Press Releases

School is back in full swing, and in a few short weeks, summer will turn to fall. It sure went fast, but as I reflect on the month of August I think of the good-hearted, God-fearing, freedom-loving people I had the opportunity to visit with. During the district work period, I traveled throughout our region to discuss our growing economy and how we can ensure a strong and prosperous future for rural America. Here are five photos that show some of my favorite moments from the month of August: 1. A Renewed Sense of OptimismOur pro-growth policies have produced a renewed sense of optimism in West Texas – I could see it during my visit with a few of The Home Depot’s hardworking employees in Lubbock. We are witnessing a great American comeback, and the good people of West Texas are better off because of it. 2. Rural PrioritiesOver 70 community leaders from across our region joined me for our first West Texas Rural Summit to discuss issues affecting our region including the opioid epidemic, rural healthcare, and economic development. Anne Hazlett, Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, accompanied us and provided insight on ways we can address the unique challenges rural America faces. 3. Patient-Centered CareThe free enterprise system is inextricably linked to democracy in this country, and the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce embodies that ideal. Their recent announcement to launch an Association Health Plan that gives small businesses more flexibility and options to provide affordable health care coverage supports that claim. They are one of the first organization in the nation to launch this type of plan. 4. A Seasoned ServantOver 64 years ago, Mayo Loper started working for First State Bank in Abernathy and he has been serving Hale County ever since. Join me in thanking him for his years of dedication to our families, agriculture producers, and small businesses. 5. HomeThere’s no place like the one where your roots lie, the one that brings back all of your cherished memories and makes you feel at home. Visit after visit, it remains special being in my hometown of Plainview. Walking the halls of my alma mater, Plainview High School, and meeting with those who are leading our city reassured my belief that making America more like West Texas is what has contributed to our nation's success.