News
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher defeats Republican challenger Wesley Hunt
U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, once seen as one of the most vulnerable Democrats in Congress, won her first re-election battle in a one-time Republican stronghold in west Houston. READ MORE
Posted by Ben Wermund on November 06, 2020
Campaigns try to reach Election Day voters after record early voting
On the final Saturday before Election Day, U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher corralled campaign volunteers ahead of one of their final text- and phone-banking sessions. The freshman Democrat’s campaign has relied heavily on those efforts amid the coronavirus pandemic, and campaign officials said Saturday that they’d sent more than a half-million texts and placed the same number of calls to potential voters. READ MORE
Posted by Robert Downen and Alejandro Serrano on October 31, 2020
Texas Is a Tossup. So Why Won’t Trump or Biden Campaign There?
Last week, Representative Lizzie Fletcher showed off the county’s main voting hub near the Astrodome and its even larger successor, NRG Stadium, pointing to the rows of drop-off tents set up in its sprawling parking lot and explaining why turnout in the city was boding well for Mr. Biden. “The divisive nature of the politics that we’re seeing in the Trump era — that’s a hallmark of his style — is not our style here,” said Ms. Fletcher, a Democrat who in 2018 captured a long-held Republican seat representing some of Houston’s toniest neighborhoods, precincts where Biden signs are far more common than Trump signs. READ MORE
Posted by Jonathan Martin on October 29, 2020
Democrats in U.S. drilling states push back against Biden oil remarks
U.S. Representative Lizzie Fletcher, a Democrat running for re-election in Houston, the capital of the U.S. oil industry, said in a statement that Biden’s comments “fail to address the complexity of our energy needs and plan for our future.” READ MORE
Posted by Nichola Groom on October 23, 2020
In Texas’ 7th Congressional District, Fletcher shrugs off Hunt’s late fundraising surge
Fletcher, a Houston Democrat who unseated Republican John Culberson in 2018, entered her first re-election cycle widely viewed as one of the country’s most vulnerable House members. Now in the homestretch, she expressed confidence in winning another term in the once-reliably Republican district. “I hear from Republicans in the middle that they feel politically homeless right now,” Fletcher said. “What they want is responsible governance and what they see is that is what Democrats are doing.” READ MORE
Posted by Jasper Scherer, Jeremy Wallace on October 23, 2020
Undecided Latina Voters In Texas Weigh Their Options Ahead Of 2020 Election
Manrique de Henning — who immigrated to the U.S. nearly two decades ago and runs the nonprofit Saludos Connection to help people from her home country of Venezuela — said she was also grateful to see the administration’s stance on the conflict there, which led to more international aid. In the U.S., Manrique de Henning considers herself center-left: She said she'll vote for congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, a Houston Democrat, but she's just not sure about Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden. READ MORE
Posted by Elizabeth Trovall on October 21, 2020
Una congresista demócrata ocupa el distrito de Bush Padre en Houston: ¿podrá recuperarlo el GOP en noviembre?
Lizzie Fletcher, una demócrata de 45 años, obtuvo una de las victorias más simbólicas para los demócratas hace dos años en este distrito, la primera para su partido en 52 años. Simbólica porque el congresista del GOP que inició esa hegemonía de medio siglo era el patriarca de la dinastía que quizá es uno de los mayores símbolos del orgullo republicano texano: George H. W. Bush. Fletcher, abogada de profesión, se enfrenta al republicano Wesley Hunt, un afroamericano y veterano, ya retirado del Ejército. “Fletcher tiene la ventaja de ser la representante actual. Tiene un perfil que encuadra muy bien con el distrito, es abogada y está a favor de la industria energética”, comentó el doctor Mark Jones, profesor de ciencias políticas de la Universidad Rice. READ MORE
Posted by David Herrera on October 16, 2020
Una congresista demócrata ocupa el distrito de Bush Padre en Houston: ¿podrá recuperarlo el GOP en noviembre?
