Farenthold - Clipbook

8/2/2019 Farenthold - Clipbook

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In January 2011, Farenthold claimed that 70 percent ofworkers would lose their own health care because of the

2010 health care law. Despite claims that you can 'keepthe health care plan you like,' the Obama Administrationhas predicted that as many as 7 out of 10 Americans withemployer-provided health coverage could lose theircurrent health plan, he said. [PolitiFact, 2/1/11] ............15

Budget Issues

Could Have Helped Country Avoid Credit Downgrade

In 2011, the Corpus Christi Caller-Times editorial board wrote that Farenthold could have helped avoid a

credit downgrade by compromising on the debt ceiling earlier. Had Farenthold and other far-right TeaParty-backed Republicans who voted for the bill relented sooner, they might have helped the countryavoid a downgrade of its credit rating along with saving it from default. [Editorial, Corpus Christi Caller-Times,8/12/11]

S&P Senior Director Said Lawmakers Skepticism about Consequences of Credit Default

Contributed To Downgrade. A Standard & Poors director said that one of the reasons theUnited States lost its triple-A credit rating was that several lawmakers expressed skepticism aboutthe serious consequences of a credit default. S&P senior director Joydeep Mukherji said thestability and effectiveness of American political institutions were undermined by the fact thatpeople in the political arena were even talking about a potential default. Mukherji went on to say

that the slow response to the potential crisis by the nations leaders contributed to the downgrade.[Politico, 8/11/11]

Farenthold Said S.&P. Report Could Have a Beneficial Effect
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In 2011, Farenthold said the S.&P. report could have a beneficial effect. Anything that encouragesthe new committee to get the job done and get us back on a rational fiscal path is a good thing,Farenthold said. [New York Times, 8/7/11]

Said President Used Scare Tactics on Paying Social Security in Debt Ceiling Negotiations

In 2011, during debt ceiling negotiations Farenthold said the President was using scare tactics on whatwould occur if the debt ceiling was reached. Theres money in the Social Security trust fund to pay it,Farenthold said. If we dont pass something over the next couple of days, its the president who decideswho gets paid and who doesnt get paid. So if the checks dont come, its his fault. His choice. He saidhe would vote for Speaker of the House John Boehners revised Budget Control Act. [Corpus Christi CallerTimes,7/29/11]

Opposed Raising Debt Ceiling

In a 2011 press release Farenthold opposed raising the debt ceiling. In the release Farenthold said,America is over $14 trillion dollars in debt. Over 40 cents on every dollar is borrowed, and much of that

is from China. In a time of runaway government spending, I cannot justify raising the debt ceiling with noplan to stop the spending spree. It is irresponsible to pass along any more debt to our children andgrandchildren. Like the rest of America, the government needs to tighten its belt and work within itsmeans. [Rep. Farenthold, press release, 5/31/11]

Said He Was Still Making Decision on Raising Debt Ceiling

When Farenthold was asked about his position on raising the debt ceiling he said I want to hear what folkshere have to say. He said I am undecided on this. And talked about the pros and cons of the issues. Hethen took a poll and said not many people seemed to support raising the debt ceiling. [YouTube, Town HallMeeting, Part 3, 00.27, 4/26/11]

Said He was Proud of What He Accomplished in DC Cutting Budget

In 2011, Farenthold held a listening session with he said he was proud of what he accomplished in theHouse. When I moved to Washington, D.C., he said, it was whether or not there was a problem withspending and whether or not to cut something. Now were talking about how much to cut. Thats a hugestep in changing the thinking in Washington. [Brownsville Herald, 4/26/11]

On Republican Budget: Please dont try to quiz me on the numbers because they get mixed up in

my brain.

In an April 2011 town hall meeting, Farenthold said he would talk about the Republican budget. He saidPlease dont try to quiz me on the numbers because they get mixed up in my brain.[YouTube, Town Hall Meeting, Part 1, 5:00, 4/26/11]

Said S&P Threatening to Lower Debt Rating was Vindication to Tea Party

In 2011, upon hearing news that Standard and Poors may lower the U.S. government debt rating ofWashington didnt get spending under control sent stocks stumbling. Farenthold said the S&P wasresponding to the increasing debt in America. He said the S&P needed a plan in place to get spending

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under control. It makes it clear that not just the House of Representatives but the financial communityunderstands that weve got a spending addiction, Farenthold said. This is a shot across the bow sayingwe need to get our financial house in order.

It (the S&P report) is a vindication of the Tea Party and its stance that were spending too much, said

Republican Blake Farenthold, The Tea Party isnt a bunch of radical crazies. They are everyday folkswho have enough common sense to realize that we are on an unsustainable path of spend, spend, spend,Farenthold told Reuters. [The Monitor,4/19/11; Reuters, 4/19/11]

DCCC Called on Farenthold to Reject Paul Ryans Budget Proposal

In April 2011, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee called on Farenthold to reject PaulRyans proposal to cut $6.2 billion in federal spending at the expense of Medicare and Medicaid. [CNN,4/5/11]

Did Not Have a Firm Position On Ryan Budget Bill

In April 2011, a spokesman for Farenthold acknowledged that the congressman was concerned aboutmaking sure that cuts [were] in line with his commitment to South Texans and that he [did] not have afirm position on the Ryan budget bill. [Politico,4/5/11]

Called Voting Card the Most Maxed-Out Credit Card in the Universe

In February 2011, Farenthold joked that his House of Representatives voting card was the most maxed-out credit card in the universe. [Caller, 2/5/11]

Farenthold: $100 Billion in Cuts or Defund Planned Parenthood/Obamacare

In April 2011, Farenthold admitted that the continuing resolution to fund the government should includepolicy changes if the GOP was unable to get all the cuts they wanted.

As Republicans, we promised in the pledge to America to cut $100 billion off of Obamas plan. If weregoing to come back with less than that, weve got to come back with some policy riders to say look, I tookless than $100 billion, but Ive defunded Planned Parenthood or abortions in the District of Columbia. OrIve ended Obamacare, said Farenthold.

Ive gotta go back home, look people in the eye and say, look, I told you $100 billion, but I went for less,and Ive got to have a because, Farenthold said. Because I dont want to be perceived as a liar back

home. [TPM,4/8/11]

Said He Was More Worried About Being Called a Liar for Saying He Would Cut Spending Then

Shutting the Government Down

In 2011, on the potential government shut-down Farenthold said, The people who seem to be afraid of agovernment shutdown are worried about getting elected in two more years. Im worried about having to

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go home and tell the folks I grew up with, and intend to spend the rest of my life with, that Im a liar. Wecan all feel his pain. [Blog, Star-Ledger,4/3/11]

Said He Made a Promise to Cut Budget and It would be Difficult to Back Away from Promise

In 2011, with a government shut-down looming Farenthold said it would be difficult to back off cuts tothe budget that he promised. We made a promise, he said, Its going to be difficult to come off ofthat.

He said he understood the frustration and impatience among Tea Party activists, but I also see the otherside of it. Part of negotiation is not saying no, its coming up with an alternative plan. [Bloomberg,3/31/11]

Opposed Raising Federal Debt Ceiling

Farenthold voiced his opposition to raising the federal debt ceiling, saying he would not vote to raise thedebt ceiling unless major changes are made in the federal spending. [Houston Chronicle, 1/04/11]

Top White House Economic Adviser: Not Raising Debt Ceiling Would Be Catastrophic

During an interview with ABCs This Week, top White House economic advisor AustanGoolsbee said that congressional failure to rise the nations debt limit early this year would becatastrophic.

