Gonzalez joined a Corpus Christi event to warn older adults about fraud while discussing plans to bring federal funding to the region.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas —  Congressman Vicente Gonzalez warned Coastal Bend seniors Tuesday about scammers using artificial intelligence to impersonate loved ones and steal money.

Gonzalez spoke at a community forum at the Boys and Girls Club in Corpus Christi, where seniors and veterans learned how to recognize scams and protect their personal information.

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One of his biggest concerns involves scammers using AI to copy a family member’s voice and create a fake emergency.

“They’ll call grandma or grandpa and say I just had an accident or I just had a legal problem and I’m now detained or arrested,” Gonzalez said. He urged residents to hang up and call their loved ones directly before sending money. He also warned against sharing Social Security, Medicare or banking information with unexpected callers.

The event was organized by Women Encouraging Women as part of its annual Bodybuilders 2026 program. “It’s vital because it’s happening every day,” said Cella Boyd, the organization’s president, referring to identity theft and financial scams.

Gonzalez also addressed the Coastal Bend’s water challenges, saying he wants the federal government to help pay for long-term water projects instead of leaving the burden on local taxpayers. “I don’t believe that local taxpayers should have to pay for a desalination operation or whatever water treatment investments that we’re gonna make for the Coastal Bend,” Gonzalez said.

He highlighted his proposed Empower Energy Exporting Communities Act, which would use a portion of federal corporate income tax revenue from oil and gas companies to support communities near major energy export ports. Gonzalez estimated the legislation could bring $500 million to $800 million annually to Corpus Christi and Nueces County for water projects, roads, schools and other improvements if approved.

“When you drive around Corpus, it doesn’t feel like a lot of that wealth actually stays in the community,” Gonzalez said.

With the November election approaching, Gonzalez said he remains cautiously optimistic about voter turnout and plans to focus on lowering living costs and protecting Social Security and Medicare.