Leadership, in both spoken words and actions, will lead America forward. However, what Joe Biden and his new Administration are doing now is the antithesis of the leadership that defines America itself. During his inauguration speech on Wednesday, he claimed that, “We will press forward with speed and urgency, for we have much to do in this winter of peril and possibility.” While he did profess to want unity and progress, the actions he took that night ran contrary to the message he shared with the American people.

The Keystone XL Pipeline was one of the first items on the chopping block. President Biden made a pledge to bring its production to a screeching halt – immediately throwing American innovation and countless jobs under the bus. Even Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada said he was “deeply disappointed” in Biden’s decision to do so because it threatens Canada’s economy and job sectors. For someone who preached bipartisan collaboration and unity for months, this is a stark contrast. Sadly, this was not the only consequential decision Biden made that day.

Let’s pivot to America’s strong commitment to border security and immigration. On Wednesday night, it too suffered a tremendous blow. Early Wednesday, Biden signed an executive order to stop the construction of the border wall and redivert money used to build miles of wall. He even imposed a 100 day “pause” on deportations of illegal immigrants so that immigration enforcement policies would be “reviewed”. At a time when the United States faces a serious influx of illegal immigrants, why would there be a mandate to pump the brakes? Securing America requires diligence and hard work by border officials every day, and a 100 day “pause” threatens their ability to protect us.

Look at what other Executive Orders were signed that day. Simply put, his actions have already shifted America further and further away from progress, and I refuse to be silent while America is steered to the far left. I join my Republican colleagues in opposing these radical policies, and I’ll never stop fighting against endeavors that will bring America to its knees. 

Honoring Law Enforcement

This week, I joined a bipartisan group of colleagues in signing on as cosponsors to H.Res.39, a resolution honoring the bravery and sacrifice of the U.S. Capitol Police and other law enforcement agencies. Every day, these brave men and women put their lives on the line to protect this great institution, members of Congress, and the countless staff who work in the Capitol. Their bravery and valiance are remarkable, and they truly serve as the gatekeepers to this great institution.

However, this recognition is not solely reserved for the law enforcement officers in Washington, it’s also a recognition of countless officers in our communities, cities, and towns. They serve out of an abiding gratitude for the rule of law and protecting the people who live and work around them. I’m grateful for all members of law enforcement, and I’ll always work to defend them – not defund them.

New Scam Alert

A new scam in North Carolina is underway, and I want to make sure you have all the details. The Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI) issued a warning to North Carolinians about scammers working to line their own pockets with Economic Impact Payments that have been recently issued. With tax filing season approaching, this threat only increases. However, with these simple tips, you can keep your personal and financial information safe:

• Do not respond to text messages asking you to disclose bank account information to receive an Economic Impact Payment.

• Make sure to avoid opening emails and clicking on links from senders you do not recognize.

• The IRS does not send unsolicited texts or emails nor will they call you with threats of jail, lawsuits, or other actions.

• The IRS will not send “representatives” to your home to ask for personal or financial information in exchange for an Economic Impact Payment.

Remember, to stay safe, you must always remain vigilant.

Quote of The Week

“On matters of style, swim with the current, on matters of principle, stand like a rock.” 
- Thomas Jefferson

Have a blessed weekend.

Sincerely,