{news_summary} READ MORE
Posted by {news_byline} on October 16, 2020
Houston Chronicle Editorial: We recommend Lizzie Fletcher for U.S. House District 7
Two years after her first-ever run for public office resulted in the defeat of a nine-term Republican incumbent, Democratic U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher faces re-election with a solid record of accomplishment and a reputation for working across the aisle and serving constituents. She has kept her promises. READ MORE
Posted by Houston Chronicle Editorial Board on October 01, 2020
Houston Chronicle Letters to the Editor: Health Care
"I find it rich that Wesley Hunt’s ad touts his support for health care and coverage for pre-existing conditions. Somebody should remind him that he is running as a Republican, the party that has committed itself to repealing the Affordable Care Act. While you’re at it, remind him that District 7 already has a representative who has fought to expand health care and who belongs to the party that believes health care is a right and not a privilege. Her name if Lizzie Fletcher. If Hunt is so interested in health care, perhaps he should vote for Lizzie." Robert Rodriguez, Houston READ MORE
Bill honoring Harris County Dep. Dhaliwal who was killed in line of duty passes unanimously in US House
The bill, led by Houston-area Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, seeks to rename the post office along Addicks-Howell Road near the Katy Freeway after Dhaliwal. “Deputy Dhaliwal represented the very best of our community: he worked for equality, connection, and community through his life of service to others,” said Rep. Fletcher in a statement. “The Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal Post Office will serve as a permanent reminder of his service, his sacrifice, and his example for us all. I am grateful that my legislation to honor his memory has passed the House of Representatives today and is one step closer to being signed into law.” READ MORE
Democrat Fletcher receives Republican support in battleground House election
U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Houston, on Tuesday announced an endorsement from the Republican mayor of her district’s third-largest city, one week after securing support from the GOP-leaning U.S. Chamber of Commerce. READ MORE
Posted by Jasper Scherer on September 08, 2020
Op-Ed: The time for HELP is now: Senate should pass bill to expedite recovery following natural disasters
The HELP Act represents the good we can do—and must do. While it will not solve every problem, it will provide real and tangible help for communities in moments like this one. READ MORE
Posted by Lizzie Fletcher on September 02, 2020
Lizzie Fletcher launches first TV ads in Houston congressional race
U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher is out with her first television ad for her re-election campaign in Houston’s 7th Congressional District. In the new ad that starts airing on TV this week, the Democrat touts her record of supporting energy sector jobs and “working with both parties” to get things done in Washington. READ MORE
Posted by Jeremy Wallace on August 20, 2020
Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Launches First TV Ad of 2020: ‘Your Part’
Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) released her first television ad of the general election cycle, ‘Your Part.’ The 30-second spot highlights Fletcher’s record of accomplishments fighting for Houstonians as the community works together to confront the COVID-19 pandemic. ‘Your Part’ will run on Houston broadcast and cable stations starting today as part of an initial six-figure buy. READ MORE
LISTEN: Lizzie Fletcher on Houston Matters on Senate Inaction on COVID relief
Lizzie Fletcher: “We have got to focus on the people, the people who are going to work, who are essential workers -- whether they’re stocking the grocery shelves or working in the hospitals to take care of us in nursing homes -- there are people who must work through this pandemic, and The Heroes Act recognizes them and is there to help them.” READ MORE
Memorial Examiner: ELECTION 2020: U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher seeks to keep TX7 in November
Lizzie Fletcher: “We are at a pivotal moment in the life of our country. In 2020, we will choose our path forward, and I know what I want it to be: a path that unifies Americans around our common values and a positive, hopeful vision for our shared future. That’s why I put my name on the ballot for the first time in 2018, and why I am proud to do so again in 2020.” READ MORE
Posted by Ryan Nickerson on July 21, 2020
Houston Style Magazine: As Trump Administration Works To Overturn Affordable Care Act, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Speaks on House Floor To Protect Health Care for Texans
Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) took to the House floor to speak on the importance of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act for Texas’ Seventh Congressional District. READ MORE
Posted by Style Magazine Newswire on July 06, 2020
WATCH VIDEO: FOX 26 - Lizzie Fletcher on Justice in Policing Act, [Isiah Factor Uncensored]
Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher joins Isiah Carey to discuss the Justice in Policing Act. READ MORE
Posted by Isiah Carey on June 25, 2020
E&E News: Panel approves $494B highway bill after marathon markup
On Wednesday, lawmakers approved a Fletcher amendment to make natural gas and propane eligible for alternative vehicle charging funds in the bill. READ MORE
Posted by Maxine Joselow on June 19, 2020
Houston Chronicle: Local U.S. reps pitch Houston as new home of U.S. Space Command
