2016 (Passed Senate 5/18/16, passed House 7/12/16, became law 7/22/16) Expands access to existing federal funding for law enforcement and first responders to receive active shooter response training. Endorsed by the National Fraternal Order of Police, the National District Attorneys Association, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Major County Sheriffs Association, and the Sergeants Benevolent Association. Major Provisions of the Mental Health and Safe Communities Act (Passed as part of the 21st Century Cures Act and became law 12/13/16) Allows law enforcement to use existing funding to create pre-trial screening and assessment programs to identify mentally ill offenders, provide need-based treatment, and develop post-release supervision plans, including judicially-administered Assisted Outpatient Treatment programs. Uses federal grant funding to expand the use of Crisis Intervention Teams, who are trained to respond to mental health crises and prevent acts of violence. Enables existing federal funding to be used to provide treatment, mentoring, and other transitional services to mentally-ill offenders leaving custody. Justice for All Reauthorization Act of 2016 (Passed Senate 6/16/16, passed House 11/29/16, became law 12/16/16) Gives our law enforcement the resources to arrest violent offenders and reauthorizes grant funding for local and state law enforcement to help reduce the nationwide rape kit backlog. Provides resources for forensic labs while protecting the innocent by improving access to post-conviction DNA testing. Strengthens crime victims’ rights in the courtroom, increases access to restitution and restorative services like housing, and reauthorizes important law enforcement investigative programs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/president-signs-cornyn-measure-help-speed-texas-coastal-protection-study,President Signs Cornyn Measure to Help Speed Up Texas Coastal Protection Study,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Provision Included in Bipartisan Water Infrastructure Bill AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, bipartisan legislation that includes a major provision from his COAST Act to help streamline the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Coastal Texas Protection & Restoration Study along Texas’ upper Gulf Coast, was signed into law by the President: “The folks who live along Texas’ upper gulf coast are seeking certainty in the face of natural disasters, and this law takes a big step toward that,” said Sen. Cornyn.  “I’m thankful the President has signed this bill into law so we can help streamline the Army Corps’ study as we continue working to protect Texans living along our coast.” The provision authored by Sen. Cornyn requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to take into consideration certain studies already developed by the Gulf Coast Community Protection and Recovery District (GCCPRD) while completing its Storm Surge Suppression Study.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2928,Sen. Cruz Calls On the Smithsonian to Include A Fair and Accurate Portrayal of the Incredible Life of Justice Clarence Thomas,2016-12-19,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R- Texas) today sent a letter to leaders of the Smithsonian Institution urging them to include an accurate legacy and biography of Clarence Thomas in the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Justice Thomas rose through segregation and discrimination to become a leading voice for originalism on the Supreme Court of the United States, but the recently opened museum fails to recognize his extraordinary accomplishments in any exhibit.  “As much as I am grateful for the museum and its efforts to preserve and promote the indispensable, yet oft-neglected, contributions of African Americans to the collective history of our nation, I believe the museum has made a mistake by omitting the enormous legacy and impact of Justice Thomas, as well as his compelling background,” Cruz wrote. “In summary, Justice Thomas climbed from Pin Point, Georgia, prejudice, and poverty to the pinnacle of the legal profession, to where he is now an intellectual leader on a Supreme Court that is more influential than ever in the most powerful nation on earth.” Read the letter in its entirety here and below.  December 19, 2016  Mr. David J. Skorton Secretary of the Smithsonian Smithsonian Institution Post Office Box 37012 Washington, DC 20013-7012 Mr. Richard Kurin Acting Provost / Under Secretary for Museums and Research Smithsonian Institution Post Office Box 37012 Washington, DC 20013-7012 Mr. Lonnie G. Bunch III Founding Director National Museum of African American History and Culture Post Office Box 37012 Washington, DC 20013-7012 Dear Dr. Skorton, Mr. Kurin, and Mr. Bunch, Many congratulations are in order for the immensely successful opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.  The new museum has been rightly praised for its detailed, complex, and powerful portrayal of the African-American experience in the United States.  As the Wall Street Journal and New York Times have observed, the museum is simultaneously uplifting and upsetting—and it should be, given that the tapestry of our nation’s history includes both the disgraceful epoch of slavery and the inspiring endeavors of legendary African-American leaders like Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, and Martin Luther King, Jr.              It is about one of these leaders that I write you today: Clarence Thomas, the second African-American justice to sit on the Supreme Court of the United States, as well as the longest serving African-American justice.  As much as I am grateful for the museum and its efforts to preserve and promote the indispensable, yet oft-neglected, contributions of African Americans to the collective history of our nation, I believe the museum has made a mistake by omitting the enormous legacy and impact of Justice Thomas, as well as his compelling background.              Even in the context of the countless African-American heroes from U.S. history, few “against all odds” tales are more inspirational than that of Justice Thomas.  To quote one Thomas expert, Mark Paoletta:  [Thomas] grew up in the segregated deep south of coastal Georgia.  Because of his Geechee heritage, he experienced discrimination from other African Americans as well as from whites.  Thomas was fortunate that he was sent at age seven to live with his grandparents, who were both strong role models. His grandfather, Myers Anderson, was uneducated but built a small business delivering fuel oil, coal, firewood and ice in the Savannah community.  He instilled the values of hard work, perseverance, and accountability.  He used to tell Thomas and his younger brother, “Old Man Can’t is dead. I helped bury him.” Ever his grandfather’s son, Justice Thomas also helped bury ‘Old Man Can’t’—in spectacular fashion.  Justice Thomas’s dramatic journey from enduring entrenched racial discrimination to serving on the highest court in a country of 320 million people is one that should be shouted from the rooftops to all Americans, regardless of race or ethnicity.             And Justice Thomas’s historic rise is only half of the story.  This year, we commemorate the 25th anniversary of his appointment to the Supreme Court.  In a quarter century, Justice Thomas has carved out one of the more profound and unique legacies in the Court’s history.  Never afraid to oppose the prevailing trends of the day, Justice Thomas has become the Court’s foremost adherent to the idea that the Constitution should only be interpreted in accord with the document’s historic and original meaning, as opposed to the “living Constitution” doctrine that has pervaded both the Court and the legal academy for decades. As is typical when challenging an entrenched orthodoxy, Justice Thomas’s impassioned commitment to originalism has earned him sharp criticism over the years—some of it measured, but much of it vitriolic and disingenuous.  It has also earned him effusive praise, however, and not just from like minds.  CNN legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin, often a harsh Thomas critic, admitted in The New Yorker in 2011 that Thomas had “emerged as an intellectual leader of the Supreme Court” whose influence has “been recognized by those who generally disagree with his views.”  No other Justice, Toobin observed, “studies the historical record with as much care, and enthusiasm, as Thomas.”  Moreover, according to Toobin: The implications of Thomas’s leadership for the Court, and for the country, are profound.  Thomas is probably the most conservative Justice to serve on the Court since the [1930s].  More than virtually any of his colleagues, he has a fully wrought judicial philosophy that, if realized, would transform much of American government and society. Similarly, Tom Goldstein, a Supreme Court expert and the founder of the increasingly influential SCOTUSblog, wrote: No other member of the Court is so independent in his thinking. … I disagree profoundly with Justice Thomas’s views on many questions, but if you believe that Supreme Court decision-making should be a contest of ideas rather than power, so that the measure of a Justice’s greatness is his contribution of new and thoughtful perspectives that enlarge the debate, then Justice Thomas is now our greatest Justice.             In summary, Justice Thomas climbed from Pin Point, Georgia, prejudice, and poverty to the pinnacle of the legal profession, to where he is now an intellectual leader on a Supreme Court that is more influential than ever in the most powerful nation on earth.  And on top of that, as I can attest from my personal experience as a law clerk at the Supreme Court, he is well known behind the scenes as one of the most jovial, down-to-earth, and gracious personalities to ever don the robe.  Stories of his kindness, generosity, and humility abound. As such, I became deeply disturbed upon learning that Justice Thomas’s moving story and incredible contributions to the country are not even mentioned, much less discussed in detail, in the new museum.  Making matters worse, the only reference to Justice Thomas is in regard to a single individual’s controversial accusation against him at his Senate confirmation hearing twenty-five years ago—an accusation that was contradicted by numerous witnesses and rejected by the Washington Post, the Democratic-controlled Senate, and the American public at the time.  I am concerned that millions of Americans, of all ages, races, religions, and walks of life, when passing through this museum, will be subjected to a singular and distorted view of Justice Thomas, an African-American who survived segregation, defeated discrimination, and ascended all the way to the Supreme Court.  I fully understand that a museum cannot include every bit of relevant information, nor can it tell every tale.  Many great people and their stories had to be omitted from the museum, I am certain.  But, with all due respect, Justice Thomas’s story is not just any other story.  Rather, it is a story uniquely compelling in the annals of United States history, African-American or otherwise.  In my view—and in the view of Senator Tim Scott, who sent a similar letter recently—a Thomas exhibit would fit perfectly in the section of the museum entitled “Making a Way Out of No Way.”  Indeed, if you were to travel back in time to Pin Point, Georgia, in 1948, and ask that community whether a newborn in Justice Thomas’s circumstances could someday sit on the Supreme Court of the United States, I am confident the answer of most (if not all) would have been: No Way.  And yet, by the grace of God, 68 years later here he is.     To be clear, I am not petitioning for a partisan hagiography of Justice Thomas, nor am I asking that everything critical of him be excluded.  I am simply requesting that a fair and accurate portrayal of his powerful story be included, for the great benefit of millions of future museum-goers.  This could perhaps best be done with a balanced display discussing Justice Thomas and the esteemed Thurgood Marshall, the Supreme Court’s first African-American justice. Justice Marshall is briefly praised in the museum, but only in reference to his participation as a lawyer in the famous Brown v. Board of Education decision.  An exhibit showing the inspirational beginnings, journeys, and vastly different judicial approaches of Justice Marshall and Justice Thomas makes much sense.  After all, in 240 years, only three African Americans have served at the highest level of the executive or judicial branches of our great country—Justice Marshall, Justice Thomas, and President Barack Obama.  President Obama has a large presence in the museum, so it would be appropriate to also examine Justices Marshall and Thomas. In his closing, the museum reviewer for the New York Times writes: “I also suspect—hope, actually—that the museum will never be finished, or consider itself so; that its take on African-American history, which is American history, stays fluid, critical and richly confused: real, in other words.”  I hope for the same thing, and appreciate your consideration of this request. Very truly yours, Ted Cruz Chairman Subcommittee on Oversight, Agency Action, Federal Rights and Federal Courts Cc: The Honorable Charles E. Grassley Chairman Senate Committee on the Judiciary The Honorable Patrick J. Leahy Ranking Member Senate Committee on the Judiciary The Honorable Christopher A. Coons Ranking Member Subcommittee on Oversight, Agency Action, Federal Rights and Federal Courts   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://flores.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398898,Daily Caller: EXCLUSIVE: GOP Lawmaker Confident Americans Will Quickly See Health Care Improvements In 2017,2016-12-18,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Bill Flores,F000461,flores.house.gov,,,legacy,"By: Juliegrace BrufkeGOP lawmakers are gearing up to overturn a number of President Barack Obama’s policies in 2017, and Republican Study Committee Chairman Bill Flores is confident Americans will quickly see improvements in their health care options after GOP leaders repeal Obamacare early next year. Congress is slated to move on repealing Obamacare within its first week back, with the intention of getting a bill to President-elect Donald Trump’s desk as soon as he takes office. While Republicans are still determining what its replacement should look like, Flores said he anticipates the repeal to have an almost immediate impact. “I think the replacement will take a few more weeks to figure out what that looks like — the good news is the Republican Study Committee already has an Obamacare replacement that has more cosponsors than anybody else in the House,” he told The Daily Caller News Foundation. “So, we can use our model, Tom Price has a great bill, also if you look at the ‘A Better Way’ agenda there’s the outline of a replacement in there — so among those sort of three of the more noteworthy plans we’ll find a solution in there.” The timing of the replacement remains up in the air, with a number of Senate Republicans calling for a three-year window while some House conservatives would like to see it completed during the 115th Congress. “What I would say is ‘the end date for today’s Obamacare needs to be about three years post repeal, so let’s say we do the repeal vote early in January and the president signs in on Jan. 20,” he told TheDCNF, noting that’s what he would advise leadership to do. “It ought to end January of 2019. Now, over the next three-to-six months ought to come up with a replacement, and the replacement ought to be fully implemented as of the end date of Obamacare, so Jan. 1 of 2020 would be the full implementation date.” Flores said if Republicans are doing their jobs right, their plan will both increase access and bring down costs. “If we actually do those things, then we will cover more people, because people have better access to health care and they’ll have more affordability, so they’ll want to buy it,” he said. “I can see a situation where we come up with a plan where we have more people with health care and they really like the health care they’re getting versus this coverage they don’t like today that they can’t afford.” Republicans have vowed to keep the popular provisions from the Affordable Care Act in place — such as allowing dependents to stay on their parents plan until the age of 26 and requiring insurers to cover preexisting condition — but will eliminate language including the individual and employer mandate. Flores said he is open to working across the aisle on the replacement plan if they bring ideas to the table that won’t increase premiums. “I think what’s incumbent upon us is to give the Democrats a seat at the table, and if they do raise good ideas to incorporate those ideas. For the life of me, I don’t know what they are yet, but if they do come up with some, let’s look at it,” he said. “And if you can come up with bipartisan solution, I think it’s always better than having a single-party solution, but again at the end of the day, the American people have an expectation of us and we can’t let bipartisanship dilute that expectation.” Both Vice President-elect Mike Pence and Rep. Tom Price of Georgia, who was recently tapped to serve as the secretary if Health and Human Service next year, served as RSC chairmen in the past, so the group will likely have an open flow of communication with the administration. North Carolina Rep. Mark Walker is expected to soon take over the group, but Flores will sit on its steering committee, which is tasked with providing strategic guidance in the direction the RSC takes. “The good news is we’ll have all these relationships with the administration, so we can talk candidly about how we can make things work really smoothly in Congress and where we might need help from the administration to encourage people to get on board,” he said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://castro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/castro-statement-enactment-fy2017-state-department-reauthorization,Castro Statement on Enactment of FY2017 State Department Reauthorization,2016-12-17,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Joaquín Castro,C001091,castro.house.gov,,,legacy,"San Antonio, TX – Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after President Barack Obama signed into law the Department of State Authorities Act for Fiscal Year 2017:   “This marks the first time in 14 years State Department reauthorization legislation has become law. The legislation the Congress passed and President Obama signed strengthens our nation’s diplomatic efforts, and I am proud of the work the House Foreign Affairs Committee contributed to the bill’s success.   “I’m glad that the law includes the Foreign Affairs Inclusion Reporting (FAIR) Act, legislation I introduced with Rep. Karen Bass (CA-37) to increase the diversity of Department of State and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) personnel. Additional steps will now be taken to ensure folks of all backgrounds have the opportunity to contribute to our nation’s diplomatic endeavors around the world.    “I thank President Obama for signing into law this significant legislation that will modernize the State Department, improve security protections for our embassies and diplomats overseas, and increase the diversity and creativity of our estimable diplomatic corps.”  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://carter.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=40&itemid=2181,"Congressman Carter, Bell County Officials, Salado Leaders Push Texas Sunset Commission about I-35",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Carter,C001051,carter.house.gov,,,legacy,"(ROUND ROCK, TEXAS) – Last Friday, Rep. John R. Carter, secured time in front of the Texas Sunset Commission for leaders from the Village of Salado, to address the Commission regarding the need for productive solutions for the negative impact on the Village during major Texas Department of Transportation projects over the past few years. Congressman Carter requested time of the Commission in order to allow leaders from Salado, to address the detrimental impact the construction and its many delays had on the overall economic well being of the area. Representing the Village of Salado was Skip Blancett, Mayor of Salado; Melanie Kirchmeirer, Member of the Village of Salado Council; and Dave Swarthout, representative of the Village of Salado Chamber of Commerce.   “Our Texas Department of Transportation, along with other State and Local leaders must be empowered to impose penalties on contractors who grossly violate their commitments, as we saw during the Interstate 35 project impacting Salado,” said Rep. Carter. “Salado is a small community that relies heavily on tourism. What happened to Salado must not be allowed to happen again in Texas. Our Central Texas economy cannot afford another construction disaster as Salado experienced and expect to survive. Central Texas is booming, and due in part to good mobility. Across the Federal, State and Local entities, we must stand strong together as we undergo more transportation improvement project, and not allow them to hinder our growth.”   The Village of Salado relies heavily on tourism to survive. Over the past few years during the major I-35 improvement project, tourism dropped dramatically, forcing many businesses to close. This had a very negative impact on the economy of Salado, and the region. Newly elected State officials representing Bell County, Dawn Buckingham, Scott Cosper and Hugh Shine, are also calling on the State to address this issue.    ""Infrastructure development is critical to Texas' future, but communities must be protected when contractor delays negatively impact local economies,"" Senator-elect Dawn Buckingham said. ""I am already working with Congressman Carter, our state delegation, local officials and businesses, the Texas Department of Transportation and state leadership on this issue. I am confident we can collectively develop a solution that provides safeguards to Texas communities facing these challenges.""   Scott Cosper, State Representative-elect for District 54 which includes Salado, said, “I, too, agree with Congressman Carter that the construction along IH-35 through Salado has been a travesty. We must ensure as we go forward that construction projects like this do not negatively impact local communities. I appreciate Congressman Carter’s initiative in taking the lead in this effort and stand side-by-side with him as we move forward.”   