• Jobs Fair Connects Many
    Nov 16, 2011  - Before the opening of the jobs fair I recently hosted with Workforce Solutions Alamo at the Live Oak Civic Center, people began lining up outside. By the 9 a.m. start time, the line was wrapped around the civic center and had wound back on itself. Visiting with the men and women of all ages, backgro... More
  • 21st District Job Fair
    Oct 31, 2011  - In these difficult economic times, too many Americans are still looking for work. In September, San Antonio’s unemployment rate hit 7.9 percent – the highest it has been in at least 21 years. I am hosting a job fair in cooperation with Workforce Solutions Alamo to help connect job seekers in the 21s... More
  • An Important November Election -- This Year
    Oct 17, 2011  - You and I have an opportunity this fall to weigh in on changes proposed to the state’s constitution. State lawmakers meet in regular session in each odd-numbered year. During this time, they often propose changes to the Texas Constitution, the document of highest law within the Lone Star State. Stat... More
  • The Importance of Space Exploration
    Oct 6, 2011  - Last week, I had the privilege of visiting with students at two schools in the 21st district to discuss space exploration and the importance of science education. I was with NASA Astronaut Andy Thomas, who has spent over 177 days in space. We spoke to more than 700 students at Sam Houston High Schoo... More
  • Securing Our Economic Future
    Jul 15, 2011  - The month of June brought another disappointing jobs report. Our country’s unemployment rate rose to 9.2 percent. Unemployment now has been above 8 percent for 29 straight months. The unemployment rate has not been above 8 percent for this long since the Great Depression. The ongoing negotiations ov... More
  • Helping America's Job Creators
    May 31, 2011  - It is no surprise that the majority of Texans say the top issues facing the United States today are the economy, federal spending and unemployment, according to a recent University of Texas/Texas Tribune poll. House Republicans have been working hard to create an environment for job creation and eco... More
  • Making the Most of our Energy Resources
    May 6, 2011  - By Congressman Lamar Smith Special to the Herald-Zeitung Americans are tired of the Obama Administration's energy policies that hinder domestic oil and natural gas production. This month, the House of Representatives plans to consider three bills to ensure that we make the most of our domestic ener... More
  • Energy Solutions
    Mar 16, 2011  - The recent surge in gas prices puts an added strain on families and small businesses already struggling in this difficult economic climate. To address our energy needs and decrease our dependence on foreign oil, there are steps the U.S. can take immediately to protect ourselves from future energy pr... More
  • My Priorities for the New Congress
    Dec 9, 2010  - When the new Congress convenes in January, it will bring many changes to Washington. One change for me personally will be to serve as Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee. Established in 1813, the House Judiciary Committee is the second oldest committee in Congress. Its jurisdiction often plac... More
  • A Call to Service
    Oct 8, 2010  - Every year, many students across the 21st district apply for the opportunity to attend one of our nation’s distinguished military service academies. It is an honor for me to nominate the outstanding young people who are interested in pursuing their education at one of these academies. I am always in... More