Community Demands Transparency and Representation
Corpus Christi residents rallied on Friday afternoon outside the Wells Fargo Building, home to U.S. Rep. Michael Cloud’s (R-Victoria) local office. Organized by Indivisible Coastal Bend, the event aimed to push the congressman to engage directly with his constituents by attending a town hall meeting. However, despite the community’s presence and anticipation, Rep. Cloud was not at the office.
Political organizers, local leaders, and dozens of concerned citizens gathered to demand transparency, responsiveness, and public dialogue from their elected officials. Volunteers delivered a formal letter to Cloud’s staff requesting his attendance at a town hall scheduled for April 17.
Local Leaders Voice Concerns
District 2 Councilwoman Sylvia Campos, former Councilman Jim Klein, and local Democratic leaders joined residents to express frustration over Rep. Michael Cloud’s ongoing lack of responsiveness. To address the issue, they delivered a formal letter to his staff, urging him to attend a town hall and prioritize open, two-way communication with constituents.
Moreover, Klein—who also chairs the Sierra Club’s Coastal Bend Executive Committee—highlighted another critical concern: environmental protection. He stressed that maintaining safeguards like the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act is essential for the region’s well-being. “We want to make sure Congressman Cloud doesn’t miss the opportunity to engage with the largest population base in his district,” he said, urging the congressman to listen and respond to the voices of those he represents.
Citizens Demand Action Over Silence
Indivisible Coastal Bend has made multiple attempts to contact Rep. Cloud through letters, emails, and phone calls. In a March 6 email, Cloud’s staff acknowledged the group’s inquiry but clarified that they had not scheduled any public events. They added that future events would appear on Cloud’s website.
Cloud serves on the U.S. House Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency, established by former President Donald Trump. Residents argue that his role significantly influences policies that affect their lives.
Pop-Up Rally Highlights National Concerns
A pop-up rally sprang to life outside the building following the letter delivery. Dozens of residents held signs protesting budget cuts to Medicare, Social Security, and food assistance programs, which they believe serve to benefit the wealthy. The Department of Government Efficiency’s termination of federal workers also drew criticism.
One participant, Lois Huff, waved an American flag while holding a sign. She voiced concerns over the Trump administration’s “chainsaw” approach to federal agency downsizing, including the U.S. Agency for International Development. “People are afraid, angry, and realizing that they’re not alone,” she said.
An “Empty Chair” Town Hall on the Horizon
Despite Cloud’s absence, Indivisible Coastal Bend remains committed. Co-leader Stacie Garrecht confirmed that the town hall will proceed with or without the congressman. If Cloud schedules his town hall before the group’s April event, organizers say they will attend that instead.
The group plans to host an “Empty Chair” Town Hall to increase public pressure. Inspired by a similar event in Missoula, Montana, the setup will feature symbolic placeholders for absent lawmakers, underlining their failure to engage.
Misty Parker, a new group co-leader, expressed optimism about the movement’s momentum. “We’ve got Republicans here, Democrats, and people who had previously tuned out of politics. Now, they’re getting involved,” she said.
Looking Ahead
Indivisible Coastal Bend’s town hall is set for 6 p.m. on April 17 at the Holiday Inn Downtown Corpus Christi Marina. Whether or not Rep. Cloud attends, residents are committed to voicing their concerns and promoting accountability.
Corpus Christi residents are responding to growing calls for transparency and accountability with renewed determination. Instead of waiting for change, they are taking civic engagement into their own hands. Furthermore, their continued efforts demonstrate a strong and unwavering commitment to being heard.