Newly elected State Representative of District 55 Hugh Shine said,""Texas has the largest highway system in the United States with over 200,000 lane miles and over 50,000 bridges that we must maintain, expand and enhance for the purpose of supporting economic growth. Over 80 percent of NAFTA's trade activity passes over Texas' highway network. For these reasons it is necessary that we make sure new highway construction and improvements are done in a timely and efficient manner.”     ""I greatly appreciate the relationship I have with Congressman Carter, Senator-Elect Buckingham and other community leaders as we work together to insure TXDOT and its Contractors are also mindful of the impact and affect their construction plans and decisions have on our local communities,"" Shine said.    Rep. Carter represents Texas District 31, which includes Fort Hood, the largest active duty armored military installation in the free world. He serves as Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, co-chairman of the House Army Caucus, is on the Subcommittee for Commerce, Justice and Science and the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.     ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=400781,"President Signs Cornyn, Cuellar Bill to Encourage Public-Private Partnerships at Ports of Entry into Law",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX) issued the following statements after their Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act, legislation promoting public-private partnerships to boost staffing and make infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry without adding to the national deficit, was signed into law by President Obama: Senator Cornyn: “Pilot programs like these already underway in Texas have reduced wait times, increased efficiency and improved commerce at our ports of entry. I’m pleased President Obama signed this bill into law so more ports of entry can benefit, and I thank Congressman Cuellar for shepherding it through the House of Representatives.” Representative Cuellar: “I thank Sen. Cornyn for his bipartisan approach in working with me to pass this legislation. Every day, billions of dollars’ worth of goods cross the Texas-Mexico border, including $284 billion in trade at our nation’s largest customs district in my hometown of Laredo and the Rio Grande Valley. South Texas is a powerhouse for world trade, and this law will help increase the amount and efficiency of trade at our border ports of entry.” Background on the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act Developed with input from border community leaders and transportation industry stakeholders, the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act gives U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) the authority to enter into innovative partnerships with local governments and private sector entities. As federal resources remain scarce, port communities have sought alternate avenues to ensure essential needs are met in the face of growing demand. This authority allows CBP to better leverage limited resources to speed up the flow of traffic at international ports of entry. Partnerships with local governments and the private sector will support improvements to border infrastructure and enhance staffing levels across port environments.         The legislation has been endorsed by: the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Border Trade Alliance; Texas Border Coalition; Rio Grande Valley Partnership; the City of Laredo; Webb County; the Laredo Chamber of Commerce; Cameron County; City of Eagle Pass; City of Mission; City of McAllen; City of Harlingen; City of Pharr; Anzalduas International Bridge; McAllen-Hidalgo International Bridge; Pharr International Bridge; and the Starr-Camargo International Bridge Company.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1257,"Congressman Carter, Bell County Officials, Salado Leaders Push Texas Sunset Commission about I-35",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John R. Carter,C001051,carter.house.gov,carter,https://carter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"(ROUND ROCK, TEXAS) – Last Friday, Rep. John R. Carter, secured time in front of the Texas Sunset Commission for leaders from the Village of Salado, to address the Commission regarding the need for productive solutions for the negative impact on the Village during major Texas Department of Transportation projects over the past few years. Congressman Carter requested time of the Commission in order to allow leaders from Salado, to address the detrimental impact the construction and its many delays had on the overall economic well being of the area. Representing the Village of Salado was Skip Blancett, Mayor of Salado; Melanie Kirchmeirer, Member of the Village of Salado Council; and Dave Swarthout, representative of the Village of Salado Chamber of Commerce. “Our Texas Department of Transportation, along with other State and Local leaders must be empowered to impose penalties on contractors who grossly violate their commitments, as we saw during the Interstate 35 project impacting Salado,” said Rep. Carter. “Salado is a small community that relies heavily on tourism. What happened to Salado must not be allowed to happen again in Texas. Our Central Texas economy cannot afford another construction disaster as Salado experienced and expect to survive. Central Texas is booming, and due in part to good mobility. Across the Federal, State and Local entities, we must stand strong together as we undergo more transportation improvement project, and not allow them to hinder our growth.” The Village of Salado relies heavily on tourism to survive. Over the past few years during the major I-35 improvement project, tourism dropped dramatically, forcing many businesses to close. This had a very negative impact on the economy of Salado, and the region. Newly elected State officials representing Bell County, Dawn Buckingham, Scott Cosper and Hugh Shine, are also calling on the State to address this issue. ""Infrastructure development is critical to Texas' future, but communities must be protected when contractor delays negatively impact local economies,"" Senator-elect Dawn Buckingham said. ""I am already working with Congressman Carter, our state delegation, local officials and businesses, the Texas Department of Transportation and state leadership on this issue. I am confident we can collectively develop a solution that provides safeguards to Texas communities facing these challenges."" Scott Cosper, State Representative-elect for District 54 which includes Salado, said, “I, too, agree with Congressman Carter that the construction along IH-35 through Salado has been a travesty. We must ensure as we go forward that construction projects like this do not negatively impact local communities. I appreciate Congressman Carter’s initiative in taking the lead in this effort and stand side-by-side with him as we move forward.” Newly elected State Representative of District 55 Hugh Shine said,""Texas has the largest highway system in the United States with over 200,000 lane miles and over 50,000 bridges that we must maintain, expand and enhance for the purpose of supporting economic growth. Over 80 percent of NAFTA's trade activity passes over Texas' highway network. For these reasons it is necessary that we make sure new highway construction and improvements are done in a timely and efficient manner.” ""I greatly appreciate the relationship I have with Congressman Carter, Senator-Elect Buckingham and other community leaders as we work together to insure TXDOT and its Contractors are also mindful of the impact and affect their construction plans and decisions have on our local communities,"" Shine said. Rep. Carter represents Texas District 31, which includes Fort Hood, the largest active duty armored military installation in the free world. He serves as Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, co-chairman of the House Army Caucus, is on the Subcommittee for Commerce, Justice and Science and the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T21:09:43Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/lawmakers-push-include-digital-infrastructure-plans,Lawmakers Push to Include Digital in Infrastructure Plans,2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"As rebuilding the country’s infrastructure looks to be an area President-elect Donald Trump and Democrats can agree on, lawmakers from both parties are trying to make sure the conversation includes digital infrastructure.  California Democratic Rep. Ted Lieu said digital infrastructure is as vital to the country as roads and bridges. “From hardening our electric grid to making sure we put broadband out in all communities in the U.S., we need to invest in digital capacity as much as in concrete,” Lieu said. Texas Republican Rep. Will Hurd said increased access to broadband can help improve health care. “When we want to talk about telemedicine, if you don’t have cell phone service or broadband, you are going to have some problems,” Hurd said. Hurd, whose district encompasses nearly half of the U.S.-Mexico border, also said fiber optic cables could improve homeland security. “There’s some real opportunities to use that on the border. Using that tech on fiber tech is more effective than building a physical wall,” he said. Lieu has a similar take: “To secure America we don’t need physical walls, we need firewalls.” Accusations by the intelligence community that Russia was responsible for interfering in the U.S. elections highlight the need for hardening security systems. Lieu pointed to the 2013 hacking of a dam in New York by Iranians as an example of vulnerabilities. Trump has proposed an “America’s Infrastructure First” policy that would be funded by public money and private investment to rebuild and modernize the country’s transportation, water, electricity, telecommunications and security systems, and Democrats have signaled that they would be willing to work with him on a package. Hurd said he has not yet spoken with Trump’s incoming administration about their plans, but the House Homeland Security Committee, on which he and Lieu serve, is working on legislation. Modernizing the country’s infrastructure will have a big price tag. Lieu points to the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Report Card for America’s Infrastructure that shows the U.S. would need to invest $3.6 trillion by 2020 just to get a passing grade. But conservatives are already warning the incoming president that they won’t allow whatever package he proposes to add to the deficit, which will mean cutting other funding to pay for it. Lieu is hoping Trump can sell the investment to his own party. “Donald Trump has said that he is a businessman,” he said. “If all companies had to cut something to invest, we’d have no economic progress.” Larry Downes, project director at the Georgetown Center for Business and Public Policy, said a digital infrastructure plan would need a more viable source of funding than programs like the Lifeline program, which provides phones to low-income users and is funded through a tax on the voice call part of phone bills. “The most direct way is a tax on broadband service,” he said, but that’s a tough sell politically. Hurd also suggested the North American Development Bank, an institution capitalized by both the U.S. and Mexican governments, as a potential model for financing projects. “They do a mix of public and private funds to do many of the projects that they sponsor and work on,” he said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/public-private-partnership,Public-private partnership,2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, Texan and second-highest ranking Republican in the Senate, toured the World Trade Bridge on Thursday — the latest official to make an example of Laredo as an important hub for international trade. His visit served to highlight the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act, which he co-authored with U.S. Rep Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo. The bill passed through Congress Dec. 6 and is now awaiting President Obama’s signature. Cuellar said this was the fastest bill he has ever worked on. The legislation will enable private companies and local governments to donate money or resources to Customs and Border Protection’s ports of entry. This generally means that CBP will be able to facilitate trade more quickly through infrastructure improvements and increased staffing. For Laredo, the passage of this bill would allow a public-private partnership to fund fast lanes at the World Trade Bridge that would connect directly to Interstate 35. City Manager Jesus Olivares said in November that the city is applying for a federal grant with the Department of Transportation to fund this project. He also said it would cost $6-$8 million out of the city’s pocket, “right off the bat.” The goal is simply to get more trucks crossing through Laredo. “The more traffic, the more tolls we collect,” Olivares said. The grand tour Cornyn was joined Thursday by Cuellar, Olivares, U.S. Rep. Will Hurd, R-Helotes, Mayor Pete Saenz, Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina and other city and county officials for a tour of the World Trade Bridge. The officials met privately with local stakeholders such as customs brokers and forwarding agents before the tour. Yvette Limon, acting bridge director for the city, led Cornyn and the representatives across the road lanes as she explained the daily process at the port. After she informed the group of toll prices, Cornyn quipped, “That’s pretty cheap!” The senator also spent a few minutes inside a toll booth to get a lay of the land as trucks breezed by. In a news conference, Cornyn alluded to President-elect Trump’s promise to dismantle NAFTA and build a “big, beautiful” border wall. “I know of no one that thinks security is a bad idea — everyone understands that security is a prerequisite to everything else. But we also have to talk in the same terms about the importance of our ports of entry and trade,” Cornyn said. The Texas Tribune recently reported that these lawmakers were in a rush to get the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act in front of Obama before he leaves office. But when asked Thursday, they said that’s just how the timing worked out after the bill passed through Congress. Cornyn also said the federal government has not been able to invest properly in international ports of entry run by CBP. “This is really something most people cannot imagine: the flow of commerce and trade across the international border here in Laredo, Texas,” Cornyn said. “As we all know, the federal government hasn’t kept up with its investment in either the infrastructure or the staffing that’s so important to keeping that flow of trade going ...” In his introduction, Saenz touted new numbers by the Texas Comptroller’s Office: namely that Laredo’s five border crossings accounted for $204 billion of international trade in Texas in 2015. Hurd, whose district contains nine ports of entry from Eagle Pass to El Paso, said even though this bill seems like a no-brainer for those who work on the border, it almost didn’t happen. “In steps Senator Cornyn, in steps Henry Cuellar, and we were able to get this done,” he said. The Congressional Budget Office concluded that enacting this legislation would not affect federal revenues or deficits in the next 50 years. Julia Wallace may be reached at jwallace@lmtonline.com El senador de Estados Unidos por Texas, John Cornyn, segundo republicano de mayor rango en el Senado, visitó el Puente Internacional del Comercio Mundial el jueves. Cornyn representa la visita más reciente de un funcionario para poner a Laredo como ejemplo de centro importante para el comercio internacional. Su visita sirvió para resaltar la Ley de Mejora del Comercio Transfronterizo, que recientemente escribió con el Congresista Henry Cuellar. El proyecto de ley pasó por el Congreso el 6 de diciembre y ahora está a la espera de la firma del Presidente Obama. Cuellar dijo que este ha sido el proyecto de ley más rápido en el que ha trabajado. La legislación permitirá a empresas privadas y gobiernos locales donar dinero o recursos a los puertos de entrada de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza. Esto significa que CBP será capaz de agilizar el comercio a través de mejoras en infraestructura y aumento de personal. La aprobación de este proyecto de ley permitiría una asociación público-privada para financiar carriles rápidos en el Puente del Comercio Mundial que se conectarían directamente a la carretera interestatal 35. En noviembre, el administrador de la ciudad Jesús Olivares, dijo que la Ciudad de Laredo está solicitando un subsidio federal del Departamento de Transporte para financiar este proyecto. Olivares también mencionó que el proyecto costaría entre seis y ocho millones de dólares del bolsillo de la ciudad. El objetivo es simplemente conseguir que más camiones cruzen la frontera a través de Laredo.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/cornyn-leahy-bill-strengthen-victims%E2%80%99-rights-signed-law,"Cornyn, Leahy Bill to Strengthen Victims’ Rights Signed Into Law",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON –U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Patrick Leahy (D-VT) released the following statement after President Obama signed the Justice for All Reauthorization Act into law: “Signing the Justice for All Reauthorization Act into law is a tremendous step forward for victims across the country and those who protect them, and I’m thankful for Senator Leahy’s role in getting this to the President’s desk,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By providing law enforcement with the resources necessary to put criminals behind bars and reducing the backlog of untested rape kits, we can help restore the lives of victims across the nation. This is how Congress is supposed to work—in a bipartisan way, on behalf of the most vulnerable in our society.” ""Although there is more to be done, the Justice for All Reauthorization Act takes important steps to even the scales of our justice system.  This criminal justice reform law will improve our indigent defense system, ensure access to post-conviction DNA testing, and make sure that the rights of crime victims, including survivors of sexual assault, are protected,” Sen. Leahy said.  “I will continue to fight alongside leaders like Kirk Bloodsworth, the first person exonerated by DNA evidence after being sentenced to die, and Debbie Smith, who fought for years to have her rape kit tested, to ensure our criminal justice system has integrity and inspires confidence.  I thank Senator Cornyn for working with me and bipartisan leaders in the House for supporting our legislation.  As we consider legislation next Congress, we must remember that we have a continuing obligation to look out for all victims and to create fairness in our criminal justice system.” The Justice for all Reauthorization Act of 2016 passed the Senate unanimously last week. The legislation strengthens crime victims’ rights in the courtroom, increases access to restitution and restorative services, and reauthorizes important law enforcement investigative programs. The bill would help reduce the nationwide rape kit backlog and provide resources for forensic labs while protecting the innocent by improving access to post-conviction DNA testing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/president-signs-cornyn-cruz-bill-help-holocaust-victims-recover-nazi-confiscated-art,"President Signs Cornyn, Cruz Bill to Help Holocaust Victims Recover Nazi-Confiscated Art",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) issued the following statements after the Holocaust Expropriated Art Restoration Act (HEAR Act) was signed into law by the President: Senator Cornyn: “The systematic theft of property by the Nazis during the Holocaust robbed victims and their families of important parts of their heritage. Allowing them the opportunity to recover part of their history is a small but significant step that’s long overdue. I want to thank Senator Cruz for his partnership on this bill, and I’m glad the President has signed this into law so victims can seek the justice they deserve.” Senator Cruz: “Today, with the President’s signature, we delivered a long-overdue victory for the families of Holocaust victims. This bipartisan legislation rights a terrible injustice and sends a clear signal that America will continue to root out every noxious vestige of the Nazi regime. I’m proud to have worked closely with Senator Cornyn, who contributed mightily to this effort, and with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to empower the victims of the horrific atrocities that took place over 70 years ago. We will continue to fight to bring peace and justice to these families.” Background on the HEAR Act Senators Cruz and Cornyn, along with Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), introduced the HEAR Act in April to facilitate the return of artwork stolen by the Nazis during the Holocaust and ensure that the artwork’s rightful owners or heirs get their day in court . The HEAR Act ensures that American law encourages the resolution of claims on Nazi-confiscated art on the merits, in a fair and just manner, consistent with long-standing U.S. foreign policy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/president-signs-cornyn-cuellar-bill-encourage-public-private-partnerships-ports-entry-law,"President Signs Cornyn, Cuellar Bill to Encourage Public-Private Partnerships at Ports of Entry into Law",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX) issued the following statements after their Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act, legislation promoting public-private partnerships to boost staffing and make infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry without adding to the national deficit, was signed into law by President Obama: Senator Cornyn: “Pilot programs like these already underway in Texas have reduced wait times, increased efficiency and improved commerce at our ports of entry. I’m pleased President Obama signed this bill into law so more ports of entry can benefit, and I thank Congressman Cuellar for shepherding it through the House of Representatives.” Representative Cuellar: “I thank Sen. Cornyn for his bipartisan approach in working with me to pass this legislation. Every day, billions of dollars’ worth of goods cross the Texas-Mexico border, including $284 billion in trade at our nation’s largest customs district in my hometown of Laredo and the Rio Grande Valley. South Texas is a powerhouse for world trade, and this law will help increase the amount and efficiency of trade at our border ports of entry.” Background on the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act Developed with input from border community leaders and transportation industry stakeholders, the Cross-Border Trade Enhancement Act gives U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) the authority to enter into innovative partnerships with local governments and private sector entities. As federal resources remain scarce, port communities have sought alternate avenues to ensure essential needs are met in the face of growing demand. This authority allows CBP to better leverage limited resources to speed up the flow of traffic at international ports of entry. Partnerships with local governments and the private sector will support improvements to border infrastructure and enhance staffing levels across port environments. The legislation has been endorsed by: the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; the Border Trade Alliance; the Texas Border Coalition; the Rio Grande Valley Partnership; Cameron County; the City of Eagle Pass; the City of Mission; the City of McAllen; the City of Harlingen; the City of Pharr; the Anzalduas International Bridge; the McAllen-Hidalgo International Bridge; the Pharr International Bridge; the Starr-Camargo International Bridge Company.