The impact on the economy would be catastrophic. I mean, that would be a worse financialeconomic crisis than anything we saw in 2008If we get to the point where youve damaged thefull faith and credit of the United States, that would be the first default in history caused purely byinsanity, he said. [The Hill, 1/02/11]

Still on the Fence About Whether to Pay Furloughed Employees

In April 2011, Farenthold praised the House for passing a funding bill to keep the government open foranother week, however he acknowledged that it still had to be approved by the Senate and President.

Farenthold said, You got the House working real hard to find a way to keep the government operating,but we are one half of one third of the government. We cant make the Senate or the President doanything.

Farenthold hasnt decided what to do about furloughed employees. Do you pay them for not working?he said. That doesnt sound like the fiscally responsible thing to do, but theyve also planned their lives

based on having a job and they have bills to pay too. I havent made up my mind on that one yet.

Farenthold was unsure if Members of Congress would still get paid. Theyll be nobody to write thechecks to pay us. Writing our paychecks is probably a non-essential function. ... I suspect we will have topay ourselves for the time worked during the shutdown. [Brownsville Herald, 4/8/11]

Said He Needed Something to Bring Budget Cuts Home After Failing to Get $100 Billion in Cuts

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In April 2011, Farenthold said he wanted to avoid a government shutdown. He said we promised $100billion in cuts when we were elected in the Pledge to America, but youve got to give me something totake to the people back home to say I settled for less, but look what I got. [The Last Word, MSNBC, 4/6/11]

Said He Had to Go Home and Look People in the Eye and Claim Victory Either on Spending

or a Political Victory

On World News with Diane Sawyer Farenthold said if he couldnt get all of the spending cuts he wanted on thecontinuing resolution, he needed a political victory. That way I can go back, look the folks at home in the eye and saylook I couldnt get $100 billion, but I got you x, y and z. [ABC News,4/8/11]

Business and Consumer Issues

Touted La Quinta Channel as Economic Development Project

In 2011, Farenthold touted the extension of the La Quinta Channel. He said, The extension of the La

Quinta Channel is a major step towards the improved future development of the Port of Corpus Christi,the fifth largest port in the United States. The La Quinta extension will provide billions in businessrevenues, create thousands of jobs and contribute to the economic recovery of South Texas. [Rep.Farenthold, press release, 9/27/11]

Advocated for Law to Give Cruise Ships More Flexibility

In 2011, Farenthold worked to change a law that required cruise ships in the U.S. to stop in a foreigncountry before stopping at another U.S. port, unless the ship was built in America. The BrownsvilleHerald reported that the law was from the 1920s. Farenthold introduced House Resolution 2460, theCreating and Restoring U.S. Investment and Stimulating Employment (CRUISE) Act, which wouldamend U.S. maritime law to allow foreign cruise ships to call at multiple U.S. ports consecutively. He

noted that the cruise industry created economic growth in Texas ports.[Brownsville Herald, 8/17/11]

Touted Pipe plant as Example of Cooperation Between Government and Industry

In 2011, Farenthold touted a $1 billion pipe plant in Tianjins Texas Mill Project. The plant had thepotential to give the region a $2.7 billion economic boost. Farenthold called it an example of cooperationbetween government and industry. Other leaders attributed the projects success to pooling resources forthe Coastal Bends benefit. [Corpus Christi Caller-Times, 8/27/11]

Met with Officials from Tianjin Pipe Co.

In 2011, Farenthold met with officials from Tianjin Pipe Co. According to the Corpus Christi CallerTimes Soil testing has begun at the future site of Tianjin Pipe Co.s Gregory plant, marking another steptoward realizing a $1 billion investment that will energize a 252-acre patch of San Patricio County withfringe benefits for the entire region. The construction on the plant was expected to be operational by2013. [Corpus Christi Caller Times, 6/22/11]

Met with Chamber Members on Federal Demolition of Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce

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In 2011, Farenthold said he would look into the proposed demolition of the Corpus Christi Chamber ofCommerce. He met with Chamber representatives after it became clear that the chambers lease on thebuilding at 1201 N. Shoreline Blvd. would not be renewed due to a proposed parking lot for the federalcourthouse next door. [Corpus Christi Caller-Times,3/28/11]

Said Constituents Concerned About Federal Regulations

In February 2011, Farenthold said Everyone wants me to understand how federal regulations affect theirlives, either as business owners and operators or private citizens. [Caller, 2/5/11]

Biographical

Was In Credit Card Debt Between $45,000 and $150,000

In 2011, it was reported that Farenthold had credit debt that exceeded $15,000. The American

Independent reported Based on reports from the D.C. media, its hard to judge whether freshman U.S.

Rep. Blake Farenthold (R-Corpus Christi) is filthy-rich, neck-deep in debt, or maybe a little of both.

Despite pressing for control of the national debt, he was in credit card debt between $45,000 and

$150,000. Farenthold loaned his campaign about $138,000 in all, according reports from the Federal

Election Commission. About $6,500 of that was in the form of unpaid credit card expenses as of April 15,

Farenthold owed more than $125,000 in debts. [American Independent, 6/16/11]

Campaign Finance Issues

Received Money from Boehner, who was a a Key Fundraiser for GOP

In 2012, it was reported that Farenthold received money from Boehner, who was a key fundraiser forGOP. Boehner transferred about $8 million to the NRCC in 2011 and will probably give about thatmuch again this year. Hes given more than $500,000 from his leadership PAC to individual lawmakers,such as freshman GOP Reps. Blake Farenthold, of Texas, and Sean Duffy, of Wisconsin. [Mansfield NewsJournal, 1/10/12]

Blake Farenthold Congress April Quarterly Report Analysis

Total Raised: $168,804.00Raised from PACs: $97,000.00Cash on Hand: $163,489.45

Debt: $125,808.23[Elect Blake Farenthold, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11]

Received $2,000 from Air-Travel Related PACs

Farenthold received $2,000 from an airline and aircraft manufacturer. The table below summarizes these contributions:

Political Action Committee Amount

American Airlines PAC $1,000

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Textron Inc, PAC $1,000

Total $2,000

[Elect Blake Farenthold, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11]

Received $1,000 from Koch PAC

Farenthold received $1,000 from Koch Pac on March 29, 2011. [Elect Blake Farenthold, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report,Filed 04/15/11]

Failed to Disclose 11 Donors Employer and Occupation Who Contributed $8,300

Farenthold failed to disclose the employers and occupations of 11 of his donors, instead claiming he made best efforts toobtain the information or requested it.

One contribution he claims to have requested information on 9/15/10 despite the contribution being date 3/31/11.