U.S. Reps. Pete Olson and Brian Babin, both Republicans, led the effort. But the proposal has bi-partisan support as other signers of the letter included Democrats Sheila Jackson Lee, Al Green, Lizzie Fletcher and Sylvia Garcia as well as Republicans Kevin Brady, Michael McCaul, Randy Weber and Dan Crenshaw. READ MORE
Posted by Andrea Leinfelder on June 19, 2020
FOX 5 News: Members of Congress introduce bills to make Juneteenth a federal holiday
On Friday, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18) and Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) announced the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, H.R. 7232, to designate June 19 a federal holiday every year. READ MORE
Posted by FOX 26 Houston on June 19, 2020
NACS: Highway Bill Markup Begins in House
An amendment offered by Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), and supported by several Republican representatives, passed by a vote of 37-26. The amendment allows natural gas and propane projects to receive grants under the alternative fuel corridor grants program in the bill. READ MORE
Posted by Paige Anderson on June 18, 2020
Village Community News: 2.4 Million for Beth Yeshurun
Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher announced Friday that $2,410,414 in federal funding had been awarded to Congregation Beth Yeshurun. READ MORE
Posted by Ben Ballanfant on June 16, 2020
Houston Style Magazine: U.S. Chamber of Commerce Honors Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher with Abraham Lincoln Leadership for America Award
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) with the Abraham Lincoln Leadership for America Award. This distinction honors the top 20 members of the House of Representatives and top 10 Senators who have demonstrated bipartisan leadership critical to advancing policies that support America’s free enterprise system. READ MORE
Posted by Style Magazine Newswire on June 16, 2020
WATCH VIDEO (Inside Texas Politics): Houston Democrat believes there’s some bipartisan support for Heroes Act
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, a Houston Democrat, believes Congress will make progress on getting another $1,200 stimulus check to taxpayers. Fletcher said there is some bipartisan support for the Heroes Act, which was designed to provide further relief for Americans. READ MORE
Posted by Berna Dean Steptoe, Jason Whitely on May 30, 2020
WATCH VIDEO (KPRC): Lizzie Fletcher Hosts Food and Mask Drive
Families facing food insecurities continue to get help right here in our area. Organizations hosting food distributions are also adding masks to their distribution lists. Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher and various community partners gave out thousands of masks and more than a thousand boxes of food as well. The event was held at the Greater Macedonia Baptist Church. READ MORE
WATCH VIDEO (CW 39 Houston): Lizzie Fletcher on George Floyd
Houston Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher released this statement saying, in part, quote: “Like so many Americans, I am sad and I am angry.” READ MORE
Texas Tribune: “All of the party was over”: How the last oil bust changed Texas
Houston leaders moved forward with their own advertising campaign, known as "Houston Proud." It was a formative message to future U.S. Rep. Lizzie Pannill Fletcher, a Houston Democrat who was a River Oaks grade schooler in that era. "Times were hard, but there was this bursting civic pride," she told the Tribune. Thirty years later when she ran for Congress, her campaign messaging echoed that boosterism. READ MORE
Posted by Abby Livingston on May 18, 2020
Houston Chronicle: Tensions around natural gas pipelines increase with pandemic
Democratic attorneys general from 10 states and the District of Columbia are urging the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to stop permitting gas pipelines, LNG facilities and other fossil fuel projects until the “end of the COVID-19 crisis.”... So far, the push to stop FERC from permitting has yet to catch on in Congress, where last week a group of bipartisan House members including Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Houston, and Rep. Bill Flores, R-Waco, urged Chatterjee to continue FERC’s work as normal. READ MORE
Posted by James Osborne on May 15, 2020
Midland Reporter-Telegram: Lawmakers pledge support for energy industry
U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher pointed out that she represents Houston, “the energy capital of the world,” which is seeing major cuts as companies shed jobs and refiners reduce activity, “These are real challenges affecting everyone,” she said. She said there are smart, strategic long-term moves Congress can take to help, such as allowing operators to store crude in the strategic reserve, and ensuring the low-interest rate, forgivable loans designed to help small businesses also go to companies of all forms of energy. READ MORE
Posted by Mella McEwen on May 14, 2020
E&E News: Enviros slam Hoyer for supporting federal oil purchases
The idea of filling up the SPR has gotten support mostly from President Trump and Republicans, but some Democrats have backed it, too. The idea would be to boost demand and provide a place to store excess oil, increasing prices from their historic lows. "I think this is a time to restock the Strategic Petroleum Reserve," said Hoyer, the second-ranking Democrat in the House., "and make sure that we have a supply." Texas Rep. Lizzie Fletcher is among the few House Democrats vocally calling for buying domestic crude for the SPR. READ MORE
Posted by Timothy Cama on May 13, 2020
National Journal: House return hinges on Democrats’ talk on aid bill