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2927,"Cruz News: December 16, 2016",2016-12-16,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 16, 2016 Greetings, Last week, we saw the 114th Congress come to a close, and I’m glad to report, it was not without an important success that gives us strong footing for the next Congress to make even further advances that will strengthen jobs and opportunity in Texas. Late last Friday, our bipartisan NASA Transition Act passed the Senate with unanimous consent, which provides NASA with the stability it needs as the agency transitions to a new administration. It also lays an important marker as we continue working to enact this important legislation as soon as possible. I look forward to working with my colleagues again next year to ensure that our nation’s new era of pioneers can innovate and explore with clarity and purpose.  This week, I have been back in Texas, enjoying time with my family and fellow Texans, and anticipating the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations. As families navigate this busy season of shopping and preparing for the holidays, Texans across the state are still finding the time to give back to their communities and support those in need of holiday cheer. In recent days, I have had the privilege to see a few of our state’s foremost non-profits and charities in action, working with members of their communities to serve those in need. The work of organizations like the Houston Food Bank, Meals on Wheels, the Fisher House, and the North Texas Food Bank are an embodiment of the Texas spirit of generosity and friendship. We are blessed to have their operations, and so many like them, working in our state and making our communities a better place. Please keep reading for an update on the latest in the Senate. Keep Texas Strong,  Ted Cruz Sen. Cruz: Democrats and Republicans Stood Together to Reassert American Leadership in Space Last Friday, Sen. Ted Cruz released the following statement praising the Senate passage of the bipartisan National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Transition Authorization Act of 2016, which was first introduced in September by Sen. Cruz, along with Sens. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Tom Udall (D-N.M.):                        “America has long led the way in exploring the unchartered territory of deep space, which has also fostered extraordinary economic growth and job creation for the State of Texas and the entire nation. And today, Republicans and Democrats stood united to reassert the need for certainty in the U.S. space program moving forward. This broad, bipartisan legislative achievement provides NASA with the stability it needs as the agency transitions to a new administration. It also lays an important marker as we continue working to enact this important legislation as soon as possible. I look forward to working with colleagues in both chambers and on both sides of the aisle again next year to ensure that our nation’s new era of pioneers can continue to innovate and explore with clarity and purpose.” Read the full release here. Sen. Cruz Serves Texans in Dallas This week, Sen. Cruz volunteered at VNA Meals on Wheels and the North Texas Food Bank in Dallas, where he delivered hot food to Dallas County residents in need and helped package food for local families. Sen. Cruz also toured the facilities and learned more about the organizations’ operations. “Organizations like the North Texas Food Bank and VNA Meals on Wheels represent the big hearts we have in Texas and our commitment to make it a better place,” said Sen. Cruz. ""Particularly during this holiday season, I encourage Texans to make a difference volunteering in your community, helping someone who may be struggling, and demonstrating the can-do spirit of our state to give others a hand up.” Read the full release here. Sen. Cruz Serves Texans in Houston On Tuesday, Sen. Cruz visited Interfaith Ministries’ Meals on Wheels and the Fisher House in Houston, where he learned about the organizations’ operations and local needs. He delivered meals to homebound seniors and visited with veterans and their families staying at the Fisher House. Sen. Cruz volunteered at the Houston Food Bank, where he joined local third graders who were there on a field trip, to help fill backpacks with food for children in need. He also toured the warehouse and met with food bank leaders to discuss their operations. “There are few better ways for children to get into the holiday spirit than working to make a difference in the lives of fellow Houstonians,” said Sen. Cruz. “This food bank is a tremendous operation, providing roughly 79 million meals a year and working with roughly 600 volunteer groups throughout Southeast Texas distributing the food. Meals on Wheels is one of the many organizations that works with the food bank and helps provide for people in a time of need. Their example is one we should replicate and look to all across our great state.” Read the full release here. Sen. Cruz Statement on Governor Rick Perry Being Named as President-Elect Trump’s Choice for Secretary of Energy Sen. Cruz issued the following statement regarding President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of former Texas Governor Rick Perry as his nominee for U.S. Secretary of Energy.  “Gov. Perry will make a terrific Secretary of Energy.  For 14 years, he led the State of Texas, and with low taxes, restrained spending, and limited regulation, Texas became one of the greatest economic powerhouses in the world. His executive experience across diverse policy areas makes him qualified to run just about any federal agency. Gov. Perry is an exceptional pick to head the Department of Energy, and after presiding over the nation's number one producer of oil and natural gas, and one of the nation's leaders in wind, solar, and nuclear energy, he understands the importance of our country's energy resources not only to our economy, but also to our national security.  I am confident that Gov. Perry will be an aggressive champion for opening more lands to exploration and working to reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources. I enthusiastically support his nomination as Secretary of Energy.” Read the full release here. Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Bipartisan HEAR Act Passes Senate Last weekend, the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery (HEAR) Act, which facilitates the return of artwork stolen by the Nazis during the Holocaust by ensuring that the artwork’s rightful owners or heirs get their day in court. Sens. Cruz and Cornyn, along with Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), introduced the HEAR Act in April.  In June, Sens. Cruz and Cornyn chaired a joint subcommittee hearing on the need for the HEAR Act. Cruz also penned an op-ed in June highlighting the importance of returning Nazi-looted art to the families of Holocaust victims and calling on Congress to pass the HEAR Act.  Sens. Ted Cruz and John Cornyn (R-Texas) applauded the Senate’s passage of the HEAR Act.  “Today, we delivered a long-overdue victory for the families of Holocaust victims,” Sen. Cruz said. “This bipartisan legislation rights a terrible injustice and sends a clear signal that America will continue to root out every noxious vestige of the Nazi regime. I’m proud to have worked closely with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to empower the victims of the horrific atrocities that took place over 70 years ago and will continue to fight to bring peace and justice to these families.”  Read the full release here. Sen. Cruz: We Must Rein in Washington’s Out-of-Control Spending and Restore the Trust of the American People Sen. Cruz issued the following statement after voting against passage of the short-term continuing resolution (H.R. 2028) expiring in April 2017: “I have long called on Congress to include in government funding legislation reforms that would reduce the burden of Washington on the economy and hardworking American taxpayers. Unfortunately, this bill fails to do so. I remain hopeful that, ahead of the April expiration of this new continuing resolution, my Republican and Democratic colleagues will join together with President Trump to rein in our out-of-control spending problem, provide for our troops, repeal Obamacare, and restore the American people’s trust in their government.” Read the full release here. Distinguished Texan    Judge orders 'Charlie Brown Christmas' display restored at Killeen school",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://farenthold.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=399842,Congressman Farentholds statement on Corpus Christi water issue,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Blake Farenthold,F000460,farenthold.house.gov,,,legacy,"Corpus Christi, TX - Congressman Blake Farenthold (R-Texas) released the following statement today as he works with local, state and federal officials to find a resolution to the water issue in Corpus Christi. “As a result of the most recent water advisory, I've spoken with officials at TCEQ, Governor Abbott's office and the city of Corpus Christi,” said Congressman Farenthold. “TCEQ is working with the EPA to first solve the problem and then to make sure this doesn't happen again. I've offered the full assistance of my office. TCEQ assures me it is receiving the utmost assistance from the federal government, and the Governor's office has told me the National Guard is working with the city to provide water distribution. As we have more information, we'll release it to the public.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://flores.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398899,KBTX: Eight local veterans honored for dedication to their communities,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Bill Flores,F000461,flores.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Noelle Bellow Eight local veterans were honored Thursday morning, after their friends and family nominated them for a special award. The District 17 Congressional Veteran Commendation ceremony was held at American Legion Post 159. The honorees were a mix of veterans who served in the Army, Marines and Air Force, who fought during World War Two, the Vietnam and Iraq wars. But they weren't just being honored for their service to our country. As Congressman Bill Flores noted, its their post military work in their local communities that continues to make a difference. ""They've already served our country in such a meaningful way, that community service is such a natural bolt on it if you will,"" said Flores. ""I unload the truck down at the church pantry on Thursday morning, I unload the food bank truck on Tuesday morning,"" explained honoree David P. Marion. ""As soon as we get through with our deliveries to the nursing home, I'm back up on the bell ringing for the Salvation Army."" Congressman Flores has been giving out these awards since 2012.Here is a list of the award winners: Sergeant First Class Rudy G. Cortez of Bryan  Sergeant Franklin Joe Karasek, Jr. of Caldwell  Chief Master Sergeant Frank J. Kocman, Jr. of Bryan  Captain J.D. Langley of College Station Master Sergeant James D. McDonald of Bryan  Captain David P. Marion of College Station Captain Rodulphe L. Peltier of College Station  Specialist Jason Paul Rhodes To read full article click here",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://flores.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398900,KAGS: Bill Flores honors local veterans,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Bill Flores,F000461,flores.house.gov,,,legacy,"By: Kerrie Hall Brazos Valley, Texas - Eight veterans were honored with the Congressional Veteran Commendation award. The ceremony which started in 2012, honors veterans who have not only served our country admirably while in the military, but who have also served in the Brazos Valley community. Recipients are nominated by local constituents and represents various branches of the military. Each award was presented by District-17 US Congressman Bill Flores, who believes a true military hero knows that service does not end when you take off the uniform. The recipients of this award have served in conflicts spanning over three generations. From World War II, to Vietnam, to Gulf War. The recipients of this year’s awards were: Rudy G. Cortez of Bryan Franklin Joe Karasek, Jr. of Caldwell Frank J. Kocman, Jr. of Bryan J.D. Langley of College Station James D. McDonald of Bryan David P. Marion of College Station Rodulphe L. Peltier of College Station Jason Paul Rhodes of Milano To read full article click here",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://flores.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398901,The Daily Caller: RSC Chair Bill Flores Says Border Security Should Be A Top Priority In 2017,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Bill Flores,F000461,flores.house.gov,,,legacy,"By: Juliegrace BrufkeSecuring the border was one of President-elect Donald Trump’s top campaign platforms, and outgoing Republican Study Committee Chairman Bill Flores is ready to make that goal a reality. While the Republican Party has an ambitious agenda laid out for 2017, Flores said there are four policy areas he hopes they can tackle early on — repealing and replacing Obamacare, tax reform, fixing the regulatory environment and restoring the country’s national security. Flores said he’s excited to get things moving in Washington, especially after hearing Vice President-elect Mike Pence lay out the administration’s priorities in a speech last week, adding he’s confident Trump’s selection to head the Department of Homeland Security, former Marine Corps Gen. John Kelly, is more than qualified for the position. “What I’d like to see, first of all, is the commitment, and Donald Trump has been absolutely clear that we are going to have a renewed sense of border security,” he told The Daily Caller News Foundation. “And if you look at his cabinet appointees, we’ve got a former general that’s going to run Homeland Security, so that’s good.” Trump has been vocal about his plans to construct a wall along on the southern border, which has been met with some pushback from proponents of taking a more lax immigration approach. But Flores said once the commitment is made, Republicans envision a defense system along the border strong enough to keep bad actors, such as drug cartels and terrorist, out. “We need a commitment, number one, and the other pieces will come together as we move forward — in some areas we are going to have a wall, in other areas where it’s less feasible to have a wall, then you’ll have a virtual wall that consists of airborne observation resources, censors, boots on the ground everywhere — whether there’s a physical wall or a virtual wall — then you’ll need to have intelligence assets to control the border,” he said. “So, that’s what I see, a holistic approach to border security.” A number of top GOP lawmakers — including House Speaker Paul Ryan, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Florida Rep. Dennis Ross, who sits on Trump’s transition team — have suggested the wall would consist of a combination of both brick-and-mortar components and other surveillance tactics that work with area’s terrain. Trump made it clear he plans to take a hard line on immigration, reiterating that his administration will not tolerate illegal immigrants crossing over the borders or rising in the country if they have a criminal history. The U.S.-Mexican border spans roughly 2,000 miles, including a large part of the Rio Grande River. To read full article click here",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://veasey.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/veasey-announces-150-million-dollar-grant-to-fund-the-tex-rail-project,Veasey Announces $150 Million Dollar Grant to Fund the TEX Rail Project,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Marc Veasey,V000131,veasey.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas — Congressman Marc Veasey, TX-33, released the following statement after the Federal Transit Administration announced a $150 million dollar grant for the construction of the TEX Rail project, a 27-mile commuter rail project that will connect downtown Fort Worth to DFW Airport:   “Since the inception of the TEX Rail project, I have remained committed to ensuring infrastructure investment that will ease traffic congestion on our highways and spur long-term economic development in the DFW Metroplex. Today’s announcement ensures a more reliable and affordable transportation option for North Texas residents with increased access to good paying jobs and additional education opportunities. I applaud the Fort Worth Transit Authority whose vision of creating one of the nation’s most innovative railways will soon become a reality.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/editorials/nafta-20,NAFTA 2.0,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"During these last twenty-three months of my first term in Congress, I crisscrossed 820 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border between El Paso and Eagle Pass, Texas, many times talking about international trade. Despite the campaign rhetoric, I believe that under a Trump Administration we have a real opportunity to improve North American Competitiveness in the rest of the world through an upgrade of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). This belief was confirmed during several days of discussions on energy, commerce and rule of law in Mexico with business and political leaders. Our recently concluded election cycle has almost made NAFTA a new four-letter word. Supporters of NAFTA have probably inflated the economic gains of the accord and detractors have likely overestimated the resultant job losses. While the economies of the United States, Canada and Mexico have grown, there have been both winners and losers. It is undeniable that U.S. trade with Mexico and Canada has more than tripled since the signing of the agreement and, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce, goods exported to Mexico and Canada last year supported almost 3 million U.S. jobs — that's over a quarter of the total jobs supported by U.S. exports. According to the International Trade Commission, Canada was the leading market for U.S. exports last year and Mexico ranked second. Canada and Mexico were second and third, respectively, as suppliers of U.S. imports. My home state of Texas exported more than any other state in the Union and Mexico is our number one trading partner, surpassing the next four largest — Canada, Brazil, China, and South Korea — combined. The 29 counties I represent contain more U.S.