Issues

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  Jobs and Opportunity

  Texas created more than 40% of America’s net new jobs in the last two years.  A remarkable statistic, but our community should be leading the state.  We need to keep jobs in South Texas and continue to create new ones.  I’ll continue to focus on making the Rio Grande Valley a hub for small businesses, technological innovation, world-class manufacturing and health care.

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  Good Schools and Higher Education

  I’ll continue to work with our colleges and universities to make sure they are more affordable, accountable and accessible to students and families. I have championed the tremendous potential of the Rio Grande Valley and was proud to announce the investment of $72.6 million from UTPA and the UT System includes the construction of a world class performing arts center in Edinburg, tens of millions of dollars for science, technology and engineering programs and the foundation of the construction and completion of a medical school for South Texas.

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  Border Security and Respect

  Communities along the border thrive because of our relationship with Mexico, yet our ties run deeper than trade and commerce. A safe and prosperous Mexico is a safe and prosperous Texas. The Federal government must do more to combat the flow drugs and weapons across our border. Cartel violence undercuts economic development and trade and is a real threat to our families. When Texans are threatened Texans respond. That’s one reason I’ve sought funding and manpower for local law enforcement, including more than $110 million each Legislative Session to protect our community and way of life.

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  Values and Independence

  I respect life. I respect the values of a community rooted in deep family traditions. I understand you want government to be honest and limited. I will stand up to political bullies, in whatever form they come. Our people and our community come first and I remain independent from the petty politics that has plagued Hidalgo County for far too long.