03/29/2024

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Tillis Co-Sponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Ensure Female Servicemembers Have Proper-Fitting Equipment

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) co-sponsored bipartisan legislation introduced by Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) to ensure body armor and personal protective equipment (PPE) is adequate, properly-fitted, and readily available for female servicemembers. READ MORE


Election Security

At 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 9, state election officials will randomly select a statistically significant number of precincts, early voting sites, and mail ballots from the October 8 municipal elections to be counted by hand. READ MORE


U.S. House Approves Congressman PIittenger’s Request to Continue Assistance for Lumberton

WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives today approved Congressman Robert Pittenger’s request to continue Lumberton’s eligibility for certain U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grant and loan programs.  READ MORE

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State Superintendent Mark Johnson cancels first-week-of-school schedule

Due to a death in the family, North Carolina Superintendent Mark Johnson has cancelled all public events scheduled for Aug. 28-30.

Please contact Communications Director Drew Elliot at 919-260-2717 with any questions.

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Congressman Pittenger Hosts 8 Town Hall Meetings Next Week

Rep. Robert Pittenger

CHARLOTTE – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is busy preparing for eight town hall meetings August 28th-August 31st.

“So far this year, I’ve worked to pass over 270 bills, including conservative health care reform, major financial reform, V.A. accountability, a crackdown on sanctuary cities, and the largest pay raise for troops in 8 years,” said Congressman Pittenger. READ MORE

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Tillis, Bipartisan Group Of Senators Urge DOJ To Expand Compassionate Sentence Reduction Program For Sick And Elderly Inmates

Reports Show Expanding Program Would Reduce Prison Costs, Improve Public Safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) joined a bipartisan group of senators to call on Acting Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Thomas Kane and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein to review and explain their plans to follow recommendations from the Department of Justice Inspector General to expand the use of compassionate release, a program that provides low-risk, elderly or terminally ill inmates the opportunity to appeal for early release if they meet specific criteria.

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Freeman named as director of Office of Staff Development and Training

RALEIGH – The Division of Adult Correction and Juvenile Justice has named Stephanie Freeman as the director of its Office of Staff Development and Training (OSDT).

Freeman is returning to OSDT after serving as its curriculum manager from 2007 to 2014. READ MORE

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Tillis Co-Sponsored Bill to Ease Requirements on Military Members Seeking Commercial Driver’s Licenses Passes Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) that streamlines and eases the burden on the process whereby active-duty military, reservists and veterans apply for their commercial driver’s license passed out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger Urges House to Support “KATE’S LAW,” Crackdown on Sanctuary Cities

WASHINGTON – This afternoon, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) urged his colleagues to support “Kate’s Law,” which would better protect American citizens by increasing penalties for deported felons who illegally return to the United States. READ MORE

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REALITY CHECK:  Analysis Of CBO Score Shows Only 2 Fewer In Individual Market By 2026

Rep. Robert Pittenger

WASHINGTON – Much of the current debate on the American Health Care Act and Better Care Reconciliation Act focuses on a Congressional Budget Office (CBO) score showing 22 million more Americans without health coverage by 2026.

However, a new analysis by Forbes contributor Josh Archambault reveals a surprising omission.READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger Meets with Speaker Ryan to Discuss Pro-Life Provisions of Health Care Reform

Rep. Robert Pittenger

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) and other leaders of the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus met with House Speaker Paul Ryan (WI-01) to discuss key pro-life provisions in proposed legislation to repeal and replace Obamacare. READ MORE

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Strong Debate at the Bladen County GOP Club Monthly Meeting

Monday evening’s Bladen County GOP Club meeting offered area Republicans an opportunity to review

and contrast the differences between the secular-socialist agenda of Barack Obama, with that of the

accomplishment-driven presidency of Donald Trump. Nationwide, it is clear that conservatives are

energized by the Trump approach to national security, education, health care, economic growth, and

realistic government reform.READ MORE

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NC09 Christian Cano (D) on Trump Terror Tweets

Charlotte, NC- “We share the outrage of our neighbors and the international community regarding President 45’s continued irresponsible remarks about our British allies via Twitter. Americans understand the need to unite when tragedies happen, which is an act of patriotism that goes back to the founding of our republic. We have led the world by example and have shown them why democracy will always trump fascism and tyranny. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger Greets North Carolina Military Personnel in Japan

 WASHINGTON – This morning, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) met with North Carolina military personnel while visiting Yokota Air Base in Japan. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger’s Statement on the National Day of Prayer

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) issued this statement after participating in a Capitol Hill observance of the National Day of Prayer. READ MORE