-Mexico border than any other district in Congress. Being home to nine out of the top 50 busiest land ports of entry in our country, I have learned something very simple — the U.S., Mexico and Canada are not competitors, but partners who build things together. We do not just sell goods to each other, but we jointly produce them. In North America, a product moves across borders multiple times before being finally sold to a consumer. An example in my hometown of San Antonio is the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant that produces the Tundra and Tacoma pickups. This assembly plant employs 2,299 members of the San Antonio community and supports 356,000 jobs in the U.S. The success of this plant depends upon a trade relationship with Mexico. Based on the geographic proximity to the border, Toyota — as well as all U.S. automakers with production plants in Texas — is able to enhance competitiveness by using auto suppliers' Mexico-based parts operations. Toyota purchases up to $1 billion annually for their Mexico supply chain, supporting final truck assembly in San Antonio. Christopher E. Wilson from the Mexico Institute at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars described how the phrase ""Hecho en México"" or ""Made in Mexico"" label can be misleading because, ""a large portion of the money U.S. consumers spend on Mexican imports actually goes to U.S. companies and workers … a full 40% of the content of U.S. imports from Mexico was originally made in the United States."" Additionally, U.S. content contained in Canadian imports is 25%. The same, however, cannot be said for Chinese imports, which have only 4% U.S. content. Wilson further accurately explains that China and other Asian economies represent a larger threatening source of competition for the U.S. economy and that continued and improved economic cooperation with Mexico and Canada is one of the best ways for the United States to improve its global competitiveness and defend American industry. In order to grow our economy, we cannot just buy American; we have to sell American throughout the world. By enhancing the existing economic integration in North America fostered by NAFTA, the next Administration has an opportunity to design a more competitive North American marketplace. President-elect Trump has made it clear he is not interested in pulling completely out of NAFTA but rather strengthening it. My suggestion to President-elect Trump's new U.S. Trade Representative, Secretary of State and Secretary of Commerce would be to focus on the following areas as a means of achieving NAFTA 2.0. Regulatory cooperation especially in the energy sector: Combined, Mexico and Canada account for nearly 50% of crude oil imports to the U.S. and the U.S. exports of petroleum products have increased to Mexico by 152% over the last decade according to the Energy Information Agency. The energy relationship between the U.S., Mexico and Canada represents an area of additional growth that can be stifled by an uncertain regulatory environment. Overly burdensome government regulations can reduce market access for U.S. goods, services, and investments. Guidelines, rules, regulations, and laws for government procurement and other regulatory regimes should be transparent and based on sound science, cost-benefit analysis and risk assessments. Intellectual property rights, digital trade in goods and services and cross-border data flows: Strong protection of intellectual property rights leads to innovation that creates new lifesaving drugs or disruptions in industries, leading to new opportunities. Any trade agreement should reflect a standard of protection similar to that found in the United States and Governments should never be involved in the violation of intellectual property rights, including cyber theft and piracy. Electronically delivered goods and services should receive no less favorable treatment under trade rules than physical products, and measures that impede digital trade in goods and services, restrict cross-border data flows, or require local storage or processing of data should be eliminated. Labor and environmental provisions: The American worker can compete with anyone if given a level playing field. All trade agreements should adopt and maintain fundamental internationally recognized core labor rights and effectively enforce labor laws. Likewise, common sense environmental laws that promote and protect clean water and clean air for generations to come should be hallmarks of any deal. The utilization of clean and renewable energy sources should have a common benchmark and the means to hold those who cheat accountable. Elimination of trade distortions and unfair competition favoring state-owned and state-controlled enterprises: Ninety percent of the exporters in Texas are small or medium sized companies. Small businesses should have equal access to international markets, and barriers that disproportionately impact small businesses should be eliminated. Companies should not be regulated by a government entity that is also a competitor, and state-run entities that receive government subsidies should not be allowed in competitive industries. To allow fair completion, trade agreements should combat government corruption by strengthening anti-bribery and conflict-of-interest laws. Lowering barriers to agricultural exports. The United States continues to lead the world in agricultural production, but the majority of the world's consumers and the highest growth markets exist outside of our borders. Protectionist approaches that close off markets or impose arbitrary caps on specific products undercut opportunities for producers and raise prices for consumers. Modern border: When we talk about border security we must talk about international commerce at the same time. Improving the movement of legitimate goods, services, people and animals will allow us to better focus on illegal border traffic. To better facilitate commerce we need to continue to streamline our customs process to eliminate costs, invest in border infrastructure, and modernize the movement of goods and services. It has been almost 25 years since President George H.W. Bush signed NAFTA in my hometown of San Antonio. A lot has changed in American politics and our economy since then. Before the election, Mexico was one of our strongest trading partners and since the election that fact has not changed. Mexico will continue to be a strategic trade partner for North American Competitiveness. Just as we build things together, the United States and Mexico will modernize NAFTA together. Originally published in Investor's Business Daily",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congressman-hispanic-chamber-team-defend-nafta,"Congressman, Hispanic Chamber team up to defend NAFTA",2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"Donald Trump's presidential campaign promise to either renegotiate or scrap the North American Free Trade Agreement caught the attention of San Antonio business leaders. And with Trump set to take office in January, political and business leaders are scrambling and organizing to save NAFTA, which they say has benefited San Antonio. During a Wednesday afternoon roundtable discussion at the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Congressman Will Hurd, R-Helotes, met with local business leaders to discuss the trilateral trade deal between the United States, Canada and Mexico. Hurd said South Texas business leaders are concerned about NAFTA's future but believe that Trump's plan to renegotiate the trade deal is an opportunity, particularly when it comes to the digital economy, cybersecurity, shale oil and gas, and renewables, which did not exist when it was originally signed in San Antonio back in 1992. ""This is an opportunity,"" Hurd said. ""San Antonio should be leading when we talk about taking advantage of this opportunity. NAFTA was signed here. San Antonio is an important cog between the three countries, and we should leading the way on how to make it stronger."" Many of the business leaders in the room were working in San Antonio when NAFTA was originally negotiated, signed into law and went into effect. Hurd said parts of the discussion centered on what the trade deal was supposed to deliver to San Antonio and what has not been achieved. ""This was supposed to be a step in improving the competitiveness of North America, and we can do more there,"" Hurd said. Calling the meeting the first of many, San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce CEO Ramiro Cavazos said Hurd reached out to the Chamber to meet with local business leaders about NAFTA. Cavazos said the Chamber and several other local organizations are participating in the ""SA to DC"" lobbying trip in February, during which NAFTA will be a top priority. ""We'll have more than 100 people to fight for the thing we want,"" Cavazos said in Spanish. ""We'll have the congressman there to help direct us to the key people in the administration who we need to sit down with because when this trade deal opens again, we need to be very clear about what we need."" IBC Bank CEO Dennis Nixon was among the pro-NAFTA business leaders who participated in the roundtable discussion. With more than 40 years experience along the border, Nixon said he has seen the benefits of trade with Mexico firsthand. ""They're our primary trading partner and our next-door neighbor, so we're very interested in protecting those relationships,"" Nixon told the Business Journal. ""Anything we can do to bring clarity, reality and facts to the argument, we're prepared to do it.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/new-partnership-enhances-computer-science-education-middle-schoolers,New Partnership Enhances Computer Science Education for Middle Schoolers,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"What was once a niche area of interest for computer “geeks” is now the lingua franca of the global economy. At a press conference at BiblioTech South, U.S. Rep. Will Hurd (R-23) announced a multi-faceted partnership between his office, Bexar County, the University of Texas, school districts within his congressional district, and private partners. The initiative will provide computer science certification and training to middle school educators. “Coding is the language of the 21st century. If you can’t speak it, you’re going to be left behind,” Hurd said.   A pilot program at BiblioTech South will take place March 23-25, 2017. Teachers can apply through Hurd’s website through Jan. 31.  Private partners Dell, Brocade, Facebook, and Intel, are already committed to the initiative. For them, homegrown talent is a vital resource. At the press conference, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas indicated that it too wanted to sign on to help scale the initiative throughout the 23rd Congressional district. Hurd himself has a long background at the intersection of technology and security. From his seat as Chairman of the Information Technology Subcommittee on the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, he says he “sees the gaps” in the tech sector’s human capital. Last year 42,000 tech jobs went unfilled in Texas. These jobs average $89,000 per year, according to Hurd. Only 2,100 students graduated with computer science degrees from Texas universities. Only 5,000 high school students took the computer science AP exam, and of those students 24% were female, less than 900 were Latino, and less than 200 were African-American. Those numbers are bad enough, Hurd said, and it’s not enough just to focus on the jobs that exist. Technology is changing the world in such a way that kids will enter a radically different job market than their parents. “We’ve got to do a better job preparing our kids for the jobs that don’t exist yet,” Hurd said. With HB 5, high school students are able to choose an “endorsement,” which is comparable to a broad major. Not enough students choose the STEM endorsement. This is likely because computer science, coding, and software development are new to them. With limited exposure they cannot make an informed choice. That’s why Hurd wants to focus on middle school. There’s another hurdle though. When UT Austin’s Center for STEM Education Deputy Director Carol Fletcher counted the number of pre-service teachers graduating with computer science certifications, she found 14. “This is a problem we can solve,” Fletcher said. Through WeTeach_CS, Fletcher’s department is multiplying the number of computer science credentialed teachers in Texas schools. The March pilot, which will also partner with web-development framework company Bootstrap, will add 40 in Bexar County alone. Districts won’t have to hire new teachers, as the course will allow teachers to overlay computer science training with the necessary math and science curriculum needed to meet state and federal standards. Incorporating technology into other areas of instruction will only add to preparing students for what is ahead. Information technology has disrupted “business as usual” in nearly every major sector, Brocade systems engineer manager Dennis Dodd said. Companies that have not adjusted have suffered. Around 60% of the Fortune 500 companies from 1996 are no longer on the list, Dodd said, because they have been replaced by those who have learned to leverage technology effectively. In the 2017-18 school year, Lopez Middle School in North East ISD, as well as other area middle schools, will have teachers in place who have been through the training. Superintendents from Somerset, Northside, and Southwest ISDs were all in attendance at the press conference. “Expanding computer science opportunities down to middle school will help us build engaging and relevant technology experiences to prepare students for high school, college, and career,” NEISD Superintendent Brian Gottardy said. Lopez Middle School student Andrea Conner summed up the perspective of many of her peers when she said, “It would be kind of hard to exist not knowing how to use a computer.” By that she did not mean that it would be hard to eat or breathe, but that it would be hard to navigate the world, communicate with those not in the same room, and access information. Students Conner’s age are not disturbed by the growing dependence on computers and the ensuing vulnerabilities and security needs – this is all they know. For the students, it won’t be an introduction to technology. Mobile and internet-based technology is their native environment. Knowing how to shape and lead that world is the basis for tomorrow’s leaders. It is becoming a new and essential literacy. “Today, if you’re not literate in technology, along with the ability to read, you’re going to have a hard time in life,” Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff said. If tech literacy is essential to the best jobs of the future, then it is incumbent upon educators to ensure that all kids have the tools they need to succeed. Many kids will only be exposed to this technology in a public school. Even in relatively affluent areas, coding camps, programming clubs, and other STEM intensive activity is treated as elective or extracurricular. In less-resourced homes and schools, it can be absent entirely. “As educators we have the moral obligation to give kids the opportunities they are not getting,” Fletcher said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/senator-john-cornyn-visits-laredo,Senator John Cornyn Visits Laredo,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"In a few days, President Obama will sign into law a bill that will give the city of Laredo the power to fix problems at the ports of entry.  On Thursday afternoon, city and state officials met at the World Trade Bridge to celebrate the passing of the Cross Border Trade Enhancement Act. The bill's main purpose is to help ease congestion for trucks coming in from Mexico and avoid traffic. The bill's approval was announced at the World Trade Bridge with U.S. representatives Henry Cuellar and Will Hurd, along with U.S. senator John Cornyn. Up until now, cities like Laredo had to turn to the federal government for help in fixing this issues at ports of entries. The Cross Border Trade Enhancement Act will give Laredo the opportunity to search for alternate methods to improve commercial flow. Congressman Cuellar says the bill is good news for Laredoans, as the city's commerce is expected to grow by 40 percent in the next five years. Cuellar also adds that bringing in more jobs and trade to the city can lead to more revenue to the city, giving the mayor more money to city issues. Congressman Cuellar says that the bill was passed in just five days, a record he says for bills at the nations capital. Additional agricultural, border security and, inspection related immigration services will be available at ports for a fee. The new bill will also make it easier for donations to be accepted for the construction and maintenance of facilities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/south-texans-are-worried-about-naftas-future,South Texans Are Worried About NAFTA's Future,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"President-elect Donald Trump knocked the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) during his first U.S. presidential debate with Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton back in September. “NAFTA is the worst trade deal maybe ever signed anywhere,” he said.   Now that he's just over a month away from moving into the White House, many are wondering about not just the trade deal's future, but their own. In 1992, President George H. W. Bush and Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney signed the treaty in San Antonio. Now, Republican U.S. Rep. Will Hurd from Texas and his constituents are worried. His district spans San Antonio and runs west along the majority of state's border with Mexico. Hurd says he met Wednesday with the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. ""They were telling me that there is some uncertainty that is impacting markets and their industries, but that there is a number of ways that we can improve upon NAFTA,” he says. “A lot of things have happened since this was signed almost 20 years ago. Energy revolutions in south Texas and in central Mexico. The Mexican government changing their constitution to deal with energy. The internet didn't exist when NAFTA was signed. So there really is an opportunity to improve upon or to upgrade. And the question we should be asking ourselves is what does NAFTA 2.0 look like?” Hurd says Trump’s more recent remarks say he will not pull out of NAFTA, but instead restructure the trade deal. ""I think what we're going to see – once the new administration gets in – there's going to be a lot of talk around what is that framework on how you improve upon NAFTA,"" Hurd says. ""The U.S., Canada and Mexico – we should be talking about being partners in energy. It's important to remember that when it comes to the U.S., Mexico and Canada, we build things together."" But his constituents still have a feeling of uncertainty around the agreement’s future, Hurd says. ""People are concerned. They're taking comments out of context,” he says. “And that's why it's important for those of us that recognize the importance of NAFTA – and how that has helped our economies – to start talking about what a framework looks like.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/texas-representative-introduces-cs-curriculum-initiative,Texas Representative Introduces CS Curriculum Initiative,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"In an effort to increase access to computer science (CS) education, Congressman Will Hurd (R-Texas) yesterday announced an initiative to train middle school math teachers on how to implement coding concepts into their math classes. The initiative aims to build a strong pipeline of qualified STEM workers for future generations by introducing students to CS prior to high school. “Every chance I get, I tell young people about the opportunities that a computer science education can provide,” Hurd wrote in the announcement. “Many are shocked to learn that although an estimated 42,000 computing jobs are waiting to be filled in Texas, only 2,100 computer scientists graduated from Texas schools last year. Students are even more interested to learn that the average salary of a computer science professional is more than $85,000 …. Offering tech education early on not only serves as the foundation for continued education in high school and beyond, but it also exposes students to the jobs we will need to fill in the future.” The curriculum initiative was designed in partnership with The University of Texas at Austin’s Center for STEM Education and Bootstrap, and sponsored by several tech companies, including Dell, Facebook and Brocade. The partners will instruct eighth grade math teachers to use “easily adoptable curriculum consistent with national and state math standards,” according to the initiative  web page. Using Bootstrap, teachers will receive training on the following: Word problems; Planes and graphing; Functions and variables; Function composition; Inequalities in the plane; and The Pythagorean theorem. Middle school teachers located in the 23rd Congressional District of Texas, or schools that serve a considerable amount of students in the 23rd district, are eligible to apply for the next three-day training workshop taking place March 23-25 in San Antonio, TX. The event is limited to 40 participants and registration costs $75. The deadline to apply is Jan. 31.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/trade-mexico-matters-here-s-why,Trade with Mexico Matters. Heres Why,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"Miguel Perez is feeling anxious. As the owner of a leasing company operating along the U.S.-Mexico border, Perez is keenly aware that trade and Mexico emerged among this year’s boogeymen, with President-elect Donald Trump at times sounding highly critical of both. But now that the contentious election is over, Perez hopes the president-elect and those closest to him will understand what Americans living along the border have known for generations: trading with our neighbor to the south is a good thing. The good news for Perez is that many in Congress agree. Among those include a bipartisan group of senators and congressman that fought hard to send to the president’s desk a bill that would significantly ease border trading by reducing commercial wait times. First term Rep. Will Hurd (R-Texas) was among those leading the fight, working alongside Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), to make permanent a series of successful public-private partnerships that have sprung up along the southern border for some time now. Had Congress fully funded the agencies with jurisdiction over border and trade in recent years, the public-private partnerships may never have happened. And as a result, the outcome of the legislation may prove a useful template for other public-private partnerships down the lines especially in transportation, infrastructure and trade. The details of the bill are mundane and full of Washington-speak, but vital for the local communities it impacts most. When signed by President Obama, the bill would give the U.S. Custom and Border Protection (CBP) the ability to provide custom agricultural and inspection-related services for a fee while sharing construction and maintenance fees with another government agency. The bill would also allow the CBP to accept donations from individuals in the form of money, facility construction and maintenance, as well as infrastructure investments. This form of innovative thinking makes a lot of sense to international trade attorney Scott Lincicome, who considers custom and border disputes a type of trade barrier. “Trade facilitation initiatives like this are important,” Lincicome told Opportunity Lives. “I like that these initiatives appear to be privately financed through user fees or donations.” For Perez, whose livelihood depends on smooth border crossings to transport machinery and heavy equipment, paying user fees is all part of running a successful business. “I will be able to move more equipment by making border crossings less burdensome,” Perez said. And with an estimated $52 billion in annual trade and services crossing the border each way with Mexico, according to Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), making it easier for Miguel Perez to conduct business would seem to most as common sense. But of course in this year of upside down politics, nothing is a given. The president-elect has made a number of eyebrow-raising comments, including at times calling for the United States to withdraw from NAFTA, a landmark trade agreement with Mexico and Canada. Trump has also said he wants to “punish” companies for shipping jobs overseas. And while this may not directly impact businesses like Perez’s, this doesn’t mean that Trump’s tough talk won’t leave a more searing impression on the minds of Americans that trading is a net drain on our economy. Perez understands why protectionism plays well in certain parts of the country. But as he sees it, “globalization is a force that the U.S. cannot stop.” Better to embrace the market forces and avoid risking a trade war. “China can play hardball too,” said Perez. And for now at least it seems that Perez will have a sympathetic ear in Congress. In addition to the efforts of Reps. Hurd and Cueller, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Tex.) also played an important role in ensuring that the bill was included in the last-minute deal making that took place in the waning days of the current Congress. If trade protectionism emerges as an important priority in the Trump administration, don’t expect the Republican Congress to roll over if the president wants to rip up NAFTA, start a trade war or get in the way of public-private partnerships along the U.S.