In this episode of The Brief, we sit down with Gus Barrera, Chair of the Coastal Bend to Washington, D.C. Delegation to break down one of the Chamber’s most important advocacy efforts: taking the Coastal Bend’s priorities directly to the nation’s capital.

From water and infrastructure to trade, workforce, and regional growth, Gus shares how this trip goes far beyond a few meetings, it’s a coordinated, strategic effort to ensure our region is heard where it matters most.

We dive into why showing up in person makes a difference, how federal funding decisions impact Corpus Christi, and what’s at stake for the Coastal Bend as key policies and agreements including trade and infrastructure investments continue to evolve.

Beyond policy, this episode highlights the power of regional collaboration, the importance of telling our story, and why advocacy is critical to sustaining growth, opportunity, and economic momentum across South Texas.

Topics include:

• What the Coastal Bend to D.C. trip is and why it matters
• How federal advocacy impacts funding, infrastructure, and growth
• Key priorities: water, the Port of Corpus Christi, I-69, and workforce
• Why trade agreements like USMCA are critical to the region
• The importance of showing up in person to tell our story
• Balancing growth with responsible development in Corpus Christi
• How the Economic Empowerment Committee supports small businesses

The Brief is where policy meets business from City Hall to the state Capitol to Washington, D.C. with a focus on jobs, infrastructure, and opportunity in Corpus Christi.

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