Friends,
While in East Texas for the District Work Period during the month of August, I’ve had the chance to visit with hundreds of East Texans and visit a variety of businesses and community groups across our 17-county region. These visits gave me the valuable opportunity to hear directly from you and continue learning about how I can best serve you in Washington, D.C.
One of the best aspects of my time in East Texas was witnessing the strength and innovation of our small businesses (despite Washington, D.C.). I met entrepreneurs who are navigating the day-to-day challenges of running a business, while also finding creative solutions to thrive in an ever-changing economic landscape. Your determination was truly inspiring, and I’m committed to continue pressing for pro-growth, free-market policies in Congress that will support your endeavors.
What issues remain at the top of the minds of business owners and families in East Texas? Here’s some of what constituents in TX-01 talked to me about: border security, skilled and available workforce, affordable housing, expansion of broadband, needed relief from government regulations, accountability of federal government officials abusing their power, transparency in the pharmaceutical industry, access to affordable health care, support for local control, out-of-control federal debt and spending, needed support for our agriculture industry, law enforcement needs, trade and critical supply chain matters, and the numerous threats posed by China and its unholy alliance with Russia, Iran, North Korea, and others. And, this is just a sampling of the numerous issues we worked through face-to-face.
Thank you! I needed those conversations and that input so that I better advocate for policies that reflect the needs and ambitions of the men and women of the First District of Texas. I don’t know about the rest of Congress, but August has NOT been a time of vacation. We’ve been busy doing the work you hired me to do—and that starts with listening to you and building strong relationships together. |
One of the “sweetest” visits that we have made in these first 8 months was to Sweet Shop USA, located in Mount Pleasant. It is the largest handmade chocolate factory in the nation! The artisans’ dedication to handcrafting delectable chocolates was impressive, and their commitment to quality, community engagement, and creativity was inspiring. If you stop by for a visit, I recommend the milk chocolate salted caramels! (Actually, I recommend EVERYTHING) |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran touring Sweet Shop USA in Titus County. |
|
Just down the road from the Sweet Shop is Diamond C Trailers in Titus County, a leading manufacturer of high-quality trailers. After touring their state-of-the-art facilities and meeting with their senior leadership to discuss Diamond C Trailer’s operations, its apparent that they have a commitment to quality and attention-to-detail in every aspect of their business—from the layout of their facility to the hand-painted pin stripes that date back generations. And, they are investing into their local community with innovation and a mind for service to others. #DoWorkLoveStrong |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran visiting Diamond C Trailers in Titus County. |
|
My first stop in Camp County was to meet with Pittsburg City Manager Clint Hardeman, Mayor David Abernathy, and other city employees to discuss the growth of the local economy and the unique challenges faced by the community. From addressing infrastructure improvements to promoting access to quality healthcare and education, our conversation was focused on finding practical solutions that will positively impact the lives of residents across the First District.
I also visited with County Judge AJ Mason and a few other guests to discuss a range of issues that impact the residents of Camp County. Thank you, Judge Mason, for your dedication to the well-being of this community. Collaboration with local leaders, like Judge Mason, ensures that we are effectively working together for the good our constituents. Thank you to Madeline’s Café and the Dollinger Family for hosting us for coffee. |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran meeting with Pittsburg City Manager Clint Hardeman, Mayor David Abernathy, and other city employees in Camp County. |
|
In Rusk County, I started with a tour of the Henderson Police Department, where I met with officers to discuss their efforts to keep the community safe. The Department’s dedication to public safety and community partnerships should serve as an example to other law enforcement agencies throughout the country. |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran visiting the Henderson Police Department in Rusk County. |
|
Afterwards, I met with staff and doctors at UT Health to discuss the need for healthcare accessibility and affordability in rural communities. UT Health is leading the way in supporting those in need across Henderson and in the surrounding areas. But, they are not alone. Crossroads Family Care clinic down the street gave us a tour of their facilities, and helped our team understand more about the services they provide to the Rusk County community as a federally qualified health center. Rural health care is a team effort. And, these teams of medical professionals love their communities—like so many other medical professionals in East Texas—and are giving back daily. |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran meeting with staff and doctors at UT Health in Rusk County. |
|
Another group of dedicated East Texans giving back and making a difference by reaching those with addictions during times of incarceration are the many dedicated employees who work out at Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s East Texas Treatment Facility. Warden Bernadette Rodriguez and the hundreds of employees at the Henderson facility provide needed treatment and rehabilitation for those placed in her care. As a team, they help many get back on the right track in life. East Texans know the value of redemption and second chances in life. We’ve all needed a second chance (or two or three) at times. Kudos to MCU for their work changing lives. |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran with Warden Bernadette Rodriguez in Rusk County. |
|
Our many stops in Henderson and Rusk County also included visits with the L4 Property Group to discuss the East Texas housing market and the Strong-Hurt Pharmacy to meet with Tommy Strong and Nick Lockyear to hear about their years of providing service and care in the community. Henderson is an amazing place to live and work, like so many East Texas communities. But regulatory challenges and economic bottlenecks are stifling business opportunities. Small, locally owned businesses need this to change so their hard work and community focus can pay off. |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran visiting L4 Property Group in Rusk County. |
|
Earlier this week, I met with Annie Dwyer from the National Association of Realtors to discuss housing shortages, interest and mortgage rates, and creating financial access for first time homebuyers. Thanks to Annie for meeting with me and offering to work together to address the challenges faced by both home buyers and sellers. I am committed to collaborating with organizations like the National Association of Realtors to protect the interests of our community members and advocate for a thriving real estate market that benefits everyone. |
|
|
|
|
Congressman Moran meeting Annie Dwyer from the National Association of Realtors. |
|
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 by clicking HERE.
It is an honor to be your voice in Congress.
With gratitude, |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nathaniel Moran
Member of Congress
|
|
|
|
