Dear Friend,
I hope everyone had a safe and happy new year. It's been a busy start to 2021, but I'm excited to be working with my colleagues in the 117th Congress to pass legislation that will strengthen our nation and protect American families.
This past Sunday, I was sworn into the 117th Congress and the House reconvened for legislative business on Monday.
In the district, I held a press conference to provide an update on COVID-19 relief to ensure that the public has access to critical information and resources, like PPP and direct payments. Now more than ever, we need to work together in order to rebuild our economy and protect the health of our citizens.
Finally, I want to take a moment to recognize the retirement of one of my Outreach Coordinator's, Gilbert Lafuente. Since 2005, Gilbert has served my office with pride and dignity, working every day to make sure that every public official and constituent felt both seen and heard. With over 165k miles driven, participating in over 780 staff meetings, and countless inspiring stories and experiences with individuals throughout our district, Gilbert has had quite the ride. Thank you for your service to the people of TX-28, and congratulations on reaching this major milestone. As always, if you need assistance with a federal agency, please don't hesitate to reach out to one of my offices.
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On Sunday, January 4th, I was sworn into the 117th Congress. I am honored to continue to represent Texas’ 28th in Washington for the next two years. A great deal of work lies ahead, but I remain steadfast in my commitment to working every day to advance the priorities of my constituents.
I will fight for the support that our families require as we continue to battle the COVID-19 crisis, including additional federal funding to ensure vaccines are distributed to every American. I will protect and expand affordable health care, particularly for the thousands of South Texans with pre-existing conditions. I will make sure every child has the opportunity to fulfill their American Dream by expanding college financial aid and making federal programs more available for students. I will work to implement strong and smart border security, which does not include an ineffective and wasteful border wall.
I am committed to working across the aisle to implement common-sense policies that make our families safer, our jobs more secure, and our nation more united. Now it's time for us to roll up our sleeves and get back to work on the issues that matter most to South Texas families. Let’s get to work.
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On Friday, January 1st, I had the pleasure of attending the swearing-in ceremonies for the Webb County Sheriff’s Office as well as for Webb County District Attorney Isidro Alaniz. Congrats to all the elected-officials who have been sworn-in across TX-28. I look forward to continue working with each public office throughout our district’s nine counties in this upcoming year.
Image 1: Webb County District Attorney Isidro Alaniz. Image 2: Rep. Cuellar with Sheriff Martin Cuellar and public officials at the Webb County Sheriff's Office swearing-in ceremony.
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On Wednesday, December 30th, I held a district-wide 'Conversation with Cuellar' where I discussed the coronavirus relief package and the CASH Act, legislation to increase the direct payments to $2000.
While this legislation stalled in the Senate, many Americans have already begun receiving their $600 economic impact payments. However, there are still many anxiously awaiting their payments. If you have not received your payment, visit the Get My Payment portal to check your status. Furthermore, please visit IRS.gov for the most current information on the second round of payments rather than calling the agency or your financial institution.
To watch the congressman’s ‘Conversation with Cuellar’, click here.
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On Wednesday, December 30th, my Outreach Coordinator, Gilbert Lafuente, presented a one-minute to Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez in honor of his retirement. Commissioner Gamez served the county for 19 years and his commitment to public service will be greatly missed.
Fun Fact: Members of Congress are allowed to give one-minute speeches on the House floor about issues that are not about legislation or votes. Once the one-minute speech has ended, it remains a part of the Congressional Record.
Pictured is Gilbert Lafuente and Commissioner Albert Gamez.
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Down in Webb County, my Digital Specialist, Eric Cleveland, attended a South Texas Food Bank distribution. Eric joined other volunteers from the area to help serve over 2,000 individuals! Headquarted in Laredo, the South Texas Food Bank proudly servies eight counties: Webb, Zapata, Jim Hogg, Val Verde, Maverick, Kinney, Dimmit and Starr. For more info on upcoming distribution sites, check out the food bank's website here.
Pictured is Eric Cleveland placing a box of goods in an attendee's car.
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Further down south in Mission, TX, my Outreach Coordinator for Starr and Hidalgo Counties, Nicolas Cruz, presented this year's Queen Citrianna of the Texas Citrus Fiesta, Jaedynn E'Del Analiz, with a Congressional Certificate of Recognition.
For 82 years, the Texas Citrus Fiesta has educated and promoted South Texas values for our community. Although this year's festivities will look different due to the pandemic, we are all still extremely excited to celebrate and support the history and culture of the Rio Grande Valley.
Pictured is Nicolas Cruz and Queen Citrianna, Jaedynn E'Del Alaniz.
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Don't miss out on a grant opportunity! Attracting more federal funds to the district and region has been a top priority during my tenure in Congress. To better serve you, I want to provide you with information on a variety of open federal grant opportunities in each week's newsletter. To see a previous edition, click here. If you'd like to subscribe to the weekly grants newsletter, please fill out our google doc form.
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This pandemic has taken an emotional toll on all of us. Regardless of our experience with this past year, it's important we also take time to care for our own personal health.
In this week's video, the CDC shares tips on healthy coping techniques that are easy to do and allow you to recharge from the day's stress.
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