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Weddington High School Senior Wins 2017 Congressional Art Competition

WASHINGTON – Emily Decker, a senior at Weddington High School, is winner of the 2017 Congressional Art Competition.  Her graphite drawing, titled “Realization,” was judged best entry in a selection process that included professional artists, community input, and Congressman Pittenger’s staff. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger:  Bipartisan Funding Bill Includes Important Pro-life Protections

WASHINGTON – As a pro-life leader on Capitol Hill, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is working to secure passage of important pro-life protections in the FY2017 Omnibus Appropriations bill and set the stage for further legislative efforts to defund Planned Parenthood. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger: Bipartisan Funding bill supports rural communities

WASHINGTON – As part of his ongoing efforts to support rural North Carolina communities, agriculture, and health care, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is working to secure passage of the FY2017 Omnibus Appropriations bill. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger: American Health Care Act continues protections for pre-existing conditions

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09), a persistent critic of Obamacare, has also been a consistent advocate of continuing protections for those with pre-existing conditions. READ MORE

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Letter to the Editor: Why you support the Modernize Nursing Practice Act

Dear Editor,

We support House Bill 88/Senate Bill 73, the Modernize Nursing Practice Act, and know that patients across the state do, too. READ MORE

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Over 300 attend Pittenger’s Service Academy events

WASHINGTON – On Saturday, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) hosted special events in Charlotte and Fayetteville to help local students learn about opportunities at all five United States Service Academies.  More than 300 local students, parents, and teachers participated. READ MORE

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You Decide: What Determines County Jobless Rates?

By Dr. Mike Walden
North Carolina Cooperative Extension

The unemployment rate is one of the most closely tracked of economic statistics. There are two reasons for this. First, unemployment rates for the nation, state and local areas (counties, metropolitan regions) are released each month and with a rather short lag – so the information is reasonably up-to-date. READ MORE

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Rep. Brenden Jones’ HB466, The Pharmacy Patient Fair Practices Act Passes House

Bill Would Provide a More Level Playing Field for Independent Pharmacies

Raleigh, NC – Representative Brenden Jones (R-Columbus, Robeson, Bladen) is pleased to report that his bill, HB466, has passed the House by a unanimous vote. READ MORE

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Rep. Brenden Jones Works to Pass HB835, Create Chain of Survival Task Force

Raleigh, NC – Representative Brenden Jones (R-Columbus, Bladen, Robeson) is pleased to announce the passage of HB835 entitled “Create Chain of Survival Task Force.”  The bill creates a chain of survival public-private task force that will identify ways to achieve funding for the placement of Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDS) in all state buildings and agencies, as well as all public schools. READ MORE

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Tillis, Klobuchar Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Increase Newborn Care For Veterans

Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced The Newborn Care Improvement Act, bipartisan legislation that would double the number of days veterans receive care for their newborns from seven to 14. Currently, a veteran must find outside healthcare for her child within seven days of birth or the baby will not have health insurance.  READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger co-sponsors bill to block “Congressional Obamacare Exemption”

WASHINGTON – This afternoon, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) helped introduce legislation to eliminate the “Congressional Obamacare Exemption” included in the current draft of theAmerican Health Care Act. READ MORE

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EVALUATING PRESIDENT TRUMP’S FIRST 100 DAYS

By Congressman Robert Pittenger

Saturday is the 100th day of President Trump’s Administration, and by any quantitative account, it has been one of the most productive first 100 days in modern Presidential history. Let’s take a look at the numbers. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger introduces bipartisan legislation to clarify lending rules

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (R-NC) and Congressman David Scott (D-GA) introduced bipartisan legislation to clarify and improve certain regulations which have created confusion and unnecessary costs in commercial real estate lending. READ MORE

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Tillis Discusses Border Security With Tucker Carlson

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) appeared on “Tucker Carlson Tonight” on the Fox News Channel, where he discussed the most effective ways to secure the United States’ Southern border. READ MORE

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Tillis Selected As Commissioner For Helsinki Commission

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) announced he has been selected as a member of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission. READ MORE

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Bladen County GOP Club hosts monthly meeting

Contributed

An exciting range of topics and discussions of interest to conservatives highlighted the monthly Bladen County Republican Club meeting, held Monday evening at the San Jose Restaurant in Elizabethtown.

