Friends,

Last week, I voted against the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, the consolidated appropriations package for Defense, State and Foreign Operations, Homeland Security, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Legislative Branch, Financial Services, and General Government. While I appreciate Speaker Johnson’s efforts to push back against the Biden Administration’s left policies, the package did not include enough border security to outweigh the aspects of this bill that did not align with East Texas priorities. The bill also represented excessive government spending and lacked the necessary fiscal responsibility that East Texans need. I cannot support more funding for the Department of Homeland Security, which would only give Secretary Mayorkas more power and take away from our already scarce border funding. Additionally, this package contains disturbing earmarks that advance woke agendas on our youth and include funding for abortion care.

Although I did not vote for the package, I want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of Speaker Johnson in crafting this legislation and fighting against President Biden’s anti-border and woke policy agenda.

I am committed to working to develop and vote for legislation that upholds the values and priorities of East Texans. I believe in fiscal responsibility and increased border funding; and I will continue to fight for these principles in Congress.

To read my full statement, click HERE.

On Monday, I had the pleasure of stopping by a few farms and agriculture centers in the First District. I had the opportunity to visit C&M Angus in Mount Pleasant to meet with the owner, Mike Thompson. We talked about livestock production and the hard work and dedication put in by the ag community to feed Americans. C&M Angus is also one of East Texas’ poultry growers! We are lucky to have C&M Angus as part of the East Texas community.

On Monday, I visited Cox Concrete Products in Mount Pleasant, TX to check out their construction products and meet the family that has owned and operated the company for over 35 years. Thanks to Ryon Cox who, alongside his sister Charlotte, runs the business that was started in 1983 by their parents Larry and Paula Cox. Their commitment to family values and traditions is truly commendable and I’m proud to have them in TX-01!

One of my favorite parts about spring is the blooming tulips. This week, I was able to stop by Moody Blooms Tulip Farm in Mount Pleasant for a lunch Q&A with a group of local farmers and ranchers. Delicious BBQ (and all the fixins) from Crazy Heifer’s Cafe and Catering paved the way for in-depth discussion with Texas Farm Bureau members about the farm bill, labor shortages, and restrictive regulatory oversight. Thanks to Moody Blooms for hosting on a rainy and windy day. And, thanks to all the farmers and ranchers who took time away from their busy schedules to be with us.

On Monday, I toured Talsma Dairy in Mount Vernon, where I got to see the multi-generational operation at work. I was able to witness the amazing dedication and hard work that the family put into raising the cattle and processing dairy milk. Talsma Dairy plays a vital role that agriculture plays in the East Texas economy.

Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to tour Newly Weds Food’s state-of-the-art facility in Mount Pleasant, Texas. Their state-of-the-art production facilities and commitment to food safety and innovation are a testament to the thriving food industry in our state.

I had an amazing time speaking to the extraordinary members of the Texarkana Sunrise Rotary Club this Wednesday. It was an honor to address such a remarkable group that has made such a positive impact on East Texas. The hard work and dedication of its members is profound, and I commend each of them for their commitment to bettering our community.

On Wednesday, I visited the Harvest Regional Food Bank, an invaluable organization that serves the people of Bowie County. The staff’s hard work and dedication to serving those in need is truly inspiring. We are lucky to have them serving our community.  

U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran visits Harvest Regional Food Bank in Texarkana (Texarkana Gazette)

East Texas content creator shares uncertain future amid TikTok bill discussion (KLTV)

Newsweek: 'Cyberflashing' Could Become Illegal Under New Bill (Newsweek)

Radar Gaps Threaten Millions as Severe Weather Season Ramps Up in U.S.

(Washington Post)

On March 28th, 1969, Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th president of the United States and one of the most highly regarded American generals of World War II died in Washington, DC. Born in Denison, Texas in 1890, Eisenhower lived to be 78. Nicknamed “Ike,” he left behind a legacy of economic growth and strength during times of uncertainty.

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,

P.S.

This Texas Town has produced well over 2.5 million barrels of oil in its history, and it was once known as the "World's Richest Acre." What is its name? (Hint: It is in the district)

Kilgore, Texas

This Texas football team was undefeated (13-0) in the 2005-2006 season and went on to win the NCAAF Championship. What is its mascot?

Check next week’s newsletter for the answer to this week’s Texas Trivia question.