De La Cruz, Monica RSS Articles

De La Cruz, Texas Delegation Push for JBSA-Lackland to Host Space Force

Tue, 05 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) and members of the Texas Congressional Delegation sent a letter to the Department of the Air Force urging the selection of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (JBSA-Lackland) as the permanent headquarters for the United States Space Force component to U.S. Cyber Command (SPACEFOR-CYBER).

In the letter, the lawmakers outline why San Antonio is the premier choice to support the intersection of military and space interests. By leveraging existing infrastructure at JBSA-Lackland, the current home of the Sixteenth Air Force (Air Forces Cyber), the Air Force can ensure operations can begin immediately and efficiently.

The letter is co-signed by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Representatives Brian Babin (TX-36), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Randy Weber (TX-14), August Pfluger (TX-11), Michael McCaul, (TX-10) Lance Gooden (TX-05), Keith Self (TX-03), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Brandon Gill (TX-26), and Troy Nehls (TX-22).

Read the full letter here or below.

Dear Secretary Meink,

As members of the Texas Congressional Delegation, we are writing in support of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (JBSA-Lackland) to be selected as the permanent home of the United States Space Force component to U.S. Cyber Command (SPACEFOR-CYBER). Under President Trump’s leadership, the United States Space Force has been at the intersection of the country’s military and space interests. To continue this important mission, JBSA-Lackland offers a uniquely powerful combination of operational infrastructure, geographic advantages, and a skilled workforce prepared to serve our country.

The Sixteenth Air Force (Air Forces Cyber), the Air Force’s Information Warfare Numbered Air Force, is headquartered at JBSA–Lackland. Co-locating SPACEFOR-CYBER with the Sixteenth Air Force would immediately create deep operational synergy, shorten coordination timelines, and enhance unity across air, space, and cyber domains. Instead of building entirely new infrastructure, the Air Force would be leveraging an existing information warfare ecosystem.

As an urban hub, San Antonio is well-positioned to support the critical infrastructure that SPACEFOR-CYBER would provide. The greater San Antonio area is a cyber hub, often referred to as “Military City, USA,” with a dense concentration of intelligence, private-sector cyber, and information technology organizations. The presence of NSA Texas and other intelligence activities provides for efficient information sharing and rapid operational coordination in support of both U.S. Cyber Command and U.S. Space Command missions. The region’s proximity to NASA and coastal installations at Boca Chica, Texas, provides a strategic and unique opportunity for collaboration across agencies.

The city’s robust higher-education ecosystem, including universities such as the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) with strong programs in cybersecurity, computer science, engineering, and data science, provides a steady pipeline of highly skilled talent. The State of Texas, in collaboration with private enterprise, has consistently invested in cyber and defense-related initiatives, creating a business environment that attracts technology firms and defense contractors who can partner with SPACEFOR-CYBER on technological innovation and workforce development.

We urge you to select Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland as the permanent home of SPACEFOR-CYBER.

Thank you for your continued leadership in shaping the future of the Department of the Air Force and the United States Space Force.

De La Cruz Votes to Advance Farm Bill

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) voted in support of the passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, also known as the Farm Bill, on the House floor. The legislative package passed with bipartisan support.

"Food security is national security. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I am proud to deliver a major victory for South Texas farmers and producers. By passing the Farm Bill, we are reinforcing American agriculture’s global dominance and ensuring our farmers have the reliable water access they deserve. This is not just a bill; it’s a long-term investment in the future of Texas farming and our communities." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:
De La Cruz offered an amendment to establish a permanent, inter-agency working group led by the Secretary of Agriculture. The group will coordinate a strategy to protect South Texas farmers and producers from the impacts of the Government of Mexico’s failure to comply with water deliveries under the 1944 Water Treaty.

Additionally, this year's Farm Bill included three provisions led by De La Cruz:

Texas Agricultural Producers Assistance Act: Addresses the significant economic losses suffered by Texas ag producers due to the Mexican government’s non-compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty.
Southern Border Farmers and Ranchers Protection Act: Authorizes payments under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to assist farmers and ranchers with repairing damages to farming infrastructure caused by illegal criminal activity along the Southern border.
Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program Enhancement Act: Mandates the USDA to enter into a contract to evaluate the Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program with a land-grant college or university or a non-land-grant college of agriculture.