Club Chairman Walter McDuffie welcomed several new members to the club, and the meeting quickly began to focus on how to broaden the outreach of the Republican Party within Bladen County. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger to host “Service Academy Day” for local students

WASHINGTON – As part of his commitment to helping outstanding local students serve our country at the highest level, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) invites local middle and high school students to attend one of two “Service Academy Days” on Saturday, April 29th. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger lays wreath at WW2 cemetery in Italy

WASHINGTON – On Saturday, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) had the solemn privilege of laying a wreath at the Sicily-Rome American Cemetery, where nearly 8,000 American soldiers were buried following the liberation of Sicily and the landings at Salerno and Anzio during World War II. READ MORE

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Rep. Brenden Jones: Legislative Update for April 24, 2017

By: Rep. Brenden Jones

Last week was a short but busy week in the General Assembly. Below is a summary of key bills I introduced or sponsored, key actions taken by committees on which I serve, and key House votes. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger: Support local students in 2017 Congressional Art Competition

CHARLOTTE – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) invites the community to celebrate local high school artists and help select finalists for the 2017 Congressional Art Competition. READ MORE

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Alan Greenspan: “If you get rid of Dodd-Frank, it’s going to have a very significant positive impact”

Greenspan

WASHINGTON – On Thursday, former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan told CNBC, “If you get rid of Dodd-Frank, it’s going to have a very significant positive impact on the economy.” READ MORE

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Bladen County GOP Club hosts monthly meeting

An exciting range of topics and discussions of interest to conservatives highlighted the monthly Bladen County Republican Club meeting, held Monday evening at the San Jose Restaurant in Elizabethtown.

Club Chairman Walter McDuffie welcomed several new members to the club, and the meeting quickly began to focus on how to broaden the outreach of the Republican Party within Bladen County. READ MORE

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From Fox News Opinion: Rep. Robert Pittenger on China and the crucial choice America needs to make

By Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09)
Fox News Opinion
Tuesday, April 18, 2017

Over the past several decades, American foreign policy towards China has been primarily economic in nature.  In 1979, we granted Most Favored Nation trading status with China, and in 2001, China became a member of the World Trade Organization.  READ MORE

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President Trump signs Congressman Pittenger’s radar legislation into law

WASHINGTON – On Tuesday evening, President Donald J. Trump signed Congressman Robert Pittenger’s radar legislation into law, setting into motion a 180-day study by the Commerce Department into Charlotte’s lack of adequate radar coverage.  Following completion of the study, the Commerce Department will have 90 days to submit a plan to fix the radar gap. READ MORE

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From The Hill: Securing our border must be first step in immigration reform

Senator Thom Tillis
The Hill

For the last 40 years, elected officials in Washington have repeatedly tried to secure our nation’s southern border and fix our broken immigration system, but every attempt at comprehensive reform legislation has failed.

While some falsely assume that this prolonged failure only affects border communities, the reality is that it has also created disastrous repercussions for the rest of the nation. READ MORE

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Charlotte Observer: Trump’s reversals come after crash course on issues

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Rep. Brenden Jones Legislative Update April 17, 2017

By: Rep. Brenden Jones
Last week was a short but busy week in the General Assembly. Below is a summary of key bills I introduced or sponsored, key actions taken by committees on which I serve, and key House votes. READ MORE

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER URGES COMMERCE DEPT.

TO IDENTIFY, INVESTIGATE UNDISCLOSED FOREIGN COMPANY WHICH VIOLATED U.S. LAW

WASHINGTON – In March, Chinese telecom firm ZTE agreed to pay over $1 billion in fines for violating U.S. law by selling embargoed technology to Iran.  This action followed bipartisan pressure led by Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09).

In documents filed with the Commerce Department, ZTE referred to a second company, identified only as “F7,” which also violated U.S. export control laws. READ MORE [divider]

CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER WRITES POPE TAWADROS II ON TERRORIST BOMBING OF COPTIC CHURCHES and receives statement

CHARLOTTE – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09), who met with Coptic Orthodox Pope Tawadros II in February, today wrote to express support following the Palm Sunday terrorist attack on two Coptic churches.

As part of a Congressional delegation in February, Congressman Pittenger met with Coptic Orthodox Pope Tawadros II and Rev. Dr. Andrea Zaki Stephanous, President of the Protestant Churches of Egypt.  Both leaders expressed appreciation for President Sisi’s unprecedented support of Egypt’s persecuted Christian minority. READ MORE [divider]

Tillis Joins Bipartisan Effort to Preserve the Legislative Filibuster

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) joined a bipartisan group of 60 Senators in writing to Senate leadership and urging them to leave the legislative filibuster intact and preserve the 60 vote threshold for legislation.

