During October's District Work Period, I have been so proud of the overwhelming number of volunteers, first responders, and service members helping Western North Carolina. As the nation watches our state move forward from this unprecedented tragedy, the selflessness of these individuals does not go unnoticed. The resilience of our communities is undeniable, and I will continue updating everyone on the latest and accurate status of recovery efforts.
It has been a pleasure using this time away from Washington to connect with constituents in Eastern North Carolina. Earlier last week, I had the opportunity to participate in Greenville's Ignite Church's donation drive to help those affected by the storm. I have seen firsthand the destruction Helene has caused for our neighbors, and everyone's volunteer work and donations have been a tremendous help to those communities. Western North Carolinians have been there for us after hurricane disasters and we will be there for them.
I will continue fighting for the values of North Carolina's Third Congressional District. If you wish to stay more engaged and aware of what is happening in Washington and our District please follow me on my socials linked above or here: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts in Western North Carolina
Hurricane Helene has devastated Western North Carolina, and it has been an all-hands-on-deck effort to mobilize recovery efforts in the region. It has been my priority to stay engaged on the updates my office and I receive daily from federal, state, and local authorities regarding recovery efforts. Right now, FEMA, North Carolina Emergency Management, North Carolina Department of Transportation, and our military continue to have boots on the ground to help folks recover as quickly as possible. I will keep you updated with accurate information on the latest news.
The individuals on the ground right now are heroically working day in and day out to advance the recovery process. The North Carolina National Guard is still operating search and rescue missions to find those unaccounted for. Local crews are working tirelessly to restore power and access to clean water, reinstate cell service, and rebuild roads. As federal assistance for survivors increases daily, shelters and mass-feeding sites are in operation for misplaced individuals. This process will not be easy or done quickly, but we must ensure that it is done promptly and adequately. Our neighbors in Western North Carolina need us more than ever right now, and I will fight to make sure they have the resources they need.
Letter to Biden Administration Urging Regulatory Relief During Helene Recovery
Rebuilding our mountain communities will be no easy task. The immense damage that Hurricane Helene has wrought in the region risks permanent disruption to the livelihoods of folks there. I joined Congresswoman Virginia Foxx in urging the Biden Administration to ensure our federal agencies aren’t hamstrung by regulations during the entire recovery process.
It is heartbreaking to see the immense damage Hurricane Helene caused to our mountain communities. Folks' livelihoods face the risk of permanent disruption, and we cannot allow cumbersome bureaucracy to get in the way of restoration efforts.
Read the full letter here.
Participated in Ignite Church's Donation Drive
It was a pleasure to participate in Ignite Church’s donation drive in Greenville to help our folks in Western North Carolina recover from Hurricane Helene.
While I was there, ECU’s baseball team stopped by to help unload cars full of supplies. I am super proud of these young men for stepping up in this time of great need.
Introduced Legislation to Crack Down on Unlawful Campus Protests
Institutions of higher education are entrusted to cultivate robust world views. Unfortunately, many prestigious universities in America have become bastions of hateful ideology and criminal behavior.
I am proud to introduce the Education Not Agitation Act, which will eliminate tax benefits for individuals who commit criminal offenses while protesting at institutions of higher education.
The First Amendment is sacred, and I encourage students to exercise their right to freedom of speech and assembly. However, protests on college campuses should remain peaceful and lawful. Those who abuse their privilege and disregard the law should not benefit from the tax benefits we have in place to financially help folks further their education.
Read my latest press release here.
Statement on One-Year Anniversary of October 7th Attack on Israel
October 7th, 2023 marked the horrific tragedy when Israel was brutally and savagely attacked by the Hamas terrorist group. Since then, Israel has also withstood the attacks of another terrorist group of Hezbollah and, most recently, the terrorist nation of Iran.
Regardless of the foe, it has become clear to the world that Israel will not be eliminated. Increasing tensions and regional instability present a threat not just to the Middle East, but to the global community. Tehran's repeated escalation of its war against Israel will be met with great immediate and long term consequences.
The United States and its allies must remain stalwart in our support of our greatest Middle East ally in this grave time. Peace can only be achieved through strength. Unprovoked aggression must be met with boldness and complete resolve. Until the bloodthirsty terrorists lay down their weapons, they will continue to feel the wrath of the Israel Defense Forces and our supporting coalition will remain ready to defend the innocent.
Letter to Secretary of the Navy on Marine Corps Barrack Quality
This week, I joined my colleagues in urging Secretary Del Toro to prioritize unaccompanied housing in the Department of the Navy's FY26 funding request.
Our Marines and Sailors sacrifice so much to protect our freedoms and keep us safe. They deserve safe and habitable living quarters, yet many installations, including Camp Lejeune, face alarming issues like plumbing malfunctions, black mold, and inadequate security.
I visit our district’s military installations often and appreciate General Eric Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps, for working with me for assistance. I’m proud to fight to ensure the Marine Corps’ Barrack 2030 Initiative is fully funded to take care of our troops.
Read the full letter here.
