Quote of the Week
Presidents of the United States address Congress to inform our nation and representatives on the state of the union and share their agenda and vision for the country. Did you know that President James K. Polk confirmed the discovery of gold in California during one of his addresses, energizing the historic Gold Rush in 1848?
“The accounts of abundance of gold are of such an extraordinary character as would scarcely command belief were they not corroborated by the authentic reports of officers in the public service."
Over the last two weeks, Washington has been full of energy, and House Republicans are working hard to put the American people first. On Tuesday, we welcomed President Trump to Capitol Hill to address a joint session of Congress. In his speech, he highlighted his agenda to deliver economic prosperity, secure our borders, unleash American energy production, keep our communities safe, and restore common sense in the federal government.
I support President Trump’s agenda and am committed to taking action on the issues that matter most to you. Since the start of the 119th Congress, I have introduced legislation to protect Medicare for our seniors, expand treatment for veterans suffering from TBI and PTSD, take on China’s abuse of our trade laws, and give financial relief to residents preparing for hurricane season. Additionally, I have had the pleasure to meet with so many of our district’s community leaders, stakeholders, and constituents both in Washington and back home. These meetings are invaluable and inform my work, especially on the Ways and Means, Veterans’ Affairs, and House Administration Committees.
As Congress continues to work on budget reconciliation, I look forward to preserving tax cuts that allow you to keep more of your income, as well as pro-growth policies that help small businesses and American workers. Furthermore, I continue to be a strong voice on the danger that reckless spending and the growth of our national debt pose for our country’s financial stability. It is an honor to serve you and be an independent voice in our nation’s capital during this pivotal moment in history.
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 social media accounts linked above or here: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
Key Votes
S.J.Res.11
Masked as protecting marine heritage, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s “Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources” rule mandated costly, time-intensive archeological reports for all oil and gas exploration or development, burdening operators with unnecessary red tape.
The rule dampened our energy independence and prevented energy producers from incurring an additional $5.9 million in compliance costs, resulting in higher energy prices.
I voted YES to reverse this Biden-era rule that put American energy and consumers at a disadvantage against our adversaries.
H.J.Res.61
President Biden imposed unnecessary regulations on an already EPA-compliant rubber tire manufacturing industry as part of his radical Green New Deal agenda.
American rubber tire manufacturing businesses have worked diligently to comply with the EPA’s National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), meeting the acceptable requirements to protect the public’s health and our environment.
I voted YES to reverse this rule that risked thousands of American jobs and our national security.
H.J.Res.42
American families saw a dramatic increase in the cost of everyday appliances due to the Biden Administration’s radical energy regulations.
These requirements increase annual costs by $213,0000 for manufacturers and will result in an additional 2,905 hours of paperwork for companies to complete. The Biden DOE’s rule on the Energy Conservation Program’s Appliance Standards was a misguided attempt to mandate stricter energy conservation standards.
I voted YES to reverse burdensome regulations that make appliances and energy prices unaffordable and to put American families and small businesses first.
H.J.Res.20
Americans deserve the freedom to choose what type of water heaters they wish to use.
President Biden proposed standards aimed at shutting down the use of natural gas heaters and forcing electric appliances on the American people. Regardless of cost, performance, or availability – his administration put its radical Green New Deal agenda before the needs of hard-working Americans.
I voted YES to reverse this Biden-era rule that banned natural gas heaters, which wrongfully took away consumer choice and increased costs for Americans.
H.J.Res.35
For four years, Americans suffered from President Biden’s reckless policies while our adversaries grew stronger.
House Republicans are working to reverse ALL harmful Biden-era rules, including the EPA’s methane emissions fee on oil and natural gas facilities. This shortsighted policy imposed heavy burdens on American operators, expanded dependence on China, weakened energy reliability, and raised prices for American families.
I voted YES on H.J. Res. 35, to repeal the natural gas tax implemented in the Inflation Reduction Act.
President Trump’s Address to Congress
President Trump offered in his address to Congress a bold vision for America at a time in our nation’s history when bold leadership is needed desperately.
The American people deserve nothing less than a leader willing to challenge the status quo and restore common sense in our federal government.
Listen to my thoughts here, or click on the video below:
The State of America's National Debt
Our nation’s greatest existential threat is our national debt. President Trump and Congress are taking a hard look at our country’s spending for good reason. We must slow the growth of our deficit, or we will suffer immensely down the line.
Listen to my thoughts here, or click on the video below:
Statement on Passage of Budget Resolution
House Republicans are unified in moving forward to begin budget reconciliation and codify President Trump‘s agenda. We will build an economy that uplifts all Americans, secure our border, and put the safety and prosperity of this country first.
