It’s safe to say that the first few months will be busy.

I arrived in Washington last month excited to serve and determined to get results. As the first Mexican-born naturalized American to represent, I pledged to uphold, protect and defend our Constitution.

Appointing Kevin McCarthy as speaker was an opportunity to tell my colleagues, and countless C-SPAN viewers, about the journey that took my family from Hermosillo to Congress in a single generation. USA! USA!” shouts. Messages from both sides of the aisle reminded us that the American Dream continues to inspire us all. The first time he joined Capitol Hill was as an intern in 2003, and the second time he joined the House of Representatives 20 years later. Where in the world can you find these opportunities? Nowhere else. That is why, more than ever, I am determined to fight for opportunity for all.

We got off to a fast start. The first bill we passed was aimed at House Democrats to spend her $72 billion on 87,000 new IRS agents. Given today’s cost of living, an army of new IRS agents harassing small businesses and taxpayers is the last thing we need.

Another notable legislative success was the introduction of legislation to facilitate the recruitment of former law enforcement and veterans as CBP agents and employees. This bill will play a key role in addressing the number one concern of voters in southeastern Arizona: the border crisis.

The really big win for our region is Appropriations and Veterans Affairs, the committee I was appointed by my colleagues.

As the only Arizona member to serve on the Appropriations Committee, I know this is a great opportunity to defend our priorities and make sure our voices are heard in discussions about government funding. The hardworking families in my district need to know that their tax dollars are being spent responsibly and efficiently, and that is my number one goal.

At the Veterans Affairs Commission, we strongly advocate women and men who are willing to make the greatest sacrifices for their safety, security, and freedom. Ensuring that veterans and their families have adequate access to benefits and services is always a top priority.

It was an honor to host our first district meeting in Benson and participate in economic development discussions with the Southeast Arizona Economic Development Group. Later that same day, I was at Casa Grande to meet with Mayor Craig McFarland and other Pinal County leaders to help build the much-needed Interstate 10 expansion and bring it to life. We discussed how we can work together to help.

Working together is essential. That is why I asked her 40 people from across the 6th Congressional District to serve on the Citizens Advisory Committee. This group of Republicans, Democrats, and independents in her five counties in this district are united in their mission to deliver results, and I rely on their advice and guidance to reach my goals. increase.

The Spanish-language response to the State of the Union address on February 7 provided an opportunity to emphasize principles that I believe are important in pursuing the goals and values ​​we hold dear in AZ-06. You can’t complain about problems or talk about what’s wrong. Pointing the finger and blaming the “other side” without offering another solution will get us nowhere. An optimistic, positive and action-oriented vision is essential for our country. The American Dream is about what is possible. Building a better future for our children and grandchildren.

This was at the heart of my message when I greeted Speaker McCarthy on his first border visit in Cochise County with three of my House colleagues. Our border communities cannot have a better future unless we get serious about strengthening border security. We are Republican and Democratic elected leaders, ranchers and law enforcement , speaking to members of the community, it is clear that the Biden administration can no longer ignore the issue. The threat posed by illegal drugs like fentanyl and human trafficking cannot be overstated, and this Congress will address it.

The other thing that has to be dealt with is government spending and exploding national debt. But as we grapple with these issues, I want to reaffirm the pledge I made months ago to protect Social Security and Medicare. Reducing or weakening these programs is out of consideration. it won’t happen. We made this promise to our seniors. They have received these benefits.

I am very excited about what the future holds and am honored to represent our community in Congress. is also where he is raising his six children. This community means everything to me and I will continue to fight for us every day.