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Dear Neighbor,
As Congress enters the August work period, I’m back home in our district, focused on one of the most important parts of this job: hearing directly from you. These conversations help shape my work in Washington and ensure your voices are front and center in the decisions I make. Whether it’s through community forums, listening sessions or one-on-one meetings, your feedback is invaluable—and I look forward to continuing these conversations throughout the month. Please continue reading to learn more about my efforts on your behalf last week!
Restoring Integrity to Our Campaign Finance System: Some individuals have continued using campaign funds for personal gain—even after leaving office. While this practice may skirt legal boundaries, it clearly violates the spirit of the law, and that’s simply unacceptable. It’s time to close this loophole and restore public trust in our institutions. I’ve filed bipartisan legislation with Rep. Kathy Castor to address this issue. Read more about the bill here.
Getting Things Done: We’re just six months in, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made in delivering on our promises to the American people. From fighting for fiscal responsibility to protecting families and veterans, we're getting results—and I’ll keep working every day to build on this momentum.
Ensuring America’s Competitiveness in AI: As a senior member of the House Communications & Technology Subcommittee, I welcome the President’s bold AI Action Plan. America’s global leadership depends on smart investments and a coordinated strategy. We’re committed to ensuring the U.S. remains at the forefront of innovation and tech advancement. Learn more about the plan by clicking here.
Protecting Kids and Empowering Parents: Too many families, like the Browns, have suffered tragic loss due to online dangers. That’s why I continue working to advance the Kids Online Safety Act—a vital step toward creating safer online spaces for children. Listen to their heartbreaking story and learn more about our legislation.
Listening and Learning from You: Thank you to the Veterans who joined last week’s tele-townhall with VA Secretary Doug Collins. For those of you who missed it, here is a recording. These conversations are essential to improving services, and I remain committed to ensuring our heroes receive the care and benefits they’ve earned.
In Elfers, I held an in-person senior forum to answer questions and discuss how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will benefit older Americans. During this forum, I had the chance to clear up common misconceptions about what’s not included in the package.
I also hosted a “Coffee with Your Congressman” listening session in Central Pasco, where I heard from local residents about the issues that matter most to them. More of these neighborhood forums are scheduled across the district in the coming weeks. If your homeowner’s association would like to host one, please reach out to my office—we’d love to connect.
During a recent lunch with Pasco School Board Member Cynthia Armstrong, her husband Greg, and Dr. Carlos Zubillaga, I was briefed on several important community issues. Ms. Armstrong expressed her appreciation for my efforts in helping to unfreeze critical federal funding that supports the school district’s ability to serve students with special needs and who attend Title I schools. She also shared insights into the dedication and hard work of Pasco’s educators and support staff over the past several months. I extend my best wishes to all students and educators for a successful and rewarding start to the new school year! In addition, Dr. Zubillaga and Mr. Armstrong informed me of a new challenge facing the volunteer physicians at the free clinic in New Port Richey. Due to recent developments, the clinic must find a new location to continue providing essential healthcare services to uninsured patients. I look forward to working alongside community leaders to support this important effort.
Additionally, during this week’s open office hours, I met with Brooksville’s new City Manager, Lisa Hendrickson. It was a productive discussion about how we can work together to meet the needs of our shared community.
Investing in Future Leaders: August 1st marks National Internship Day, and I want to recognize the talented interns who bring fresh energy, insight, and commitment to our office. Internships are more than résumé builders—they’re vital training for the next generation of public servants and community leaders. A heartfelt thank you to all our interns—your hard work is making a real difference! Click here to learn more about internship opportunities in Washington, D.C., and in our district offices.
Community Connection
I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. As part of my commitment to developing a better understanding of the issues facing constituents in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties, members of my team attended several events last week. Here are a few highlights.
My team was honored to join a group of dedicated women at this month’s Hearts and Heels meeting in Hernando—an inspiring gathering of individuals committed to making a meaningful difference in our community.
My team also enjoyed connecting with local small business owners and civic leaders at the Citrus County Chamber’s festive Christmas in July Extravaganza! It was a great opportunity to support local entrepreneurs and hear directly about the issues that matter most to our community.
Additionally, my team held productive one-on-one meetings with New Port Richey City Councilmembers, county officials, and representatives from the Area Agency on Aging to discuss an exciting project we're advancing to develop affordable housing for seniors.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message from a constituent after providing assistance with the IRS.
I wanted to give a special shout-out to James on your staff. He connected me with the Taxpayer Advocate, who was finally able to help me resolve a multi-year dispute with the IRS regarding my deceased husband's business. You have no idea how many headaches and countless hours I've spent worrying about this issue. After James got involved, it was all taken care of. Thank you so much!
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you! |
