Protecting Texas' Agriculture Industry

A New World screwworm outbreak has been detected less than 70 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border.

This year, one of my top priorities has been to strengthen our nation’s preparedness against a potential screwworm outbreak.

This summer, I joined USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and Governor Greg Abbott to announce the construction of a domestic fly production facility in Texas, which is a key pillar of my STOP Screwworms Act.

I also advocated for pharmaceutical manufacturers to fast-track approvals and labeling of anti-parasitic treatments for livestock to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In August, HHS lifted restrictions on drugs that can help treat and prevent a screwworm infestation. As an appropriator, I also secured double the initial funding for screwworm eradication efforts in our nation's agriculture budget.

I recognize the importance of farmers and ranchers in Texas and will continue to work in Congress and back home to protect their livelihoods.

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales with USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins.

To read more about the recent screwworm case, click here.

Standing Up for our ICE Agents

This week, I joined News Nation and Fox Business to talk about the unacceptable increase in violence toward ICE agents and CBP personnel.

On Wednesday, a violent shooting took place at an ICE facility in Dallas. ICE agents are now, more than ever, being targeted for doing their job and enforcing the law.

TX-23 has the largest stretch of the southern border of any Congressional district, and I have grown to know many of our agents. These individuals are dedicated public servants and law enforcement officers—violence in protest is never acceptable, and must be brought to full account.

The senseless political violence taking place in our country is despicable and we, as a nation, must come together to stop the dangerous rhetoric and actions taking place.

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales speaking with Stuart Varney on Fox Business' "Varney & C0."

On the Road in South Texas

This week was well spent on the road in TX-23.

I started off the week meeting with Dr. Winston Erevelles, the President of St. Mary's University, in San Antonio. We had a great conversation, learning about their top-tier law and undergraduate programs. 

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales speaking with the President of St. Mary's University while on a tour of their facilities.

On Tuesday, I had the pleasure of visiting the Kickapoo Tribe and meeting with Port EPN board members and economic development stakeholders in Eagle Pass. Two very important conversations on how to partner and support each other's work. 

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales meeting with Kickapoo tribal leaders.

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales meeting with Port EPN board members and economic development stakeholders.

On Wednesday, I visited Wilford Hall at Lackland Air Force Base, the largest mental health care facility in the Air Force with 60,000 clinical encounters annually.

Thank you to the outstanding professionals for taking care of our active-duty servicemembers—we are grateful for your service.

PICTURED: Congressman Gonzales speaking with servicemembers at Wilford Hall.

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My team and I are always available to assist you. Please feel free to contact my office at any time.