Spending the morning speaking to Pace Early College High School law enforcement students in Mrs. B. Lara's class in Brownsville, Texas. I am talking to them about the U.S. Government and the current state of affairs in our country. I encourage schools in the 34th District of Texas to invite me to speak at their schools. I truly enjoy talking to students. #TX34Forward

Today, on the 75th Anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, we honor the heroes that served and remember those who lost their lives. #PearlHarborRemembranceDay

On this Thanksgiving Day, I am thankful for the opportunity to serve the people of the 34th District of Texas.

I wish all of you a safe and happy Thanksgiving with family and friends.

I recently signed a letter, along with some of my fellow Members of Congress, urging Members of the Committee on Appropriations to restore year-round Pell Grants, increase the maximum award, and oppose additional cuts to the Pell Grant program surplus. The Pell Grant program improves college access and serves as an essential resource for nearly 8 million students. #ProtectPell #TX34Forward

http://democrats-edworkforce.house.gov/…/…/Pell%20Letter.pdf

As we celebrate Veterans Day, I want to take this opportunity to thank the courageous men and women who have served our country. The sacrifices that have been made by Veterans and their families are immeasurable, and we owe them a great debt of gratitude.

Their military service reflects strength of character and a willingness to be part of something bigger than themselves. Many have come before and many will serve in uniform in the years ahead, but every service member makes a unique and invaluable contribution.

On behalf of a grateful nation, God bless Veterans and God bless America.

On Election Day, I briefed a law enforcement class of 50 students at Weslaco East High School. I talked to students about the Electoral College, the importance of voting, my work in the U.S. House of Representatives and the work we do everyday on behalf of the constituents of the 34th District of Texas. The students were very engaged and I enjoyed visiting with them. If you haven't voted yet, I encourage you to go out and vote. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. #TX34Forward

This afternoon, I was briefed by Cameron County Sheriff Omar Lucio and his senior staff on the work they are doing to keep our county safe. It was a great meeting. Thanks to Sheriff Lucio and his deputies for the work they do in our county. #TX34Forward

On Friday I attended the CACOST Annual Health Retreat 2016 at the Richard Borchard Fairgrounds in Robstown, Texas. At the annual health retreat, I met with healthcare providers, medical doctors and staff that help care for thousands of people in the Costal Bend area, including in Mathis and Alice. I thank these healthcare providers for all they do for the people they care for. #TX34Forward

On Wednesday, I visited Kingsville, Texas, where I spent time at the American Legion Post 99 with Gonzalo "Bucho" Ruiz, Past Post Commander. I presented the American Legion Post 99 with a U.S. Flag, which was flown over the U.S. Capitol. Bucho is always there to lend a helping hand to veterans in Kingsville and the Coastal Bend area. Bucho, thanks for all you do for our veterans. #TX34Forward

Great explanation of conservation efforts for the Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle in South Texas. The Kemp’s Ridley is the most endangered sea turtle, but thanks to the efforts of National Park Service and Sea Turtle, Inc, the number of sea turtle nests has grown. #TX34Forward
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpAObF1B_sI&feature=youtu.be

Presented medals and ribbons to the widow of Daniel Ibarra Vela, Araceli Rodriguez-Zavala Vela, at the American Legion Post 99 this morning is Kingsville, Texas. Mr. Vela served our country in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict and today I remembered and honored his life. He passed away earlier this year, on June 17, 2016. In addition to his wife, Mr. Vela is survived by five children, 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. #TX34Forward

Speaking to a group of students at Horizon Montessori III in Harlingen, Texas, this morning. The students have great questions. The fourth grade class is learning about the history and geology of the state of Texas. Thanks to Horizon Montessori III for inviting me to speak to students. #TX34Forward

I had the shrimp tacos at Terra's on Monday for lunch in Brownsville, Texas. The tacos were excellent. I encourage people to spend more time in downtown Brownsville as the community works to revitalize it. Next time you are downtown, drop by Terra's. #TX34Forward