Hurricane Helene: One Year Later
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One year ago today, Hurricane Helene hit the 12th District – devastating every community in its destructive path. At its peak, Helene left more than 1 million Georgians without power, demanded 300 boil water advisories across the state, damaged over 200,000 homes, destroyed millions of acres of crops, and left thousands of families displaced – unlike anything our state has ever endured.
The long road to recovery was nothing short of challenging, with many still in the process of rebuilding. But through God’s eternal grace, Georgians came together, assisted those in need, lent a hand, and supported neighbors through unprecedented devastation. While we continue to pray for the families who lost loved ones, we are also forever grateful to our law enforcement officers, first responders, line workers, local leaders, state officials, and community organizations for their unwavering efforts in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene and the days, weeks, and months that followed. One year later, we are a more resilient Georgia.
Psalm 30:5: "For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning."
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Thanking FSA Workers in Emanuel County
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In Swainsboro, I joined Governor Brian Kemp, Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, and other state and local leaders to thank our Farm Service Agency (FSA) workers for their continued efforts in the year since Hurricane Helene.
The FSA has been integral in helping our rural communities recover and rebuild. While more work remains to ensure our farmers and growers are made whole again, the progress we've made wouldn't have been possible without our dedicated FSA workers.
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Speaking at the Glennville Chamber of Commerce Legislative Luncheon
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I spoke at the Glennville Chamber of Commerce Legislative Luncheon in Tattnall County to provide an update on our Working Families Tax Cuts bill, which secures our borders, unleashes American energy, lowers costs, reins in reckless spending, supports farmers and rural communities, protects the largest tax cut for working families in history, and much more.
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Visiting YMCA Head Start in Augusta
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I had the distinct privilege of visiting the YMCA Collins Head Start Center in Augusta. During my visit, I received a tour of the quality learning spaces and had productive conversations with educators and families about the educational and childcare services provided at this location.
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Attending the Fort Gordon Renaming Ceremony
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Yesterday, I attended the Fort Gordon renaming ceremony in recognition of Medal of Honor recipient Master Sgt. Gary I. Gordon—a great honor for a great American hero.
As always, I remain committed to supporting the critical missions being carried out at Fort Gordon to protect America’s national security interests and maintain the largest cyber and intelligence operations footprint in the U.S. Army.
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Joining Aurubis Richmond's "First Melt" Event
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Aurubis AG is a leading global provider of non-ferrous metals and one of the largest copper recyclers worldwide. Earlier this week, I attended the Aurubis Richmond "First Melt" event to highlight the company's work to produce metals such as copper, nickel, tin, and precious metals in the state of Georgia.
Aurubis Richmond is more than just a new plant — it is a strategic site in Georgia’s 12th District that reinforces America’s ability to supply itself with the metals that help strengthen our national security, our infrastructure, and our technology leadership.
Aurubis exemplifies how international partnerships can contribute to solidifying America’s industrial foundation and strengthening our economic independence. I look forward to seeing the local growth and job creation this facility will bring to Richmond County.
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Visiting Textron in Augusta
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I also visited Textron's facility in Augusta, where I received a tour and discussed the impact of the recent ruling from the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to impose strict antidumping duties and enforce our trade remedy laws.
China's adversarial and unfair trade practices have harmed domestic manufacturers like E-Z-GO for far too long. With this ruling, domestic LSPTV producers can now rely on a level playing field—where they can out-innovate and out-compete anyone in the world. Over the last year, I have proudly led a bipartisan and bicameral effort to bring more attention to this issue, and I thank the ITC for delivering this win and standing with American manufacturers
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This Week's White House Highlight
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REMINDER: With President Trump back in the White House, we are excited to add a new feature to the newsletter! Each week, I will highlight an executive action, announcement, rulemaking, bill signing, or any other activity from the Trump Administration to keep you well-informed on what's happening in Washington.
On Tuesday, in remarks to the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, President Trump delivered a powerful address. During his speech, the President was unapologetic in proclaiming American strength as he unveiled a bold vision for sovereign nations to unite against the true threats of terrorism, unchecked migration, biological warfare, and loss of cultural identity.
"A dramatically better future is within our reach — but to get there, we must reject the failed approaches of the past and work together to confront some of the greatest threats in history."
I am proud to be working with an administration that understands the best way to achieve peace is through undeniable strength.
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Follow me on Social Media!
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Social media is a great way to stay connected and I encourage you to keep up with my work in Congress by ‘liking’ my Facebook page and following me on X, formerly known as Twitter, and Instagram.
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As always, my office is here to help. If you'd like to email me, please click here.
To contact one of our district offices, please click here.
To stay informed about what is happening in Washington D.C. and in our district, please follow me on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Sincerely,

Rick Allen Member of Congress
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