As we steadily approach the end of 2020, there is a question on everyone’s mind that has yet to be answered: when will relief be on its way? Even as that question is being asked, it’s as if Washington Democrats have put on their blinders and plugged up their ears to the demands of the American people. Just last week, the House held votes on a smattering of bills that are entirely unrelated to providing targeted relief to families, small businesses, and frontline workers. There is a time and place for robust debate on different pieces of legislation, but there’s a bigger priority that’s before Congress right now. We’re in the middle of a global pandemic, and Americans are hurting. The top action item on Congress’ agenda must be delivering for the American people. They’re counting on Congress to act, but House Democrats would rather shepherd through their own messaging bills instead of engaging in substantive, bipartisan collaboration with their Republican colleagues.

It’s even more damning that Speaker Pelosi openly admitted in her press conference last week that she purposely stonewalled relief negotiations for months so that her hyper-partisan priorities would be enmeshed within any relief package put before Congress. This admission by her is repugnant, and it sends a message to the American people that their livelihoods are bargaining chips rather than a core component to the well-being of their families. This is not an example of good governance, and it’s time that we get on the right track. We have work to do, and I’ll keep up the fight against these abhorrent delays that are corroding the work of the People’s House and putting livelihoods in jeopardy.

A Voter-ID Victory For North Carolina

On Wednesday, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit unanimously overturned a lower court decision that formally struck down North Carolina’s voter ID law. The ill-conceived reasonings of Loretta Biggs, the U.S. District judge who had struck down the law, were totally refuted by this bi-partisan Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. It’s particularly telling that one judge on that Fourth Circuit panel, who voted to overturn her ruling, is an Obama appointee.

I have long held the position that activist judges are a stain on the judicial process that exists in this country. They let their subjectivity overhaul their duty to fairly assess cases that are brought before them, and they do so out of a blatant disregard for the rule of law. There is no doubt that Loretta Biggs is the epitome of an activist judge, and it’s good to see that her spurious efforts to thwart a commonsense law that protects election integrity were foiled. Interpretation of the law is based on objectivity and precedent, not political persuasions or grievances one holds.

Millions of North Carolinians supported the addition of this voter ID amendment to the state's Constitution back in 2018, and with the recent Fourth Circuit Appeals court ruling, their will has been respected. Without question, this is encouraging news. I’m particularly proud to see that the basic principle of self-governance under the rule of law has not gone unheeded.

The Newest COVID-19 Vaccine Scam

With new developments of promising vaccine candidates being relayed through the national media, there’s much anticipation about when they will become approved and readily available. But amidst that promising news, there’s a looming threat that needs to be addressed immediately: a new wave of scams is steadily approaching on the horizon. I’ve spoken about the covert efforts of scammers many times this year, but this time, the ramifications are particularly worrisome. Allow me to give you some more information.

The Department of Homeland Security is working alongside private sector companies to prepare for incoming vaccine scams. This year alone, fake personal protective equipment (PPE) sales, elaborate extortion schemes, and false cures have defrauded countless Americans. You deserve a heads-up on what to expect, and I’m more than happy to provide you with the information you need to know:

• Do not trust online advertisements highlighting readily available vaccines for sale.

• Always consult a licensed medical professional to obtain a treatment or COVID-19 vaccine.

• Do not answer phone calls, emails or text messages that offer vaccines or treatments.

• And, be cautious of social media advertisements that claim to provide free vaccines to the general public.

If you see anything suspicious online, you can always report it to: covid19investigations@dhs.gov. Stay vigilant, and make sure you’re always informed.

Recent Events

Joining my Republican colleagues calling on Speaker Pelosi to reauthorize the Paycheck Protection program

Speaking on the House floor on the power of American innovation

Sincerely,