-Mexico border that benefit the whole economy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/us-official-blames-russia-yahoo-hack-security-experts-blame-yahoo-s,"U.S. official blames Russia for Yahoo hack, security experts blame Yahoos negligence",2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"An unnamed American official is pointing to Russian responsibility for the recently revealed hack on Yahoo that exposed data from more than 1 billion accounts. The official blamed a “‘state actor’ believed to be tied to Russia,” CBS News reported. No evidence or further explanation was offered about how the attribution was made. The massive three-year-old breach is being described as a disaster impacting the entire internet. The latest U.S. government finger-pointing toward Moscow comes as the U.S. intelligence community and political establishment debate the role Russia and its President Vladimir Putin played in influencing the 2016 American election with cyberattacks. President Barack Obama recently ordered a full intelligence community review of foreign efforts to influence recent presidential elections, a process Director of National Intelligence James Clapper is currently leading. Coming just months after a separate hack exposed 500 million accounts, the latest news is bringing on a torrent criticism from security experts who are pointing to huge problems in how sensitive data including passwords were stored and catastrophic organizational clashes that had already has led to high profile departures of Yahoo security executives. Alex Stamos, Yahoo’s former chief information security officer, resigned after reportedly being being ordered to build a backdoor for the U.S. government. Less than a day after the hack was announced, Yahoo is already a target of a class action lawsuit. “Yahoo failed, and continues to fail, to provide adequate protection of its users’ personal and confidential information,’’ New York consumer Amy Vail said in the complaint filed on Thursday. “Yahoo users’ personal and private information has been repeatedly compromised and remains vulnerable.’’ Security experts agree. “They’re not taking security seriously enough,” former Yahoo information security officer Jeremiah Grossman told CyberScoop. “Without a mandate from executives, they’re not going to make up much ground.” But the future of security at Yahoo is, like everything else at the company, in flux. News of the two big breaches are undercutting a potential sale to Verizon to the tune of a potential billion-dollar discount on the sale, originally slated for around $6.4 billion. Leadership at Yahoo will likely change but there’s no telling what group will ultimately lead Yahoo. With that kind of uncertainty, any mandate of support from executives could be out the window in a matter of months. Still, Grossman sees potential opportunity for anyone who joins Yahoo’s security team right now. “If you’re at Yahoo right now and you have to do incident response, there are very few things that can benefit you skill wise to that degree,” Grossman said. “How often do you get the opportunity to investigate a huge breach at a major corporation? It will make recruiting difficult. Not everyone will want to go into a live fire zone but particular individuals can make a huge impact.” But even with the opportunity disaster affords them, security professionals would be stepping into a cratered landscape. Breaches happen to everyone, Grossman explained. But cookie forgery — and with it the ability to impersonate anyone so “they had the keys to the kingdom” — went undetected for three years, a product of longterm negligence, he said. It’s not clear whether we’ll ever see on-the-record blame by Washington toward Russia for this attack. Even if we do, U.S. intelligence is currently debating how much evidence of recent breaches can be unclassified due to the risk posed to human intelligence sources abroad. “Having some of this evidence declassified, I think we need to be really careful because we’re talking about people’s lives. Whatever we decide, whatever we declassify, Russian intelligence will be studying it very closely,” Rep. Will Hurd, R-Texas, said this week.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sessions.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sessions-statement-aleppo,Sessions Statement on Aleppo,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Pete Sessions,S000250,sessions.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules, today released the following statement in regard to the ongoing conflict in Aleppo: ""Over the last five years, more than 400,000 people have died in a ruthless and complex civil war in Syria. While the President and his Cabinet have the authority and responsibility to conduct foreign policy on behalf of the United States, the policy approach taken by President Obama, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and current Secretary of State John Kerry over the last four years has been largely incoherent and unclear. Furthermore, this humanitarian crisis has cost far too many innocent lives and forced millions from their homes. Simply put, the only constant has been this Administration’s failure to come up with a plan that has any chance of defeating our enemies, protecting the innocent, and ending this conflict. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the new Congress to combat terrorism in the region and bring an end to this conflict.""   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2924,Sen. Cruz Serves Texans in Dallas,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"DALLAS, Texas – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today volunteered at VNA Meals on Wheels and the North Texas Food Bank in Dallas, where he delivered hot food to Dallas County residents in need and helped package food for local families. Sen. Cruz also toured the facilities and learned more about the organizations’ operations. “Many people are hurting both across our state and across our country,” said Sen. Cruz. “Organizations like the North Texas Food Bank and VNA Meals on Wheels represent the big hearts we have in Texas and our commitment to make it a better place. Particularly during this holiday season, I encourage Texans to make a difference volunteering in your community, helping someone who may be struggling, and demonstrating the can-do spirit of our state to give others a hand up.""  Organizations like @NTFB & @VNATexas @_MealsonWheels represent the big hearts we have in #Texas. https://t.co/IbFspzUCbk pic.twitter.com/if9V7vt1vy — Senator Ted Cruz (@SenTedCruz) December 15, 2016 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2925,ICYMI: Forbes.com: The Audacity of Silence On Possible Iran-North Korea Nuclear Ties,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today released a statement in the wake of the Obama Administration’s silence regarding potential collusion between Iran and North Korea on nuclear proliferation and China’s apparent complicity in enabling such cooperation. He also reiterated his commitment to working with President-elect Trump and the incoming administration to dismantle the Iran deal and rebuild a strong, effective national security for the United States. In October, Sen. Cruz wrote a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry, Secretary of Treasury Jack Lew, and Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, asking a series of questions to each to get more information about reports of cooperation between Iran and North Korea on building their nuclear programs and reports of China’s actions that have enabled their cooperation: Questions for Secretary Lew: 1. Did the rocket engine that North Korea tested in September of this year obtain the same capability as the engine the Treasury Department referenced in January when it designated eleven Iranian persons for sanctions violations? Questions for Director Clapper: 2. Does the U.S. Intelligence Community possess the tools it needs to track Iranian and North Korean illicit activity? If not, what additional resources are needed? 3. Has the U.S. intelligence community observed any possible nuclear collaboration between Iran and North Korea following Implementation Day of the JCPOA? Have any of these observations been verified? 4. Does the intelligence community have an adequate understanding of these Chinese linked procurement networks?  If not, please explain any gaps in understanding and what can be done to close these gaps.    Questions for Secretary Kerry: 5. What penalties do you plan to announce against Iran in light of its JCPOA violations? How do you intend to pursue enactment of such penalties? 6. What is the United States doing to ensure that the $1.7 billion paid to Iran in cash earlier this year is not used to finance nuclear weapons research in North Korea? 7. What is the United States doing to press China for additional cooperation on illicit procurement networks, to which they are often tied? 8. Has North Korea submitted any proposals to the UNSC for the transfer of nuclear or dual-use goods, technology, or related services to Iran? If yes, who in the U.S. Government was consulted during the review period provided for the Procurement Working Group and the final decision issued by the UNSC? “I am disappointed that the Obama administration has yet again inexplicably relied on China – the same nation that also initiated an unsubstantiated financial shakedown of the South Korean company working with the US to deploy THAAD missile defenses – to defend America’s national security interests by means of another meager United Nations Security Council resolution on North Korea, and doubled down on the failed Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with Iran,” Sen. Cruz said. Cruz continued, “The United States does not need further opinions of the ‘international community.’ We need to enforce the law and identify and target the entities directly responsible for enabling the financing of Kim Jong-un’s nuclear ambitions — Chinese banks. The Obama administration has the legal mandate to do so, but lacks political will. This is the same President who refused to sign the extension of Iran sanctions into law and whose administration assured the regime that this extension, passed with the support of 99 senators and 419 representatives, would not affect them. I am looking forward to working with President-elect Trump next year to tear up the Iran nuclear deal and to ensure peace through strength in Northeast Asia.” A column posted today by Claudia Rosett in Forbes.com outlines the same concerns highlighted by Sen. Cruz.  Rosett writes, “If the silent officials of the Obama administration are confident that there has been no nuclear cooperation between Iran and North Korea, it’s time to put that assessment in writing and send it to Cruz. If, on the other hand, Clapper, Kerry, Lew or Obama himself have any information that points to nuclear collaboration, it’s past time to inform Cruz, the rest of Congress and the American public of the staggering extent of the radioactive debacle they are about to hand off to President-elect Donald Trump, under the heading of Obama’s legacy Iran nuclear deal.” Read the article in its entirety here and below. Sen. Cruz’s letter may be viewed here. The Audacity of Silence On Possible Iran-North Korea Nuclear TiesForbes.com By Claudia Rosett December 15, 2016 It’s now more than eight weeks since Senator Ted Cruz sent a letter to three senior officials of the Obama administration, detailing his concerns that North Korea and Iran might be working together on developing nuclear missiles.  In particular, Cruz had a question for Director of National Intelligence James Clapper. Referring to the period since the Iran nuclear deal took effect on Jan. 16, Cruz asked: ""Has the U.S. intelligence community observed any possible nuclear collaboration between Iran and North Korea...”?  That’s one of the huge questions looming behind the Iran nuclear deal, officially titled the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which President Obama has been urging President-elect Donald Trump to preserve.  It's a question that deserves an immediate answer. If there has been any such nuclear teamwork between Tehran and rogue, nuclear-testing Pyongyang, that would be a violation by Iran that should immediately blow up the Iran deal — which the Obama White House currently touts on its web site as “The Historic Deal that Will Prevent Iran from Acquiring a Nuclear Weapon.”  Questions about possible Iran-North Korea teamwork on nuclear weapons are well-founded, as Cruz explained in his seven-page letter, referencing numerous open-source reports (including two of my own). North Korea and Iran have been strategic allies since just after Iran’s 1979 Islamic revolution. They have a long history of weapons deals, in which the usual arrangement has been that North Korea works on the weapons, oil-rich Iran pays the bills, and technicians shuttle between both countries.  While there’s been no official U.S. confirmation that this Iran-North Korea partnership extends to nuclear collaboration, there's plenty of official U.S. documentation that it includes cooperation on developing ballistic missiles. That has long raised questions about whether the two countries are also in nuclear cahoots, because ballistic missiles are basically cost-efficient only as vehicles for delivering nuclear warheads.  And though it could be mere coincidence, it is striking that during the past year, in which Iran — to multi-billion dollar emolument — has officially relinquished any interest in nuclear weapons, cash-hungry North Korea has never been busier. North Korea has carried out two nuclear tests this year alone, in January and September, bringing its total number of nuclear tests to five since 2006, four of them during Obama’s presidency. Over many years, North Korea and Iran have both carried out numerous ballistic missile tests, including multiple tests by both countries since the Iran nuclear deal took effect this January. That raises the question of why Iran, having promised not to make nuclear weapons, continues to pour resources into testing ballistic missiles. If not for nuclear weapons, then for what? One obvious question is whether North Korea’s nuclear program might be secretly doubling as a nuclear backshop for Iran.  Cruz, in his letter, raised specific worries about North Korea’s test this September of a powerful new rocket booster, which according to North Korean state media had a thrust of 80 tons — enough power to carry “a heavier, or less-minaturized nuclear warhead to the United States.” That happens to be exactly the same amount of thrust referenced in a Jan. 17 Treasury press release that mentioned the excursions of “Iranian missile technicians,” who “within the past several years” have “traveled to North Korea to work on an 80-ton rocket booster being developed by the North Korean government.” Cruz asked Treasury Secretary Jack Lew to confirm that the capability of North Korea’s new rocket engine, tested in September, was the same as that of the North Korean rocket on which Iranian technicians had been working in North Korea. Cruz also had some questions for Secretary of State John Kerry, including “What penalties do you plan to announce against Iran in light of its JCPOA violations?” He also wanted to know, “What is the United States doing to ensure that the $1.7 billion paid to Iran in cash earlier this year is not used to finance nuclear weapons research in North Korea?” From all these Administration officials, Cruz requested answers no later than Nov. 1. To date, according to his staff, he has received no answers at all. State and Treasury have not even extended the courtesy of acknowledging the letter. From Clapper’s office, at National Intelligence, came a message in October, saying they had received the letter, and would respond. They have not. That’s an alarming silence. For years, Obama administration officials have dodged questions about possible Iran-North Korea nuclear teamwork by reciting the talking point that any signs of such cooperation would be cause for serious concern. Now it seems Administration officials are skirting even that customary evasion. Why? My own queries to State, Treasury and National Intelligence, asking why they had not answered Cruz, ran into the same blank walls. State and Treasury made no response. National Intelligence emailed back on Dec. 6 only to say that they had received Cruz’s letter, and “are working to respond as soon as possible.” Obama’s administration has racked up a record that suggests silence on Iran-related issues is not a good sign. Back in January, when Obama celebrated a $1.7 billion settlement of an old financial dispute with Iran, a number of lawmakers wrote to the Administration asking for details of this transaction, and whether it was a ransom for Iran’s release of American prisoners. The Administration took weeks to provide even partial replies, denied paying ransom and omitted entirely the manner in which the $1.7 billion had been dispatched to Iran. It took more than six months for Congress and the press to eke out of the Administration the information that the entire $1.7 billion, converted into European hard currency, had been paid to Iran in stacks of cash — hard to trace and convenient chiefly for illicit purposes — with the first installment of $400 million conveyed, ransom-style, on the same day as the prisoner release, and held in Geneva until the airplane carrying the released American prisoners was on its way out of Iran.  For the Obama administration, invested in the Iran nuclear deal as one of Obama’s signature legacies, there is tremendous temptation to ignore or bury any evidence that Iran is cheating. There is also enormous incentive to downplay another of Obama’s legacies: the dramatic enhancement, since he took office in 2009, of the nuclear arsenal and proficiency of North Korea, now honing its increasingly powerful missiles, beefing up its stockpile of nuclear fuel, and preparing for its sixth nuclear test.  If the silent officials of the Obama administration are confident that there has been no nuclear cooperation between Iran and North Korea, it’s time to put that assessment in writing and send it to Cruz. If, on the other hand, Clapper, Kerry, Lew or Obama himself have any information that points to nuclear collaboration, it’s past time to inform Cruz, the rest of Congress and the American public of the staggering extent of the radioactive debacle they are about to hand off to President-elect Donald Trump, under the heading of Obama’s legacy Iran nuclear deal.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2926,Sen. Cruz Statement on President-Elect Trump's Choice of Scott Pruitt for EPA Administrator,2016-12-15,2016,2016-12,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 regarding President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt as his nominee for Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): “Under Obama, the EPA has run amok. Attorney General Pruitt has helped lead the fight against many of the Obama administration’s most egregious cases of lawless federal overreach on behalf of his home state of Oklahoma. I believe he will bring back common sense and a healthy respect for rule of law to the EPA.  And I am confident he will work to restore the focus on EPA’s core mission of ensuring clean air and water -- being good stewards of our environment for the next generations -- rather than empowering bureaucratic zealots simply to kill jobs and hurt American workers.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://ebjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-eddie-bernice-johnson-releases-statement-after-attending,Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson Releases Statement after Attending Signing of the 21st Century Cures Act,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Eddie Johnson,J000126,ebjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"President Barack Obama is joined on stage for the signing of the 21st Century Cures Act Washington, DC - (Tuesday, December 13, 2016) - Today, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) attended the signing of the 21st Century Cures Act by President Barack Obama at the White House. The bill was passed with bipartisan support from the Senate and House of Representatives. She applauded the signing of the Cures Act and is grateful for the support of the mental health advocates who encouraged her to continue fighting for mental health reform. “The 21st Century Cures Act is a step forward for biomedical research and will spur innovation to discover new treatments and cures,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “I am so proud to see much of the framework of the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act enacted into law today. As we finally address the opioid crisis that has overtaken many of our communities, I am hopeful that the funding for treatment and resources available through the 21st Century Cures Act will be sufficient.” Congresswoman Johnson vigorously reiterated her commitment on this issue. “I am honored to see this group of colleagues from both sides of the aisle come together on the issues of biomedical research, innovation, mental health reform, and opioid abuse treatment. Because of our efforts and the support of  advocates across the country, we were able to pass legislation that will benefit millions of people in our nation. This is a pathway to further protect people in our communities who battle  mental illness, addiction, chronic disease, and rare diseases. I remain persistent in my commitment to be a voice for those who seek treatment, cures, and solutions.”  See video of Congresswoman Johnson applauding the passage of this legislation here: https://youtu.be/iQCnFd0swXc   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://jacksonlee.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-statement-calls-upon-house-committee,Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement Calls Upon House Committee Leaders to Aggressively Investigate Russian Tampering in U.S. Presidential Election Following The Trail Wherever It Leads And Taking Appropriate Punitive Actions Where Required,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Sheila Jackson Lee,J000032,jacksonlee.