The table below summarizes these contributions:

Last Name First Name Amount Employer/Occupation

Beer Sue $1,000 Best Efforts

Gandy F.I. $500 Best Efforts

Garza David N. $500 Best Efforts

Garza Elena $500 Best Efforts

Obregon Roberto $1,000 best efforts

Perez Frank E. $300 Best Efforts

Roberts Russell $250 Best Efforts

Scanio Frank $2,500 Best Efforts

Loy Steve $500 Physician

Parrish Bill $1,000 Information requested

Goldston William $250 Information Requested 09.15.10

Total $8,300


Received $33,000 from Leadership PACs

Farenthold received 16 contributions from leadership PACs totaling $33,000. The table below summarizes these contributions:


Conaway for Congress $2,000

Every Republican is Crucial PAC- Cantor $5,000

Free and Strong America PAC- Romney $2,000

Invest In A Strong And Secure America - Issa $1,000Kevin Mccarthy For Congress $2,000

Liberty Project- Neugebauer $1,000

Majority Committee PAC- McCarthy $2,500

Majority In Congress PAC- McCarthy $1,000

New PAC- Nunes $2,000

Texans for Lamar Smith $2,000

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Texans for Lamar Smith $2,000

The Committee for the Preservation of Capitalism- McCrery $2,500

The Freedom Project- Boehner $5,000

Voice for Freedom PAC- Price $1,000

Voice for Freedom PAC- Price $1,000

Westmoreland for Congress $1,000

Total $33,000


Received $8,000 from Alcohol and Tobacco PACs

Farenthold received $8,000 from alcohol and tobacco related PACs. The table below summarizes these contributions:


Altria Group, Inc. PAC $2,500

American Bankers Association PAC $1,000

National Beer Wholesalers Association Political Action Committee $2,500National Beer Wholesalers Association Political Action Committee $1,000

Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America PAC $1,000

Total $8,000


Received $11,000 from Agriculture Related PACs

Farenthold received $11,000 from agriculture related PACs. The table below summarizes these contributions:


American Crystal Sugar Company PAC $5,000

American Sugar Cane League Of Usa Inc Political Action Committee $1,000

American Sugarbeet Growers Association PAC $500

Committee for Advancement of Cotton $1,000

Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative Political Action Committee (MDFPAC) $1,000

Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers Inc Political Action Committee $1,000

Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative Political Action Committee $1,000

Texas Produce Association PAC $500

Total $11,000


Farenthold Owed Nearly $114,000 from Campaign

Farenthold holds $113,981.58 in personal debt owed by his campaign. [Elect Blake Farenthold, 2011 April Quarterly FECReport, Filed 04/15/11]

Paid Back Over $24,000. In the first quarter of 2011, Farentholds campaign repaid him $24,243.58 for personal loans madeto the campaign. [Elect Blake Farenthold, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11]

Began 2011 Campaign Cycle with $157, 000 in Debt

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In February 2011, it was reported that Farenthold was starting the campaign cycle $157,000 in debt fromhis last campaign. During his last campaign, he was outspent 2 to 1. [Politico, 2/8/11]

Received PAC Money from Mitt Romney

In 2011 Farenthold received a PAC check from Mitt Romney. [Politico, 3/10/11]

Benefitted from House Republican Leadership Fundraising

In 2011, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor was scheduled to headline a fundraiser to benefit potentiallyvulnerable freshmen such as Farenthold. [Politico, 3/30/11]

PAC Contributions Increased Dramatically After 2010 Election

During the 2010 election, when he ran against 14-term Democratic incumbent Solomon Ortiz, Farentholdreceived only one PAC contribution of $250 from the Security Service Federal Credit Union. Since theelection, Farenthold has received $34,500 from political action committees. [The Wall Street Journal,2/01/11]

Said He Should Thank DCCC for Attack Ads Because They Helped His Fundraising

Farenthold said the DCCC ad accusing him of supporting a budget scheme that would cost jobs andreduce research and education programs would backfire.

We're barely into February and they're already running attack ads? he quipped. I should thank them they're actually making it easier for me to raise funds. [Caller, 2/5/11]

Had to Amend Financial Disclosure to Fix Inconsistencies

Farenthold reported personal wealth of $14 million, but had to file amendments to his financial disclosureto fix inconsistencies, which potentially shifted his personal value. [Roll Call, 1/25/11]

Choice and Family Planning Issues

Crime & Public Safety Issues

Economic and Financial IssuesAsked to Designate Parts of Texas Highways as Part of Interstate 69 for Economic Development

In May 2011, Farenthold introduced legislation to designate three segments of Texas long-distance highways as part of

Interstate-69, saying it would encourage economic development. Currently, there are 230 miles of Texas highways built

to freeway standard nearly 25 percent of the Interstate-69 route in Texas, Farenthold said.

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Close proximity to an interstate is arguably one of the greatest factors to encourage economic development and job creation,

Farenthold said in a statement. Along with my colleagues in Congress, I have been working with the Alliance for I-69 to

ensure that work on the interstate is completed in a timely manner. [Blog, Houston Chronicle, 5/23/11]

Advocated for His Bill to Designate Portions of Road as Interstate for Economic Development

In 2011, Farenthold introduced H.R. 1535 to allow portions of I-69 (US 59, 77, and 281) to be designatedas an interstate. Farenthold touted that the bill would facilitate interstate signage on the multi-state I-69corridor stretching from Port Huron, Mich., to the U.S.-Mexico border in Texas to encourage economicdevelopment. Close proximity to an interstate is arguably one of the greatest factors to encourageeconomic development and job creation, said Farenthold. Along with my colleagues in Congress, I havebeen working with the Alliance for I-69 to ensure that work on the interstate is completed in a timelymanner. [Brownsville Herald, 5/21/11]

Co-Sponsored Legislation to Allow State to Challenge Regulations

Farenthold co-sponsored legislation to protect 10th Amendment rights by providing special standing for

State government officials to challenge proposed regulations. [Official Press Release, Tom Cole, 1/29/11]

Education Issues

Said There was Too Much Emphasis on Standardized Testing in Texas Schools

Farenthold said there was too much emphasis on standardized testing in Texas schools. Were puttingway too much emphasis on these standardized tests, said Farenthold. He said it wasnt necessary inTexas classrooms especially when state legislators have had such a hard time finding ways to fund schooldistricts, forcing many valley teachers to put in their early retirement rather than risk losing their job.Its costing us money, said Farenthold. [Valley Central,4/28/11]

Energy Issues

Requested Renewable Energy Money for District

In 2011, it was reported that Farenthold made a request to the Obama administration for a renewableenergy grant or loan. Republicans criticized the President for Solyndra, a company that went bankruptafter receiving government funding, however, Republicans such as Farenthold requested funding of thesame nature. [Politico, 9/22/11]

Farenthold Said He Was All for Green, Brown, Pink, Purple, Yellow Jobs

At a hearing on Green Energy Agenda and Jobs Farenthold said, Im all for jobs whether theyre green,brown, pink, purple, yellow. It doesnt matter. But it seems like, again, and certainly as somebody fromTexas this really hits close to home, that we are focusing on green jobs at the expense of the traditional oiland gas industry and traditional petrochemical, coal and the like. [Committee on Oversight and GovernmentReform, 9/23/11]

Touted Three Bills He Co-Sponsored to Lower Gas Prices

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In 2011, Farenthold wrote that there were domestic solutions for lower gas prices. He wrote High gas

prices make life more expensive and most families have no way to cut back on their fuel use. He claimed

Congress was working hard to lower gas prices by increasing the domestic supply. He wrote The federal

government must lease more land, expedite permits and get out of the way so that oil companies and their

hard working employees can do their jobs and increase production.

