August 25, 2023

Friends,   

I hope you and your family are well! I wanted to provide you with a few updates regarding what’s going on –

President Trump Arrested

Yesterday, President Trump was arrested for telling people to watch the news and quoting the Constitution. Fani Willis is using the power of government to take down Donald Trump. The left is destroying our country and making a mockery of justice. While these are state charges that are not directly under my purview as a member of Congress, I am fighting back against the persecution of Donald Trump. In fact, I was one of the first to co-sponsor legislation to defund Jack Smith.

Massive Win for the Right to Life

On Wednesday, the South Carolina Supreme Court issued a ruling that is a monumental win for the right to life. The ruling affirms that South Carolina can implement a fetal heartbeat bill. I commend the South Carolina General Assembly for ensuring the passage of a Constitutionally sound bill that will stop the killing of babies once a heartbeat is detected. I’m grateful for all the South Carolinians who devoted years of work that culminated with this ruling to save innumerable lives from the ruthless practice of abortion.

Honoring Our American Veterans

It was an honor to join veterans and the community at the Semper Fi Barn in Six Mile on Thursday. Veterans will be able to stay overnight at the Barn to catch their breath, clear their minds, and heal. While there, we held a ceremony remembering the nine sailors from South Carolina who died aboard the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor. These sailors are buried in a comingled grave in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. You know I have been asking for your help locating relatives of these sailors so we could identify these heroes. I’m happy to say that with your help we have found the family members for FC2C James Garland Nations. Initially, we connected with Kenneth, a 2nd cousin to the sailor. Through more research, Kenneth found FC2C Nations’ nephews, Kevin and Cameron. Today, Kevin and Cameron honored James Garland Nations by hanging commemorative dog tags in his memory and ringing a Navy bell.

• S1C Henry Lloyd Lee, Conway, SC
• CM3C Wayne Alman Lewis, Arcadia, SC
• S2C John Morgan Meares, Greenville, SC
• S1C Douglas Carlton Moore, Anderson, SC
• SF3C James Carlton Moore, Anderson, SC
• S1C Broadus Franklin West, Simpsonville, SC
• S1C Vernon Russell White, Spartanburg, SC
• RM3C Jack Herman Williams, Columbia, SC

Get Government Out of the Way

Thanks to Lee and the Big Gun Robotics team for inviting me to learn more about their precision weld assembly operation in Newberry, SC. It’s important to hear first-hand from businesses how trade impacts them, what opportunities are available for future growth, and what barriers prevent them from thriving. As a former small business owner, I know that businesses thrive when government gets out of their way.

Tough on Crime

This week, I heard an update from 8th Judicial Circuit Solicitor David Stumbo on his work to crack down on crime, protecting kids from abusers, and making sure drunk drivers stay off our roads.

The American Dream is Slipping Away

Thank you to the Western Upstate Realtors Association for the opportunity to discuss the impact of the Biden Administration’s policies on the country. The median sales price of a home in the United States is now $410,200 with interest rates at 7%. Under Joe Biden, the American dream of home ownership is further out of reach as interest rates increase at the fastest pace in U.S. history. In 2020, the average mortgage payment was $896, but under Joe Biden it’s more than $2,000!

Standing With Outdoorsmen

It was great to talk with NSSF—The Firearm Industry Trade Association about my love for hunting and important legislation to protect our Second Amendment rights. I can't wait to be back in a duck blind this season!

Meeting Small Business Owners

Always great to meet with constituents. Thursday started with meeting Steve and Greg, who are small business owners in the insurance industry, and visiting with folks at the Seneca Family Restaurant.

Sargent Metals

South Carolina was known as a textile hub for many years. Now, we are a leading region for manufacturers. Thanks to the team at Sargent Metal Fabricators for having me back to learn more about your operation in metal fabrication and for the discussion on policies that impact your small business.

Seneca Sees Growth

It was also great to meet with Seneca City Administrator Scott Moulder and Mayor Alexander to talk about important FEMA issues affecting them and plans they are implementing to get more foot traffic in the city.

Congressional Award Silver Medal

It was an honor to present the Congressional Award Silver Medal to Connor. The award signifies Connor’s ability to set challenges for himself and then overcome them, while serving his community. To earn the award, you must commit yourself to 400 hours in public service, personal development, physical fitness and exploration. Congratulations Connor! The Congressional Award began in 1979 and is open to individuals 14–24. Learn more about the Award here.

In the District

Congratulations to Newberry College on the opening of The Darby Nursing and Health Science Center on Thursday, August 24. After six years of construction, the school of nursing will provide students with more personal instruction and add a Nutrition major to the College’s offerings.

Austin Somerville, who was paralyzed after a diving accident in 2020, walked into his first class on campus after three years of rehabilitation. What a great story of perseverance.

Following the closure of all Fatz Cafe locations in South Carolina, the Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) is offering assistance to those who were let go and are pursuing re-employment.

It is an honor to serve the Third District of South Carolina. Should you or your family need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact my office directly.