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                            Contact: Glenn Rushing December 14, 2016                                                                                            202-225-3816   Press Statement   Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Statement Calls Upon House Committee Leaders to Aggressively Investigate Russian Tampering in U.S. Presidential Election Following The Trail Wherever It Leads And Taking Appropriate Punitive Actions Where Required   Jackson Lee: “The subject of Russian interference in U.S. elections represents such an existential threat to national security that it is essential that all of the relevant House congressional committees – Intelligence, Judiciary, Homeland Security, Armed Services, Foreign Affairs, and Oversight and Government Reform – must launch investigatory hearings as soon as the 115th Congress begins, following the trail wherever it leads, and taking appropriate punitive actions to deter any repetition of such conduct.”   Washington, DC – Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a senior member of the House Committees on the Judiciary and Homeland Security Committee and Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations, released the following statement today in response to published reports that the Central Intelligence Agency has concluded, in a secret assessment, that Russia intervened in the 2016 election to help Donald Trump win the presidency, rather than just to undermine confidence in the U.S. electoral system:   “With each passing day, it becomes increasingly clear that a foreign power, the Government of Russia, actively worked to subvert the 2016 presidential campaign of the Democratic candidate for the express purpose of electing the preferred choice of the Russian Government for U.S. President, Donald J. Trump.   “The subject of Russian interference in U.S. elections represents such an existential threat to national security that it is essential that all of the relevant committees of Congress – Intelligence, Judiciary, Homeland Security, Armed Services, Foreign Affairs, Oversight and Government Reform – must launch investigatory hearings as soon as the 115th Congress begins, following the trail wherever it leads, and taking appropriate punitive actions to deter any repetition of such conduct.   “The linchpin of representative democracies such as the United States is public confidence in the political system, regime, and community. That confidence in turn rests upon the extent to which the public has faith that the system employed to select its leaders accurately reflects its preferences. At bottom, this means that the American people must be able to freely elect their leaders without interference, covert or overt, from foreign governments or entities allied with foreign powers.   “The Central Intelligence Agency has concluded, in a secret assessment, that Russia intervened in the 2016 election to help Donald Trump win the presidency, rather than just to undermine confidence in the U.S. electoral system. This is the gravest attack on American independence and sovereignty as great as Pearl Harbor and 9/11. It cannot be allowed to stand with impunity. The facts and actors involved in this plot must be uncovered and laid bare for the American people to see and understand. And that requires at a minimum that that all of the relevant committees of Congress – Intelligence, Judiciary, Homeland Security, Armed Services, Foreign Affairs, and Oversight and Government Reform - should launch investigatory hearings immediately upon the commencement of the 115th Congress.   “There can be no higher priority for the next Congress than ensuring that the election process, the hallmark of democratic governance, is invulnerable to foreign influence or manipulation.”   ###   Congresswoman Jackson Lee is a Democrat from Texas’s 18th Congressional District. She is a senior member of the House Committees on Judiciary and Homeland Security and is Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lamarsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smith-statement-on-appointment-of-rick-perry-to-secretary-of-energy,Smith Statement on Appointment of Rick Perry to Secretary of Energy,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Lamar Smith,S000583,lamarsmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas) released the following statement today after President-elect Donald J. Trump announced former Texas Governor Rick Perry will lead the Department of Energy. Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas): “Rick Perry is an excellent choice to lead our nation’s Energy Department. He is a champion of energy development. As a former governor of Texas, Rick Perry has in-depth experience running a state with an economy that ranks 11th in the world.  Texas is an ‘all of the above’ energy state and is the largest producer of oil and gas in the country as well as the largest producer of wind energy.  The Science Committee that I chair has jurisdiction over the Energy Department’s research and development budget of $10 billion. I look forward to working with the former governor and the Trump administration to develop less costly energy for the American people and to advance the Department’s core scientific missions.” ### Statement is also viewable on the House Science, Space and Technology Committee website here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/editorials/educating-next-generation-computer-scientists,Educating the Next Generation of Computer Scientists,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"One of the best parts of my job is visiting schools and talking with students. Every chance I get, I tell young people about the opportunities that a computer science education can provide. Many are shocked to learn that although an estimated 42,000 computing jobs are waiting to be filled in Texas, only 2,100 computer scientists graduated from Texas schools last year. Students are even more interested to learn that the average salary of a computer science professional is more than $85,000 – almost twice the average salary in Texas. Outside of the Washington, D.C. area, San Antonio has the highest concentration of cybersecurity professionals, placing the city at the forefront of tech development. Unfortunately, we are far behind when it comes to producing enough computer science professionals to meet demand. Currently, the pipeline that educates future computer science professionals begins for some at the high school level, but the drive to teach these skills must begin earlier, ideally in our middle schools. Our world is transforming into a place where coding and technological literacy is comparable to typing proficiency in the 1990s. The incredible medical advancements we see today are products of early exposure to science courses that inspire young people to pursue further education in the field. We need to follow suit with computer science. Offering tech education early on not only serves as the foundation for continued education in high school and beyond, but also exposes students to the jobs we will need to fill in the future. It could have a dramatic impact on closing the employment gap in the tech industry. read the full article at THE RIVARD REPORT",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congressman-hurd-announces-middle-school-computer-science-initiative,Congressman Hurd announces middle school computer science initiative,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"There are more computer science jobs in Texas waiting to be filled than there are graduates to fill them each year. The statistics, according to U.S. Rep. Will Hurd, helped launch a new middle school computer science initiative announced Wednesday. ""It's a great program partnering with the STEM education center at University of Texas Austin and a number of corporate sponsors like Facebook, Brocade, Dell and Intel to train 40 middle school math teachers on how to introduce coding into their curriculum,"" Hurd said. ""We're going to have 5,000 kids in the fall exposed to computer science and coding."" The congressman for District 23 said over 40,000 computing vacancies exist in Texas, but state colleges only graduate 2,000 computer scientists each year. Hurd studied computer science at Texas A&M University. ""UT's working with a group called Bootstrap, which is a nonprofit that does this training, and then you have these corporate sponsors that are willing to fund the program and you have a number of amazing superintendents that are interested in introducing this to their curriculum,"" Hurd said. The learning materials reinforce core concepts from algebra, making the curriculum compatible with the state standards set by the Texas Education Agency, according to a news release. Since the curriculum is taught through existing math classes schools do not need additional teachers or classes. Northeast Independent School District superintendent Brian Gottardy accompanied seventh grade students at a press conference who are expected to benefit from the program next fall. ""I'm just excited about the coding and like actually being able to learn how to do it and then like being able to get a job using the coding, something I love,"" Andrea Conner, 12, said. Today's kids are growing up with technology much different than past generations. However, some seem to understand they'll need computer science training and skills for a variety of professions. ""We have to prepare our kids for jobs that don't exist and coding is the language of the 21st century,"" Hurd said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/hurd-lawmakers-russian-hacking-intel-we-need-be-really-careful,Hurd to lawmakers on Russian hacking intel: We need to be really careful,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"The only sitting member in the House of Representatives to have served in the CIA is advising fellow lawmakers to tread carefully with the information they collect during ongoing investigations focused on Russian hacking related to the recent presidential campaign. Rep. Will Hurd, R-Texas, worked in the CIA for 9 years, spending time as an undercover intelligence officer in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. He recently told CyberScoop that human intelligence — agents on the ground — would likely be necessary to make an accurate assessment concerning the motivation and intention of those individuals who ordered a digital break in at the Democratic National Committee. “Having some of this evidence declassified, I think we need to be really careful because we’re talking about people’s lives. Whatever we decide, whatever we declassify, Russian intelligence will be studying it very closely,” Hurd said. Evidence uncovered by the New York Times backs Hurd’s assumption, noting that “human and technical” sources in Russia aided the intelligence community’s conclusion that Russian intelligence forces were involved in the DNC data breach. Hurd’s outreach comes as Congress is pressuring the White House to declassify additional material related to data breaches at multiple U.S. political organizations. The intelligence community’s analysis will be laden with information concerning the tactics, sources, tools and procedures used by U.S. spies to attribute cyberattacks, Hurd says. And that material must be handled with extreme caution. On Friday, The White House revealed that President Barack Obama had recently commissioned U.S. intelligence agencies to compile a comprehensive report containing information about malicious cyber activity aimed at past presidential elections. Deputy press secretary Eric Schultz told journalists that that this report would be completed before inauguration day and shared with congress and potentially, in a redacted form, with the public. In the scope of uncovering new evidence and having a more open discussion about the influence of Russian hacking — especially as it pertains to the presidential election — politicians will need to walk a tightrope between responsible disclosure and protecting valuable intelligence assets, former intelligence officials say. There is also some doubt as to whether a high profile exposure of the alleged Russian hackers — known to cybersecurity experts as APT28 — will ultimately impact the group’s ability to conduct missions, according to FireEye Intelligence Analysis Manager Christopher Porter. “There exists a common perception that exposure is always good or useful in degrading a cyber threat group’s operations … [but] Russia-based groups have shown notable resilience in continuing their operations in the face of exposure. APT28, for example, had its operations exposed more than 20 times between Oct. 2014 and Oct. 2015, and not only sustained operations but became increasingly bold,” explained Porter, a former CIA intelligence officer. “In many cases, operations were entirely uninterrupted because APT28 was able to tap into a seemingly endless armory of zero-days or to retool and shift its infrastructure within 24 hour.” ATP28’s “resilience,” Porter told CyberScoop, is driven in part by the group’s ability to quickly adapt whenever new information about their targets becomes available. In one case, FireEye noticed APT28’s behavior began to change — making them more difficult to track — after the group was able to hack into a private cybersecurity firm’s content management system, where they gained access to an unpublished threat intelligence report.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/new-program-teach-middle-school-teachers-computer-coding,New Program To Teach Middle School Teachers Computer Coding,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"Since research shows that young people make up their minds on what career field they want to enter when they are in Middle School, U.S. Rep. Will Hurd and several local school districts are starting an innovative program to make sure 11 and 12 year olds are turned on to tech, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.  ""Coding is the language of the 21st Century economy,"" said Hurd, who is a computer science graduate of Texas A&M and one of the leaders in Congress on tech issues.  ""If our kids can't speak it, they're going to be left behind.""  The problem, Hurd says, is that few middle school teachers know enough about coding to be able to get their kids fired up about it, and school districts can't afford to hire specialty instructors on that one field.  So his solution--a special course, specifically for middle school teachers, to give them the basics of coding so they can get their kids excited about computers as a career.  Hurd says kids won't get excited to become a part of a field they have never had any expereince in.  ""There are 42,000 computing jobs in Texas alone that went unfilled,"" Hurd said.  ""Texas only produced 2100 computer scientists.""  And the numbers are bleaker for Hispanic and African American kids getting into technology.  He says this doesn't necessarily mean jobs in tech firms.  He says companies from Target to Walmart are actively hiring tech professionals, at salaries significantly higher than the statewide average, to deal with everything from 'on time inventory' to fighting hacking.  The program is being underwritten by Toyota, as well as tech giants Dell and Facebook.  ""We've got to do a better job preparing our students for the jobs that don't exist yet,"" Hurd said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/partnership-announced-train-teachers-computer-science,Partnership announced to train teachers in computer science,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Will Hurd, R-Helotes, announced Wednesday that 40 middle school math teachers in his vast congressional district will receive low-cost training in March to integrate computer science into their curriculum. “Coding is the language of the 21st century economy,” Hurd said at a press conference at the BiblioTech South branch on Pleasanton Road. “If our students can’t speak it, they’re going to be left behind.”   The training will be provided by the nonprofit Bootstrap, through the University of Texas Center for STEM Education. Four tech companies — Dell, Intel, Facebook and Brocade — donated a total of $35,000 to fund the training, said Carol Fletcher, deputy director of the Center for STEM Education. The Texas Education Agency will provide a smaller amount of matching funds, Fletcher added. The teachers can apply on Hurd’s website by the end of January to receive the three-day training at the end of March. Breakfast, lunch and transportation will be included, as will lodging for teachers coming from more than 60 miles away. Hurd was re-elected last month to the 23rd Congressional District, which stretches west from San Antonio’s suburbs to the Mexican border. The superintendents of North East and Southwest Independent School Districts — both in Hurd’s district, which curls around inner-city San Antonio — praised his effort Wednesday. North East will pilot the program at Lopez Middle School, said Superintendent Brian Gottardy. Andrea Connor, a seventh-grader at Lopez, remembered using computers in kindergarten to learn her vowels and consonants. “I’m not really sure what I want to become when I’m older, but I do know I want it to be technology-based, because our future lies in computer science,” she said. Training 40 teachers will expose an additional 5,000 middle school students to computer science in the fall, Hurd said. Hurd was inspired to focus on computer science in high school, while interning at the Southwest Research Institute. He became a Central Intelligence Agency operative and joined a cybersecurity company after leaving the agency. He said San Antonio has the second-highest number of cybersecurity jobs in the nation, behind the Washington, D.C. area. Texas also has about 42,000 unfilled computing jobs statewide, even though those jobs come with an average salary of $89,000, Hurd said. “We need to change that, and that means getting to these kids sooner,” he said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hurd-announces-middle-school-computer-science-initiative,Hurd Announces Middle School Computer Science Initiative,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Will Hurd,H001073,hurd.house.gov,,,legacy,"Click here to learn more about the TX23 Computer Science Curriculum Initiative and how to sign up. San Antonio, TX –Surrounded by school district superintendents and city leaders at BiblioTech South, U.S. Representative Will Hurd announced a new STEM initiative for schools in the 23rd Congressional District of Texas. In partnership with the University of Texas Center for STEM Education and non-profit organization Bootstrap, this curriculum initiative will train middle school teachers to integrate computer science into State-approved mathematics curriculums.  Currently, only a handful of Texas middle schools offer coding classes. “In Texas, over 40,000 computing jobs are waiting to be filled, but we only graduate 2,000 computer scientists each year,” said Hurd, who studied Computer Science at Texas A&M University. “Right now the pipeline that produces Computer Science professionals starts at the high school level. We’ve got to do a better job preparing our students for the jobs that don’t exist yet—and we’ve got to start at an earlier age. Coding is the language of the 21st Century economy. If our students can’t speak it, they will be left behind.” The University of Texas Center for STEM Education partners with Bootstrap to host the training, which will train teachers how to teach computer science using math. The learning materials reinforce core concepts from algebra, making the curriculum compatible with the state standards set by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Because the curriculum is taught through existing math classes, schools do not need additional teachers or classes. Forty middle school teachers may participate in the March 23 – 25 training at BiblioTech South in San Antonio, in order to implement the program in the classroom in Fall 2017. This training has been generously sponsored by Intel, Dell, Facebook, and Brocade. Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff: “Since the doors of the first branch opened on September 14, 2013, BiblioTech has actively worked to bridge literacy and technology gaps in San Antonio and surrounding areas.  Congressman Hurd’s announcement of opportunity and availability for this training is a testament to his support in these areas.  BiblioTech and the Bexar County are proud to assist in this new and exciting approach to enrich our community and youth.”   Dr. Brian G. Gottardy, Superintendent of Schools for North East ISD: “North East ISD recognizes the need for a skilled technology workforce and understands our role in preparing students for jobs that don’t even exist yet. Expanding computer science opportunities down to middle school will help us build engaging and relevant technology experiences to prepare students for high school, college and career.” Emmanuel Schanzer, Bootstrap Program Director: “Algebra is the key to future success in STEM fields, and jobs that require Computer Science knowledge are among the fastest-growing segment of the economy. Bootstrap is proud to work with teachers across Texas’ 23rd district, bringing our unique blend of Algebraic Programming to teachers across San Antonio and beyond. Manuel Justiz, Dean of the College of Education at The University of Texas:  ""We are excited to partner with Congressman Hurd’s office and companies like Facebook, Intel, Dell and Brocade to bring cutting-edge computer science teacher training to Texas. The WeTeachCS project in the Center for STEM Education is committed to providing teachers with high-quality, accessible computer science education, and we are proud of the project’s state and national leadership to improve such education for all students, enabling them to become leaders in the innovation economy.” Alex Stamos, Facebook Chief Security Officer: “Creating ways to engage young people early with computer science is one of the best investments we can make toward their future and our society. We are glad to support the Hurd Computer Science Initiative for its forward-looking approach.” Jeff Rangel, Senior Director, Corporate Affairs, Brocade: “Brocade believes the network is a platform of innovation with almost limitless potential. We also believe that today’s youth need the STEM skills necessary to leverage that innovation to co-create futures we’ve yet to imagine. We’re proud to support this computer science initiative because it has the capacity to empower youth with those skills.” Steve Harris, Federal Vice President and General Manager, Dell EMC: “As part of Dell’s 2020 Legacy of Good Plan, Dell is committed to putting technology and expertise to work where it can drive human progress. Dell recognizes the importance in providing underserved children access to technology and equip educators with the resources needed to build the computer science, STEM and computational thinking skills crucial for children’s success in a technology-driven future. We are excited to collaborate with Congressman Hurd and top technology companies on this new STEM initiative.” Peter Cleveland, Vice President of Intel’s Government and Policy Group: “Studies show that the quality of a teacher is the single largest influence on student achievement. We are proud to support Congressman Hurd’s Computer Science Initiative to train teachers to integrate computer science into curriculum and help prepare students for the jobs of the future.” Al Arreola, President and CEO, South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce: “The South San Antonio Chamber supports Congressman Hurd’s creative approach to filling the computer science talent gap while championing our homegrown tech sector. This initiative is a great example of how the public and private sectors can work together to generate real returns for our community.” Ramiro Cavazos, President and CEO, San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: “The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is proud to support proposed policies that encourage more students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The Hispanic Chamber hosts the largest STEM initiative in San Antonio, the CORE4 STEM Program each year, created to build the future STEM workforce of San Antonio, and we look forward to partnering with Rep. Hurd on furthering efforts such as these.