It has been another busy one, except most House members have been off the Hill for much of the week. The House Republican Issues Conference was held in Miami this past week, where we gathered to discuss our agenda moving forward. Meanwhile, Operation Epic Fury continues as the U.S. military further annihilates Iran’s defenses.
Looking ahead, Tax Day is quickly approaching. If you or someone you know needs assistance preparing your taxes this year, please take a moment to review the resources available to help. I’m also pleased to share an update on a recent investment in Wilmington that will strengthen our economy and support our community. Read more below!
If you received this newsletter from a friend, and you would like to continue receiving these updates, you can subscribe here or connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Eliminating Iran’s Capabilities
As we enter the third week of Operation Epic Fury, the United States military and our allies continue to dismantle Iran's military capabilities. The operation has successfully struck more than 15,000 enemy targets, destroying Iran’s military infrastructure and neutralizing key elements of the regime's leadership limiting their ability to threaten the region and the world.
Unfortunately, Iran continues to attack civilian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil and liquefied natural gas shipping routes which runs along Iran's coastline, disrupting global energy supplies. The United States has made it clear the Iranian regime will not be allowed to hold the world hostage. The U.S. Department of War remains committed to taking all necessary actions to ensure oil shipments remain secure and global commerce is protected.
While these strategic military operations continue, the cost of defending freedom remains high. We mourn the brave servicemembers who have given their lives in defense of our nation and our allies. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Tax Season is Underway
With tax season in full swing, there are some resources available through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that might be helpful to you. If you need in-person support this year, two Taxpayer Assistance Centers are currently serving our district — one in Fayetteville and one in Wilmington.
Before visiting a Taxpayer Assistance Center, it is recommended you check the IRS website for addresses, current hours of operation, and a list of required documents you’ll need to bring.
Additionally, the IRS offers a variety of online tools and resources to help you prepare and file your taxes that can be accessed here.
Investing in U.S. Manufacturing
I’m excited to share some community news with you! As part of a broader $160 million investment across North Carolina, GE Aerospace has announced its commitment to investing $60 million in its Wilmington manufacturing facility.
As we focus on strengthening American supply chains and bolstering domestic manufacturing, it’s great to see this investment in innovation right here at home.
Watch the video here to learn more about GE Aerospace's investment in U.S. manufacturing.
Next Generation of Leaders
While I was with my Republican colleagues at our Issues Conference, it was a pleasure for my office to welcome two fantastic Fayetteville State University students to Washington, DC this past week as part of the Chancellor’s Fellows Leadership Program. These scholars truly represent the next generation of leaders.
I hope Kayla and Jayden enjoyed their tour of the U.S. Capitol and their time in Washington.
FSU Chancellor Fellows: Kayla McLaurin (left) and Jayden Batiste (right)
Visiting Washington, DC soon? As you plan your travel for the year, please let my office know if you will be visiting Washington, DC this spring or summer. You can request tour tickets for the U.S. Capitol, White House, Pentagon and other tours by filling out the form on my website.
Future of Infrastructure
I recently joined leaders from across the country for the CRH Women’s Impact Fly-in to discuss the future of American infrastructure. Companies like CRH are the backbone of American growth, supplying a vast array of building materials, including those necessary to build and repair our roads and bridges, among other infrastructure projects.
As Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, I am working with my colleagues to craft the next Highway Bill, which will reauthorize funding for our roads, bridges, transit systems and rail. (Current law expires September 30 of this year.) It was great to hear directly from the professionals managing these projects on the ground, ensuring the policies we craft meet the needs of our nation.
Good News Story
For this week’s good news story, I would like to highlight a generous donation by the Carolina Panthers to our community. The team recently made a special trip to Wilmington to visit the students at Bradley Creek and Sunset Park elementary schools.
In a powerful partnership with Samaritan’s Feet, the team fitted 800 students with brand-new, free pairs of shoes to inspire them to keep moving. Through their "Play 60" initiative, the Carolina Panthers are encouraging every student to get at least 60 minutes of daily activity for a healthy lifestyle. Read the storyhere.
Closing Thoughts...
"Believe you can and you’re halfway there." – President Theodore Roosevelt