Reps. Lizzie Fletcher, Andy Kim, and Angie Craig introduced legislation on Friday to ensure that small-business owners who receive funds from the Paycheck Protection Program are also eligible to receive tax breaks for wages and other expenses paid during the period of their PPP loan. READ MORE
Posted by Casey Wooten and Zach Cohen on May 10, 2020
The Texan: Brady PAC to Push for Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, Texas Democrats in 2020
“Lizzie is a champion of our cause,” said Lemek. “Seeing someone who is so good on guns coming out of Texas, coming out of Houston, we think it really helps on the issue for other members and other candidates.” READ MORE
Posted by Holly Hansen on May 07, 2020
National Law Review: You Can’t Have Your Cake and Eat It Too—IRS Clarifies Loan Terms for PPP
Notably, members of Congress have openly shared their disapproval of the IRS’s decision. House Representative Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) stated that she also intends to introduce similar legislation in the coming days. It is still too early to tell, but these aggressive measures taken by Congress may lead to a reversal of Notice 2020-32 and a big win for PPP loan recipients. READ MORE
Posted by Timothy G. Verrall and Sheldon S. Miles on May 07, 2020
Politico: Weekly Tax Newsletter
It remains to be seen whether Treasury or the IRS will give in at all. But there’s now legislation in both chambers, from Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas), to allow the tax write-offs just as negotiations ramp up over future coronavirus legislation. READ MORE
Posted by Bernie Becker on May 06, 2020
Wall Street Journal: Tax Deductions Tied to Forgiven Small Business Loans Draw Support
Messrs. Grassley and Wyden are also backing a bill from Sen. John Cornyn (R., Texas) that would expressly allow the deductions, according to Mr. Cornyn’s office. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D., Texas) is introducing a similar bill in the House. READ MORE
Posted by Richard Rubin on May 05, 2020
E&E News: Science Democrats hold briefing on industry job losses
House Science, Space and Technology Committee Democrats held a phone briefing last week to discuss impacts of the pandemic on energy jobs. Led by Energy Subcommittee Chairwoman Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas), the briefing adds to the information gathering by lawmakers looking to blunt the impact of the virus on the workforce, including those across oil and gas, renewables, and other sectors. READ MORE
Posted by Jeremy Dillon on May 04, 2020
The Texan: Oil Producer Halliburton Shutters Two Texas Facilities After $1 Billion First Quarter Loss
In late March, congressional lawmakers requested from the Trump administration financial aid — in the form of reducing or eliminating royalties — for energy companies struggling to stay afloat. The group says the administration already has the authority to do that. READ MORE
Posted by Brad Johnson on May 01, 2020
The Hill: Overnight Energy
Lawmakers are pushing back against calls for FERC to impose a moratorium on new pipeline permits during coronavirus. “A moratorium is both unnecessary and detrimental to the nation’s energy security. During this period, FERC should move forward, as health and safety constraints may allow, with all applications for review of natural gas intrastate pipelines and LNG facilities while embracing new forms of public engagement,” a bipartisan group of five lawmakers wrote in a letter led by Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas). READ MORE
Houston Chronicle: Houston Rep. Lizzie Fletcher backs Joe Biden for president, says Sanders rhetoric ‘concerned’ her
U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher endorsed Vice President Joe Biden on Friday, saying it has never been more clear that the country needs a change than now, as she watches how President Donald Trump handles the coronavirus outbreak. “Our country needs and deserves a leader with the experience, empathy, and vision to meet this moment in our history,” Fletcher, D-Houston, said. “Joe Biden has shown himself to be that leader time and again — reminding us that our country is great because it is good.” READ MORE
Posted by Jeremy Wallace on April 24, 2020
Dallas Morning News: House passes $484 billion package to help small businesses, bolster hospitals and coronavirus testing
“We must continue our efforts to address the many real and evolving challenges this pandemic presents," said Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Houston. She said she has heard from many small business owners who couldn’t access the initial funding before it ran out. READ MORE
Posted by Tom Benning on April 23, 2020
Texas Tribune: Texans in Congress look for ways to help as oil prices tank
“In Houston, we do energy and we do health care, and so right now with what's going on in the energy markets and, of course, the public health crisis that we're facing with the COVID-19 pandemic, it is a really challenging time here in Houston,” said U.S. Rep. Lizzie Pannill Fletcher, a Democrat, in an interview this month with The Texas Tribune... Fletcher was the only Democrat to co-sign a letter advocating royalty relief in March. READ MORE
Posted by Sam Manas on April 22, 2020
Tough times for Texas: State, federal leaders work to save as many jobs as possible after oil prices sink
Posted by Jason Miles on April 21, 2020
WATCH VIDEO (Fox Business News): Senator Hoeven on Bipartisan SPR Bill
Senator Hoeven (R-ND): “I got bipartisan support from Michael Burgess and Lizzie Fletcher, both Representatives in Texas. And we need to pass that so we can buy oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.” READ MORE
Houston Chronicle: As governments scramble on oil crash, ‘not a lot of good options’
