Recent events have once again forced a difficult but necessary national conversation about public safety, civil liberties, and the rule of law. At moments like this, emotions run high, facts can be incomplete, and the risk of division grows as some jump to conclusions based on incomplete facts, solely based on the political side we fall on. But, it is in these moments that leaders have a responsibility to speak clearly, act responsibly, and reaffirm the principles that hold our country together—principles that transcend partisanship or political positions. I believe strongly in the need to enforce the rule of law without interference. But, I also believe strongly in the Constitutional rights to assemble, peacefully protest, and to bear arms. All of these objectives can and must coexist simultaneously.

The loss of any life is tragic, and we mourn for the family of Alex Pretti during their time of grief. We call on local and state officials to cooperate with federal officials in their efforts to enforce our immigration laws, and we call on those who are intentionally agitating or interfering with our immigration officials while they are performing their law enforcement duties to cease such agitation and interference. It escalates tensions unnecessarily. We must ensure that local law enforcement, with its deep community knowledge, accountability to residents, and commitment to de-escalation, is empowered to lead public-safety efforts. When coordination breaks down and local officials remove themselves from decision-making, it increases the risk of tragic outcomes like the fatal shootings in Minneapolis that have shaken communities and inflamed tensions nationwide.

I look forward to a full, complete, transparent, and objective review of this tragic incident by the Department of Homeland Security and other local, state, and federal investigating agencies on this incident. And—if a fair and objective investigation ultimately determines wrongdoing on the part of the government—accountability should follow. The day following the shooting of Alex Pretti, my response called for calm on all sides. I took to social media and posted the following:

"Responsibility, Respect, and Restraint. I am confident that these three words—if put into action by all involved—would go a long way to diffuse the political tensions and growing animus across this country. America is too great. The Rule of Law is too necessary. Our God-given rights are too important. And life is too precious for us to do otherwise."

The Tax Foundation

This tax season, our communities will benefit tremendously. This tax relief was designed with East Texas in mind. For more information on tools and filing options, go to IRS.gov.

Honoring 25 Years of Service to Our Community

I was honored to present Rolin McPhee with a Congressional Record this week to honor his outstanding 25 years of dedicated service as Longview’s City Manager. Rolin has been a steadfast leader and exemplifies the best of our public service.

He leads with vision, strength, and grace. This approach has fostered collaboration among diverse stakeholders, built bridges across varying perspectives, and created an environment where solutions emerge from respectful dialogue. Congratulations!

My East Texas Roots

I sat down with Roy Maynard from Texas Public Policy Foundation to discuss my upbringing in East Texas and the lessons that led me to my current role as your representative. We also discussed the uniqueness of representing rural Texas. I'm grateful for this piece, which highlights not just my story, but the real strength of rural Texas.

From sharing a twin bed with my twin brother in a single-wide trailer to playing both quarterback and trombone at Whitehouse High School, my childhood taught me that rural Texas offers opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. In this story I share the journey from those humble beginnings to the House Ways and Means Committee. I continue to take these lessons with me every day to provide greater liberty to East Texans. Because with liberty comes abundance of life, and with abundance of life comes hope.

Read the full story in The Cannon here.

On January 28, 1915, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Coast Guard Act into law, officially creating the United States Coast Guard. This legislation merged the Revenue Cutter Service with the U.S. Lifesaving Service to form a single maritime military branch dedicated to safety, rescue, and law enforcement. 

Dealing with federal agencies can be complicated, and my office is here to help. If you need help with Social Security, the IRS, passport renewals, the VA, or other federal agencies, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office by calling (903) 561-6349 or visiting my website.

It is an honor to be your voice in Congress.

With gratitude,

Nathaniel Moran

Member of Congress