Today, Americans across the country will commemorate Juneteenth, a day that holds special significance, especially right here on the streets of Galveston, Texas.

On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and issued General Order No. 3, announcing that enslaved people in Texas were free. More than two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, the news of freedom had finally reached the last remaining enslaved Americans. That moment forever cemented Galveston's place in our nation's history.

Juneteenth is a reminder of how far our nation has come and the enduring promise of freedom that defines the American story. As we reflect on this historic day, let us remember those who came before us, celebrate the progress we have made, and continue preserving this history for generations to come.

"The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, ‘all slaves are free.'" - Union General Gordon Granger

If you've spent any time on the Upper Texas Coast lately, you've seen the growth firsthand. New families are moving in, businesses are expanding, and our communities continue to grow at a remarkable pace. More than five million Texans now call this region home, and thousands more move to the Texas Gulf Coast every year because of the opportunities and quality of life our communities provide.

That's why I introduced the Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area Act.

Whether it's fishing in Galveston Bay, birdwatching in Matagorda County, or enjoying our beaches...the Upper Texas Coast offers outdoor opportunities that are second to absolutely none. This legislation helps ensure those spaces remain available for future generations while supporting local economies that depend on tourism, recreation, and conservation.

The legislation would:

• Expand outdoor recreation opportunities across the Upper Texas Coast.
• Support conservation and coastal resilience efforts.
• Promote tourism and heritage-based economic development.
• Encourage coordination between local communities, landowners, conservation organizations, and other regional partners.

Most importantly, this legislation is built around local leadership:

• Participation is completely voluntary.
• Private property rights remain fully protected.
• No new federal regulatory authority is created.

For more than fifteen years, local leaders, landowners, businesses, and conservation groups have worked together on a shared vision for the future of the Upper Texas Coast. This bill helps advance that vision while ensuring this special place remains a destination for families, sportsmen, outdoor enthusiasts, and visitors for generations to come.

Read more here.

Communities across the Texas Gulf Coast closely monitored Tropical Storm Arthur this week as heavy rainfall, flooding concerns, and hazardous conditions impacted parts of our district.

While every storm is different, events like these serve as an important reminder that protecting our coastal communities remains one of the most important responsibilities we have.

That's why I've continued fighting for federal investments that strengthen our coast and improve storm resiliency. In the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process, I secured $5 million for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to advance pre-construction engineering and design for the Texas Coastal Project, locally known as the Ike Dike.

The Ike Dike is one of the largest flood protection efforts in our nation's history. Once completed, it will help reduce storm surge risk, strengthen coastal resilience, restore ecosystems, and better protect homes, businesses, families, and critical infrastructure across the Texas coast.

Investments like these help ensure our communities are better prepared for future storms while protecting the people, industries, and infrastructure that make the Texas Gulf Coast such a vital part of America.

As hurricane season continues, my office will remain in close contact with local, state, and federal partners to ensure our communities have the resources they need to stay safe and recover quickly when severe weather strikes.

A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and Team Weber is hard at work keeping Texas’ 14th District moving forward!

It’s that time of the month again when we are giving our veterans the support they need. In Texas City, YOUR Team helped with the Veterans of Galveston County with the monthly food distribution for veterans and their families. We must continue to take care of the people who served tirelessly for us to be free. 

Team Weber also travelled to Brazosport College in Lake Jackson, TX, to celebrate the lasting impact and legacy that Dr. Tracee Watts left not only on the campus but also on the community. Our team was honored to congratulate her on her new role as President of Galveston College and wish her continued success as she begins this exciting new chapter. Congratulations, Dr. Watts, and best of luck!

The team finished up the week in League City, TX, at the League City Rotary Club Meeting. Local leaders, business owners, and community members gathered to discuss ways to strengthen and grow our region!

• H.R.9308 - To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief relating to public safety officers' death benefits, and for other purposes.
• H.R.9211 - To strengthen Federal efforts to counter antisemitism in the United States and protect the Jewish community.
• H.R.9154 - To direct the Secretary of Commerce to develop a methodology for identifying country of origin of shrimp, and for other purposes.
• H.R.9147 - To amend the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to modify the duties of the Special Presidential Envoy for the Abraham Accords, Negev Forum, and Related Normalization Agreements, and for other purposes.
• H.R.9146 - To increase penalties for the sexual exploitation of children.
• H.Res.1338 - Supporting the designation of June as Family Month.

Should Congress focus on expanding American energy production to strengthen energy independence and keep costs affordable for families?

Yes: 88.4%

No: 11.6%