Reporting In On the Week

February 25, 2023

Monday was President’s Day, so we had somewhat of a shortened week of activities at the Texas Capitol.  Still, it was a busy and productive week with sessions on the Senate floor and meetings with numerous constituents and fellow Texans. 

Thursday’s Texas Legislative Prayer Breakfast

On Thursday morning, numerous elected officials, Capitol staffers and breakfast sponsors joined together for the Texas Legislative Prayer Breakfast, held during each legislative session. It was encouraging to see a huge turnout to hear from Pastor Tony Evans, who always delivers an inspirational, uplifting message. Pastor Evans discussed his book, “Kingdom Politics”, underscoring the need for those who impact public policy to adhere to Godly principles in political discourse. 

Dr. Tony Evans challenging us at the Texas Legislative Prayer Breakfast
This week I had the chance to meet with (L-R) Patrick Brophey of the North Texas Commission, Aledo ISD Superintendent Dr. Susan Bohn, and Aledo ISD Assistant Superintendent Kim Raymond

Mayor Mattie Parker at the Capitol

Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker made the rounds in the capitol on Wednesday. Mattie served as my Chief of Staff years ago when I served in the Texas House, and she does a great job on behalf of the interests of the fifth-largest city in Texas. Incidentally, Fort Worth is also one of the fastest growing cities in the nation. During a meeting with Mayor Parker and State Rep. Craig Goldman, we discussed issues important to business and families across Fort Worth.

Meeting with Mayor Mattie Parker and State Rep. Craig Goldman
(photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Report)

Recognizing Texas’ Strong Relationship with Israel 

As you know, I am a strong proponent of protecting, preserving and enhancing our relationship with Israel. In fact, in the past I have authored and passed legislation which protects Israel against unfair boycotts designed to weaken the only true democracy in the Middle East and America’s best partner in that hostile region. This week, I joined with Senator Charles Perry and other colleagues to sponsor SR 212, a resolution recognizing the organizers, supporters and attendees of the Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast taking place in Houston on Friday, February 24. This event also celebrates 2023 as the 75th anniversary of Israel. Being a faithful partner and friend to Israel is always in Texas’ best interest.

 Sen. Charles Perry, Sen. Donna Campbell and I met with leaders involved in the Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast

Fighting the Harmful “Woke” ESG Agenda with Texas RRC Commissioner Wayne Christian and Rep. Carrie Isaac

I recently had the opportunity to participate in a podcast with Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian and Rep. Carrie Isaac. We primarily discussed the “woke” ESG movement and its assault on Texas businesses whereby these ill-advised policies harm their ability to access capital. To listen to the podcast, click below.

 #4 – Texas State Senator Phil King & Representative Carrie Isaac by Waynes World: Energizing Texas

Arlington’s Chaplain Rich Stoglin Serves as Pastor of the Day

It was a pleasure to have Tarrant County Chaplain Rich Stoglin as Pastor of the Day for the Texas Senate. Every morning before we begin the business of the day, a pastor delivers the invocation. On Wednesday, Chaplain Stoglin led us in prayer. A proud veteran, Chaplain Stoglin is a retired Navy chaplain (having served 39 nations as a Senior Advisor), former Head of Religious Services in the Federal Bureau of Prisons within the U.S. Department of Justice, and current president of the Frederick Douglass Republicans of Tarrant County.  

Chaplain Rich Stoglin of Arlington, joined by his wife Reecia, in the Texas Senate on Wednesday

Other Highlights of the Week

  • Dr. Cory Hines, president of Howard Payne University (HPU), stopped by to bring me up to date on some of the latest developments at HPU, a private university in Brownwood with more than 1,100 students founded in 1889. Last fall, I visited the campus and met with community leaders from across Brown County. Did you know that Howard Payne University has satellite campuses in New Braunfels and El Paso?
  • I met with Charlie Gilchrist of Weatherford, who is the serving as current chairman of the Texas Auto Dealers Association. Charlie is a longtime friend whom I’ve known for many decades, and he briefed me on important legislation to provide additional protection and repair services needed for consumers.
  • On Tuesday night, Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn was in town and we were able to have dinner. We caught up on a number of subjects, including my appointment to the Border Security Committee. Sheriff Waybourn is a statewide leader in advocating for tough border security and it was good to get his counsel and input on these matters.
  • On Tuesday, representatives from Bell Helicopter, Gulfstream, and Lockheed Martin were in town as part of “Manufacturers Day”, sponsored by the Texas Association of Manufacturers (TAM). These companies employ thousands of people who reside in our district and provide a huge economic impact to the region. Texas remains the top exporting state in the nation for manufactured goods.

Looking Ahead
Next week, I will participate in the first hearings of the Education, Border Security and Criminal Justice committees. As always, you can view these and all committee hearings (either live, or catch the recordings afterwards) at this link: The Texas State Senate Committee Hearings 

To watch proceedings of your Texas State Senate when they are in session, use these links:
The Texas State Senate – Senate Live Broadcasts
The Texas State Senate – Senate Video Archives

And of course, next Thursday, March 2 is Texas Independence Day!  

Have a great weekend!