Newsletter: Energy, Water & the Bible

Federal Support for TX-27 Water and Energy

As Vice Chair of the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, I had the opportunity to question federal officials—including Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Adam Telle, Commanding General of the Army Corps of Engineers Lt. Gen. Graham, and others—about critical projects in the Coastal Bend during Appropriations budget hearings last week.

Secretary Wright, in his remarks, reemphasized the importance of TX-27, stating, “Corpus is absolutely essential. Not only for American energy production, but of course it is our biggest gateway to ship crude oil abroad, and a huge gateway to ship LNG abroad.” 

Later last week, I spoke with Army Corps officials about progress on the Matagorda Ship Channel Improvement project, which would drastically increase operational efficiencies and economic development of the Coastal Bend once completed. Lt. Gen. Graham with the Army Corps of Engineers provided a commitment that this project will meet an important July deadline which will open the door for Congress to reauthorize the project and provide necessary funding. 

During this same hearing, the Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the Department of the Interior acknowledged a recent application from the City of Corpus Christi for desalination funding, stating that the ongoing water crisis and desalination efforts are a top priority for the Department of the Interior. 

The message from these federal officials was clear. The Coastal Bend is leading the charge in fueling the rest of the world, and because of that, this Administration is prioritizing projects across our district to help ensure the region continues to thrive.

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America Reads the Bible

It was an honor this weekend to participate in America Reads the Bible, a weeklong event of nearly 500 participants reading the entire Bible aloud. This event is bringing together hundreds of faith ministers and community leaders to help inspire our nation back to its spiritual foundations ahead of America’s 250th Birthday.

I had the privilege of reading Genesis 9–11 in the opening hours of the reading, sharing a passage that reflects God’s faithfulness in establishing His covenant with His people. In these chapters, we are reminded of God’s promises, mercy, and desire for a lasting relationship with humanity, laying a foundation that continues to guide and shape us today.

More than any other source, our Founders cited Scripture as the source for the principles upon which our nation was established. This week-long event is a powerful reminder that the Bible is not only the bedrock of our free society, but also that the Word of God continues to guide us as a people. 

Daily readings are scheduled from 9 am to 9 pm and will run through April 25, with readings taking place at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. Click here to register and watch along this proclamation of God’s Word. 

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Accountability for Members of Congress

In recent years, allegations have surfaced regarding widespread abuse and chaos from members of Congress, most recently resulting in resignations from multiple House members. 

While public reporting and Congressional investigations have helped provide accountability for these specific instances, under the current framework, Members of Congress can still exploit their positions and cover-up abuses of power without the American people knowing. 

Because of this, last week, I joined in support of a resolution that would require Members of Congress who use taxpayer money to settle misconduct lawsuits to be publicly exposed, specifically by requiring lawmakers to stand in the center of the House floor while the clerk reads the details of the settlement aloud. The American People deserve accountability when Members abuse their position, especially when tax dollars are used to process the settlements.

This comes after recent efforts were made by Members of the House to expose all the names of individuals with allegations against them to the general public. While I supported the calls for increased accountability, these changes would’ve included releasing unverified “alleged violations” —even false ones. This runs contrary to due process — a principle rooted in Scripture long before it was codified in law.

H.Res. 1164 is rooted in real accountability and transparency, while honoring due process and protecting victims.

I am happy to support this resolution that gets it right. 

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Art Competition Voting is Now Live

Thank you to the more than 50 high schoolers across TX-27 who submitted artwork to my office for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition.

Voting is now live for the People’s Choice Award. The top two pieces will be displayed in our District Offices for the next year. Cast your vote here. 

Voting will close on April 27th at 11:59pm. 

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In the Media

Washington Watch: Rep. Cloud Discusses FISA, DHS, and America Reads the Bible

Newsmax: Rep. Cloud Discusses Iran and FISA on Wake Up America

God Bless,

Michael Cloud
Member of Congress