news

Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) will host eighth-grade student Rylan Wagner, 13, from Lytle Junior High School in Lytle, Texas, to see President Donald J. Trump’s first State of the Union Address during a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, February 28 at 8 p.m. CST at the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

Rylan competed in a school-wide essay contest at Lytle Junior High School and was selected from his peers to attend President Trump’s address next week at our nation’s capital.

“I believe that education is the great equalizer, which is why I work with schools in my district to provide our students with the resources and experiences needed to take them further in life,” said Congressman Cuellar. “On Tuesday, Rylan will be my guest during President Trump’s first address to a joint session of Congress. He’ll be there with all our country’s leaders. The next day, my staff will guide him and his father on a tour of our nation’s capital to see historical monuments and the White House. This unique opportunity helps outstanding students like Rylan realize that he can accomplish his dreams so long as he dedicates himself to his studies and goals.”

Congressman Cuellar will cover airfare and hotel accommodations for Rylan and a parent .

“I feel very honored to be able to attend President Trump’s address to the joint session of Congress next week with Congressman Cuellar,” Rylan said. “I have never been to D.C., but I am looking forward to it. I hope I will be able to learn more about what happens in these meetings, and can get a greater understanding of what keeps our country running.”

Rylan enjoys playing football, hunting and the outdoors. His favorite school subjects are math, athletics and agriculture. He wants to either become an businessman or a specialist doctor when he grows up.

Rylan’s parents, Reagan and Deborah Wagner, are also excited about this opportunity for their son.

“Deborah and I are grateful for the opportunity extended by Congressman Cuellar,” said Reagan Wagner. The Junior High held a contest that required both a written essay and an interview. He was chosen from a great group of peers whom competed for this trip. We are hopeful he will gain awareness of the governmental offices and understand the importance of the branches of government.  This trip will also allow him to see the history of our nation and reflect on the great leaders of the past.  We are thankful for Congressman Cuellar’s office team for helping set up those additional opportunities.”

Lytle Junior High School eighth-grader Rylan L. Wagner competed in a school-wide essay contest and has been chosen to attend President Donald J. Trump’s first address to a joint session of Congress with Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) on February 28 in Washington, D.C.