Rep. Cole Hefner, a Republican member of the Texas House representing the state’s 5th district since 2017, has used social media to highlight recent legislative efforts aimed at countering foreign influence in Texas. In a series of posts made between August 26 and August 28, 2025, Hefner emphasized his involvement in passing measures designed to address perceived threats from countries such as China.
Two days later, on August 28, he credited House leadership for their role in these legislative achievements: “And this was under the great leadership of Speaker @Burrows4TX in the Texas House! Texas led the nation with this bill — and many others this session — to defend our state and nation from our foreign enemies. Proud to work with both Governor Abbott, the Speaker, and our champions https://t.co/2WaIPSk8WF”.
In another post on August 28, Hefner addressed concerns about actions by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), stating: “This is exactly why Texas took action this past session through an omnibus package of bills to combat the efforts of the CCP as they seek to inflict widespread harm upon our state and nation. #txlege https://t.co/Uspk3y0OTt”.
The Texas Land Protection Act is one component of broader efforts by state lawmakers to limit land purchases by entities linked to foreign governments considered adversarial. The legislation was developed amid ongoing national debates about security risks associated with foreign ownership of agricultural or strategically located properties.
Hefner has represented Texas’ 5th House district since his election in 2017, succeeding Bryan Hughes. His recent statements reflect heightened concerns among some lawmakers regarding national security and economic interests tied to international actors.