Farenthold wrote, Offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico accounts for about 1.25 million barrels of oil a

day, close to 25 percent of domestic crude oil production. To ramp up domestic oil and gas exploration

and get people back to work, I co-sponsored and voted for three important bills: H.R. 1229 the Putting the

Gulf of Mexico Back to Work Act, H.R. 1231 the Reversing President Obamas Offshore Moratorium Act

and H.R. 1230 the Restarting American Off-Shore Act Now. These bills would end the de facto

moratorium on drilling and expedite the backlog of permit applications for companies and operators eager

to get back to what they do best safely drill in the Gulf of Mexico. [Op-ed, Rep. Farenthold, The Caller, 6/8/11]

Advocated for Big Oil and Gas Industries

What were working on is trying to get the various regulatory agencies to get out of the way of smallentrepreneurs in the oil and gas industry, as well as the big oil and gas companies. [News 4,5/2/11]

Said Democrats Tried to Take Away Incentives from Oil and Gas Companies

Farenthold said it cost him $90 to fill up his gas tank in DC. He asked where the leadership was on gasprices. He said were attacking oil and gas companies, trying to take away any incentives they have. Hesaid more drilling in the U.S. was necessary. We need some leadership on the budget and energy policyand were not seeing it. [CSPAN, Washington Journal, 16:00, 3/9/11]

Said Price of Oil was Due to Regulations and Gulf Drilling Should Be Permitted

On the floor in March 2011, Farenthold said the price of oil was too high and permits should be given outfor drilling in the gulf. Since the time President Obama took office in 2009, the price of gasoline hasmore than doubled, rising from $1.53 a gallon to $3.52. America has become more dependent on foreignoil, undermining our national security while forcing hardworking Americans to endure budget-bustinggasoline prices. When you fill up your car, its not the oil companies you should be blaming; its theWhite House. Excessive government regulation, the fact that offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico is allbut shut down, and the attempt to end the tax incentives for oil exploration are all factors. The culture ofno from the executive branch is killing us.

Add to that the lack of any action in light of the deteriorating situation in the Middle East, Egypt, andLibya, in particular, and we have a failure of leadership at the top of this country. Energy is key to oureconomy. Scores of jobs rely on it. And $3.50 gasoline is unacceptable. I call on the President to acttoday. Call off the EPA. Issue those leases and permits in the gulf. Open Americas land for drilling. Andquit demonizing the oil and gas industry. [Farenthold Floor Remarks, 3/15/11]

Defended Tax Breaks for Big Oil

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In a response to the State of the Union, Rep. Farenthold attacked President Obamas proposal to eliminateoil industry subsidies to pay for and encourage clean energy research and development.

I have serious concerns that the presidents energy proposed policies will hurt Texans, he said in astatement. Eliminating exploration and drilling credits combined with increased regulation of offshore

drilling will cost jobs and drive gasoline prices up. [Brownsville Herald, 1/26/11]

Farenthold responded to President Obamas State of the Union by saying that he was concernedabout his energy policy I have serious concerns that the President's energy proposed policies willhurt Texans. Eliminating exploration and drilling credits combined with increased regulation ofoffshore drilling will cost jobs and drive gasoline prices up. [Congressional Documents and Publications,1/26/11]

Environmental Issues

Speed Limit Increase Amendment Had Turtle Conservationists Worried

In 2011, Farenthold attached an amendment to increase the speed limit on an island that had localsworried about turtles. Farenthold attached an amendment to House Bill HR 2584 to raise the speed limitto 25 mph for part of the year at the Padre Island National Seashore. Sea Turtle Inc. released 3,104 seaturtle hatchlings, however, officials worried that if the speed limit at Padre Island National Seashore wasraised the turtle population would go down. [Monitor,8/6/11]

Advocated for Corporations to Police Own Air Quality

In 2011, Farenthold said corporations should be free to police air quality. He said the U.S. EnvironmentalProtection Agency created regulations that hurt Texas.

There are so many regulations, he said. We need to find a way to start reigning in the regulations andchanging the culture of government agencies from no to yes.

The Caller reported He said corporations should be free to police air quality.

Farenthold said, Most corporations want to control emissions and be good corporate citizens regardlessof the EPA. [Caller, 3/26/11]Voted Twice to Limit Federal Oversight of Environmental Issues

In 2011, Farenthold voted twice to limit federal agency oversight in environmental and communicationissues. He voted for the Republican-backed Energy Tax Prevention Act and House Joint Resolution 37.[Caller.com, 4/14/11]

Voted for a Bill That Limited Regulation of Pesticide Use Near Navigable Waters

In 2011, Farenthold voted in the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee for a bill that would limit theexpansion of the regulation of the use of pesticides in or near navigable waters, as required by a federalcourt ruling.

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The bill would amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) to prohibit statesor the EPA from requiring a permit for the use, in or near navigable waters, of pesticides that areregistered under the law.

The bill also would amend the Clean Water Act to prohibit states or the EPA from requiring a permit forthe use, in or near navigable waters, of pesticides that are registered under FIFRA. The bill would allowexceptions for pesticides used in violation of the water quality protection provision of FIFRA, regulatedstormwater and industrial discharges, and discharges related to the normal operation of a vessel. The billpassed out of committee 46-8. Note: 13 Democrats voted for the legislation. [CQ Committee Hearings,3/16/11;HR 872, 3/16/11]

Ethics Issues

Said Bills Should Not Have Unrelated Issues In Them

Farenthold said I think every bill deserves a straight up or down vote without a bunch of other stuff onit,

But do you start packing stuff on a bill to get it passed? Where do you strike that balance? When do youvote for a bill with something on it you don't like? [Caller, 2/5/11]

Foreign Policy Issues Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea

Advocated for Relying on Commanders on Withdrawal from Afghanistan

In 2011, Farenthold said that he thought the President should rely on the military commanders inAfghanistan to determine the correct amount of troops to withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Farenthold said Like many Americans, I have concerns that our troops are fighting on too manyfronts . . . is essential to find a balance between strengthening our national security interests and bringingour troops home. [The Monitor, 6/23/11]

Said the U.S. Should Take the Lead on Libya

In March 2011, Farenthold said he favored U.S. intervention in Libya. He said Its never too late to tryand go in and do some good.

He went on to say, We should have taken the lead on it, but having the broad global support for ouractions is always a good thing, and Im glad the U.N. saw it our way, he said. Its good to see (Obama)is engaged on the world scene.

Farenthold said the crisis in Libya was tied to fuel prices. Getting the situation in Libya under control iscritical to getting fuel prices under control in the U.S., he said. [The Monitor,3/18/11]

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Said He was Learning About Iraq; Suggested America Should Stay Longer

In a March 2011, hearing on Iraq Farenthold said And as a new member of this committee and not anexpert in foreign affairs or the situation and never having been to Iraq, Im troubled by what Im hearing

here. My impression of Iraq comes from what I see on television and read in the newspapers, which mightin and of itself be a mistake.