De La Cruz, Texas Delegation Urge Ambassadors Greer, Callahan to Include 1944 Water Treaty in USMCA

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), along with a dozen members of the Texas Congressional Delegation, sent a letter to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer and Chief Agricultural Negotiator Ambassador Julie Callahan, urging the Administration to use the upcoming USMCA renegotiations to ensure the Government of Mexico’s compliance with 1944 Water Treaty deliveries.

By incorporating strict enforcement mechanisms into the trade agreement, the Mexican government will face stricter consequences if they fail to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty delivery obligations.

The letter is co-signed by House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19), House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams (TX-25), Republican Study Committee Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11), Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Brian Babin (TX-36), Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27), Congressman Troy Nehls (TX-22), Congressman Lance Gooden (TX-05), Congressman Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Congressman Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14), Congressman Keith Self (TX-03), and Congressman Morgan Luttrell (TX-08).

Read the full letter here or below.

Dear Ambassador Greer and Ambassador Callahan,

We appreciate your team’s continued engagement with our offices as you prepare for the upcoming renegotiations of the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA). Since its enactment under the first Trump Administration in 2020, USMCA has delivered fairer market access for America’s agricultural producers. Through agreements struck since the beginning of the Administration, President Trump has reduced the agricultural trade deficit by 42%[1] and has opened key markets such as the European Union, China, India, and the United Kingdom to many American agricultural products. This increased market access will directly benefit the agriculture producers in our districts.

As the Administration moves forward with the USMCA’s mandatory review process, it is critical that your team prioritizes the elimination of trade deficits with Canada and Mexico, and seizes this opportunity to enforce Mexico’s on-time, annual payments of water deliveries from the 1944 Water Treaty.

Regions across the United States are experiencing drought conditions that have become exacerbated by Mexico’s disregard of the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty. The treaty outlined specific thresholds of water quantities that each country must provide to the other, including Mexico’s responsibility to provide 350,000 acre-feet of water to the United States, annually.

For years, the Texas Delegation has been pursuing the repayment of Mexico’s water debt and the needed enforcement of the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty. Secretary Rollins has worked extremely hard to get Mexico to deliver the water owed to us per year, but ultimately the United States remains at the mercy of Mexico’s compliance without any enforced consequences.

The effects of not including strong enforcement mechanisms for the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty are clear. In 2023 alone, South Texas suffered an economic impact of almost $1 billion due to the water shortage.[2] This included the closure of the last sugar mill in Texas, resulting in the loss of 500 jobs and $100 million from the state’s economy. A long term solution to this perennial issue requires robust enforcement mechanisms.

Specifically, we ask for the inclusion of the following into the USMCA:

Annual, predictable and enforceable water deliveries; and,
Utilize the USMCA’s dispute settlement procedures to address instances of non-compliance; and,
Transparent monitoring and reporting to track water deliveries and identify potential violations; and,
Explore strict enforcement mechanisms for non-compliance with the 1944 U.S Mexico Water Treaty which USTR deems to properly manage trade relations and ensures adherence to the agreement.

Incorporating the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty in the USMCA would prove more conducive to the resolution of the issue than any singular vow to resolve the existing water debt. Enforcement mechanisms would free South Texas communities from having to depend on Mexican goodwill for their prosperity.

Once again, thank you for your consideration. Please know our offices are willing and eager to assist any way we can.

De La Cruz Applauds Groundbreaking of Moore Air Base Sterile Fly Production Facility

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) released the statement below following U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins' groundbreaking of the Sterile Fly Production Facility at Moore Air Base.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a historic moment for South Texas, and I am thrilled to see this $750 million investment officially begin to take shape for our farmers and ranchers. I’m incredibly proud to have helped secure this facility and appreciate Secretary Rollins’ commitment to protecting Texas agriculture from the threat of the New World Screwworm. Together, we are taking a vital step to protect our cattle industry and keep our local agricultural community thriving.” - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:
The New World Screwworm is a highly destructive parasitic fly that infests livestock and wildlife. In August 2025, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced that $750 million would be invested in the construction of a new sterile fly production facility at Moore Air Base in Hidalgo County to combat the spread of the pest.

