Importance of Alex's Keys to Texas Home

The keys to his childhood home that Alex wears around his neck symbolize his deep roots in the state of Texas, along the pride and belonging he feels as a native Texan. Despite moving into the White House, Alex keeps the key on a chain around his neck, as he has fond memories of the home where he had formative experiences. When he returns at the end of the novel with Henry, it shows that he hopes to not only continue the Claremont legacy by being a proud son of Texas, but that he also hopes to do so with Henry.