 “We are writing to urge you to support our efforts to preserve existing rules, practices, and traditions as they pertain to the right of Members to engage in extended debate on legislation before the United States Senate,” the Senators wrote. READ MORE [divider]

Tillis, Peters Lead Colleagues in Calling for Funding to Advance Self-Driving Vehicles

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Gary Peters (D-MI) led a bipartisan group of their Senate colleagues in a letter calling for increased funding to support the advancement of connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technologies. The letter specifically calls for Congress to appropriate funding for the safe development and testing of CAV technologies at U.S Department of Transportation (USDOT) federally-designated proving grounds. The letter was sent to Senate Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) and Ranking Member Jack Reed (D-RI). READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger on Supporting Rural Healthcare

By Congressman Robert Pittenger

One of my most important jobs is making sure your tax dollars are spent wisely. We must restore fiscal sanity in Washington, forcing bureaucrats to live within a budget and focus on priorities just like you do with your personal finances. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger on confirmation of Judge Gorsuch

CHARLOTTE – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) released this statement following U.S. Senate confirmation of Judge Neil Gorsuch to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States READ MORE

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Tillis: Gorsuch Will Be An Outstanding Supreme Court Justice

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement following the confirmation of Neil Gorsuch as Supreme Court Associate Justice. READ MORE

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Rouzer statement on Syria

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) released the statement below on Syria READ MORE

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Tillis Co-Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Secure Education Benefits for Veterans, Service members, and Their Families

 WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) introduced The Veterans Priority Enrollment Act of 2017, bipartisan legislation to ensure that veterans, service members, and surviving spouses and children of servicemembers who have died in the line of duty can take full advantage of their education benefits.  READ MORE [divider]

Rep. Brenden Jones Legislative Update for April 4, 2017

Last week was a busy week in the General Assembly. Below is a summary of key bills I introduced or sponsored, key actions taken by committees on which I serve, and key House votes. READ MORE

[divider]Tillis Statement on U.S. Airstrikes in Syria READ MORE  [divider]

Rouzer now accepting high school art submissions for Congressional Art Competition

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Rouzer is now accepting submissions for the 2017 Congressional Art Competition.  All high school students who are residents of the 7th Congressional District are encouraged to participate.  The winning entry will be displayed in the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger secures unanimous approval of Charlotte radar legislation

WASHINGTON – As Charlotte prepares for possible severe weather on Wednesday, President Trump is preparing to sign legislation sponsored by Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) to improve severe weather radar coverage in the Charlotte region. READ MORE

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Tillis, King Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Improve H-2B Visa Program And Assist Small Businesses

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Angus King (I-ME) have introduced the Save our Small and Seasonal Businesses Act of 2017, bipartisan legislation that makes substantive reforms aimed to help seasonal employers better navigate the H-2B temporary non-agricultural visa program. Original co-sponsors include Senators Mark Warner (D-VA), Roy Blunt (R-MO), John Cornyn (R-TX), Susan Collins (R-ME), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Mike Rounds (R-SD), and John Thune (R-SD). READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger on Trump’s ‘Freedom Caucus tweet’

WASHINGTON – On Thursday, President Donald Trump tweeted:  “The Freedom Caucus will hurt the entire Republican agenda if they don’t get on the team, & fast.  We must fight them, & Dems, in 2018!”

As Members of Congress and the media react, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is urging his fellow conservatives to remember the lesson taught by President Reagan during this February 9, 1983 White House press session, in which he pushed back against the “all or nothing” attitude displayed by some of today’s vocal conservatives READ MORE

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Governing requires more than saying ‘No’

By Congressman Robert Pittenger

Saying no is easy. Actual leadership, or governing, is much more difficult.

On Thursday, President Trump tweeted, “The Freedom Caucus will hurt the entire Republican agenda if they don’t get on the team, & fast. We must fight them, & Dems, in 2018!” READ MORE

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Waxhaw student receives appointments to West Point and Air Force

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is excited to announce Jake Dean of Waxhaw has received a rare double-appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Mr. Dean is Battalion Commander at Camden Military Academy, president of the school’s STEM Club, and leads a program to tutor fellow cadets who are struggling academically. READ MORE

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You Decide: Why Did We Move Away From Self-Sufficiency?

By Dr. Mike Walden
North Carolina Cooperative Extension

I recall my late, paternal grandmother telling me how much she looked forward to the third Friday of each month. This was the day her husband – my grandfather – took her from their small farm into town. For all the other days of the month my grandmother worked on the farm.  She made her own bread, harvested and canned vegetables raised in the garden and even helped butcher, dress (remove unwanted parts and divide the kept parts) and cook the pork and poultry raised on their land. READ MORE

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Governor Cooper Gives Remarks on House Bill 2 Repeal

Today, Governor Cooper held a press conference to discuss the repeal of House Bill 2. Full remarks as prepared are below:

Thank you and good afternoon. I just signed House Bill 142, which repeals House Bill 2.