He went on to ask if America should stay longer saying Has anybody in the Obama administration or theDOD talked to the Iraqi government and said, Hey, you think maybe it might be a good idea for us tostay a little bit longer until this is more stable? [Hearing On the State Department Role and Use of Contractors inIraq, 3/3/11]

Said Iraq was Shining Example of Bush Administration Success; But Said They Couldnt Provide

Groceries for Us

In a March 2011 hearing, the strategic importance of Iraq was highlighted with upheaval in the MiddleEast. Farenthold said, Im excited that weve achieved the success, and I think the Bush administrationhas -- Iraq being a shining example. But if they cant provide even groceries for us, Im not sure werethere yet. [Hearing On the State Department Role and Use of Contractors in Iraq, 3/3/11]

Gay and Lesbian Issues

Said President Obamas Decision Not to Defend Defense of Marriage was Dangerous

In a March 2011 Farenthold said he disagreed with the Obama administrations decision againstdefending the Defense of Marriage Act.

He said, This is an express violation of the separation of powers principle found in the Constitution, andit presents a dangerous precedent for future administrations to follow, he added. This is not a gay-rightsissue, this is a separation-of-powers issue. [The Hill, 3/3/11]

Gun Issues

Health Care Issues

Said Massive Federalization of Health Care Wasnt the Answer

In 2011, Farenthold held a listening session and addressed healthcare reform. We in the House ofRepresentatives voted to repeal it and start over again. Theres no question weve got a problem withgetting health care to the people we need to get healthcare to, but a massive federalization of the program,I dont think is the answer. [Brownsville Herald, 4/26/11]

Believed 70 Percent of Workers Would Lose Health Care Plan Because of Health Care Law

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In January 2011, Farenthold claimed that 70 percent of workers would lose their own health care becauseof the 2010 health care law. Despite claims that you can 'keep the health care plan you like,' theObama Administration has predicted that as many as 7 out of 10 Americans with employer-provided health coverage could lose their current health plan, he said. [PolitiFact, 2/1/11]

PolitiFact: Farentholds Claim that 70% of Workers Could Lose their Plan was False

PolitiFact.com rated Farentholds claim that, as many as 7 out of 10 Americans with employer-providedhealth coverage could lose their current health plan, false. Farenthold used the highest possible estimatefor the percentage of healthcare plans that will have lost their grandfather status by 2013 but did notqualify that loss of grandfather status does not necessarily mean that people would lose their currentplans. [PolitiFact.com, 1/23/11]

Had Lack of Context in Talking Point About Keeping Health Care Coverage

In an op-ed Farenthold wrote Despite claims that you can keep the health care plan you like, theObama administration has predicted that as many as 7 out of 10 Americans with employer-providedhealth coverage could lose their current health plan. Politifact said there was a lack of context in histalking point. [Politifact.com, 2/2/11]

Defended Vote for Healthcare Repeal, Claiming it Was Bureaucratic and Destroyed Jobs

In a January 2011, Farenthold defended his vote repeal health care.

One of the reasons he gives in the mandate that business that employ more than 50 people providebureaucrat-approved health care, citing a study by the National Federation of Independent Businessesthat estimates that the mandate would destroy 1.6 million jobs, 66 percent of those in small businesses.

Farenthold said that the health care law crated a maze of red tape that will put the federal governmentbetween you and your doctor and creates an unconstitutional mandate that all citizens must have abureaucrat-approved health care plan.

He went on to say law would end a 30-year bipartisan effort to prevent federal taxpayer-fundedabortions and said he would be co-sponsoring legislation that would allow the sale of health insuranceacross state lines. [Corpus Christi Caller Times, 1/23/11]

Farenthold Supported Provisions of Health Care Reform, Yet Signed as Co-Sponsor of Repeal

In an interview with The Monitor from McAllen, Texas, Farenthold seemed to support the majorprovisions of the health care reform law.

He said there should be a way to provide care for people with pre-existing conditions, to make it easierfor people to get private insurance, and easier to get health care when you are in tough financial times,The Monitor wrote.

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However, in opposing the bill, Farenthold said, But there was so much bureaucracy, red tape andexpense for both the government and for private businesses in the bill they passed last year, that it was ajob killer more than a reform of health care. [The Monitor, 1/05/11]

Immigration and Border Issues

Claimed to Be Troubled by Demonization of Immigrants

In 2011, Farenthold said Im troubled by the demonization of immigrants, legal or illegal, in our party,Rep. Blake Farenthold, a freshman Republican from Texas, told The New York Times. Weve got acountry that was built on immigrants and immigration, and weve kind of lost sight of that. [TopekaCapital-Journal, 11/5/11]

Said E-Verify Would Cause 11 to 12 million undocumented immigrants to Migrate Back to Border

for Jobs

In 2011, Farenthold said with e-verify the 11 to 12 million undocumented immigrants would migrate backto the border for jobs. The Texas Tribune live-blogged throughout the weekend from The Texas TribuneFestivals race and immigration track. The paper reported that in response to a question on what to dowith the 11 to 12 million undocumented immigrants Farenthold said roll out E-verify, do not exploitillegal immigrants and there will be a natural migration back to Mexico or where the jobs are. [TexasTribune, 9/24/11]

Said Guest Worker Program was a Good Step for Immigration Reform

In 2011, Farenthold said the issue of illegal immigration was helped by a guest worker program.Farenthold said immigration reform involved figuring out figuring out who was carrying drugs versus

water and tortillas. Farenthold said he did not support amnesty for the 11 million to 12 million people whoare in the country illegally, but both also acknowledge that immigration reform in the form of a guest-worker program is a good step forward. [El Paso Times, 9/25/11]

Helped Constituent Get Green Card to Pay Loan for Sons College; Said Immigration System was

Too Complicated

In May 2011, one of Farenthold helped constituents get green cards to pay for sons tuition. The Callerreported that Sammy Giraldo was not a citizen, rather he was attending medical school on a student visaand therefore did not qualify for federally supported financial aid. His parents waited for years to begranted permanent resident status, could not co-sign for his private loans until they got their green cards.With the help of caseworkers with Farentholds office, Giraldos parents got their green cards.

Farenthold said, There is no question that they're bound up in too much red tape in a system that is toocomplicated, he said. You end up with people who fall through the cracks with innocent paperworkmistakes. We've got to come up with the right balance, and that's not going to be easy. [Caller,5/30/11]Sent a Letter to DHS and Requested More Unmanned Aerial Vehicles to Aid Protect the Texas-

Mexico Border

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In June 2011, the Department of Homeland Security gave notification that a decision would be made atthe end on the year as to who would receive additional unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In April 2011,Farenthold along with other U.S Representatives from Texas sent a letter to the Department of HomelandSecurity Secretary, Janet Napolitano asking for an increase in UAV coverage.

