Austin News

America's reliance on foreign manufacturing for advanced semiconductors poses a risk to national security and economic stability, according to a recent statement. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) highlighted the issue, emphasizing the importance of microchips in various devices from cell phones to military weapons. To address this dependency, Cruz collaborated with Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) on bipartisan legislation designed to expedite the construction of semiconductor manufacturing plants by streamlining environmental reviews and permits.

"This week, our legislation cleared the House after unanimously passing the Senate last December, and it’s now headed to the President’s desk for signature," stated Cruz. He added that this initiative would enhance technological independence and create tens of thousands of jobs in Texas while attracting significant investments.

In other legislative news, Cruz discussed his efforts regarding the TAKE IT DOWN Act aimed at protecting victims of AI-generated explicit imagery. The bill faced opposition from Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), which Cruz criticized as a setback for victims of sextortion and revenge porn.

“I certainly hope that the Senator from New Jersey doesn’t actually believe that realistic child pornography... is protected speech under any of our legal precedents,” Cruz remarked. He cited cases involving teenagers like Francesca Mani, Elliston Berry, and Gavin Guffey who could be affected by such issues without legislative protection.

Cruz also questioned Judge Anthony Brindisi during a Senate Judiciary Committee session concerning his nomination for a lifetime court appointment. Cruz expressed concerns about Brindisi's record on issues related to gender identity and women's sports.

“You were a Congressman from 2019 to 2021... you were the original co-sponsor of...the Equality Act,” said Cruz. He argued that Brindisi's support for allowing biological men in women's sports and locker rooms was problematic.

Cruz concluded his statement by reaffirming his commitment to preserving democracy and encouraged constituents to stay engaged through events like Texas Tuesday with Team Cruz.

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