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sessions.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sessions-statement-nomination-rick-perry-secretary-energy,Sessions Statement on the Nomination of Rick Perry for Secretary of Energy,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Pete Sessions,S000250,sessions.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions released the following statement in response to President-elect Donald J. Trump's nomination of Governor Rick Perry for Secretary of Energy: “Texas is known for our thriving economy, robust job market, and booming energy resources. As Governor, Rick Perry welcomed  dozens of companies to the Lone Star State, which created thousands of jobs for Texans and made our state the most prosperous in the nation. He was also at the helm of a multi-billion dollar infrastructure program that created clean, renewable energy that was accessible to Texans ranging from the ranches in West Texas to the bustling Dallas metroplex. I am confident that as Secretary of Energy he will use his leadership skills and expertise to successfully unleash our nation’s energy capabilities, create American jobs, and put us on the path towards energy independence.”    ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-williams-statement-on-fed-rate-hike,Rep. Williams Statement on Fed Rate Hike,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Roger Williams,W000816,williams.house.gov,williams,https://williams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FORT HOOD – Congressman Roger Williams (R-Austin), a member of the House Financial Services Committee, today released the following statement after the Federal Reserve announced it would raise the interest rate, making it the second rate hike since 2006. ""While rate hikes have historically been an important tool to offset inflation, today's decision by the Fed to raise the interest rate is entirely premature and will be burdensome to a nation already struggling to pull itself out of this slow-growth Obama economy,"" said Williams. ""Even at the current rates, we are paying an exorbitant amount of money to pay down interest on the national debt when that money could be spent paying down our actual debt or on our veterans and military. Young adults are struggling to pay back loans and homeownership is still out of reach for many. By making rates even higher, the Fed is effectively making our hardships even harder."" # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T21:09:43Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/cornyn-statement-announcement-governor-perry-be-energy-secretary,Cornyn Statement on Announcement of Governor Perry to be Energy Secretary,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"DALLAS – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) issued the following statement on President-elect Donald Trump’s announcement that former Texas Governor Rick Perry will be nominated to be the next Secretary of Energy: “I’m thrilled with the President-elect’s decision to bring a proven Texas leader like Governor Perry into his Administration. For eight years the Obama Administration has kept a boot on the necks of our energy providers, stifling their ability to grow and innovate. Under Governor Perry’s leadership, Texas showed the country how lower taxes and sensible regulations can boost energy production and create jobs. As a Texan, Governor Perry understands the importance of empowering an all-of-the-above energy strategy that encourages innovation and spurs growth from the ground up. “A good friend, proud veteran, and dedicated public servant, I look forward to supporting Governor Perry’s nomination.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/content/senator-cornyn-114th-congress-review,Senator Cornyn: 114th Congress in Review,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,,,legacy,"DALLAS – Five bills introduced by U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) have become law during the 114th Congress, with three more currently waiting on the President’s signature. These include landmark anti-human trafficking legislation, a bill reforming the Freedom of Information Act, a bill to allow local first responders to use grant funding for active shooter response training, and legislation to help reduce the rape kit backlog, among others. Awaiting the President’s Signature Cross Border Trade Enhancement Act (Passed Senate 11/29/16, passed House 12/6/16, passed Senate again 12/10/16, awaiting President’s signature) Promotes public-private partnerships (P3) to boost staffing and make infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry without adding to the national deficit. Developed with input from border community leaders and transportation industry stakeholders following successful pilot program agreements, including at the Paso Del Norte Bridge in El Paso. Justice for All Reauthorization Act of 2016 (Passed Senate 6/16/16, passed House 11/29/16, passed Senate again 12/1/16, awaiting President’s signature) Strengthens crime victims’ rights in the courtroom, increases access to restitution and restorative services, and reauthorizes important law enforcement investigative programs. Helps reduce the nationwide rape kit backlog and provide resources for forensic labs while protecting the innocent by improving access to post-conviction DNA testing. HEAR Act (Passed House 12/7/16, passed Senate 12/10/16, awaiting President’s signature) Helps facilitate the return of artwork lost to Nazis during the Holocaust to their rightful owners or heirs. Ensures that American law encourages the resolution of claims on Nazi-confiscated art on the merits, in a fair and just manner, consistent with long-standing U.S. foreign policy. Signed Into Law Major Provisions of the Mental Health and Safe Communities Act (Passed as part of the 21st Century Cures Act and became law 12/13/16) Allows law enforcement to use existing funding to create pre-trial screening and assessment programs to identify mentally ill offenders, provide need-based treatment, and develop post-release supervision plans, including judicially-administered Assisted Outpatient Treatment programs. Uses federal grant funding to expand the use of Crisis Intervention Teams, who are trained to respond to mental health crises and prevent acts of violence. Enables existing federal funding to be used to provide treatment, mentoring, and other transitional services to mentally-ill offenders leaving custody. Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015 (Passed Senate 4/22/15, passed House 5/19/15, became law 5/29/15) Strengthens law enforcement tools to help authorities rescue victims and take down human traffickers and the organized criminal networks who support them. Provides victims of sexual exploitation, slavery, and human trafficking with resources to heal and restore their lives. Starr-Camargo Bridge Charter Extension (Passed Senate 3/17/16, passed House 5/16/16, became law 5/20/16) Legislation grants the Starr-Camargo International Bridge in Rio Grande City, TX permanent operating authority, allowing the bridge to continue connecting communities across the Rio Grande. FOIA Improvement Act of 2016 (Passed Senate 3/15/16, passed House 6/13/16, became law 6/30/16) Requires federal agencies to operate under a “presumption of openness” when considering the release of government information under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Reduces bureaucracy involved in the FOIA request process and requires agencies to proactively disclose documents that are likely to be of public interest. POLICE Act of 2016 (Passed Senate 5/18/16, passed House 7/12/16, became law 7/22/16) Expands access to existing federal funding for law enforcement and first responders to receive active shooter response training. Endorsed by the National Fraternal Order of Police, the National District Attorneys Association, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Major County Sheriffs Association, and the Sergeants Benevolent Association. Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (Passed Senate 5/17/16, passed House 9/9/16, vetoed 9/23/16, passed Senate over veto 9/28/16, passed House over veto 9/28/16, became law 9/28/16) Allows families of victims of terror attacks on U.S. soil to sue the foreign states that fund terrorism and permit them to hold accountable those who aid and abet terrorism. Passed the House of Representatives and Senate unanimously, and became law after Congress overrode a Presidential veto. Medicare Long-Term Care Hospital Moratorium Exception (Passed as part of 21st Century Cures Act and became law 12/13/16) Provides regulatory relief for Long-Term Care Hospitals (LTCHs) by qualifying for a “mid-build” exception to the current moratorium on bed expansion. Ensuring Removal of Terminated Providers from Medicaid and CHIP Act (Passed as part of 21st Century Cures Act and became law 12/13/16) Ensures federal funds are not paid to health care providers who have been terminated from the Medicaid, Medicare, or CHIP programs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2922,Sen. Cruz Statement on Governor Rick Perry Being Named as President-Elect Trump's Choice for Secretary of Energy,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,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 regarding President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of former Texas Governor Rick Perry as his nominee for U.S. Secretary of Energy. “Gov. Perry will make a terrific Secretary of Energy.  For 14 years, he led the State of Texas, and with low taxes, restrained spending, and limited regulation, Texas became one of the greatest economic powerhouses in the world. His executive experience across diverse policy areas makes him qualified to run just about any federal agency. Gov. Perry is an exceptional pick to head the Department of Energy, and after presiding over the nation's number one producer of oil and natural gas, and one of the nation's leaders in wind, solar, and nuclear energy, he understands the importance of our country's energy resources not only to our economy, but also to our national security.  I am confident that Gov. Perry will be an aggressive champion for opening more lands to exploration and working to reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources. I enthusiastically support his nomination as Secretary of Energy.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.cruz.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2923,Sen. Cruz Serves Texans in Houston,2016-12-14,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,,,legacy,"HOUSTON, Texas – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) yesterday and today participated in service projects in support of Houstonians during the holidays.    On Tuesday, Sen. Cruz visited Interfaith Ministries’ Meals on Wheels and the Fisher House in Houston, where he learned about the organizations’ operations and local needs. He delivered meals to homebound seniors and visited with veterans and their families staying at the Fisher House. Today, Sen. Cruz volunteered at the Houston Food Bank, where he joined local third graders who were there on a field trip, to help fill backpacks with food for children in need. He also toured the warehouse and met with food bank leaders to discuss their operations. “There are few better ways for children to get into the holiday spirit than working to make a difference in the lives of fellow Houstonians,” said Sen. Cruz. “This food bank is a tremendous operation, providing roughly 79 million meals a year and working with roughly 600 volunteer groups throughout Southeast Texas distributing the food. Meals on Wheels is one of the many organizations that works with the food bank and helps provide for people in a time of need. Their example is one we should replicate and look to all across our great state.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://babin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1035,House Unanimously Passes Congressman Babin’s TREAT Astronauts Act,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Brian Babin,B001291,babin.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives last week unanimously approved the To Research, Evaluate, Assess, and Treat Astronauts Act (H.R. 6076), or “TREAT” Astronauts Act. The bill, sponsored by Space Subcommittee Chairman Brian Babin (R-TX), establishes a spaceflight occupational healthcare program for former American astronauts. Chairman Babin’s full statement on the TREAT Act can be viewed here.  A summary of the bill can be found here. “I am proud to say that I represent a great number of these astronauts who call the Houston area home,” said Space Subcommittee Chairman Babin. “As a nation we have obligations to those we put in harm’s way.  As a Congress, we have a responsibility to provide for the treatment of conditions caused by federal service.  As a health care professional and as their representative, you could say it is my duty to make sure these folks are taken care of properly. This is why I have sponsored H.R. 6076, the “TREAT Astronauts Act,” a common sense, fiscally responsible, bipartisan bill that makes sure our brave men and woman that venture into space receive support for medical issues associated with their service.” The TREAT Astronauts Act authorizes NASA to provide former astronauts medical monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological and medical conditions associated with their space flight. It builds upon existing NASA research authorities and NASA’s Lifetime Surveillance of Astronaut Health program. “In an age when spaceflight has come to seem almost routine, it is easy to overlook how dangerous it is and how little we know about its long-term health effects. H.R. 6076, the “TREAT Astronauts Act,” ensures that our courageous men and women who venture into space receive support for medical issues associated with their service,” said House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX). “I thank Space Subcommittee Chairman Brian Babin for introducing this legislation and for his persistence in getting us to the point of passage.” Leaders in Spaceflight Medicine Praise the TREAT Act: “I am writing to express my sincere thanks to Chairman Babin for his leadership and instrumental support of the TREAT Astronaut Act. This important legislation will provide lifelong support for medical issues that arise as a result of astronauts' service. Additionally, it will help protect future generations of American space explorers who will continue to press the boundaries of exploration and human performance. Moreover, the lessons learned and the medical technologies developed will continue to have tremendous applications back here on earth, notably remote medical care, telemedicine and gerontology. As a veteran astronaut, physician, technology entrepreneur and advisor to various NASA and National Academies boards, I consider this bill critical to our nation's future in space.” Scott Parazynski, MD STS-66, 86, 95, 100, 120 CEO, Fluidity Technologies “The TREAT Astronaut Act is an important bill aligned with our Nation’s preeminence in human space exploration and value placed on the health and safety of United States former astronauts and payload specialists. The Act recognizes the responsibility to comprehensively care for our spacefaring men and women who have bravely served our country. It will also reap benefits in new knowledge and understanding of long-term biomedical risks associated with spaceflight, and inform strategies to mitigate those risks with potential applications to enhance healthcare on Earth.” Jeffrey P. Sutton, M.D., Ph.D. CEO, National Space Biomedical Research Institute “Many thanks to Chairman Babin for his support of what I believe is an important issue for NASA and the nation, the safety and health of America’s Astronauts. Since my retirement from the Astronaut Office, I have been an advocate and supporter of the need to provide healthcare for this group of Americans who risk their lives to explore space. I have been involved in driving this initiative as a member of the NASA Medical Policies Board, National Academy of Medicine Health Board and others during my tenue as an Astronaut. As a physician, the TREAT Astronauts Act is critical.” Bernard A. Harris, Jr., MD, MBA CEO & Managing Director Vesalius Ventures",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://burgess.house.gov/blog/?postid=398218,Burgess Statement on Nomination of Rex Tillerson as Secretary of State,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael Burgess,B001248,burgess.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade, issued the following statement in response to President-Elect Trump’s nomination of Rex Tillerson as Secretary of State. “I commend President-Elect Trump on his nomination of Rex Tillerson as Secretary of State. This prominent position in the Administration is tasked with the delicate balance of working to ease tensions around the globe while also ensuring U.S. national security and a strong foreign policy agenda.“Mr. Tillerson, a constituent of mine in the 26th district of Texas, has worked extensively with foreign leaders cultivating relationships that will only prove to benefit U.S. interests around the world. From the pipelines to the platforms, his experience leading the global efforts of one of America’s most successful companies has equipped him with the understanding and insight to navigate the current world stage. Congratulations to Mr. Tillerson on this honorable nomination.”  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=400760,Rep. Cuellar Provides Update on International Bridges I and II Renovation Project,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Henry Cuellar,C001063,cuellar.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) toured International Bridges I and II with representatives from the General Services Administration (GSA), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the City of Laredo, and the City of Nuevo Laredo. During the tour, Congressman Cuellar was given an update on the renovations at both international crossing facilities. Earlier this year, an $88.8 million renovation project started at both international bridges. Congressman Cuellar secured the combined funding during the U.S. House Appropriations Committee Fiscal Year 2014 Budget. The Gateway to the Americas International Bridge, or Bridge 1,  is 70 years old and is the oldest of Laredo’s four ports. Its last major renovation was more than 25 years ago. This new funding will allow for a complete internal renovation of the main building to optimize the space to improve pedestrian flow through the port. The expected completion date for the Bridge 1 renovation is September 2017. Currently, the Bridge 1 has eight pedestrian booths (three indoor, five outdoor) and four automobile booths. U.S.-bound traffic statistics for 2014 show Bridge 1 had approximately 3.5 million pedestrian crossings and 1.3 million automobile crossings, with an estimated 2.5 million estimated automobile passengers. The facility was in need of an updated design to improve wait times, waiting conditions and accessibility for visitors with disabilities or other physical impartments. As part of this project, improvements will be made to increase the number of pedestrian processing lanes to 14 and add a dedicated bicycle lane, reconfigure the primary car inspection lanes, upgrade and modernize the secondary area for further inspection, modernize security systems so drivers and pedestrians can flow through the port faster and renovate the pedestrian canopy to shade them from the sun while waiting in line. All of these improvements will make the process of moving pedestrians and automobile passengers faster, safer and more efficient. This should reduce peak automobile wait times from 33 to 15 minutes, and peak pedestrian wait times from 49 to 21 minutes. The Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge, or Bridge 2, was ranked as the busiest crossing for bus passengers in Fiscal Year 2014, with an average of 2,796 passengers per day (125-150 bus crossings per day). The layout of Bridge 2 is outdated, which contributes to long wait times.  Currently, bus processing occurs in an outdoor area that is ill-equipped for the massive bus traffic the port receives. Both the bus and automobile inspections currently occur in exterior spaces, which subjects travelers to uncomfortable and extreme temperatures common to our area. The new design will include a new bus and automobile inspection canopies and the construction of a new combined bus and passenger vehicle inspection facility, which will improve the flow and processing of bus and automobile traffic. It will also provide a very positive first impression of Laredo and the United States for travelers while providing for their safety and national security. The improved bus configuration is expected to reduce peak transit times from 160 to just 40 minutes. The estimated completion date for the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge renovation is April 2018. “This investment of $88.8 million will definitely help increase commerce and tourism to our gateway city. Overall, our goal is for travelers to have a pleasant experience when visiting our city, with the hope that they return frequently. At the end, everyone will be reaping the benefits of this project, both visitors and businesses,” said Congressman Cuellar.  