In passing this budget resolution, we are unlocking the process to begin our collaborative effort to propose and enact commonsense policies and deliver on our promises to our constituents. I look forward to the work ahead, especially on our efforts in the Ways and Means Committee to enact pro-growth policies that enable families and businesses to thrive.
Introduced Legislation to Exclude Catastrophe Mitigation Payments from Income Taxes
Eastern North Carolina understands all too well the challenges natural disasters bring with them. Hurricanes sweep away homes, memories, and livelihoods in an instant due to excessive river flooding. Preventive measures like North Carolina’s Strengthen Your House program are critical in helping residents prepare for and reduce the impact of the unexpected. This necessary program allows applicants to receive funding to install stronger roofs that can withstand hurricanes.
State pre-disaster programs are essential in safeguarding communities from anything from earthquakes to wildfires, and they are effective - for every $1 spent on mitigation grants, $6 is saved in future disaster costs. Yet, our current tax code subjects state grants to federal income tax. As a result, homeowners are discouraged from applying for these necessary grants, and our coastal communities are left vulnerable to future damages.
I am proud to introduce the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act, which will exempt rebates for state pre-disaster programs from federal taxes. With fewer than 100 days until hurricane season begins, we must ensure our coastal communities have the support they need to stay protected.
Learn more about the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act here.
Read my OpEd in The Coastland Times here.
Introduced Legislation to Extend Critical Caribbean Trade Program
The HOPE and HELP programs have proven to be mutually beneficial to the United States and Haiti. Shifting our supply chains away from China to neighboring nations provides stability for American consumers and businesses.
I am proud to lead the bipartisan effort to extend these vital programs and our fruitful relationship.
Learn more about the HELP Extension Act here.
Introduced Legislation to Eliminate IRA "Pill Penalty" and Help Find More Medical Cures
Small molecule drugs, more commonly known as pills, play an essential role in treating Americans battling cancer, neurological disorders, and other severe illnesses. Unfortunately, the Inflation Reduction Act's price-fixing scheme stifles research and development, reducing treatment options for patients.
American innovation has led the way in drug development, bringing us closer to cures for those in need. The continued investment in new therapies and treatment options for patients is essential to curbing the chronic disease epidemic. After practicing medicine for over 35 years, I have witnessed such advancements in medicines for patients and the countless lives saved by them.
I am proud to introduce the Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures (EPIC) Act, which fixes the IRA’s small molecule “pill penalty” to ensure continued R&D investments into small molecule medicines. I am committed to using my voice in Congress to fight for the millions of individuals across the nation who are desperately waiting for a cure.
Learn more about the Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures (EPIC) Act here.
Recognizing Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point’s Excellence
Congratulations to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point for being named the 2024 Marine Air Station of the Year for the second year in a row!
It is my honor to represent the brave men and women stationed on base who sacrifice so much for our nation’s safety.
Semper Fidelis.
Watch my floor speech here, or click on the video below:
Ways and Means Committee Passes Legislation to Improve Tax Filing for Disaster Victims
Disaster victims face unbelievable hardship while restoring their lives after a tragedy. The last thing folks who have had their lives upended by an emergency need to deal with is jumping through confusing hoops imposed by the IRS.
My bill, the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act, ensures that individuals have ample time to receive a tax refund or credit, and the IRS communicates effectively to filers to prevent unintended delinquency on accrued interest or penalties.
I am grateful that the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act passed with bipartisan support in the Ways and Means Committee. I look forward to advocating for the passage of this bill on the House floor.
Learn more about the bill here. Watch my remarks here.
Championing Prostate Cancer Care and Prevention
I was honored to accept the Prostate Cancer Champion Award from ZERO Prostate Cancer. As a practicing urologist who has treated patients with prostate cancer throughout Eastern North Carolina, I understand the impact this devastating disease can have on those diagnosed and their families.
With 1-in-8 American men being diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, we must do more to reduce the number of cases. I am proud of the work we are doing in Congress to help those affected, including the PSA for HIM Act, which I co-introduced last week. The bill will require private health insurance plans to cover preventive prostate cancer screenings without imposing any cost-sharing requirements for men who are at high risk of developing the disease.
I will always be a voice for those impacted by prostate cancer and will continue to work to reduce barriers for patients and increase research and treatment options.
Addressed the American Urological Association Annual Summit
I was honored to address the American Urological Association at its annual meeting in Washington.
As a urologist for over 30 years, I understand the challenges doctors and patients across America face under our current health care system. From rising drug costs to declining Medicare reimbursements and physician workforce burnout, Congress must do more to solve the issues that are preventing patients from receiving high-quality, affordable care.
I will always be a voice for the docs that keep us healthy!
House Administration Committee Markup of the 119th Congress's Oversight Plan
House Administration Committee Republicans are working tirelessly to strengthen Capitol security, improve legislative efficiency, and increase transparency in Congress.