We request that you locate one of these two systems at a location immediately along the Texas-Mexicoborder, the letter stated. Texas Rangers and Texas Department of Public Safety have brought to ourattention that the absence of UAS (also known as UAVs) along the border already has hindered lawenforcement operations. Both federal and state law enforcement rely on the critical surveillance thesesystems provide, and having a UAS readily available along the border is crucial to their mission.[Brownsville Herald,6/10/11]

Requested Unmanned Aerial Vehicle to Patrol the Texas-Mexico Border

In 2011, Farenthold signed on to a letter requesting at least one more unmanned aerial vehicle to patrolthe Texas-Mexico border. U.S. House Homeland Security Committee members Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo,Michael McCaul, R-Austin, and Blake Farenthold, R-Corpus Christi, sent a letter to Department of

Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano with the request, Cuellar said. Texas tends to beoverlooked, probably for political reasons, said Farenthold. Were the logical spot. We have the mostborder, not to mention our coastline, and we need some more assets down here. [The Monitor, 4/28/11;Herald Net,4/29/11]

Fact Check: Said Porous Border with Mexico was Opportunity for Terrorists, Cut Border Security

Funding

In 2011, Farenthold said the porous U.S.-Mexico border created an opportunity for terrorists coming intothe country. He said in the past five years, 739 aliens with possible terrorist ties were nabbed crossing intoTexas illegally.

A porous U.S.-Mexico border presents an opportunity for terrorists to enter the U.S. undetected, saidFarenthold. [Houston Chronicle, 3/28/11]

Voted to Cut Border Security Funding

In 2011, Farenthold voted for legislation that cut border funding forborder security technology by$250 million slowing efforts to better secure the border with new and much-needed bordersurveillance technologies. [Democratic Leader, Rep. Pelosi, accessed4/3/11; HR 1, Vote#147, 2/19/11]

Said Republicans Vilified Legal And Illegal Immigrants as Taking Advantage of the System

Farenthold said the vast majority of immigrants didnt come to the U.S. to take advantage of the U.S.

He said, big-city Republicans dont understand the border and have vilified both legal and illegalimmigrants. [The Herald, 2/7/11]

Israel

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Jobs

Admitted He Had Not Brought Many Jobs to Brownsville

In 2011, Farenthold said, Im for getting rid of unnecessary government regulations, said Farenthold.

Im for getting people back to work, but I am going to be a stickler when it comes to wasting taxpayershard earned money. It was reported, Farenthold admitted he has not brought many jobs to Brownsville.[Action 4 News, 8/24/11]

Cost Texas 4,227 Jobs By Voting for Continuing Resolution

In February 2011, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee aired an ad attacking Farentholdfor voting for the February 2011 continuing resolution. Farentholds vote will cost 4,227 jobs in Texaswhile still preserving taxpayer subsidies for Big Oil companies making record profits.

Farenthold defended his vote saying, In cutting government, we cut a huge variety of programs a lot of

which I would have liked to see increase and a lot of which Id like to see decreased more. [Texas Tribune,2/23/11]

When Asked Whether Budget Cuts Would Hurt Job Creation, He Said Experts Went Both Ways

When asked for his reaction to economists assertion that $60 billion in cuts will hurt job creationFarenthold sad economists are a lot like lawyers, you cant get a straight answer out of them. Youve gotexperts on both sides that go either way. [CSPAN, Washington Journal, 2:09, 3/9/11]

Labor and Working Family Issues

Said Businesses Not Government Put People To Work, Then Said He Was Focused on FundingProjects to Create Jobs on South Texas Highways

Farenthold said he hoped to see legislation come out of the House Transportation and InfrastructureCommittee that would fund projects and jobs working on South Texas highways.

Jobs are the key to everything right now, he said. Getting people back to work will solve a plethora ofproblems. [Caller, 2/5/11]

On his website Farenthold said We can create new jobs. Businesses, not government, are the keyto putting people back to work. [blakefarenthold.com, accessed 2/7/11]

Miscellaneous

Agreed to Support the National Burn Pit Victim Registry

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In 2011, Farenthold, after he was made aware of local Iraq war veterans that suffered diseases andillnesses due to burn pits that were used to dispose chemicals and waste overseas, he agreed to support abill that would create the national Burn Pit Victim Registry.Farenthold met with constituents and discussed how to make changes on national policies that prevented

burn pit victims from receiving adequate care. [KRISTV,7/7/11]

Met with Wife of Iraq Vet Suffering Lung Disease Due to Chemicals He Came in Contact with in

Iraq

In 2011, Captain Leroy Torres wife Rosie met with Farenthold to bring attention to the sever lungdisease she suffered due to burn pits used to dispose of chemicals in the Iraq war. Captain Torres servedin the military for 21 years before coming home from Iraq in 2008. Torres had problems getting hismedical bills paid for, Unfortunately, I havent been successful with the VA. They denied my claim- myreimbursement. All of that was denied, he said. [KRIS TV, 7/7/11]

Participated in Six Course Dinner at Ocean Drive Home of U.S. Rep. Congressman Blake

Farenthold

According to the Corpus Christi Caller-Times the American Heart Association supporters were treated toa lovely dinner under the oaks at the Ocean Drive home of U.S. Rep. Congressman Blake Farenthold May20. The Dinner with a Congressman was a 2011 Heart Ball auction item, and guests enjoyed a sixcoursedinner courtesy of chef Doan Shockley of Shockley Market, Sam Kane Beef Processors, H-E-B, andTriton Sea Products paired with wines from Republic National Distributors, and ambiance courtesy ofButler Signature Rentals. Guests enjoyed lively political discussion as well as the inside scoop into thegoings-on of this most historic Congressional session. [Corpus Christi Caller-Times, 5/29/11]

Said He Thought He Would Single-Handedly Change the World When He Went to Washington

In 2011, Farenthold said I went in with the youthful vigor that I could single-handedly change theworld, however, he said, you fast come to the realization that youre 1/435th of one-half of one-third ofthe government.

Farenthold said a company in his district was considering opening up a plant in China due to regulations.Farenthold said, I dont know how these bureaucrats sleep at night, he said. Nobody in the Washingtonregulatory bureaucracy gets fired for saying no. Theres a lot of power to the status quo. [USA Today,5/21/11]

In 2011, Farenthold Took Up Residence in DC and Bought a Condo

In 2011, Farenthold said he struggled to find an apartment and felt it made more sense to buy a condo inDC. He was worried about how becoming a DC resident may come across. I thought, How am I goingto justify this to the Tea Party who supports term limits? and How do I take this back home that I boughta place in Washington and not look like Ive gone D.C.? [USA Today, accessed5/23/11]

Cameron County District Attorney Armando R. Villalobos Democrat Considered Run Against

Farenthold

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In 2011, Cameron County District Attorney Armando R. Villalobos said he was considering a run againstBlake Farenthold. He established an exploratory committee to test the waters and was scheduled to hold areception to test his candidacy. What I have to do right now is go out and see what the atmosphere islike, to see what people are interested and if that type of candidacy would be embraced or rejected at thispoint, Villalobos said. I havent quite decided whether to take that race (Congressional race) or to seek

re-election, he said. [Brownsville Herald, 5/7/11]

Met with Governor Perry

In April 2011, Farenthold met with governor Perry. [Caller.com,4/19/11]

Farenthold: Ive Never Worked For A Poor Person.