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Houston, introduced bipartisan legislation Tuesday to request that the U.S. government begin to buy up oil. “We must recognize that this price drop is a direct result of decreased demand because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we must do all we can to combat this virus at home and around the world,” she said. READ MORE
Posted by James Osborne on April 21, 2020
WATCH VIDEO (FOX 26): Rep. Lizzie Fletcher pushing for $3 Billion buy for strategic oil reserve
Blindsided by the duel blow of a demand sapping pandemic and a global price war, much of America's oil and gas industry is buckling down for a survival fight. As companies across the energy spectrum shed workers by the tens of thousands, Houston Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher has launched legislation aimed at easing the debilitating supply glut. READ MORE
Houston Chronicle: GOP pledges $3M for candidate Wesley Hunt in bid to retake Houston suburbs
Fletcher, an energy attorney, has tried to walk a tight balance during her first term in office — especially in areas like oil and gas, where she’s forcefully pushed back against Democrats’ most progressive proposals such as the Green New Deal and a ban on fracking. She’s often worked with Republicans as well, including on legislation to speed disaster recovery funding to Houston. READ MORE
Posted by Benjamin Wermund on April 20, 2020
New York Times: Too Much Oil: How a Barrel Came to Be Worth Less Than Nothing
Congressional Democrats had recently balked when the administration proposed spending $3 billion to fill the reserve as part of the stimulus package lawmakers passed last month. But on Monday Representative Lizzie Fletcher, a Houston Democrat, said she would introduce legislation appropriating funds for a reserve purchase. READ MORE
Posted by Stanley Reed and Clifford Krauss on April 20, 2020
Texas Signal: How congressional campaigns are dealing with COVID-19
In addition to holding phone townhalls, Rep. Fletcher has been working hard in Congress to get relief for her constituents during the crisis. Last Friday she announced that $1.7 million in funding would go to two Houston-area community health centers through the CARES Act. She joined a bipartisan effort to get the Department of Health and Human Services to issue guaranteed orders for supplies necessary to fight COVID-19. READ MORE
Texas Tribune: Texas small-business owners scramble as federal relief fund runs out
With the collapse of the energy market, Johnson's company is feeling a double whammy of economic hardship… She said she found the Houston Small Business Administration office to be highly responsive, and she looks forward to attending a virtual seminar that her federal representative, U.S. Rep. Lizzie Pannill Fletcher, D-Houston, is hosting Friday. READ MORE
Posted by Abby Livingston on April 16, 2020
Houston Chronicle: As federal small business loans run dry ‘a lot of folks are left behind’
They say the paycheck protection program needs to be fixed “so that small businesses truly have a shot at this money” before Congress pours billions more into it. U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, a Houston Democrat, said there has to be some middle ground. “This is not a time for partisan name-calling and finger-pointing,” Fletcher said. “This is the time for our government to work together to solve the very real problems presented here: the need for more funds in the programs and more capacity for all our small businesses to be able to access them. We can do both of those things now, and we must.” READ MORE
Posted by Benjamin Wermund on April 16, 2020
Xtelligent News: Lawmakers are asking CMS to expand Medicare coverage during the Coronavirus pandemic for telehealth services
Lawmakers are asking CMS to expand Medicare coverage during the Coronavirus pandemic for telehealth services provided by physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists and audiologists. READ MORE
Posted by Erick Wicklund on April 14, 2020
E&E News: How oil patch lawmakers mobilized against the market crisis
Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Reps. Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas) and Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas) have been pushing the administration to respond to the oil market's troubles... Fletcher said she's heard from firms worried about breaks in the downstream supply chain and where to store crude. She's talked with local chamber of commerce leaders to get messages out about federal aid for local businesses and workers. And she's been on regular conference calls with her fellow lawmakers to press for more relief. READ MORE
Insurance News: Rep. Fletcher Hosts Third Telephone Town Hall on COVID-19
Last night, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) hosted her third telephone town hall on COVID-19. The telephone town hall focused on the different types of resources available to the community made possible by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. READ MORE
E&E News: Bipartisan group unveils bill to fill petroleum reserve
The new bill, with 10 original co-sponsors, will likely prove a negotiation point for the next coronavirus stimulus effort. "Our energy producers are facing an unprecedented challenge that will have long-term ramifications for our energy independence and our energy future," said Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas), chairwoman of the House Science, Space and Technology Subcommittee on Energy. READ MORE
Reuters: U.S. lawmakers introduce bill to fund oil purchase for emergency reserve
