Aren’t you tired of receiving a constant bombardment of robocalls? If you answered yes, you’re not alone. From calls during dinnertime with your family to when you’re at your place of work, they seem almost inescapable. Now, magnify that situation to millions of Americans across the country. It’s clear that this issue affects everyone, and quite frankly, Congress should have addressed this issue long ago. As we enter the latter part of this year, it’s become clear that robocalls are back, and they’re in greater numbers. However, I have a blueprint that can set things right.

Since 2005, I’ve introduced the Robo Calls Off Phones Act (Robo COP Act), legislation that directs the FTC to revise its regulations for the national “do-not-call” registry and allow politically oriented messages to be added to that list. What many people don’t know is that the genesis of this legislation came about after hearing from many constituents who were simply fed up during the 2004 election year. After being inundated with political calls, they demanded that Congress act. In turn, I decided to carry the mantle on this issue, and I still do.

For years, politicians in Washington have told their constituents that they’ll act to eliminate robocalls, but the issue has taken a back-seat time and time again. It’s time for Congress to hold itself to account and be part of the solution. The simple truth is that no American is immune to receiving robocalls, and it’s become a nagging problem. I’ll even go so far as to say that it’s evolved to a point where we now believe it’s commonplace to receive them even when we least expect them. This is bill is a bipartisan effort to give the American people the peace of mind they deserve, and it is my hope that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle can come together and support this commonsense legislation.

The Nomination of Amy Cony Barrett

This past Saturday, the nation eagerly awaited President Trump’s announcement of his third Supreme Court nomination, and he did not disappoint. Judge Amy Cony Barrett is the embodiment of a fierce constitutional scholar, and her long list of accomplishments is nothing short of impeccable. She’s highly regarded by her former students, clerks, and colleagues as a woman who possesses a piercing legal mind, a generous spirit, and keen intellect. Her dedication to rightfully interpreting the Constitution – by adhering to how it was expressly written – and her impressive track record serve as the underpinnings of her nomination. I’m looking forward to her swift confirmation to the Supreme Court, and her continued work serving our great country.

New Scam Update

Along the Gulf Coast, millions of people have been impacted after a relentless onslaught of hurricanes. In response, tens of thousands of people made donations to local charities, online crowdfunding pages, and through many more giving mediums. But when good intentions are on the rise, so too are scammers seeking to take advantage of people’s goodwill. It’s estimated that nearly $200,000 has already been lost through fake charities operating under the guise of hurricane relief organizations. It’s a terrible outcome to fathom, but there are ways you can protect the money that you donate.

First, consider the charity that you’re choosing to donate to, and if it’s credible. Does the charity have a verified website associated with it? Have you heard of its name before? Did you check online for reviews or scores from the Better Business Bureau? These are the questions you must mull over initially. The more questions you get answered, the safer your donations will be.

Second, wire transfers or gift card donation requests are a red flag. Credit cards are required for donations on commonly verified charity websites or landing pages. If you use a credit card, you can track your purchasing or donation history and monitor your activities. Crowdfunding pages shared on social media can be a cause for concern, but not always. There are legitimate pages that accept donations but read the details first before making the decision to do so. The more you read, and the more you know, the better prepared you are to select the charity of your choice with confidence.

Recent Events

From this week’s Oversight & Government Reform hearing on drug pricing

Visited Christa's Country Corner in Avery County

Speaking on the House floor about the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett

Sincerely,