Lubbock Congressman Hits the Road: Listening Tour Across Rural West Texas

Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) has been making the rounds again, and if you live in a rural West Texas county, there’s a good chance you’ve seen him pop up in your town this week. The House Budget Chairman is in the middle of a multi-day tour, meeting with local leaders, small business owners, farmers, and everyday folks to talk through the issues that matter most out here on the South Plains.

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Friona: “The Biggest Small Town in Texas”

Arrington kicked things off in Friona, where he praised the grit and values of the people who call it home. “You talk about God-fearing, freedom-loving people!” he said. He touted what he calls the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” highlighting farm safety net improvements, permanent tax relief, and welfare reforms aimed at restoring “the dignity of work.”

READ MORE: Lubbock Congressman Applauds USDA’s Big Move Against the New World Screwworm

Local residents say his presence means a lot. Farmer Michael Rushing said, “I truly appreciate him taking the time to travel back to Texas, listen to us, and bring our concerns back to Washington.” Wendy Carthel from the Friona Economic Development Corporation added that Arrington’s focus on rural infrastructure is “making a real difference for us all.”

Farwell: Small-Town Needs, Big Wins

In Farwell, Arrington kept the focus on what he calls “tremendous wins” from his budget work, pointing to spending cuts and new investments in border and national security. “We’ve got to confront the two biggest threats facing our country — China and the national debt,” he told residents.

Farwell Mayor Stephen Schilling praised the congressman’s willingness to stay engaged: “His attention to our needs and willingness to advocate for us is so important for rural areas in TX-19.”

Muleshoe: Standing Against Federal Overreach

Just down the road in Muleshoe, the conversation turned fiery. Arrington spoke against a proposal to expand the Muleshoe Wildlife Refuge, calling it a “radical land grab” tied to President Biden’s environmental agenda. He laid out a six-point case against the expansion, citing threats to private property rights, tax bases, and local services.

READ MORE: Trump Administration Halts Controversial Muleshoe Wildlife Refuge Expansion Plan

Muleshoe leaders say they’re grateful for his stance. City Manager Ramon Sanchez thanked Arrington for his support, while Chamber of Commerce President Chris Cage called it “a true pleasure” to host him. “We are blessed to live in a place where we can gather, listen, and discuss,” Cage said, adding an open invitation for the congressman to return anytime.

A Full Schedule Across the South Plains

Arrington’s rural tour began in Brownfield and Levelland on Monday, and he shows no signs of slowing down. For the congressman, these stops aren’t just photo ops — they’re about keeping his ear to the ground in the communities that make up the backbone of West Texas.

Because out here, whether you’re in Friona, Farwell, or Muleshoe, the message is clear: rural voices matter — and Arrington says he’s here to make sure they’re heard.