For over a year now, House Bill 2 has been a dark cloud over our great state. It has stained our reputation. It has discriminated against our people.  READ MORE

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Tillis on HB2 Repeal

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after the North Carolina General Assembly voted to repeal House Bill 2 (HB2):

“North Carolina’s brand and continued economic prosperity should not be beholden to the loudest voices on either the far-left or the far-right who don’t have our state’s best interests in mind. READ MORE

[divider]Tillis Supports Secretary of the Air Force Nominee

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, attended a confirmation hearing for Secretary of the Air Force Nominee Dr. Heather Wilson and expressed his support for her confirmation. READ MORE  [divider]

A Different Kind of March Madness

By Jefferson Weaver

I was heading home, having made an uncustomary Sunday afternoon trip to the office, when I saw the young man in his side yard.

I think it was the yellow line that first caught my eye, bending back on itself in a S curve as he whipped the fly rod forward and back, expertly stripping line with a smooth hand I wish I could master. I slowed a little, worried more that he might practice-cast into my car and break his line than I was about hurting the car. READ MORE

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Tillis: Remove Barriers to Expedite Path to Alzheimer’s Cure

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), member of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, attended a hearing on the state of Alzheimer’s disease and questioned witness Maria Shriver on ways to better support caregivers and the need to find a cure for Alzheimer’s. READ MORE

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Weddington senior appointed to West Point

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is happy to announce that Caroline Horne, a senior at Weddington High School, has received a prestigious appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

Ms. Horne founded and serves as president of the Weddington Mentors Club, which organizes high school students to serve as mentors at the Monroe Boys and Girls Club.  She also launched “Hope for the Holidays” to provide Christmas gifts for children at the Boys and Girls Club. READ MORE

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Tillis Joins Bipartisan Group To Address Marine Debris

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) joined Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Gary Peters (D-MI) to introduce the bipartisan Save our Seas (SOS) Act to help address the marine debris epidemic affecting America’s ocean shorelines and inland waterways, as well as other coasts across the globe. READ MORE

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Craft breweries praise introduction of legislation that will support job creation, economic growth

Raleigh, NC – North Carolina craft breweries are praising the introduction of legislation that would modernize North Carolina craft brewing laws by eliminating unnecessary, burdensome regulations. Introduced by Chairman of the House Alcohol Beverage Control Committee Chuck McGrady (R-Henderson) today, the ABC Omnibus Legislation (HB 500) would help create jobs, spur local investment in North Carolina’s urban and rural communities, and raise the cap on the amount of beer a craft brewery may distribute itself before contracting with a wholesaler. The legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Bill Brawley (R-Mecklenburg), Jon Hardister (R-Guilford) and Pricey Harrison (D-Guilford). READ MORE

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Myers Park senior receives Naval Academy appointment

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is honored to announce that Elizabeth White, a senior at Myers Park High School, has received a prestigious appointment to the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis.

Ms. White was the 2015-2016 co-MVP of the Myers Park track team, traveled to El Salvador in 2015 to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, and currently serves as an assistant coach for Let Me Run, an organization which teaches life skills to boys through running. READ MORE

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Rep. Rouzer introduces bill to designate Wilmington as ‘American World War II City’

Washington, D.C. –  Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC) re-introduced a bill to designate and recognize the city of Wilmington as the first nationally recognized “American World War II City.”  H.R. 1721 establishes a process to allow the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to designate at least one city in the United States each year with this illustrious title.  These cities will be designated due to their significant contributions to the war effort and their work preserving the history of WWII. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger receives prestigious “Spirit of Enterprise” Award

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) has been honored with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce “Spirit of Enterprise” Award in recognition of his support for policies which promote a healthy economy and job growth.

Congressman Pittenger received this year’s award for his support of legislation to help small businesses access the capital needed to grow and create jobs, reforms to make federal jobs training programs relevant to 21st century needs, and policies to help American manufacturers compete in the global economy. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger on Fox News: Take a Lesson from Ronald Reagan

WASHINGTON – On Saturday, Congressman Robert Pittenger joined Fox News to discuss health care reform and urge fellow conservatives to remember the lessons of Ronald Reagan.

