A Solemn Week for Our Nation

Remembering 9/11 - We Will Never Forget

Texas Insider Report WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last Thursday marked 24 years since the horrific terrorist attack on September 11, 2001, that took nearly 3,000 American lives.

I will never forget that harrowing day and the inspirational response of first responders who ran into burning buildings, administered aid in the midst of the chaos, and pulled people from the rubble.

Our nation is forever indebted to them and to the courageous passengers on flight 93 who stormed the cockpit to prevent the plane from hitting its intended target: the Capitol.

This year, I was honored to visit New York again and place flowers at the Ground Zero memorial site in honor of the victims and the heroes that emerged on that fateful day.

I also attended a ceremony at Ten House, the site of the first fire station to respond to the 9/11 attacks. These brave firefighters charged into danger without consideration for their own lives, and five of them perished in the collapse and rubble. Their heroism and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
 
Mourning the Loss of Charlie Kirk
I was horrified and deeply saddened to learn about Charlie Kirk's assassination. This kind of sickening political violence has no place in our nation and must be fully condemned by leaders across the political spectrum. I'm extremely grateful the Trump administration worked around the clock to bring the suspect into custody, and I look forward to justice being served in his case.

Charlie's death is a horrific loss. He leaves behind a beautiful family — his cherished wife and two young children who should not have to grow up without their father. He also leaves behind a big legacy as a man who inspired a generation of young Republicans. He thoughtfully debated those who disagreed with him and devoted himself to changing hearts and minds toward conservative values.

In my weekly prayer group with Speaker Johnson on Thursday, the speaker talked about turning down the temperature and coming together to heal the wounds of this nation.

In the wake of so much tragedy, Americans must unite, denounce violence, and learn how to do what Charlie did — to engage respectfully with those who disagree with us, and to see one another first and foremost as fellow human beings.

I hope you will join me in praying for Charlie's loved ones — and for our nation — in this harrowing moment.
 

Oversight of Security Preparations for the FIFA World Cup
On my way back from New York, I visited New Jersey's MetLife stadium, where the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held, with a bipartisan group of my colleagues on the Homeland Security Committee.

As the chairman of the Task Force on Securing the Homeland Amidst Special Events, I'm working to prevent future terror attacks on U.S. soil and ensure the safety of all who attend our upcoming mass spectator events. Site visits like these provide crucial opportunities for our task force members to speak with officials on the ground, furthering our oversight efforts of security preparations for these important games.

On our visit, we were joined by New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s son, Andrew Giuliani, who is leading the White House’s task force. I look forward to continuing to work with him and the Trump administration to ensure the games demonstrate the United States' global leadership and commitment to excellence, while providing a safe and fun experience for all.