This announcement followed De La Cruz's advocacy during a House Committee on Agriculture hearing and her letter to Secretary Brooke Rollins proposing Moore Air Base as an ideal location for the facility.

Additionally, the Congresswoman has led legislative initiatives, including the New World Screwworm Preparedness Act, to ensure Texas agriculture is prepared to stop the New World Screwworm.

De La Cruz Hosts Roundtable with South Texas Immigration Lawyers

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) convened a roundtable discussion with South Texas immigration lawyers to hear their direct feedback on proposed immigration legislation.

"Advancing common-sense legislative solutions for South Texas families is my top priority. I convened a group of seasoned South Texas immigration lawyers to hear their feedback and experience. Firsthand insight is essential to ensure the immigration policies we put forward reflect the reality and values of South Texas." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:

De La Cruz has introduced common-sense legislation to fix the broken immigration system and address workforce shortages. These legislative efforts include: the Fair Wages for Farm Workers Act, the Bracero Program 2.0 Act, and the Texas Dreamer Work Authorization Act.

Additionally, De La Cruz has co-sponsored legislation, including the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act led by Congressman Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) and the Dignity Act led by Congresswoman Maria Salazar (FL-27).

De La Cruz Leads Bill to Improve Access to Medicare Services

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Improving Medicare Services Act alongside Rep. Lou Correa (CA-46) and Rep. Tom Barrett (MI-07). The bipartisan legislation will improve the 1-800-Medicare customer service line, helping seniors and beneficiaries navigate questions regarding billing, claims, medical records, and costs.

"Many seniors across the nation rely on the 1-800-Medicare call line for assistance regarding their healthcare coverage, and we must ensure this service is meeting their needs. This study will highlight where improvements are needed and update data to make informed decisions on behalf of Medicare recipients. With this legislation, seniors will receive the high-quality service they need." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

“It is important to provide seniors with the access to healthcare resources they’ve earned and deserve. They shouldn’t be forced to wait countless hours for answers to get the care they need. It’s unacceptable to hear that seniors in Orange County are enduring long wait times, receiving unhelpful responses, and experiencing poor service quality. I partnered with Rep. Monica De La Cruz and Rep. Rom Barrett in introducing this legislation to make sure all Medicare beneficiaries get timely, accurate, and professional help whenever they call 1-800-Medicare. Our seniors deserve no less.” - Congressman Lou Correa

"There is nothing more frustrating than sitting on hold for hours to not get the help you need — especially when the help you need is simply accessing your Medicare. Congress needs to take every step necessary to ensure Medicare services and assistance are easily accessible for those who rely on it, and this bill is an important step to fulfilling that promise. I'm grateful to Congresswoman De La Cruz and Congressman Correa for their work on this legislation and I look forward to continuing to build a system that puts patients first." - Congressman Tom Barrett

Background:

The Improving Medicare Services Act will require the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study evaluating the operations of the 1-800-Medicare call line, specifically focusing on wait times, customer satisfaction, and staff performance. This will be the first study conducted in over 15 years.

The study will also review whether past recommendations have improved the service and analyze the system's current performance to identify ways to increase efficiency and accessibility for users.

De La Cruz Leads the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - In the height of tax season, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act alongside Congressman Zach Nunn (IA-03). The legislation codifies taxpayer protections to ensure the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) appeals process is always fully independent and not tilted against the taxpayer.

"The Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act gives American taxpayers the certainty that their appeals process will be fair and independent. Tax season can be complicated enough; Americans need less, not more, bureaucracy when appealing an IRS decision.” - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

“The IRS shouldn't be judge and jury in its own cases. The Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act restores common-sense protections so that when an Iowan appeals an IRS decision, the process is truly independent, not predetermined by the same agency that made the call.” - Congressman Zach Nunn

The legislation has garnered support from the National Taxpayers Union (NTU) and the Taxpayers Protection Alliance (TPA).