Sylvia Hernandez, Regional Administrator for the General Services Administration, stated ""Laredo remains a top priority for GSA and allows us to support the mission of the Custom and Border Protection to safeguard America's borders.  The newly modernized facility will help with the ever growing demands along the Texas border while also creating employment opportunities that benefit the local economy. Through the collective efforts of GSA, CBP, Congressman Henry Cuellar and the City of Laredo, the project is well on its way to a successful completion."" “This project would not have gotten off the ground without the help and participation of the General Services Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the City of Laredo. I thank all of them for their participation and involvement in this renovation project,” said Congressman Cuellar. I also thank the City of Nuevo Laredo and Mexican Customs for their support and patience during this construction phase. Once completed, this will be a project of which we all will be proud.”   Click here to view an animated rendering of the Gateway of the Americas International Bridge (Bridge 1) renovation design: https://youtu.be/_EU79RrnC8k Click here to view an animated rendering of the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge (Bridge 2) renovation design: https://youtu.be/OhzmhDjS6zA",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://thornberry.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398215,Lake Kemp provision passes U.S. Congress,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,William Thornberry,T000238,thornberry.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congress has passed the “Water Resources Development Act of 2016,” H.R. 5303, which includes an amendment introduced by U.S. Congressman Mac Thornberry (R-Clarendon) that will prevent the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) from forcing the City of Wichita Falls to destroy nearly 150 Lake Kemp cabins before 2025. The issue stems from an agreement in the 1960s between the Corps, Wichita Falls, and other stakeholders when the Lake Kemp dam and spillway was reconstructed. That agreement required the city to demolish all of the privately owned cabins at Lake Kemp that were below 1,159-feet mean sea level (MSL) out of concern that they might flood. The agreement has been modified to prevent the demolition several times, most recently in 2007 when it was extended through January 1, 2020. “This five-year extension protects the rights of the cabin owners and the private property rights of the current owner of the Waggoner Estate, while allowing the city and those stakeholders more time to resolve this issue,” Thornberry said. To date, none of the cabins at the lake below the 1,159 MSL have flooded. The highest pool of record at Lake Kemp was 1,150-feet MSL in August of 1995. Lake Kemp functions as a recreational and flood control facility that also supplies municipal water. The land surrounding Lake Kemp is part of the historic privately owned Waggoner Estate Ranch that was recently purchased by Mr. Stan Kroenke of Kroenke Sports Enterprises.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://babin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1035,House Unanimously Passes Congressman Babin’s TREAT Astronauts Act,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Brian Babin,B001291,babin.house.gov,babin,https://babin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives last week unanimously approved the To Research, Evaluate, Assess, and Treat Astronauts Act (H.R. 6076), or “TREAT” Astronauts Act. The bill, sponsored by Space Subcommittee Chairman Brian Babin (R-TX), establishes a spaceflight occupational healthcare program for former American astronauts. Chairman Babin’s full statement on the TREAT Act can be viewed here. A summary of the bill can be found here. “I am proud to say that I represent a great number of these astronauts who call the Houston area home,” said Space Subcommittee Chairman Babin. “As a nation we have obligations to those we put in harm’s way. As a Congress, we have a responsibility to provide for the treatment of conditions caused by federal service. As a health care professional and as their representative, you could say it is my duty to make sure these folks are taken care of properly. This is why I have sponsored H.R. 6076, the “TREAT Astronauts Act,” a common sense, fiscally responsible, bipartisan bill that makes sure our brave men and woman that venture into space receive support for medical issues associated with their service.” The TREAT Astronauts Act authorizes NASA to provide former astronauts medical monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological and medical conditions associated with their space flight. It builds upon existing NASA research authorities and NASA’s Lifetime Surveillance of Astronaut Health program. “In an age when spaceflight has come to seem almost routine, it is easy to overlook how dangerous it is and how little we know about its long-term health effects. H.R. 6076, the “TREAT Astronauts Act,” ensures that our courageous men and women who venture into space receive support for medical issues associated with their service,” said House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX). “I thank Space Subcommittee Chairman Brian Babin for introducing this legislation and for his persistence in getting us to the point of passage.” Leaders in Spaceflight Medicine Praise the TREAT Act: “I am writing to express my sincere thanks to Chairman Babin for his leadership and instrumental support of the TREAT Astronaut Act. This important legislation will provide lifelong support for medical issues that arise as a result of astronauts' service. Additionally, it will help protect future generations of American space explorers who will continue to press the boundaries of exploration and human performance. Moreover, the lessons learned and the medical technologies developed will continue to have tremendous applications back here on earth, notably remote medical care, telemedicine and gerontology. As a veteran astronaut, physician, technology entrepreneur and advisor to various NASA and National Academies boards, I consider this bill critical to our nation's future in space.” Scott Parazynski, MD STS-66, 86, 95, 100, 120 CEO, Fluidity Technologies “The TREAT Astronaut Act is an important bill aligned with our Nation’s preeminence in human space exploration and value placed on the health and safety of United States former astronauts and payload specialists. The Act recognizes the responsibility to comprehensively care for our spacefaring men and women who have bravely served our country. It will also reap benefits in new knowledge and understanding of long-term biomedical risks associated with spaceflight, and inform strategies to mitigate those risks with potential applications to enhance healthcare on Earth.” Jeffrey P. Sutton, M.D., Ph.D. CEO, National Space Biomedical Research Institute “Many thanks to Chairman Babin for his support of what I believe is an important issue for NASA and the nation, the safety and health of America’s Astronauts. Since my retirement from the Astronaut Office, I have been an advocate and supporter of the need to provide healthcare for this group of Americans who risk their lives to explore space. I have been involved in driving this initiative as a member of the NASA Medical Policies Board, National Academy of Medicine Health Board and others during my tenue as an Astronaut. As a physician, the TREAT Astronauts Act is critical.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T21:09:43Z https://doggett.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/news-san-antonio-express-news-ice-agrees-announce-big-releases,News: San Antonio Express News: ICE agrees to announce big releases,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Lloyd Doggett,D000399,doggett.house.gov,,,legacy,"ICE agrees to announce big releases By Jason Buch Published December 13, 2016 U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has agreed to give 24-hour notice before future large releases of families that will require assistance from San Antonio aid workers, according to people who attended a meeting with the agency over the weekend. ICE has also said that the numbers of families released over the weekend of Dec. 3-4 was not unusually high; what was unusual was how many were released without travel documents. On a given day, hundreds of women and children might be released from the family detention centers in Dilley and Karnes City, but the vast majority quickly board buses or airplanes, ICE officials told those at the meeting, said U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-San Antonio. ICE San Antonio Field Office Director Daniel Bible promised “he would take steps to make sure it wouldn’t happen again” and pledged to provide notice to the city and to aid groups like Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services if future releases are imminent, Doggett said. “There will be 24-hours notice to the city … and the same notice to RAICES or any group like Catholic Charities that they're expecting to care for incoming asylum seekers,” he said. “Secondly, they will not have anyone, barring extraordinary circumstances, that comes to the city after 9 in the evening.” During the meeting, Bible said there was a miscommunication about the number of families going to the San Antonio Mennonite Church, according to ICE. The number of people released that weekend “was within the average number of our recent releases” the agency said. “However, a higher percentage of family units during that weekend did not have prior travel arrangements, so ICE referred a larger than usual number of people to local nongovernmental organizations following their release from ICE custody.” Aid workers were overwhelmed Dec. 3-4 by the release of nearly 500 women and children, some of them well after midnight. Almost all were bound for other cities in the U.S. and hundreds didn’t have bus or airplane tickets. The Mennonite Church served as a temporary shelter, with air mattresses filling rooms and hallways, but the city deemed those unsafe conditions. District 4 Councilman Rey Saldaña praised Bible for taking responsibility but expressed frustration with what he described as an unwillingness on ICE’s part to provide details about who they’d be releasing. “They were almost allergic to sharing information with the city,” Saldaña said. “The folks who were responsible for this could not assure us that this would not happen again.” His concerns were echoed by Jonathan Ryan, RAICES’s executive director. Saldaña said the city needs to know whether families will need treatment, how many have travel documents and, for those using the bus, how many have unconfirmed tickets, which means they’re not guaranteed a seat on a bus that day. The city needs that information to know whether to create additional shelter space or arrange for more police officers, Saldaña said. “It was worse than listening to a meteorologist,” he said. “I could not get a good sense if we should be preparing for a storm every single day, or if we have a willing partner who’s going to let us know we need to be boarding up the windows.” District 1 Councilman Roberto Treviño said he came out of the meeting with a more positive outlook. He said the city has designated Department of Human Services Director Melody Woosley as a point person who ICE can communicate with about future releases and that opening lines of communication with ICE was “absolutely a benefit.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://green.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-obama-signs-21st-century-cures-act,President Obama Signs 21st Century Cures Act,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Democrat,House,TX,Gene Green,G000410,green.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, President Barack Obama signed into law legislation that will accelerate the pace of medical innovation and deliver cures to patients who desperately need them – the 21st Century Cures Act. This landmark bill co-authored by Rep. Gene Green was overwhelmingly passed by the House of Representatives on November 30, 2016, and passed the Senate on December 7, 2016. “More than two years ago we set out an ambitious goal of accelerating the pace of medical innovation and delivering cures to patients who desperately need them,” said Rep. Green. “President Barack Obama’s signature of the act into law marks a tremendous accomplishment and represents what can be done when leaders in Washington work together. It was a privilege to be a co-author of this effort.” The 21st Century Cures Act received strong bipartisan, bicameral support and will facilitate the development of new antibiotics to fight against superbugs, advance the use of modern clinical trial designs, foster the next generation of medical researchers, and deliver hope and new treatments to Americans in need. “The real-world impacts of the 21st Century Cures Act will affect the lives of Americans in treatment for cancer, Alzheimer's, heart disease, or other rare diseases for generations to come,” added Rep. Green. The most notable provisions of the $6.3 billion act will: Authorize $4.8 billion for the National Institutes of Health and $500 million to the Food and Drug Administration. Designate $1 billion over two years to battle the opioid epidemic. Call for $1.8 billion in funding for Vice President Joseph Biden's Cancer Moonshot initiative. Authorize a new approval pathway that will advance the development of new antibiotics. ### Contact: Carlos Paz (202) 225-1688 Carlos.Paz@mail.house.gov Facebook: /RepGeneGreen Twitter: @RepGeneGreen",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://mccaul.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-mccaul-releases-report-on-the-department-of-homeland-security-s,Chairman McCaul Releases Report on the Department of Homeland Securitys Intelligence Enterprise,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Michael McCaul,M001157,mccaul.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. After nearly a year of intense work, House Homeland Security Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX) today released a comprehensive review of the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) use of intelligence to counter terrorist threats. The report, entitled Reviewing the Department of Homeland Security's Intelligence Enterprise: Fighting Terrorism by Addressing Key Gaps, is an in-depth analysis of the Department's intelligence structure and functions, and provides over 30 recommendations with regard to streamlining and enhancing DHS intelligence efforts. Chairman McCaul: Although DHS has improved its ability to protect the homeland against terrorist threats over time, major gaps still remain. As the next Administration's transition efforts begin, I urge the Department to redouble its efforts to further integrate its intelligence organizations and systems. Best supporting state and local law enforcement efforts must also continue to be a top Departmental priority. Fifteen years after the attacks of 9/11, DHS has made significant strides in sharing terrorism-related intelligence, but more needs to be done. With the dangerous terror threat environment we face today, the acceptable margin of error is zero. Key Findings: DHS has made significant strides in improving the flow of terrorism information to all stakeholders since its creation. The DHS Intelligence Enterprise (IE) is an evolving structure, and the authority of the Chief Intelligence Officer (CINT) is not completely accepted throughout the IE. Some DHS IE members do not have clear, or even explicitly identified, missions. This vagueness causes overlapping efforts and inhibits the effective sharing of terrorism-related intelligence due to the fact that information flows are sometimes unclear. The DHS IE does not have a consolidated intelligence doctrine and the CINT does not have full awareness of all terrorism-related intelligence sharing agreements into which the various DHS Components have entered. The DHS IE employs a vast array of Information Technology systems that require standardization and modernization. Implementing the DHS Data Framework initiative is a critical project which will help ameliorate this issue, while also allowing for more effective intelligence analysis of Departmental data. Members of the DHS IE generate a vast array of finished intelligence products. These are often nothing more than a repackaging of products from statutory Intelligence Community members, rather than analyses of DHS-derived information. Summary of Recommendations: The Secretary of Homeland Security should more clearly define the DHS IE, as well as its roles and responsibilities. DHS Components should examine the missions and structures of their Component Intelligence Programs, focusing and consolidating them as appropriate. The CINT should work closely with the various DHS Components to share terrorism-related intelligence effectively within the Department as well as with other federal agencies. The CINT should ensure that the IE serves State, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) law enforcement authorities effectively, while at the same time benefiting from the unique information they can provide to the Department. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://olson.house.gov/media-center/latest-news/important-announcement-for-pearlandbrazoria-county-residents,IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT FOR PEARLAND/BRAZORIA COUNTY RESIDENTS,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Pete Olson,O000168,olson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Pearland/Brazoria County residents, our current office on 6302 W. Broadway Street is moving to a new location. While we are in transition, if you need assistance with a federal agency, please call our Sugar Land office at 281-494-2690. I apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause you. We will provide updated office information as soon the details have been finalized.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://olson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/olson-applauds-21st-century-cures-act-becoming-law,Olson Applauds 21st Century Cures Act Becoming Law,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Pete Olson,O000168,olson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Pete Olson (TX-22) today applauded the president for acting to help deliver more cures, treatments, and therapies to patients and to bring our health care system into the 21st century. President Obama signed into law the 21st Century Cures Act, an important bipartisan initiative that will make needed reforms, and spur medical innovation that will make real differences in people’s lives. The bill was passed in the House by a bipartisan vote of 392-26 and the Senate by 94-5. “This law will lay the groundwork for making needed medical breakthroughs to provide hope for patients in dire need of new and effective treatments,” Rep. Pete Olson said. “I’m proud of the bipartisan effort to develop a bill that will spur innovation in our nation’s medical research industry, helping and giving hope to loved ones with debilitating or deadly diseases. This will give us the opportunity to invest in the research that will result in the technological advances that improve quality of life and deliver cures to patients and peace of mind for their families. I thank the president for signing this innovative bill into law.” ### Media Contact: Melissa Kelly 202-225-5954",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://olson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/olson-former-gov-perry-great-choice-for-secretary-of-energy,Olson: Former Gov Perry Great Choice for Secretary of Energy,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Pete Olson,O000168,olson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Pete Olson (TX-22) today issued the following statement in response to reports that former Texas Governor Rick Perry will be named Secretary of the US Department of Energy (DOE): “Rick Perry was an exceptional governor for the State of Texas. Representing an energy heavy state like Texas, including Houston, the global capital for energy production, gives him a unique level of expertise in dealing with issues that will come before the Department of Energy. Beyond traditional energy matters, I am confident of his ability to navigate nuclear and other national security matters that will come before DOE. It was a pleasure to work with him on Texas matters and it will be a pleasure to work with him at DOE.” Media Contact: Melissa Kelly  202-225-5951",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sessions.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sessions-applauds-president-elect-trump-s-secretary-state-nomination,Sessions Applauds President-elect Trumps Secretary of State Nomination,2016-12-13,2016,2016-12,Republican,House,TX,Pete Sessions,S000250,sessions.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions released the following statement in response to President-elect Donald J. Trump's nomination of Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State: “I wholeheartedly support President-elect Trump’s announcement to nominate one of Dallas’ favorite sons, Rex Tillerson, to serve as Secretary of State. I have known Rex for a number of years as a successful business professional, a dedicated Eagle Scout and proud supporter of the Boys Scouts of America, and a faithful patriot and friend. His extensive background in the world of energy development and geopolitical affairs makes him more than capable to excel in this post and to well and faithfully serve the people of the United States. “We are facing a pivotal time where America needs to take a stand on the global stage and reassert our efforts to advance freedom, democracy, and stability. I look forward to discussing Rex’s professional and personal capabilities with my colleagues in the House of Representatives and the Senate and extinguishing any doubts they may have about his intentions. His confirmation is paramount to the success and security of our great nation and I have no doubt that he will make America safe, strong, and great again.”   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z