As our nation mourns the passing of President George H. W. Bush, we reflect on his steadfast devotion to his faith, family, and country. In this time of increased political divisiveness, the legacy of our nation’s 41st President serves as a timely reminder of an era when we were able to put aside our differences... Read More

With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror, the excitement of the Christmas season begins.  Whether it’s attending one of our many Christmas parades across East Texas, witnessing the lighting of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Pumping Unit, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the season, there’s no shortage of activities to keep us busy.  Amidst all... Read More

With Election Day behind us, I want to convey my sincere appreciation to all of the people in House District 57 that have entrusted me to once again serve as your State Representative. It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as a voice at our Texas Capitol for those of us who are... Read More

With temperatures dropping across the state, it’s important that we keep in mind our fellow Texans who are without food, shelter, and clothing. We are so blessed to live in communities that help organize programs aimed at providing these basic necessities to the less-fortunate, and I want to encourage you and your family to seek... Read More

With cooler weather and our communities bustling with autumn activity, I wanted to take a moment to remind you that Election Day is quickly approaching. Early Voting for the November 6th election will begin on October 22nd, so please don’t forget to exercise your right to vote and have your voice heard. Should you have... Read More

The official onset of the Fall season brings about an exciting time of year in our communities. From homecoming rallies and football games, fall festivals, and canned food drives, to crisp early mornings in the deer stand. I hope you’ll take some time in the coming weeks and months to breathe in the autumn air,... Read More

I want to start this column by extending my sincere gratitude to all of the brave men and women who serve as first responders. As we recently reflected on that solemn September morning over 17 years ago, we remember those who lost their lives to save the lives of countless others. God bless their sacrifice,... Read More

The month of September is one of my favorite months. Though the summer heat still lingers, crowded football stadiums, evening dove hunts, and Friday morning pep rallies signal the coming of a new season. While we eagerly await cooler temperatures, I hope you and your family will take part in some of the many activities... Read More

As some long-awaited rain poured into the rivers and lakes across our region, our students are once again pouring into the hallways and classrooms of schools across the state. With the new school year upon us, I hope you’ll take a moment to thank the teachers, faculty, and administrators who have been working diligently to... Read More

AUSTIN – State Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) joined dozens of legislators in two letters to the Texas Sunset Commission, expressing concern over the proposal to close 87 Department of Public Safety (DPS) offices around the state. In the letters, lawmakers noted that the Commission staff recommendation places an unfair burden on rural communities, as the... Read More