Farenthold: Ive Never Worked For A Poor Person. In 2011, Farenthold addressed the NationalFederation of Independent Business. He said Ive never worked for a poor person. My Harlingen Newsprinted the DCCC press release with the headline Representative Blake Farenthold is Absolutely Right:

He Only Works for the Rich. [Caller, 4/23/11;My Harlingen News,4/26/11]

Said People Who Received Unemployment Should Be Drug Tested

Farenthold said Drug testing for recipients of various welfare programs, I really think thats somethingthat needs to be considered. Weve gotta, you know, nobody wants to starve anybody. Everybody wantsto help folks out. But weve got a system where you can stay on unemployment for an awfully long time.And I think we need to create a system of decreasing benefits over time to encourage you to get a job. Ithink anybody whos had an alcoholic in their family or somebody with a drug problem, realizes that untilthings get bad enough theres no incentive to change.And I think were so generous in some of our socialproblems that people are unwilling to take a job outside in the heat. Rather than taking15 dollars to go do

roofing theyd rather keep their 9 or 10 dollars in benefits. I think drug testing is not an unreasonablerequirement for taking money from the government. [YouTube, Town Hall Meeting, Part 2, 00:22,4/26/11]

Military Issues

Pledged to Support Full Service Medical Center and Health Care Funding and Transparency Act

of 2010 for Veterans

In March 2011, Farenthold visited the American Legion Post 390 in Raymondville, TX and promised to

work to move HB 837 which calls for a Full Service Medical Center. He also said he would support theHealth Care Funding and Transparency Act of 2010 to expand the Harlingen Clinic. [Texas Insider,3/22/11]

Said He Would Vote to Protect Veterans Programs and Social Security Against Budget Cuts

In March 2011, Farenthold visited the American Legion Post 390 in Raymondville, TX. He said hesupported budget cuts, but would vote to protect veterans and social security programs.

He said he was committed to protecting veterans programs from any proposed cuts. [Texas Insider,3/22/11]

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Said U.S. Should Have Taken Lead on Libya

In March 2011, Farenthold said on Libya Its never too late to try and go in and do some good. He wenton to say We should have taken the lead on it, but having the broad global support for our actions is

always a good thing, and Im glad the U.N. saw it our way. [Congress.org, accessed 3/29/11]

Open Government

Introduced Legislation to Require Agencies to Show Receipts and Expenditures Every Two Weeks

In 2011, Farenthold introduced legislation to require federal agencies to show receipts and expendituresevery two weeks on agency websites. The bill read Requirement- Each Federal agency shall publish onthe official public website of the agency, at the end of each two-week period, a statement of all fundsreceived and spent by the agency during that two-week period.[Govtrack.us,3/25/11]

FLIP: Said the American People Demanded Increased Government Transparency

In 2011, Farenthold introduced his firth piece of legislation to require federal agencies to post theirreceipts and expenditures on their official websites. The American people have demanded that Congresscut the federal budget, reduce the size of government, and increase transparency, Farenthold said. Iintroduced H.R. 1061 to allow the American taxpayers to track federal expenditures and hold thegovernment accountable for out-of-control spending.[Brownsville Herald, 4/2/11]

FLOP: Voted to Cut Government Transparency

In March 2011, it was reported that several open government initiatives were set to end by May31. The Office of Management and Budget was planning to take open government websites downsuch as paymentaccuracy.gov and USASpending.gov. The House allocated only $2 million in itsbill, H.R. 1 for the e-government fund in 2011, while the White House requested $35 million.[Federal News Radio,3/31/11; HR 1, Vote#147, 2/19/11]

Other Social Issues

Pledged to Seek Reform to Social Programs

In 2011, it was reported that Blake Farenthold, Francisco Canseco and Bill Flores the Three Amigos pledged to cut spending and seek reform of social programs. [Blog, Houston Chronicle, 9/25/11]

FLIP FLOP: Positive About Funding to General Manager of Public Broadcasting System in South

Texas; Voted to Eliminate Funding for NPR

In 2011, it was reported that cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting in South Texas would effecteducational programming to classrooms in 42 school districts and public access to television and radio

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programming for about 206,000 people in 22 counties, according to Don Dunlap, president and generalmanager of the South Texas Broadcasting System.

Dunlap said he met with Farenthold on the issue and found that the Congressman was positive.Congressman Farenthold has committed to keeping us informed of the process, he said. [Caller, 4/6/11]

Voted to Eliminate Federal Funding for NPR

In March 2011, Farenthold voted for a bill that eliminated federal funding for NPR. The bill wasdesigned to prevent to directly fund or purchase content from NPR. [CQ, 3/17/11; H R 1076, Vote#192, 3/17/11]

Noncommittal on Whether He Would Support Additional Cuts to Public Broadcasting

In 2011, Farenthold said he upped his personal contribution to National Public Radio, yet he votedfor House resolution that proposed to cut NPRs federal funding.

When asked whether he would support additional cuts to the Corporation for Public BroadcastingFarentholds representative was noncommittal.[Caller, 4/6/11]

Personal Issues

Was Among Wealthiest Members of Congress with Net Worth of at Least $8.8 Million

In 2011, Blake Farenthold was one of freshmen to make The Hills wealthiest members of congress list.Farenthold founded a computer consulting and Web design firm and has a net worth of at least $8.8million. [The Hill, 9/06/11]

Described as Filthy Rich Oilmen

In 2011, Farenthold was described as one of two filthy rich-oil men Republican freshman. Two oilmenin the freshmen class are also filthy rich: New Mexicos Stevan Pearce ($8.4 $38 million) and the LoneStar States Blake Farenthold ($10.4 $31.4 million). [Blog, Reuters, 8/19/11]

Asked If He Should Be Setting a Better Example with His Weight

Due to the diabetes epidemic in Brownsville, Farenthold was asked if he should be setting a betterexample with his weight. Id love to lose some weight, said Farenthold. Its not as easy done as it is

said. [Action 4 News,8/24/11]

Hypocritically Defended Own Debt While Saying America Needed to Live Within Means

In 2011, Farenthold said the large amount of credit card debt on his financial disclosure report between$45,000 and $150,000 was an anomaly. He said it was related to his campaign. I have paid off all of mycredit card debt, and continue to pay the full balance every month, the statement said. I believe thatCongress should lead by example by balancing our check books.

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The Washington Post reported that Farenthold, like many members of the large freshman class, have called for Congress torein in federal spending, saying that like the rest of America, the government needs to tighten its belt and work within itsmeans. [Washington Post, 6/17/11]

Politico: Texas Rep. Blake Farenthold wants to clarify something for the record: hes not that

rich

In March 2011, Farenthold clarified that he was not that rich. After the Center for Responsive Politicsanalyzed his financial disclosure form and found that he was the third richest freshman, with assets ofabout $35.8 million, his office issued a statement that their reading was grossly exaggerated.

Congressman Farenthold has been blessed to be the beneficiary of the entrepreneurial spirit and hardwork of many generations of South Texas ranchers, and farmers, his office wrote in a statement.Congressman Farenthold has a complex financial situation as he has inherited interests in several familybusinesses and partnerships which he owns with his sister and his children. [Blog, On Congress, Politico,3/17/11]

Said He Wished He was as Rich as the Center for Responsive Politics Reported; He Could

Use a New Car

In March 2011, Farenthold clarified that he was not that rich. After the Center for ResponsivePolitics analyzed his financial disclosure form and found that he was the third richest freshman,with assets of about $35.8 million, Farenthold wrote in the statement. I wish I were worth asmuch as the reports imply, I could use a new car! [Blog, On Congress, Politico, 3/17/11]

Headline: Rep. Blake Farenthold: Im not that rich

In March 2011, Farenthold was reported as one of the wealthiest freshman, worth an estimated $35.8million. In response Farentholds office issued a press release saying he has been blessed to be thebeneficiary of the entrepreneurial spirit and hard work of his family, but his net worth was grosslyexaggerated.

