Gabe Vasquez: Why 'I Continue To Be Troubled' Since Beginning Time In Congress

As I stand before you today, I am proud to represent the vibrant and diverse state of New Mexico, specifically the Second District. This district is not only home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country but also to the hardest working people, the best Chile, and a rich bi-national culture. New Mexico is my home, it is where I grew up, where I hunted and fished, and where I went to school. It is a place that has given me countless opportunities.

However, in my short time here in Congress, I have become increasingly troubled. It has become clear to me that Congress is not prioritizing the needs of constituents like mine and their families. And I am determined to change that.

The Real Issues That Matter

It is disheartening to see members of Congress from urban communities celebrate lower gas prices while residents in my rural community still pay 35 cents more than the national average. It is difficult to join in the celebration of poverty reduction when we are not having meaningful conversations about the child tax credit or the fact that one in four children in my district are living in poverty. And it is frustrating to spend my time voting on messaging bills while residents in our tribal communities still have to haul water to their homes.

We must do better for the American people. We must tackle the real issues that impact our communities. It's time to stop bickering over matters that don't move the ball forward. It's time to fix what's wrong.

From Working Hard to Hardly Making Ends Meet

I know firsthand what it's like to work hard and still struggle to get ahead. Since I was old enough to work, I've always had a job. But I have never had the luxury of financial wealth. I've bagged groceries, worked the drive-through at a fast-food restaurant, sold vacuum cleaners door to door, painted houses, and even worked at a chili factory. All of this was to make a living and eventually pay my way through college.

But for too many New Mexicans, working hard is not enough to pay the bills. They feel like the goalposts just keep moving on them, and they look to us for help. Yet, instead of addressing their needs, Congress often gets caught up in pointless debates. This is wrong, and it's time for a change.

Unleashing New Mexico's Potential

New Mexico is a state rich in culture, pride, and history. It is part of the American story. Unfortunately, it is often forgotten. But too many New Mexicans are struggling. Our rivers are drying up, our agricultural industry is declining, housing costs are rising, and healthcare is becoming more and more unaffordable and out of reach.

Washington must pay attention to districts like mine. They must see the potential that New Mexico holds. We have a robust energy industry that supports thousands of good-paying jobs. But we also have high rates of respiratory disease in frontline communities, substandard living conditions, and little accountability for polluting industries.

Additionally, New Mexico plays a vital role in our national security, from expansive missile testing ranges to critical training grounds. Yet, we lack the necessary investments in housing, education, and transportation services to give our service men and women the quality of life they deserve.

It is time for Washington to stop forgetting about communities like mine and start investing in our future.

Making a Promise to My Constituents

I am here in Congress to fix the inequities that have plagued my district for far too long. These inequities are not just numbers on a page; they are felt by the people I represent. And I am committed to making a change.

I ask for your help and support in focusing on the issues that truly matter to the American people. Let's not leave behind the veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving this country. Let's provide federal funding for our rural communities, ensuring that every New Mexican has access to high-speed broadband and quality healthcare. Let's make sure that those relying on SNAP have access to healthy and nutritious food.

I am fighting for the fair share that the Second District of New Mexico deserves. In every room I enter, every meeting I attend, and every vote I cast, I will make sure that the voice of the great Second District is heard in the halls of Congress.

I urge my colleagues to join me in prioritizing the real issues that matter to the American people. It is time to put aside partisan bickering and focus on making a positive impact on the lives of our constituents.

With that, I yield back the balance of my time.

Conclusion

It is time for change. It is time for Congress to prioritize the needs of hardworking Americans and their families. Let's stop celebrating superficial victories and start addressing the real issues that impact our communities. New Mexico deserves better, and I am committed to fighting for that change. Together, let's make sure that the voice of the Second District is heard loud and clear in the halls of Congress.