Background:
Building on the Taxpayer First Act of 2019, De La Cruz's legislation restores the historical independence of the IRS appeals process by ensuring that enforcement personnel cannot join conferences without taxpayer consent.

While these sessions were traditionally neutral, a 2016 policy shift allowed IRS Counsel and Compliance to participate, even over a taxpayer’s objection. By codifying these protections, the Strengthen Taxpayer Rights Act ensures the Independent Office of Appeals remains a fair and unbiased forum for all taxpayers.

De La Cruz Secures Release of Antonio Gámez-Cuéllar

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) secured the release of Antonio Gámez-Cuéllar, an 18-year-old McAllen High School senior and celebrated member of the award-winning Mariachi Oro program, following her direct advocacy with the White House, incoming DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, the office of White House Border Czar Tom Homan, and senior officials throughout the federal government.

"Antonio is going home. The Gámez-Cuéllar family are valued members of our community. I was honored to stand with Antonio and his fellow mariachis when they visited my office last year, and I am honored to stand with him again. My work is not done. I will continue to advocate for his family in keeping with the law, and I will not stop until they are reunited."

"While some were busy politicizing this family's situation, I was busy solving it. Today is a reminder of why effective representation in Washington matters. South Texans deserve both a secure border and commonsense policies, and I will always fight for both." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Background:

De La Cruz has long championed commonsense immigration measures, including her Bracero Program 2.0 Act and Fair Wages for Farm Workers Act, while consistently maintaining that enforcement resources must prioritize threats to public safety.

En Español:

La Congresista De La Cruz agradece el apoyo de toda la comunidad y confirma que Antonio Gámez-Cuéllar será liberado gracias a las gestiones directas de su oficina con la Casa Blanca y funcionarios federales de alto nivel.

"La familia Gámez-Cuéllar es muy valorada en nuestra comunidad. Trabajé muy duro para que Antonio pudiera regresar a su casa, pero mi trabajo no ha terminado. La familia Gámez-Cuéllar es muy valorada en nuestra comunidad. Trabajé muy duro para que Antonio pudiera regresar a su casa, pero mi trabajo no ha terminado. Voy a seguir luchando hasta que esta hermosa familia mariachi esté reunida muy pronto."

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VIDEO: De La Cruz on President Trump's State of the Union

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Following President Trump's State of the Union Address this evening, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) released the statement below.

The full statement can be found here or below.

"Tonight, President Trump made it clear: the state of our union is strong.

Over the last year, we have worked to fix the problems caused by the Biden Administration and deliver big wins for South Texans.

We solidified historic tax cuts, drove down inflation, and secured the border.

Today, prosperity is returning to our communities, and the dream of homeownership is once again becoming a reality for millions of families.

This is just the beginning. I will continue to build on this progress and restore the American dream." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

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De La Cruz, South Texas Leaders Meet with Speaker Johnson on Immigration

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

This week, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) and South Texas community leaders met with Speaker Mike Johnson to discuss her proposals for key reforms to immigration policies, specifically legislation to streamline visa programs and ease workforce shortages, particularly in the agriculture and construction industries.

Following their meeting, De La Cruz hosted a meeting with White House officials to continue discussions on her immigration proposals as a part of her South Texas (STX) Days district fly-in.

"Speaker Johnson and White House officials are engaged and have heard our concerns for common-sense policies to bridge gaps in our immigration system and protect the American dream. On behalf of South Texas, I am fighting to deliver solutions to ensure our South Texas communities remain prosperous." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

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Staff Mobile Office Hours

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:00:00 GMT

District staff will visit Live Oak County this month, ready to help you! If you need assistance with any federal agency -- the VA, Social Security, passport services, or anything else -- please plan a visit with a caseworker who can open an inquiry on your behalf.

July 18th, 2024
2 - 3p.m.
George West Library
402 Houston St
George West, TX 78022

Staff Mobile Office Hours

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 16:30:00 GMT

District staff will visit Live Oak County this month, ready to help you! If you need assistance with any federal agency -- the VA, Social Security, passport services, or anything else -- please plan a visit with a caseworker who can open an inquiry on your behalf.

July 18th, 2024
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Three Rivers Library
102 Leroy St
Three Rivers, TX 78071