A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers introduced a bill on Tuesday providing $3 billion to buy oil for the national emergency reserve as a way to help energy companies hit by the plunge in crude prices. The bill, which would have to be passed in the Senate and the House of Representatives and signed by President Donald Trump, was introduced by Senator John Hoeven and Representative Michael Burgess, both Republicans, and Representative Lizzie Fletcher, a Democrat. READ MORE
Posted by Timothy Gardner, Reuters on April 07, 2020
E&E News: Lawmakers, industry divided on solution to market woes
A letter last month led by Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D) of Texas did not call for any specific policy, but it did highlight the economic impact and job losses at stake in the industry's downturn. "As various sector-specific proposals are considered to address the impacts of COVID-19, this sector and the people who work in it must be taken into account," the group wrote. READ MORE
Houston Chronicle: Pandemic revives hope of federal aid for Texas highways, ports, rural internet
“Getting the infrastructure bill done makes a lot of sense,” said U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, a Houston Democrat on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “It will be a really important driver to get our country up and running and back to work once we’re on the other side of COVID-19.” READ MORE
Posted by Benjamin Wermund, Dug Begley on April 02, 2020
Natural Gas Intel: Congressional Leaders Asked to Protect Oil, Natural Gas Industry Workers
A group of nine members of Congress from both parties wants House and Senate leadership to keep in mind “the unique challenges facing the people who work in the U.S. oil and gas sector” as they craft relief legislation in response to the coronavirus pandemic. READ MORE
Posted by David Bradley on March 25, 2020
Houston Chronicle: Houstonians stuck in Peru after coronavirus outbreak return home, others remain stranded abroad
Houston Democrat U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher’s office has received calls from 32 constituents stuck in Honduras, Argentina, Guatemala, India, Ecuador, Australia, and Morocco. Twenty one of them have made it home so far. But there may be thousands of Americans still stranded in Peru alone, Fletcher wrote in a letter this week to Huge de Zela, Peru’s ambassador to the U.S., urging him to “do all in your power” to help them get out. READ MORE
Posted by Benjamin Wermund on March 24, 2020
The Hill: Bipartisan lawmakers urge assistance for oil and gas workers
A bipartisan group of lawmakers wrote to congressional leadership asking for assistance for oil and gas industry workers as oil prices have plunged amid the coronavirus pandemic and international disputes. READ MORE
Posted by Rachel Frazin on March 24, 2020
Houston Chronicle: Hope rises in Texas as Senate cuts deal on $2 trillion stimulus
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, another Houston Democrat, with a group of congressional Republicans and Democrats, wrote a letter to Congressional leadership Monday asking the nation’s 5.3 million oil and gas workers be taken into account. READ MORE
Posted by James Osborne, Benjamin Wermund on March 24, 2020
Fox 7 Austin: Texas Democrats commemorate 10th anniversary of ACA signing
U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher says, “And I think this pandemic really underscores, as my colleagues have said, how critical it is that we have accessible and affordable health care.” READ MORE
KPRC Houston Newsmakers: Congressional delegation united in coronavirus fight
Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher said she had many concerns regarding the response of the coronavirus outbreak, including the health of her constituents. READ MORE
Univision: Cómo se hace campaña en aislamiento social: así son las elecciones en tiempos de coronavirus
Legislators like Democrat Lizzie Fletcher of Texas District 7 insisted that her focus now is to do her job in Congress and deal with the current crisis. “On the campaign side we are doing less work, my focus has been to reach people through the official work that I am doing for my constituents, ” she told Univisión Noticias. READ MORE
Posted by Antonieta Cádiz on March 21, 2020
Houston Chronicle: House passes coronavirus relief package over objections from Houston-area Republicans
“This is really a forward-looking bill,” Fletcher said in a news conference with Pelosi and other Democrats shortly after midnight. “We have been talking to the experts and listening to people about what is to come. The data and the scientists are telling us what we need to expect, and this bill anticipates the needs that we will have and meets them.” READ MORE
Posted by Jasper Scherer on March 14, 2020
E&E News: Moderates push direct air capture, enhanced oil credits
In a letter yesterday to the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas) pressed colleagues not to abandon incentives for enhanced oil recovery and other efforts to trap carbon dioxide from energy and industrial sources. READ MORE
Houston Chronicle: Climate change deal faces ‘million-dollar question’ in Congress
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Houston, who is co-sponsoring bipartisan legislation to address climate change’s impact on roads, bridges and other infrastructure, said it was critical to move ahead on the issue in areas where the two parties agree. READ MORE
Posted by James Osborne on March 10, 2020
Houston Chronicle: Houston Rep. Lizzie Fletcher opposes fracking ban bill pushed by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, a freshman Houston Democrat considered one of the most vulnerable members of Congress, called efforts to ban fracking “misguided” in a lengthy statement issued just hours after Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Darren Soto of Florida introduced a bill to outlaw it. “I do not support this bill or any similar proposal to ban fracking,” said Fletcher, whose west Houston district includes the energy corridor. READ MORE
