Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), will host a virtual press conference on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM ET (10:00 AM CT) to confront what he describes as “a critical moment for our country.” The event, billed as Conversations with Cuellar, will bring to the forefront the looming government shutdown, sweeping cuts in federal services, and challenges at the U.S.-Mexico border.
With government funding set to expire the same day, Cuellar warned of dire consequences if Congress fails to pass a continuing resolution. “Without immediate action, millions of Americans will see health care costs rise, essential services gutted, and local communities forced to shoulder the fallout,” he said in a statement released ahead of the event.
According to congressional estimates, failure to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits could affect more than 22 million Americans nationwide. The average enrollee could face cost hikes of more than 75 percent, with 4 million losing coverage within the first year. In South Texas, the impact would be particularly acute: 55,000 residents risk losing Medicaid coverage, while another 113,000 could see their premiums increase significantly.
The recently signed partisan budget bill has drawn sharp criticism for its reductions to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), veterans’ services, and other critical programs. “South Texas families, students, seniors, and veterans cannot afford these cuts,” Cuellar emphasized. “We are fighting to protect the services that hold our communities together.”
Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, is expected to outline steps he and his colleagues are pursuing to shield vulnerable populations from the fallout of the budget law. His office confirmed that the press conference will also address ongoing challenges at the southern border, including migration pressures and security concerns, while underscoring priorities such as trade, infrastructure, education, and childcare.
The high-stakes briefing comes amid escalating partisan clashes in Washington over spending priorities. Analysts warn that a prolonged shutdown could disrupt federal agencies, delay pay for service members, and interrupt programs relied on by millions of Americans. Cuellar’s office emphasized that the event will be recorded, with media participation encouraged.
“Families should not have to worry about losing health care or food assistance because of Washington gridlock,” Cuellar said. “We need solutions that put people first.”
