Jake Ellzey: “Thanks for sticking around. In July, I addressed the House floor with my version of a speech my childhood pastor would…”

“Thanks for sticking around. In July, I addressed the House floor with my version of a speech my childhood pastor would give every Sunday called ``Joys and Concerns.'' During this, he would highlight some of the remarkable things that members of the church were doing and some of their many accomplishments. He would also take this time to bring up prayer requests to unite as a congregation and to pray for our community and those in need. During my last speech, I followed his example, and I was able to bring attention to dozens of outstanding people living in Tarrant, Ellis, and Navarro Counties. I also asked those in this Chamber and across our Nation to join in prayer to help many who were struggling. Since that day, of course, a lot has happened, and my office has sent out hundreds of recognition letters across my district. Many constituents have written to my office to express their own joy or concern. So, today, I come before the House of Representatives to, once again, follow in my pastor's footsteps and do my own version of ``Joys and Concerns.'' I think it is only fitting to start with those who give so much to us each and every day. October 28 is the day we set aside each year to celebrate and thank our first responders. My district, District 6 of Texas, has 20 police departments, 13 fire departments, and 3 sheriff's offices, currently. In the new district, it will go to nine sheriff's offices.…”