Farentholds financial disclosure exaggerated his wealth because it listed a number of businesses andtrusts co-owned with family members. He said, I wish I were worth as much as the reports imply, I coulduse a new car!

When asked how rich he really was, Farentholds office said he was working with an accountant. Itscloser to $5 [million] to $7 million. [Reliable Source, Washington Post,3/15/11]

Headline: $7 Million not enough to feel rich, say millionaires

In March 2011, a poll was released by CBS saying when millionaires were asked if they felt richfour in ten said they didnt. They said they would need $7.5 million to feel comfortable. [CBSNews,3/15/11]

Fourth Wealthiest Freshman Worth Estimated $35.8 million

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The Center for Responsive Politics reported that Farenthold was the fourth wealthiest freshman membersof congress. He was worth an estimated $35.8 million. [CNN Politics, 3/9/11]

Complained About Lack of Dr. Pepper in Los Angeles

Farenthold said he wanted a good bottle of Dr. Pepper on one of his trips. He complained that he couldntget the same dr. pepper in LA. He had a fridge full of his favorite type of Dr. Pepper in his congressionaloffice.

On his twitter, Farenthold wrote No Dr. Pepper in a bottle to be had on AA concourse at LAX.Really????

Farenthold explained that the difference between regular Dr. Pepper and Dr. Pepper from Dublin is that,True Dr. Pepper connoisseurs drink Dublin Dr. Pepper. Its bottled with Imperial Pure Cane Sugar, nothigh fructose corn syrup. [The Hill,3/7/11]

Expressed Disappointment that He Did Not Get Many Frequent Flier Upgrades as Congressman

Farenthold was reported to have quirky preferences such as his focus on a specific type of dr. pepperand his desire for seat 12A.

On his twitter, Farenthold wrote, I AM on the transportation and Infrastructure committee... But Imreally after the Platinum upgrades [to] the DCA flights.

But complained that since he entered Congress he had gotten less frequent flier upgrades. Ive only hadone [platinum upgrade] since Ive been in [Congress], and noted that the flights from Texas andWashington fall short of the miles needed to get him an upgrade. [The Hill,3/7/11]

Farenthold: Somewhere out there is the body of a rubber chicken without a head

Farenthold said he did not receive office phone numbers from the previous congressman. The only thingfound in a desk was the head of rubber chicken, Farenthold recalled, Somewhere out there is the bodyof a rubber chicken without a head. [Brownsville Herald, 2/7/11]

Shared Condo with Daughter; Worked from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

In February 2011, Farenthold said his workday began at 6 a.m. and ended at 10 p.m. in the condo heshared with his daughter Morgan who was an intern for U.S. Rep. Mike Conaway, R-Texas. [Caller, 2/5/11]

Political Issues

District was Drawn to Keep Him Safe

In 2012, Ryan Downton, a Republican lawyer told a panel of federal judges that Farentholds district wasdrawn to keep him safe. We drew Farenthold a more Republican district, Downton said. [Blog, HoustonChronicle, 1/19/12]

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Redistricting Map Designed to Protect Farenthold and Canseco and Dilute Hispanic Vote

In 2012, Gerardo Interiano, a staffer who drew the maps for Texas Speaker of the House Joe Straus, R-San Antonio testified before a panel of three federal judges, that the maps were designed to protect

Farenthold and Canseco and the dilute Hispanic vote. It was reported Under cross-examination, Interianoacknowledged that precincts with lower Hispanic voter turnout were sought to protect U.S.Rep. Francisco Canseco, R-San Antonio, and Rep. Blake Farenthold, R-Corpus Christi, in thosecongressional districts, while keeping the percentage of registered Latino voters the same. [Blog, HoustonChronicle, 1/18/12]

Went Through Three Chiefs of Staff Had Rapid-Fire Turnaround in Office

In 2011, it was reported that Farenthold had gone through three chiefs of staff and seemed unfazed by therapid-fire turnaround. Farenthold reportedly had a series of cadre of blink-and-youll-miss-them chiefs ofstaff.[Roll Call,11/17/11]

Member of Farentholds Staff Allegedly at House Party Where Police Were Called

In 2011, Roll Call investigated an alleged party with some Farenthold staffers who were placed at anAnnapolis, Md. Party where the police were called. Our office has done a thorough internal review of theincident, and we found that none of our staffers were involved in inappropriate conduct that would impacttheir official duties, said a statement HOH was handed at the office of Rep. Blake Farenthold (R-Texas).It was attributed to District Director Monica Ledesma. When first contacted about our ongoinginvestigation, a Farenthold aide queasily asked what we were inquiring about. The Annapolis party? heasked before clamming up. [Roll Call, 11/10/11]

Expected Tough Re-Election Battle

In 2011, it was reported that Blake Farenthold expected his votes to be part of a tough re-election battle in 2012. [Blog,Houston Chronicle,9/25/11]

Said House Freshman Had Not Exercised Enough Power

In 2011, Farenthold said the freshman class of Republicans had not exercised enough power.I dont think weve been bold enough, or exercised our power enough, Farenthold said.[Blog, HoustonChronicle, 9/25/11]

Farentholds District Faced Legal Challenge Over Redistricting from Justice Department

In 2011, it was reported that Canseco and Farentholds re-drawn districts by the Republican legislaturedid not meet federal requirements, according to the Justice Department. Changes made to two SouthTexas congressional districts by the Legislature as part of the redistricting process violate the minimumrequirements of the Voting Rights Act, civil rights lawyers for the U.S. Department of Justice told thefederal D.C. District CourtThe departments filing focused on the changes made to the 23rd and 27thCongressional districts, which are represented by Republicans Francisco Quico Canseco and BlakeFarenthold. [San Antonio Express-News, 9/24/11]

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Justice Department May Have Rejected Redistricting Map Due in Part to Farentholds District

In 2011, it was speculated upon that the Justice Department opposed the Republican redistricting mapsbecause there was gerrymandering to help freshman Republican Reps. Francisco Quico Canseco andBlake Farenthold. [The Hill,9/19/11]

Called on to Tell Consultant to Release Website to Opponent

In 2011, the Caller called on Farenthold to exert his influence over his political consultant to give thewebsite RoseMezaHarrison.com back to Democrat Rose Meza Harrison. Farentholds political consultant,Steve Ray bought RoseMezaHarrison.com, Harrison called on Farenthold to give her back the websitename.

The editorial read And thats where Farenthold enters this picture, or could. While there is no reason todoubt Rays word that buying RoseMezaHarrison.com was his idea, not Farentholds, there also is noreason for Farenthold not to step in and exert some influence on Ray. To do so would be dare we say

it? statesmanlike. [Editorial, Caller, 9/14/11]

District Changed Drastically; Dept. of Justice Did Not Thing Redistricting Maps Met Minority

Standards

In 2011 redistricting, Farentholds district changed drastically. The U.S. Dept. of Justice did not agree thatredistricting maps met federal