Posted by Benjamin Wermund on February 13, 2020
Houston Public Media: Harvey Relief Amendment Passes House
Harvey victims across Houston are hoping for some long awaited relief. Now, a bipartisan amendment that just passed the House of Representatives could unlock millions of dollars in federal aid. Democratic Rep. Lizzie Fletcher and Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw co-authored the legislation, which could provide $45 million in relief to households affected by Harvey. READ MORE
Texas Signal: Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher on a jam-packed first year in Washington
After flipping a congressional seat that once belonged to a lengthy lineage of Republican incumbents, Rep. Lizzie Fletcher has kept busy in Washington representing her Houston constituents. One of two Texas Democrats to flip congressional districts in 2018, Fletcher joined the cohort of 41 newly elected House Democrats that quickly put their majority to good use. READ MORE
Houston Chronicle: Endangered Texas Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher had an eventful first year
Fletcher mostly has kept her head down and tried to get work done, often side by side with Republicans, rather than draw the spotlight in an increasingly chaotic Congress. READ MORE
Posted by Benjamin Wermund on January 05, 2020
Houston Chronicle: Rep. Lizzie Fletcher files bill to boost natural gas-powered vehicles
U.S Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Houston, on Thursday filed a bill that aims to the boost adoption of vehicles that run on natural gas at a time when supplies of natural gas are so cheap and plentiful that drillers burn it off rather than pay the costs of transporting. READ MORE
Posted by Sergio Chapa on November 14, 2019
HOUSTON CHRONICLE OP-ED: Hey Democrats, Houston is waiting to hear how you’ll unite America [Opinion]
Houston—the most diverse city in the country—is home to visionaries, problem solvers and innovators. Here, we work together to develop technology, lead cutting-edge medical research and provide unparalleled care, keep our economy moving through one of the country’s largest ports, and supply energy to the world. READ MORE
Posted by Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher on September 11, 2019
THE HILL OP-ED: Efforts to block offshore drilling ultimately harm climate change fight by Reps. Lizzie Fletcher (D-Texas) and Garret Graves (R-LA.)
“While we agree that climate change needs to be addressed by innovative solutions and commitments from a broad array of stakeholders, these bills will only make the situation worse: increasing emissions, decreasing revenues, and reducing energy security. This outcome we cannot afford.” READ MORE
Posted by Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, Congressman Garret Graves on September 11, 2019
Hey Democrats, Houston is waiting to hear how you’ll unite America [Opinion]
Houston—the most diverse city in the country—is home to visionaries, problem solvers and innovators. Here, we work together to develop technology, lead cutting-edge medical research and provide unparalleled care, keep our economy moving through one of the country’s largest ports, and supply energy to the world. READ MORE
HOUSTON CHRONICLE OP-ED: To fix global warming, the world needs Houston by Rep. Lizzie Fletcher
Lizzie Fletcher: Houston has always been a place of big ideas. Perhaps more important, it is a place where those big ideas become realities. We need that now. In Washington, policymakers and lawmakers are talking about big ideas—ideas that address the tremendous opportunities and challenges we face across the country and around the world. And there is no conversation more important than the one about our energy future. READ MORE
Posted by Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher on April 26, 2019
Houston Chronicle: Lizzie Fletcher tapped for House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
Freshman Rep. Lizzie Fletcher will sit on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, her office announced Thursday. READ MORE
Posted by Dug Begley on January 17, 2019
Houston Chronicle: As her Houston district transforms, Lizzie Fletcher seeks elusive common ground
Winning a Houston congressional district that had been in Republican hands for more than half a century, Lizzie Pannill Fletcher arrived in Washington this month as something of a dragon slayer. READ MORE
Posted by Kevin Diaz on November 16, 2018
Lizzie Fletcher looks to legislate the way she won: in moderation
When Fletcher unseated Culberson Tuesday night by a relatively comfortable five points, however, she did so behind a Houston-centric campaign that emphasized her local roots and pulled in right-leaning independents and disillusioned Republicans. READ MORE
Houston Chronicle Endorses Lizzie Pannill Fletcher in Texas’ Seventh Congressional District
Today the Houston Chronicle endorsed Lizzie Pannill Fletcher for Texas’ Seventh Congressional District. The Chronicle highlighted Fletcher’s independence and dedication to the district stating: “Rarely do we meet a first-time candidate so well prepared, so knowledgeable about the job, so right for the district.” The Chronicle praised Fletcher’s common-sense proposals on health care, immigration, and community safety. The editorial concluded by stating: “Houston is changing. Voters need a representative who can keep up. We thank [John] Culberson for his service in the weeks after Harvey, but now it is time for someone new—Lizzie Pannill Fletcher.” READ MORE