“We need to take a lesson from Ronald Reagan, our great conservative president.  READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger: Hopefully cooler heads will prevail

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) had this statement after House Speaker Paul Ryan pulled the American Health Care Act from consideration:

“Speaker Ryan has been magnanimous throughout this very difficult process, and he made the right decision in pulling the bill.  We do not have adequate votes to pass.  If the vote had failed, we could not bring it up again under the special Senate rules requiring only a majority vote, instead of 60 votes. READ MORE

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER ON NPR:  ‘IF WE CAN’T GET THERE, IT’S UNFORTUNATE FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE’ 

WASHINGTON – During a Friday afternoon interview with NPR’s Here and Now, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) was asked about the potential impact if House Republicans don’t come together to support the American Health Care Act.

“Does it feel like if Republicans cannot pass this bill that that’s going to be a major blow to the agenda?” asked NPR’s Jeremy Hobson. READ MORE [divider]

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Great name, poor results

By Congressman Robert Pittenger

Should one unelected bureaucrat have almost dictatorial powers over our personal financial choices?

Most would say that doesn’t sound American, but unfortunately I’m referring to the Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Created in good faith following the financial crisis, CFPB has slowed the economy and hurt job growth through excessive rules. READ MORE

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Tillis Chairs Hearing on DoD Civilian Personnel Reform

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee’s Subcommittee on Personnel, held a hearing on the management structure of governing civilian employees within the Department of Defense and discussed alternate strategies for effectively hiring, managing, supporting, promoting, and holding DoD civilian personnel accountable. READ MORE

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Sen. Thom Tillis: Democrats tried (but spectacularly failed) to bring down Judge Gorsuch

By Sen. Thom Tillis

This week, Judge Neil Gorsuch sat before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where he eloquently and graciously handled a barrage of harsh and overtly political questioning from Democratic Senators. In doing so, he demonstrated why he is a mainstream, independent-minded jurist who will be an outstanding Supreme Court justice. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger: A vote against AHCA is a vote for Obamacare

WASHINGTON – During a live, Thursday morning interview on WBT’s Morning News with Bo Thompson, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) spoke forcefully in support of the American Health Care Act READ MORE

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Medicaid – Is Pittenger or Trump the biggest Liar?

Charlotte, NC– Robert Pittenger has never let facts interfere with his rhetoric. As Robert Pittenger and his staff continue to spew Fake News, it requires our neighbors to put forth the extra effort to fact check his misinformation and outright lies.

Neighbors Christian Cano and our Cano For Congress Team have fact checked Robert Pittenger’s recent Op-Ed about Medicaid and how we treat our American Citizens. READ MORE

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Tillis, Klobuchar Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Cut Out-of-Pocket Costs for National Guard Members and Reservists Traveling to Training and Drills

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced bipartisan legislation to help service members save on travel expenses. Each month, members of the National Guard travel to complete their required duty training, and they typically pay for travel out of their own pocket. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger on AHCA: Now is Our Opportunity to Bring Accountability to Medicaid

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) addressed the U.S. House of Representatives in support of the conservative American Health Care Act, which includes substantial reforms to Medicaid. READ MORE

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Grace Academy senior receives West Point appointment

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is pleased to announce that Grace Academy senior Sam McGee has received a prestigious appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

Mr. McGee is captain of the Grace Academy golf team and serves on student council, while also working part-time for Chick-fil-A. READ MORE

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Rouzer Agriculture Subcommittee hosts hearing, “The Next Farm Bill: Livestock Producer Perspectives”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Livestock and Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee Chairman David Rouzer held a public hearing entitled, “The Next Farm Bill: Livestock Producer Perspectives.”  This hearing continues the series of House Agriculture Committee hearings that set the stage for the next farm bill.  This hearing provided representatives from four of the major livestock producer groups the opportunity to discuss their experiences with current programs, challenges facing the industry and priorities for the upcoming farm bill. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger meets with Pence to discuss health care reform

WASHINGTON – On Monday, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) and other leaders of the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus met with Vice President Mike Pence at the White House to discuss pro-life support for the American Health Care Act. READ MORE

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Tillis’ Opening Statement At Gorsuch Nomination Hearing

WASHINGTON, D.C. – During today’s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court, Senator Tillis spoke in favor of Judge Gorsuch’s impressive qualifications and track record of being a mainstream and independent-minded jurist. READ MORE

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Congressman Pittenger launches Wadesboro office

WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, March 22nd, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) will open a satellite office in historic downtown Wadesboro.

