I am grateful everyone is safe following last night’s incident at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner where President Donald J. Trump, Members of Congress, members of the press, and many others were gathered. An individual rushed the venue, but thanks to the swift response of the Secret Service and law enforcement, the situation was quickly secured. Violence of any kind has no place in our nation.
This past week in Washington, I joined a roundtable discussion with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin to discuss the importance of limiting government intervention and getting America building again. In the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology hearing, I questioned how the military is using modern technologies, such as robotics, to ensure we maintain the strongest military in the world.
In addition, I met with three Wilmington high school students to congratulate them on winning the Congressional App Challenge and met with Miss Teen Fayetteville to learn more about her goals, including her work for our veterans. You can read about all of this and more below.
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Advocating for Reduced Government Intervention
This past week, I participated in a roundtable with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin to talk about how overreaching federal environmental regulations negatively affect our farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. The EPA oversees important matters such as crop protection tools, water quality, and emissions. These issues directly impact day-to-day operations in manufacturing and food processing in addition to row crop and animal agriculture.
Our discussion focused on the need for clear, consistent rules that make sense and provide for greater transparency, and the importance of utilizing sound science as the fundamental basis for policies. We also emphasized the importance of protecting our natural resources while making sure policies don’t place unnecessary burdens on those who grow our food and support our rural communities.
Improving Military Technology
During this past week’s House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee on Research and Technology hearing, I highlighted the importance of military applications of emerging technology. I raised questions about the current stage of development of new robotics and advanced systems and how the Department of War is coordinating these efforts with national security and research sectors.
This remains a critical area of focus for our national defense. Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine have highlighted the growth and importance of these new technologies. Such applications underscore the necessity of integrating modern technologies in our defense capabilities and the importance of learning from and coordinating with our allies.
Today, April 26, begins Carolinas Rip Current Awareness Week. With millions of people visiting the beaches of North and South Carolina each year, understanding the dangers of rip currents is important to keep you and your family safe.
Wilmington Students Win Congressional App Challenge in NC-07
Congressman Rouzer with Tilghman (left), Edward (middle), and Bentley (right).
I would like to congratulate Bentley and Edward Burton of Laney High School, along with Tilghman Reiss of New Hanover High School, on winning the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for North Carolina’s Seventh District.
Their app, “Remember When,” uses technology to help preserve meaningful memories. Inspired by the experience of their loved ones with memory loss, the app is designed to help older adults and their families strengthen connections and capture personal stories for future generations.
Their work reflects innovation driven by compassion and need. These young men are truly deserving of this recognition of their outstanding achievement.
Service Inspired by a Military Upbringing
Additionally, I had the privilege of welcoming Miss Teen Fayetteville, Emma Taylor, to the United States Capitol. Growing up in a military family, Emma was inspired to establish her own nonprofit, “Battle Buddies,” to provide funding for veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to have service dogs.
Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices in service to our country, and they deserve our full support in return. I look forward to seeing Emma accomplish great things both as Miss Teen Fayetteville and in the years ahead.
Constituent Services Near You
If you are experiencing difficulties with a federal agency and are unable to visit one of my district offices, we may be able to help! Below are the upcoming dates and locations for May. Please stop by if there is anything with which my team can assist.
Bladen County
May 12 | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
NC Cooperative Extension
450 Smith Cir
Elizabethtown, NC 28337
Pender County
May 7 | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Surf City Town Hall
214 Florence Way
Hampstead, NC 28443
Brunswick County
May 6 | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Sunset Beach Town Hall
700 Sunset Blvd N
Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Pender County
May 7 | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Burgaw Town Hall
109 N Walker St
Burgaw, NC 28425
Columbus County
May 12 | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Columbus County Center
45 Government Complex Rd
Whiteville, NC 28472
Robeson County
May 19 | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
R.E. Hooks Community Building
100-198 N 3rd St
St. Pauls, NC 28384
Good News Story
I would like to congratulate Hunter Smith of Charles P. Murray Middle School in New Hanover County for being recognized as Teacher of the Month.
Mr. Smith transforms education by turning lessons into real-world learning experiences. As he said, “The skills they need for high-paying jobs don’t take as long as they used to,” and “I love that for kids.” He encourages students to think like leaders, problem-solvers, and entrepreneurs, preparing them for long-term success beyond the classroom.
Thank you for your dedicated work in educating and inspiring the next generation! Your efforts are truly appreciated!
To read more about Mr. Smith's impact in the classroom, visit WWAY News.
Closing Thoughts...
“A government big enough to give you everything you want is a government big enough to take from you everything you have.” – President Gerald R. Ford
