Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Jerry ``Shag'' Wright. Jerry was a proud descendant of the Wright family who came to Pierce County as part of the Gilmer migration in the early 1900s. Jerry honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam war as a frontline munitions carrier and being one of only 37 of the 185 in his unit to return home in 1969, a testament to his courage and resilience. Following his service, he began a long career at Rayonier, from which he later retired. Mr. Wright was deeply committed to public service, serving 10 years on the Screven City Council before being elected as a representative on the Wayne County Board of Commissioners, a position he held for 25 years. Jerry was truly a man of the people, representing his community with pride and helping everyone he could, whether they were his constituent or not. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Lenton Brown. Born and raised in Reidsville, Georgia, Mr. Brown lived a life dedicated to service and building community. His career led him to serve in the United States Air Force and as an engineer for the State of California before returning to Georgia. He quickly got to work, serving his community as he launched the EE Foundation. In this, he started a small Easter egg hunt that grew into one of the largest in the country. The hunt grew to 90,000 eggs a year and raised money to provide food, clothes, back-to-school supplies, and toys for community members. This became so popular that donations continued year-round. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Brown was known as a jack-of-all-trades. He used his talents to help those around him as best he could. Mr. Brown gave his all for those around him. For that, we celebrate his legacy. Honoring Richard J. Burrell

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I thank him for his kind comments. I did have two granddaughters in Texas, and they are okay, but they did lose their cousin, Janie Hunt, 9 years old. What a tragedy. I thank both of these gentlemen for their work during that time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Judy Jurgensen Melroy. A native of Savannah, Georgia, Mrs. Melroy lived a life defined by faith, service, and love for others. Her passion for learning led her to become a teacher, where she inspired countless young people and passed on her joy for education to future generations. At home, she poured her heart into raising her sons, who remember her not only for her guidance but also for her playful spirit, often joining them in the yard. Through her devotion, each pursued the highest levels of education, a reflection of the values she instilled. Beyond her family and classroom, Mrs. Melroy was known throughout her community as a nurturer, always ready to offer comfort, encouragement, and care. Her faith was central to her life, and her talents as a painter and singer brought joy to all who knew her. To her husband, Donald, to her sons, Michael, Chris, and Joel, today we celebrate her extraordinary legacy of love, service, and light.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 240 and YEA on Roll Call No. 241.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Major General Bobby Christine, a proud alumnus of Samford University's Cumberland School of Law, on his appointment as the 43rd Judge Advocate General of the United States Army. Major General Christine was confirmed by the Senate on June 29, 2025, and assumed his duties on July 1, 2025, becoming the Army's top legal officer and senior uniformed lawyer. In this role, he provides legal counsel to the Secretary of the Army and the chief of staff, while leading the Judge Advocate General's Corps and delivering legal services across the Army. His distinguished career includes both private practice and government service, where he has demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to causes greater than himself. Major General Christine's leadership will play a vital role in guiding the Army through transformation and readiness for the future. I congratulate him on this historic achievement and thank him for his service to our Nation.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Flynn Warren, Jr. Born in Mount Holly, North Carolina, Flynn graduated from high school a year early and was known in town as the local genius. He attended Belmont Abbey College, where he was named MVP of the golf team for 2 consecutive years. Flynn later earned his pharmacy bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina and his master's degree from the University of Georgia. Flynn went on to serve as a faculty member at the University of Georgia, retiring as a clinical professor and assistant dean for student affairs. In 2003, Flynn was elected president of the Georgia Pharmacy Association and served on the boards of the Georgia Pharmacy Foundation and the International Association of Torch Clubs, mentoring countless students along the way. Flynn was devoted to his family and community, volunteering with many organizations and helping anyone in need. He is survived by his loving wife, Monica, and their children. Honoring Tom Cousins

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Tom Cousins. Tom Cousins was one of the most influential figures in Georgia's history, transforming Atlanta into one of the Nation's leading cities. At just 16, he enrolled at the University of Georgia, earning a degree in finance and graduating in the top 10 percent of his class. After graduation, he served in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of first lieutenant. Following his service, he founded a real estate company with his father, becoming the largest home builder in Georgia. Tom later purchased key properties in downtown Atlanta and was instrumental in relocating the St. Louis Hawks to the city. Beyond business, he led the East Lake revitalization project, turning the neighborhood into a thriving urban community. His vision and leadership left an enduring mark on Georgia and its capital. Today, we remember Tom Cousins for his extraordinary contributions. Atlanta would not be Atlanta had it not been for Tom Cousins. Recognizing Mason Howell

