Representative Brian Babin

The State of the Union is STRONG

Dear [salutation],

The State of the Union is strong, and getting stronger.

President Trump delivered a powerful America First address outlining bold accomplishments and a vision rooted in security, prosperity, and strength. When we put hardworking Americans first, our nation thrives, and East Texas families feel the difference.

This year’s address wasn’t just about policy. It was about people. American heroes whose courage reminds us who we are. Perhaps no moment captured the spirit of the evening more than the recognition of E. Royce Williams, a 100-year-old veteran of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. For decades, he quietly carried the secret of one of the most heroic aerial battles in American history, one American pilot taking on seven enemy jets. After a lifetime of humility, our nation finally said thank you.

The State of the Union honored a remarkable slate of heroes whose stories remind us who we are as a nation:

• Eric Slover, who led a daring operation abroad and sustained gunfire while maneuvering his aircraft to complete the mission and protect his team.

• Andrew Wolfe and Sarah Beckstrom, honored for their bravery and sacrifice in the line of duty.

• Scott Ruskan, who rescued 165 girls during devastating Texas floods in his very first rescue operation. These stories define the American spirit. They represent courage under fire, sacrifice for others, and faith in something greater than ourselves.

But the strength of our Union is not just measured in heroism; it is measured in results. In just one year, House Republicans working alongside President Trump have delivered real wins for the American people:

• Working Families Tax Cuts are putting more money back in your pocket, with refunds up and 100% expensing for American-made equipment and manufacturing.

• Inflation is down significantly from Biden-era highs, easing pressure on groceries, gas, and mortgages.

• American energy dominance restored by reversing burdensome regulations and unleashing domestic production.

• Small business expensing doubled to fuel local hiring and growth.

• The SAVE America Act was passed in the House to require proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections.

• And most importantly, our border is secure because the laws are finally being enforced.

The laws didn’t change. Leadership did. East Texans believe in faith, freedom, hard work, and the rule of law. That’s exactly what this America First agenda stands for. We are restoring strength at home, respect abroad, and opportunity for the next generation. America’s best days are still ahead.

Operation Epic Fury

Yesterday, in the early hours of the morning, President Trump addressed the nation to announce Operation Epic Fury. The operation eliminated Iran’s Supreme Leader and dismantled the command structure responsible for decades of aggression against the United States and our allies. This was not a symbolic action. It was a clear and calculated move to neutralize a growing threat before it could endanger American lives.

Operation Epic Fury marks a turning point in the fight against the Iranian regime. With the elimination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, there is a sigh of relief for Americans, for the Iranian people who have endured decades of oppression, and for freedom-loving people around the world.

For more than 40 years, this evil regime chanted “Death to America,” funded terrorist proxies, attacked our troops, and plotted against our allies. But they also brutalized their own citizens, killing tens of thousands of Iranians who dared to protest and ask for the most basic freedoms. The ayatollahs ruled through fear, bloodshed, and repression.

That era has come to an end.

America does not wait for permission to defend itself. Under Article II of the Constitution, the President has both the authority and the solemn duty to protect this nation. President Trump chose strength. He chose security. He chose to act before a nuclear threat became a nuclear catastrophe.

The days ahead will require vigilance, resolve, and prayer. The Middle East will face uncertainty, and bad actors will test our strength. But the United States will not waver. We will stand with our allies, protect our homeland, and support the Iranian people’s long-overdue hope for freedom.

America stands strong. America stands resolute. And America will always defend liberty.

Survey Question:

After watching the State of the Union, how do you feel about the direction of our country?

Confident. America is back on track!

Hopeful, but watching closely.

Not Confident

Sincerely,

Rep. Brian Babin