Welcome back to the Pfluger Fly-By, a roundup of events and updates to keep you informed about everything I'm doing week by week to represent you in Congress.
It is incredibly disappointing that we are on day thirty-eight of the Democrats' reckless government shutdown, making it the longest in American history. Senate Democrats have officially voted fifteen times to keep the government closed. I voted weeks ago to fund the government, and have since advocated for reopening it and returning to normal order. This week, I continued delivering that message in Texas-11 and back up in Washington.
Below, you'll find photos and highlights from the week, plus information on how my office can assist you with any federal concerns. As always, if you need assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Best,
REMINDER: Financial Resources for Impacted Individuals
If you or someone you know has been impacted by the government shutdown, financial resources are available. Last month, I held a roundtable in San Angelo with local financial institutions and community organizations, where banks announced 0% interest loans and United Way announced they are providing gift cards, gas cards, energy assistance programs, clothing assistance programs, food assistance programs, and more for those in need. Additionally, the City of San Angelo announced plans to extend bill payments to anyone experiencing financial uncertainty due to the shutdown.
Read more about the roundtable and the assistance available in San Angelo LIVE here or by clicking on the image below.
ICYMI: SNAP Resources for Texas-11
3.5 million vulnerable Texans are having their SNAP benefits threatened because Democrats refuse to reopen the government. Today, the Trump administration told states they are working to pay full November food stamp benefits during the government shutdown. While this will alleviate the immediate pain for many families across America, this is only a short-term fix.
Weeks ago, I voted to fund the government, including SNAP, to avoid this very situation. I am infuriated that Democrats continue to put their political agenda before the well-being of Americans in need. I urge Senate Democrats to do the right thing and stop holding the government hostage. In the meantime, please reach out to my office if you are negatively affected by this shutdown and need assistance.
Should you need additional support, our local food banks are here to help:
As Chairman of the Republican Study Committee, the largest Congressional caucus with 189 Republican members, I joined my fellow RSC leaders to release a statement this week calling for an end to the Democrats’ shutdown through a continuing resolution that funds the government at least into January 2026.
The statement, first covered in Fox News, also urges Congress to reject extending Biden-era COVID subsidies while delivering a health care system for Americans that is truly accessible, affordable, and spurs innovation. Lower health care costs start with fostering competition in the market, and that is exactly what I am advocating for in Congress. Read the full statement and more on our plan to reopen the government and lower healthcare costs for Americans in Fox News by clicking here or the image below.
Natura Resources' Nuclear Reactor Test Site Visit
I had a great visit with Texas Americans for Prosperity and Natura Resources at Abilene Christian University to tour their cutting-edge test nuclear reactor site. Innovation like this is what makes America exceptional. As China rapidly expands its nuclear capacity, we must stay ahead through bold research, responsible development, and by cutting through the bureaucratic red tape that slows our progress. I remain committed to advocating for common-sense, forward-thinking energy policies that keep America energy dominant and able to power the world.
Mason Town Hall
I had a terrific community town hall in Mason this week. While the Democrats continue with their political theatrics and hold the government hostage, my top priority remains fighting for Texans and providing top-notch constituent services to the incredible men and women I am blessed to represent.
I’m extremely grateful to everyone who came out, and I was honored to recognize the outstanding work of the Mason Junior High Kind Club–a group of exceptional eighth-grade girls who serve as leaders for younger students by modeling acts of kindness and participating in community service projects–for their recent creative pumpkin painting project. This project raised funds for the Mason Cancer Benefit, demonstrating how they put their mission into action.
It's clubs and students like this who are making real impacts in their communities, and it gives me hope to see young people giving up their time to serve and volunteer for the betterment of those around them.
