An 18-year-old Texas teenager walked 374 miles from Lubbock to the Texas capital in Austin, where he was met with recognition from state officials, including Governor Greg Abbott and State Representative Carl Tepper.
Eliseo Jimenez made the several day trek to advocate for Social Security reform, but did not expect the recognition that came with it. After walking nearly 400 miles, he was met with a note from Texas officials that excused him from any classes he may have missed on his journey.
“Please excuse Eliseo’s absence and allow him to make up any missed assignments or activities,” the note read. It continued on to explain that Jimenez was “unable to attend school on this date due to his presence being required at the Texas House of Representatives.”
A second note also awaited him, addressed to his teacher, and signed by Gov. Abbott. “Please excuse Eliseo from school,” Abbott said, noting that the teen was “getting an education in government.”
This is not Jimenez’s first rodeo. In July 2024, the teen also walked the 1,600-miles from Lubbock to Washington, D.C..
Everything Lubbock reports:
On Thursday, March 13, Jimenez started his spring break walking to Austin to make a statement in hopes to advocate for Social Security reform and awareness. This wouldn’t be the first time the Lubbock teen embarked on a journey like this.
“I actually got to meet with Governor Abbott and some state legislators (Carl Tepper, Trey Wharton, and Richard Hayes),” Jimenez told EverythingLubbock.com.”It was really cool to talk to them, especially the Governor.
Back in July 2024, Jimenez walked over 1,600 miles from Lubbock to Washington, D.C. to raise awareness on Social Security reform; an administration he is extremely passionate about.
During his first journey, the Lubbock teen received a lot of attention across the United States. He hoped this second walk to the state capitol would make an impact, but this time in his home state of Texas.
The Lubbock teen thanked both Texas officials for writing an excuse letter for school.
“I also wanted to give a huge shoutout to the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA). They were so supportive during the whole walk, and it was an honor to work with them. And a special thanks to Timothy Lee, Terri Navrkal and Judy Kennedy from TRTA – they made me feel so welcome in Austin and treated me like family,” Jimenez added.
The Lubbock teen was also recognized on the House floor for the accomplishment.