The committee met to pass our oversight plan, outlining an aggressive agenda for the 119th Session. We have been tasked with the great responsibility of ensuring that Congress has the resources it needs to reflect the voice of the American people and meet the needs of our great country.
It is an honor to be appointed to oversee the business of the People’s House.
Ways and Means Hearing on Trade Enforcement Priorities
In the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee hearing, we worked through how we can ensure America is on a level playing field with the rest of the world with respect to trade policies and relationships. Small businesses and farmers are the heart of our country, but they have faced tremendous setbacks due to the unfair treatment of other countries.
For too long, China and even some of our closest allies have taken advantage of the U.S., taking away the hard earnings of American workers and businesses. We must hold our global competitors accountable and back American industry.
Watch my remarks here.
Meeting with American College of Physicians on Health Care Reform Priorities
Dr. Moyer of American College of Physicians (ACP) stopped by my office to discuss the desperate need for health care reform.
During our meeting, we discussed my Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act, which protects access to affordable, high-quality care for millions of patients across America. As a practicing physician, I have witnessed the life-threatening consequences Eastern North Carolina patients face due to Congress’s failure to act on Medicare.
Thank you to Dr. Moyer for your visit!
Meeting with North Carolina Broadcasters on the Importance of Keeping Our Communities Informed
I had a wonderful meeting with broadcasters from our great state of North Carolina.
Our local radio and television stations help our communities stay informed, especially during natural disasters and emergencies.
I was happy to hear how Congress can best support local journalism!
Supporting our Local Credit Unions
I spoke with the Carolinas Credit Union League on the challenges facing the industry.
We must ensure our credit unions have the necessary tools to remain competitive so they can continue investing in our communities.
Hosting Pitt County Leaders in Washington
It was a pleasure to welcome Pitt County Officials to Washington. We discussed how Congress can further expand local infrastructure, improve health care, and implement tax policies that support our communities.
Together, we will build a better Pitt County for the future!
Meeting with UNC Administration on Their Role in Expanding Medical Research and Advancements
North Carolina is home to remarkable research and scientific advancements that are improving therapies and treatment options.
Thank you to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Vice Chancellor for Research Dr. Penny Gordon-Larsen for visiting me in Washington to share the positive difference the university is making in modern medicine!
Meeting with Craven County Officials on the Issues Facing The Community
It was wonderful having community leaders from Craven County stop by to address issues directly affecting folks back home.
During our meeting, we discussed our shared priorities of setting our farmers up for success, safeguarding our communities from natural disasters, fighting the opioid epidemic, and improving our nation’s health care.
Thank you for visiting me up here in Washington!
Meeting with ECU Health on Expanding Access to Cardiovascular Disease Treatment
I met virtually with health care leaders in Eastern North Carolina about establishing a broadband network to assist in the real-time evaluation of cardiovascular disease.
We have a severe broadband issue, and getting this technology accessible to everyone in rural areas is a top priority of mine, especially when dealing with health care.
Looking forward to helping ECU Health bring these plans to fruition!
Meeting with ElectriCities on Ensuring North Carolina Energy Companies Are Set Up for Success
As the House works through budget reconciliation, delivering on President Trump’s agenda to unleash American energy independence is a top priority.
I met with the leadership of ElectriCities of NC to discuss how upcoming energy tax policy may impact the over 90 community-owned electric systems they serve in our state.
If our tax code supports American energy companies, our economy will flourish at the expense of China!
Meeting with City of Havelock Mayor Lewis
It was wonderful to welcome Mayor Lewis to Washington to receive an update on the City of Havelock and how Congress can be helpful this year. We also discussed Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, the F-35 program, the McCotter Canal project, and Fleet Readiness Center East.
I appreciate his leadership and am proud to work alongside him to ensure the needs of the community and our military are met.
Supporting Our Agriculture Industry
I met with the Agricultural Retailers Association to discuss their priorities for this year’s farm bill.
From the farm to the grocery shelf to our tables, our agricultural retailers and the farmers they supply feed millions of people around the globe.
As the proud representative of a district that is home to everything from hogs and corn to cotton, I am committed to ensuring that their needs are met!
Meeting with NC Neurologists
North Carolina is blessed to have neurologists who are fighting for increased access and affordability to care for their patients impacted by conditions like Epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease.
During our meeting, we discussed the failures within Medicare, including the flawed payment and telehealth system. I also got a chance to learn about the progress they are making in neuroscience research. As a founding member and Co-Chair of the Epilepsy Caucus and sponsor of the National Plan for Epilepsy Act, I am proud to hear about the advancements they are championing.
Time and time again, medical practitioners have come to Washington to push for health care reform. I will not stop being a voice for them and their patients to make the necessary reforms in Medicare.