Located in the Scarborough Building at 107 East Wade St., Congressman Pittenger’s Anson County office will be staffed every Wednesday afternoon from 1 p.m. through 4:30 p.m. READ MORE

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Pittenger on MSNBC: Reagan’s lessons apply to healthcare debate

WASHINGTON – During a live interview with MSNBC on Saturday, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) urged his colleagues to remember the lessons of Ronald Reagan during debate on conservative health care reform. READ MORE

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Rep. Rouzer hosts Youth Leadership Conference in Clinton

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Rouzer will be hosting a youth leadership conference for high school juniors in the 7th Congressional District on Friday, March 24, 2017.  The 2017 7th Congressional District Youth Leadership and Entrepreneurial Conference provides two juniors from each high school an opportunity to meet with entrepreneurial leaders, discuss ways to achieve entrepreneurial success and develop the necessary personal and professional skills to achieve goals. READ MORE

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Charlotte Catholic senior appointed to U.S. Naval Academy

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is pleased to announce that Charlotte Catholic senior Erin McCullagh has succeeded in her goal of being appointed to the United States Naval Academy.

Ms. McCullagh is a competitive swimmer with SwimMAC, served on the Charlotte Catholic student council, and helps pack Christmas boxes for soldiers deployed overseas. READ MORE

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You Decide: Are We Asking Too Much Of The Fed?

By Dr. Mike Walden
North Carolina Cooperative Extension

The Federal Reserve – for short, the “Fed” – is again front and center in the news. With the economy improving and the stock market soaring, the Fed is expected to increase short-term interest rates several times in 2017.

Yet the Fed and its policies have not been held in high regard by many. Some say the Fed has been trying to do too much. Indeed, some even say the Fed’s policies have been harmful. Let me try to explain and then let you decide. READ MORE

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FULFILLING MEDICAID’S ORIGINAL PROMISE

By Congressman Robert Pittenger

Should the federal government treat able-bodied adults better than the disabled or elderly?

When President Lyndon B. Johnson first signed Medicaid into law, the program was intended to serve the most vulnerable Americans, including the elderly, disabled, children, and pregnant mothers.  But under President Obama, Medicaid’s focus shifted to include able-bodied, childless adults, which took care away from those who need it most. READ MORE

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REP. ROUZER INTRODUCES BILL TO INCREASE TEACHER PAY BY ELIMINATING THE DoE, RETURNING FUNDING AND DECISIONS TO STATES

Washington, D.C. – Congressman David Rouzer introduced H.R. 1510, the States’ Education Reclamation Act of 2017, which would return taxpayer dollars used to fund the federal education bureaucracy back to the respective states in order to increase teacher salaries or to be used for any other purpose that a respective state chooses to enhance education.

H.R. 1510 proposes a responsible dismantle of the Department of Education by reallocating its billions in funding to be proportionally distributed to the respective states to be used for any education purpose as they see fit, such as teacher pay raises, new school construction, investment in technology and more. READ MORE

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FIRST GENERATION AMERICAN FROM MATTHEWS, DEDICATED TO “MAKING A DIFFERENCE,” RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS APPOINTMENT TO U.S. NAVAL ACADEMY

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is excited to announce that Sumi Vijayakumar of Matthews, a senior at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, has received a prestigious appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy.

Ms. Vijayakumar originally attended East Mecklenburg High School before transferring to NCSSM, where she serves as a Physics Teaching Assistant and helps engineer nanowires at an N.C. Central University research facility. READ MORE

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NC Superintendent of Public Instruction Hires Senior Legislative Director and Chief Budget Advisor

The State Superintendent today announced the hire of Chloe Gossage as senior legislative director and chief budget advisor.

Gossage joins the Office of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction with more than a decade of state government experience, the bulk of which has been in nonpartisan positions – six years in the General Assembly’s Fiscal Research Division and two years at the Administrative Office of the Courts. READ MORE

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SOUTH MECKLENBURG HIGH SCHOOL SWIM CAPTAIN RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS APPOINTMENT TO UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY

WASHINGTON – Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is honored to announce that Luke Johnson, a senior at South Mecklenburg High School, received a prestigious appointment to the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis.

Mr. Johnson serves as co-president of the South Mecklenburg Honor Society, captain of the swim and dive team, and is an active volunteer with Special Olympics and St. John’s Episcopal Church. READ MORE

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Tillis, Bipartisan Group of Senators Introduce Legislation Authorizing Additional Visas for Afghan Interpreters, Support Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), John McCain (R-AZ), and Jack Reed (D-RI) introduced bipartisan legislation to provide 2,500 more visas for the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program, which allows Afghans, including interpreters, who supported the U.S. mission in Afghanistan and face threats as a result of their service, to apply for refuge in the United States. READ MORE

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Legislative Update for March 14, 2017

