Austin News

Texas has experienced various forms of extreme weather, but in the wake of Hurricane Beryl, Texans have united to assist those affected. Efforts are underway across Houston, East Texas, and the Coastal Bend to ensure communities have necessary resources for recovery. Senator Ted Cruz and his team have been collaborating with local officials and emergency responders along Texas' Gulf Coast.

After traveling to Washington, D.C., Cruz continued addressing issues affecting Texans. He and Senator John Cornyn held discussions with CenterPoint Energy regarding ongoing electric outages impacting hundreds of thousands of customers in Houston.

"My hometown of Houston was hit tremendously hard by Hurricane Beryl," said Cruz. "Several Houstonians lost their lives due to this storm. Amid this tragedy, there is one thing I know for certain—Texans are strong and we will rebuild together." Cruz joined Houston Mayor John Whitmire, Rep. Al Green, and local officials at the Emergency Management Center to encourage residents to stay safe.

Cruz expressed condolences: "For [the Houstonians who lost their lives], we grieve for them and we pray for their families... We're grateful for the professionalism of this team [and] we will work hand-in-hand...to ensure that federal resources are made available to help with the rebuild."

In Jamaica Beach, Cruz met with police officers and local leaders discussing recovery efforts. He recounted a visit with a woman whose home was struck by a tornado during the hurricane: "[While in Jamaica Beach, I visited] with a woman who was in her home when a tornado struck... She called 911, and in less than a minute, the Jamaica Beach police were there."

Cruz also visited Galveston County Emergency Management Center alongside Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick to assess damage and discuss federal disaster declarations. "One of the incredible things about Texans is that when we face a crisis...we come together," he stated.

Further assessments took place at Brazoria County Emergency Operations Center where Cruz pledged continued support.

Last month in Houston, 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray was sexually assaulted and murdered by two illegal aliens. In response, Cruz introduced the Justice for Jocelyn Act alongside Rep. Troy Nehls to mandate full use of ICE detention beds before releasing illegal aliens into communities.

"No parent should have to experience what happened to that little girl," said Cruz. "This horrific murder [occurred because] two illegal immigrants...were let go... The Justice for Jocelyn Act prevents the federal government from doing that."

Cruz emphasized unity among Texans: "Rest assured, as Texans we always come together to help one another."