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Dear Neighbor,
I hope you are enjoying a relaxing Labor Day Weekend! Throughout the August District Work Period, I’ve had the opportunity to travel across our community, listening to your concerns, answering your questions, and learning more about how I can better serve you in Washington. These visits allow me to stay grounded in the issues that matter most to the hardworking people of our district. Continue reading to learn more about my efforts on your behalf.
Setting the Record Straight: Throughout my visits in the community over the past month, it has been clear that many constituents have been confused by misinformation surrounding the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. I’m proud to set the record straight on how this landmark legislation delivers real results for families and small businesses—without touching Medicare or Social Security. It also strengthens support for our most vulnerable Americans. Check out my editorial in the Tampa Bay Times to learn more.
Community engagement remains a cornerstone of my work. I hosted several Coffee with Your Congressman listening sessions to hear directly from constituents. Thank you to the residents of Sugarmill Woods in Citrus County for a very lively discussion. We explored how the One Big Beautiful Bill supports struggling families and the importance of giving businesses more certainty in today’s economy.
Continuing the dialogue, another great session took place with residents of Crystal River Village. We had meaningful conversations about the bill’s positive impact and local concerns that I’ll be taking back to Washington. Your voices are making a difference.
While traveling the district, I’ve also heard directly from hospitality workers who say the new law eliminating taxes on tips is making a real difference in their lives. Check out their stories here.
Similarly, hourly workers and first responders have shared how removing taxes on overtime pay will help them make ends meet—especially during tough times. Here are just a few of their powerful stories.
Supporting job creators is key to a strong economy. I had the opportunity to tour G&H, a cutting-edge company in Trinity making major strides in health, aerospace, and military technology. They’re creating good jobs for our region—and looking to grow in Pasco County. I explained how provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill can help them do just that, and I look forward to helping them expand and succeed!
Improving Public Safety: I also met with Citrus County Sheriff David Vincent to discuss reauthorizing the FirstNet program—a vital tool that ensures first responders have reliable communication during and after emergencies. Supporting public safety remains a top priority.
Addressing Flooding Problems: In addition to public safety and economic relief, I’m working to address long-standing infrastructure issues. I recently met with officials from Pasco County and Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) to discuss the urgent need to re-engage the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the long-dormant Four Rivers Basin Project, originally authorized by Congress in the 1960s. With recurring flooding in Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus counties, it’s time for action. I’m proud to lead a joint effort among our delegation to move this critical project forward.
Helping Our Heroes: I enjoyed meeting with Jerry Shaffer and Mike Constantine, two dedicated advocates working to make a meaningful difference in the lives of fellow Veterans facing mental health challenges. Jerry is the founder of the Red Star Organization, which is committed to one vital mission: preventing suicide within the Veteran community. I’m grateful for their passion, leadership, and tireless efforts to support those who have served our nation.
Protecting Children and Seniors: As we continue strengthening families and protecting children, I’m especially grateful for the support of dedicated Pasco County PTA leaders! We’re working to give parents the tools they need to keep their kids safe online. Read more about the App Store Accountability Act here.
I also had a great conversation with my friend and community advocate Amanda Murphy about how Congress can better protect seniors from fraud and scams. Her insights—and the valuable feedback I’ve received from thousands of constituents this month—are helping shape my work in Washington.
Community Connection
I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. As part of my commitment to developing a better understanding of the issues facing constituents in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties, members of my team attended several events last week. Here are a few highlights.
My team had the opportunity to learn from an inspiring group of women during the Resilient Women of Hernando County’s August workshop. These incredible leaders are dedicated to empowering others, fostering confidence, and helping women throughout our community reach their highest potential. We’re grateful for their passion, strength, and commitment to building a brighter future for all.
My team was also honored to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for Citrus County Habitat for Humanity—a powerful celebration of community, compassion, and new beginnings. This milestone marks another step toward providing safe, affordable housing for hardworking families in our area. We’re proud to support the mission of Habitat for Humanity and the incredible impact they continue to make in Citrus County.
Additionally, my team joined in celebrating the success of local entrepreneurs at a Networking for Chickens event—an inspiring gathering designed to empower local management professionals to explore franchise ownership opportunities through the Chick-fil-A organization. It was a great opportunity to support homegrown talent and highlight pathways to business leadership and economic growth in our community.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message from a constituent after helping her with an IRS problem.
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you! |