Integrity has always been a hallmark of free and fair elections in the United States. But what happens when that integrity is compromised, the rules are drastically reconstructed, and the looming risk of voter disenfranchisement moves closer and closer into the foreground? In North Carolina, these questions are pressing. Recently, the North Carolina State Board of Elections (NCSBE) accepted a settlement agreement that would, in effect, change the rules of the election even after 320,000 voters cast their ballots. This is a clear lapse in both governance and oversight, and it conveys an unsettling message that pushing forward with a covert, partisan agenda is more important than ensuring a free, fair, and equitable elections process.

This week, in response to the settlement, Congressman Rodney Davis, the Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, wrote to the NCSBE and expressed his concerns with the proposed changes that were outlined. I too share his concerns, and it’s particularly troubling that with less than four weeks until the election, unwarranted modifications to the election system in North Carolina are being entertained. The fact of the matter is that many do not know about these changes, and with the rules shifting under their feet, voters are being left in the dark. This should never be the case in any election, in any state.

Let’s be clear: voter fraud corrodes the democratic process. The administration of free, fair, and equitable elections is not malleable, and it must be protected from bad actors. Rest assured, I will continue to provide you with updates on this issue, so that you stay informed.

ICYMI: The China Task Force Report

Last week, the China Task Force released its detailed report that highlights the generational threat of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

For decades, the CCP has proven to be an untrustworthy adversary while also putting at risk American citizens’ safety and prosperity. The report released by the China Task Force provides truth and clarity about the CCP’s generational threat to American ideals and creates a detailed roadmap of actions we must consider to meet the greatest geo-political challenge of this generation.

As the Republican Leader of the Committee on Education and Labor, I strongly agree with the China Task Force’s recommendations to strengthen our 21st century workforce and protect the integrity of American education. Our committee has an obligation to address these issues by cultivating a skilled workforce to spur growth and technological advancement, and by requiring greater transparency of foreign investment in America’s colleges and universities.

If we want to preserve the American Dream for future generations, we need to implement reforms that will strengthen our workforce and protect our institutions of higher education from the CCP’s evolving threat.

Let’s Talk About Rural Broadband

In the High Country, high-speed internet access has been a longstanding issue, and I know first-hand the difficulties of getting reliable broadband internet service in rural areas. As I travel throughout the mountains in the Fifth District, I hear from many constituents who want to see this issue addressed. I think about how better broadband service can be extended for students, those who use telehealth services, and many more. Simply put, this is a digital divide that must be addressed, but we need to understand the facts of what areas need to be improved before a plan is enacted.

The Rural Utilities Service and the Universal Service Fund together contribute nearly $10 billion a year in funding to support broadband deployment. Additionally, programs such as the Appalachian Regional Commission and similar programs also spend millions of dollars a year on rural broadband. Yes, there is already money being allocated to expand rural broadband, but when it comes to North Carolina specifically, there must be a coordinated effort so that more people can be reached without the need for excessive spending.

In late June, GOP Leaders on the House Energy and Commerce Committee released a comprehensive package of 26 bills that aim to streamline the deployment of broadband infrastructure. At its core, internet access serves as a lifeline to millions of people, and it shouldn’t be a luxury for a select few. It’s time to have this conversation on how we can connect Americans to a service that carries unparalleled promise.

Recent Events

Meeting with Secretary DeVos at Jenkins Elementary School in Hickory

Speaking in opposition to Speaker Pelosi’s new socialist wish list

Met with Peter Gwaltney of the NC Bankers Association, Bob Washburn and Joedy Eller of LifeStore Financial Group

Sincerely,