Don't Mess with Texas Spirit on the World Stage

As the first Texan to chair the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I've brought the Texas motto "Don't mess with Texas" to the global stage, pushing back against adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Last month, I led a delegation to Taiwan, a key US partner for semiconductors, and gifted President Lai a Stetson hat, symbolizing Texas' strength. China responded with military posturing and sanctions. I also recently led a bipartisan trip to India, supporting the Tibetan people's right to self-determination and meeting with the Dalai Lama, despite CCP warnings and online attacks.

Standing with our allies and projecting strength matters. As President Reagan said, "We maintain the peace through our strength; weakness only invites aggression." I'm proud to represent Texas' spirit of independence and determination in my work on the world stage.

McCaul is a Republican and the US Congressman for Texas' 10th District. He chairs the House Foreign Affairs Committee. This piece is exclusive to the American-Statesman.