By Rep. Brenden H. Jones

Last week was a busy week in the General Assembly. Below is a summary of key bills I introduced or sponsored, key actions taken by committees on which I serve, and key House votes. READ MORE

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Tillis: Perpetrators Of “Marines United” Scandal Must Be Punished

WASHINGTON, D.C. – During today’s Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) questioned General Robert Neller, Commandant of the Marine Corps, about misconduct on the “Marines United” website. READ MORE

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Tillis & Burr Call On VA Secretary to Act Following Troubling Report on Wait Times at NC Medical Centers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Richard Burr (R-NC) joined a bipartisan group of Senators, including the leadership of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), to send a letter to Secretary of Veterans Affairs David Shulkin in response to a troubling Inspector General report earlier this month on veteran wait times. Though the IG report did not find intentional misreporting, it did find that across the Mid-Atlantic Healthcare Network (VISN 6) actual wait times were drastically different than what has been reported by VA medical facilities. VISN 6 includes locations in Asheville, Durham, Fayetteville, and Salisbury. READ MORE

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Commissioner credits Pittenger for ZTE’s record-breaking fine

WASHINGTON – Last week, Chinese telecom firm ZTE Corporation agreed to pay over $1 billion in fines for violating U.S. law by selling embargoed technology to an Iranian government-controlled entity which could be used to oppress human rights.

Michael Wessel, an influential Commissioner on the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, credited Congressman Robert Pittenger’s (NC-09) bipartisan efforts to push Commerce Department regulators to take action. READ MORE

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER TESTIFIES BEFORE SUBCOMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN SUPPORT OF LUMBERTON

WASHINGTON – The City of Lumberton has previously benefited from special U.S. Department of Agriculture grant and loan programs to help spark economic development in rural communities.  However, a small increase in Lumberton’s population means the city no longer qualifies for these vital programs. READ MORE

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Repairing America’s Healthcare System

By Congressman Robert Pittenger

Seven years ago, President Obama and Congressional Democrats mounted a government takeover of our health care. The results have been disastrous. READ MORE

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Pittenger welcomes Lumberton Eagle Scout to U.S. Capitol

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WASHINGTON – This morning, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) welcomed Lumberton, N.C. Eagle Scout Ron King to the U.S. Capitol as he prepares to deliver the “State of Scouting” address to Congress.

During their meeting, Mr. King told Congressman Pittenger he hopes to become President to make a positive difference.  Congressman Pittenger recited the Boy Scout laws and motto, and together they recited the Boy Scout oath. READ MORE

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CONGRESSMAN PITTENGER ENCOURAGES STUDENTS TO APPLY FOR FEMA YOUTH PREPAREDNESS COUNCIL

WASHINGTON – As part of his commitment to help residents of Cumberland, Robeson, and Bladen counties recover from Hurricane Matthew, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) is encouraging local youth to apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Youth Preparedness Council. READ MORE

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Tillis Discusses Path To Immigration Reform

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) participated in an immigration roundtable hosted by the Bipartisan Policy Center where he highlighted his immigration reform framework and the potential path forward. READ MORE

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Tillis & Burr Call On DHS & DOJ To Address Threats To Jewish Institutions Across The Country

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Richard Burr (R-NC) joined all their Senate colleagues in urging the Trump Administration to take action in response to the recent anonymous bomb threats made against Jewish Community Centers (JCC’s), Jewish Day Schools, and Synagogues. In the bipartisan letter sent to Department of Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, and FBI Director James Comey, the Senators stressed the importance of these centers within their communities, and offered suggestions for deterring the threats of violence. READ MORE

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Pittenger introduces bill to improve Charlotte weather radar

WASHINGTON – Charlotte is the largest metropolitan area in the United States without local National Weather Service Doppler radar coverage.  Today, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) introduced legislation (H.R. 1427) requiring the Commerce Secretary to analyze this “radar gap” and develop a solution.

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Pittenger commends Egyptian president for support of Christian minority

WASHINGTON – In February, Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) participated in a Congressional delegation to Egypt, meeting for the fourth time with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to discuss efforts to counter the Muslim Brotherhood and other radical Islamic terrorists.

Congressman Pittenger also met with Coptic Orthodox Pope Tawadros II and Rev. Dr. Andrea Zaki Stephanous, President of the Protestant Churches of Egypt.  Both leaders expressed appreciation for President Sisi’s unprecedented support of the Egyptian Christian minority. READ MORE

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Planned Political Meetings:

Bladen County Republic Party Meetings

Bladen County Republic Party meets the 3rd Monday of each month at San Jose Restaurant starting at 6pm. All are invited to attend.

 

 

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