Friends, I hope you are doing well and you enjoyed your Easter weekend. As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed of how we're serving you. If you would like to stay up to date, check out our website, and follow our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. Looking forward to seeing you in Georgia's 11th Congressional District or in Washington, D.C. soon. | Rep. Barry Loudermilk U.S. Congressman, Georgia's Eleventh District | Rep. Barry Loudermilk answers questions about DOGE cuts to federal workforce, other topics | Are You REAL ID Ready? Click below for More Information | Traveling Internationally? Here's What You Need to Know... | It’s more important than ever to be well-prepared before your international trip. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind: - Apply for or Renew Your Passport Early: Passports are in high demand, and processing times may take longer than usual. To avoid any last-minute stress, apply for or renew your passport well in advance—ideally 6 months before your planned trip. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after your planned return date, so check your expiration date now. Our office is ready to help should you need assistance in securing your passport.
- Check Travel Advisories: Always check for any travel advisories on the State Department website for the country you're visiting. Also, take a moment to read "Crisis Abroad: Be Ready" to plan your evacuation options, should they be needed.
- Enroll in STEP: The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service that keeps you updated on security information and allows U.S. embassies or consulates to contact you in case of an emergency. Plus, it makes it easier for them to reach your loved ones back home if necessary.
- Know Visa & Entry Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the entry requirements for your destination country online at www.travel.state.gov. For example, effective January 2025, U.S. citizens traveling to the UK for six months or less must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Make sure you're prepared ahead of time.
- Get Travel Insurance: Protect your trip with the right coverage. Travel insurance can cover evacuation, medical emergencies, and even death abroad. Many reputable companies offer quotes based on your trip’s total cost and desired coverage level.
| Fraud Alert Friday: Pete Hegseth announces $5.1 billion in DOGE cuts to defense spending | “Fraud Alert Friday" highlights waste, fraud, and abuse occurring across the federal government. Alert: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that $5.1 billion in federal defense contracts will be cut as the Defense Department works with the Department of Government Efficiency to eliminate waste in the federal government. Hegseth said the cuts, which the DOD announced Thursday evening, will bring the total number of cut spending to “nearly $6 billion.” The new cuts include various consulting contracts specifically regarding IT services. Read More DOGE Update: As of April 25, 2025, DOGE has saved American taxpayers $160 billion so far, breaking down to approximately $993.79 saved per taxpayer. To read more about the above alerts, click here, and see DOGE's recent social media post here. | Washington DC Office 2133 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2931 | Woodstock Office 9898 Highway 92 Suite 100 Woodstock, GA 30188 Phone: (770) 429-1776 | Cartersville Office 135 West Cherokee Avenue Suite 122 Cartersville, GA 30120 Phone: (770) 429-1776 | |