Every Fourth of July, as fireworks burst across the sky, I’m reminded of the promise and possibility that define America. My story is one of legal immigration, hard work, and a deep love for America—a story that could only happen here. I came to the United States legally, picking cotton and onions in the fields of South Texas. Through faith and determination, I became a member of Congress. Only in America can a girl from those fields rise to serve her nation in such a way. My journey began with my parents, who instilled in me the value of perseverance and the belief that America rewards those who work tirelessly for their dreams. They came here legally, too, seeking a better life, and their sacrifices laid the foundation for my success. This is the America I cherish, and this Independence Day, I want to share why it means so much to me and so many others.
When I look at the protests that sometimes mark this holiday, I’m struck by who’s out there. Most aren’t immigrants—they’re often native-born Americans caught up in far-left ideas that reject the values that built this nation. I see it differently. I came here legally, with a heart full of gratitude, ready to embrace every opportunity America offers. Like so many legal immigrants, I don’t take this country for granted. We love it for what it is—a place of freedom, hope, and possibility.
For me, and for countless Hispanic Americans, our values are American values: faith, family, and hard work. These are the same conservative principles that founded this country and still guide us today. In Texas, where I’m from, Mexican Americans have woken up to the truth. The Democrat Party thought our growing numbers would turn Texas blue, but they were wrong. We saw through their lies and manipulation. We saw our grandparents’ values—hard work, faith, and family—embraced by the Republican Party and rejected by the Democrats. That’s why Texas is redder than ever, and why places like Florida have become GOP strongholds.
As Ronald Reagan once said, and as President Trump proved this past election, “Hispanics are Republican…we just didn’t know it.” I believe in growing the Republican Party by earning more Hispanic votes every cycle. Success comes from shared values and strong principles—not identity politics. If we want to win, we must keep building and uniting. Hispanics don’t need convincing to be pro-God, pro-life, and pro-family—these are who we are. The Republican Party is the home of hardworking men and women, and I’m dedicating my life to making it stronger.
But there’s a challenge we can’t ignore. In places like New York City, we see figures like Zohran Mamdani. His immigrant status isn’t the problem—his anti-American, communist values are. And the bigger issue isn’t just him; it’s the thousands of native-born Americans who agree with him, along with the endorsements he gets. This tells me we’re not doing enough to teach our kids to love this country. As a mom of four, this hits close to home. Patriotism isn’t something kids are born with—it’s taught. It’s infectious. We need to raise our children to cherish America’s greatness, to understand why so many of us fought to be here.
What makes America so special? It’s the social mobility and security that draw people from all over the world. It’s the chance to work hard and build a better life. Legal immigrants like me came here because we believe in that promise. I ran for Congress to protect it—not just for myself, but for my kids and for generations to come. If you’re an immigrant who doesn’t value our way of life, why stay? I love this country so much that I’ve devoted my life to preserving the American Dream.
This Fourth of July let’s celebrate what makes America extraordinary. Let’s teach our children to honor the sacrifices of those who built this nation. Let’s keep working for our families and future generations, ensuring America remains a land of opportunity and freedom. This is a beautiful country, and I’m so grateful to call it home.
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