Lizzie Fletcher Announces Endorsement from Communications Workers of America – District 6
“I am proud to earn the support of CWA," Fletcher said. "Here in our community, and across the country, CWA and other labor organizations have fought for protections that benefit all Americans. The right to organize and to advocate are central to our democracy. I look forward to working together with CWA to ensure that those rights are protected and that working men and women in our community have the representation they deserve in Congress.” READ MORE
Another Day, Another Republican Covering Up His Health Care Record
But Culberson voted against final passage of Medicare Part D, saying opposed it because it barred price negotiations on prescription drugs, but then in 2007, he voted against a bill to implement price negotiations for Medicare Part D. He has voted at least five times for Republican budgets that would gut Medicare and voted repeatedly reopen the Medicare Part D “Donut Hole” by voting to repeal the Affordable Care Act. During his nearly two decades in Congress, Culberson has amassed a record for of opposition to Medicare and to efforts to ensure affordable health care for all Americans. READ MORE
“Wrecking Ball” Hits John Culberson on Dangerous Health Care Record
“Wrecking Ball” compares Fletcher’s willingness to work across the aisle with Culberson’s partisan record on health care—including his vote in support of the American Health Care Act, the GOP bill that would have allowed insurance companies to charge five times more for coverage for people age 50 and over and discriminate against people with pre-existing conditions. READ MORE
Democratic Candidate for Texas’ 7th Congressional District Lizzie Pannill Fletcher Announces Endorsement from Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker
“I am honored to have the support of former Mayor Annise Parker,” Fletcher said. “Mayor Parker has dedicated her life to service in this community—from the GLBT Political Caucus to the Controller's office to Council chambers. She has championed issues that are important here, from keeping us safe, to budgeting responsibly, to ensuring equality members of this community. I am honored that she considers me the partner Houston needs now in Congress.” READ MORE
Lizzie Pannill Fletcher Announces Endorsement from the Black Economic Alliance
Democratic candidate Lizzie Pannill Fletcher announced her endorsement today from the Black Economic Alliance, a coalition that “aims to drive economic progress and prosperity in the Black community with a specific focus on work, wages, and wealth.” READ MORE
Lizzie Fletcher, Democratic Candidate for Texas’ 7th Congressional District, Releases Vision For Moving Us Forward
Lizzie Pannill Fletcher, Democratic candidate for Congress, today released her vision for Texas’ 7th Congressional District. Moving Us Forward lays out the policy priorities that Fletcher will focus on moving into the final months of this general election campaign. READ MORE
Vice President Biden: I am Proud to Endorse Lizzie Fletcher for Congress
“Lizzie Fletcher has spent her life improving the lives of people across her community. In Congress, she will put partisan politics aside and be the advocate for working families that her district needs in Washington," said Vice President Biden. "I am proud to endorse Lizzie Fletcher for Congress." READ MORE
Inside the Houston House runoff that Democrats everywhere are watching
Democrats are salivating at the prospect of flipping a wealthy Houston enclave that has been solidly Republican since sending George H.W. Bush to Congress in 1967 -- the kind of race they need to win for any hope of retaking the House in the 2018 midterm. READ MORE
Posted by Eric Bradner, CNN on April 11, 2018
HOUSTON CHRONICLE: For the 7th Congressional District: Lizzie Pannill Fletcher
Fletcher's background is also impressive. After starting her law career at Vinson & Elkins, she joined AZA, a 50 person firm specializing in high-stakes business litigation and she became its first woman partner. She has served on the board of Planned Parenthood and she was on the front lines defending abortion providers from protesters during the 1992 Republican Convention in Houston. Like Westin, she has a firm grasp of the issues in the race. Just as important, she understands the importance of appealing to independent voters in this swing district. READ MORE
NEW YORK TIMES: Rebelling Republican Suburbs Offer Democrats Path to House Control
Posted by New York Times on December 18, 2017
ELITE DAILY: Women Are Running For Congress At Record Rates & These First-Time Candidates Explain Why
Posted by Elite Daily on December 18, 2017
HOUSTON CHRONICLE: With ballots set, Texas political landscape could be reshaped in 2018
Posted by Houston Chronicle on December 12, 2017
VICE NEWS: Here Are the House Seats Where Democrats Could Score Upsets in 2018
Posted by VICE News on December 11, 2017
ICYMI:
Houston Chronicle Editorial: We recommend Lizzie Fletcher for U.S. House District 7, 9/30/20
Democrat Fletcher receives Republican support in battleground House election, 9/8/20
Olson and Fletcher Act to Expand Debt Forgiveness for Small Businesses Among Pandemic (video), 8/11/20
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher pushing for $3 Billion buy for strategic oil reserve, 4/21/20
Bipartisan lawmakers urge assistance for oil and gas workers, 3/24/20
Harvey Relief Amendment Passes House, 2/7/20
Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher On How Houston Could Recover Quicker From Floods And Hurricanes, 11/11/19
Lizzie Fletcher looks to legislate the way she won: in moderation, 11/7/18