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate one of Georgia's own, Mason Howell of Thomasville, who made history by capturing the 125th U.S. Amateur Championship. Mason's path to victory was nothing short of extraordinary. He battled his way out of a 20-man playoff, defeated some of the world's highest-ranked amateurs, and ultimately claimed one of golf's most prestigious titles. Only 18 years old, Mason displayed composure far beyond his years. He refused to be intimidated, showing that perseverance and confidence can overcome even the toughest competition. Mason's triumph makes him the third youngest champion in U.S. Amateur history, a distinction that places him alongside the game's legends, and even ahead of Tiger Woods in the record books. This remarkable accomplishment has earned Mason invitations to the Masters, the U.S. Open, and a spot on the 2025 U.S. Walker Cup team. From his beginnings in Thomasville to the national stage, Mason Howell embodies the value of hard work, dedication, and belief in oneself. Recognizing Major General Bobby Christine

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to advocate for America's foresters, who are in desperate need of our help. Under our current tax code, forest owners do not receive tax relief from the loss of their timber crops. We are in the heart of hurricane season, and countless foresters are left wondering if the next storm will be the one that shuts down their family farm for good. This is unacceptable. My bill, the Disaster Reforestation Act, offers a simple fix to an issue that has harmed American foresters for far too long. Under the Disaster Reforestation Act, foresters will be able to deduct the true value of timber destroyed by natural disasters from their taxes. This would help provide immediate relief for landowners affected by wildfires, hurricanes, or other disasters. This bill will save family forestry in America, and I urge my colleagues to cosponsor this bipartisan, bicameral piece of legislation. I urge its immediate passage.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a Georgia town that has earned itself an unusual title, Cordele, Georgia. Georgia's agricultural staples are widely known as peanuts, pecans, and peaches; but Cordele has become a major producer of another crop: Watermelon. This central-Georgia town plays an impressive agricultural role within the state, with a population of just under 10,000, it boasts a massive contribution to the region's agricultural production of cotton, peanuts, and oddly enough watermelon. Southern Living magazine just named Cordele, Georgia as the Watermelon Capital of the World, yes you heard that correctly. This town produces a plethora of summertime fruit, supplying much of the state and the Southeast region with a sweet, refreshing treat to beat the heat. Cordele also hosts the Watermelon Days Festival which invites thousands of visitors each year. Today, we congratulate the town of Cordele on being recognized for another agricultural contribution of the state of Georgia, and the title ``Watermelon Capital of the World''.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of Theron Darieng, Sr. For 90 years, Theron lived with faith, service, and love at the heart of all he did. Born and raised in Bryan County, he proudly served our Nation in the U.S. Air Force. Theron dedicated decades to Richmond Hill as a city council member, a public works supervisor, and a volunteer fireman. His steady leadership and tireless service helped shape the community we know today. Yet his greatest impact went beyond titles or positions. He was remembered most for his kindness, his generosity, and his willingness to lend a helping hand. He was a devoted husband to Janine, a loving father and grandfather, and a guiding light in the First Baptist Church. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity and devotion that will endure for generations. May we honor him by carrying forward his example of faith, service, and love.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, we delivered on President Trump's domestic agenda and provided the largest tax cut in American history. That is because, as Republicans, we believe this money belongs to hardworking Americans, not to Washington bureaucrats. I couldn't be prouder of this Conference and the Trump administration for working together in the interests of American citizens across our Nation. Together, we delivered no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, a doubled child tax credit, relief for our seniors, and so much more. In Georgia, families will keep an additional $3,000 of their own money in 2026 thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Republicans are putting food back on the table. Georgia's citizens are now able to afford several more weeks of groceries because of tax cuts. This Conference and the Trump administration are working for American citizens, and it has been truly life-changing for many people. This August, I had the chance to get boots on the ground and see firsthand the impact of this bill on hardworking Georgians. Just the other week, I was eating at a Georgia restaurant, and I asked my server how no tax on tips would impact her life. Do you know what she told me? She said she can finally start saving for her daughter's college education without worrying whether she can still afford groceries at the end of the month. She is not alone. I have asked others in the tip and overtime industry similar questions. I have also talked with folks who don't follow politics closely, as well as those who identify as Democrats. Every single time, they are pleasantly surprised to learn how much this bill helps because, for the last 2 months, Democrats have been flooding the airwaves with lies about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act because they are embarrassed they couldn't vote for it. Do you know why they couldn't vote for it? It was purely out of hatred for President Donald J. Trump. Democrats voted against the middle class, while Republicans voted for it. Democrats voted against the American Dream, while we fought and will continue to fight to protect it. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is an investment in America's families, America's workers, and America's future. We are lifting up the middle class, restoring fairness, and proving once again that, under Republican leadership, the American Dream is alive and well.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the winner of the Georgia Rural Small Business of the Year Award: Clinic Drug Store, Incorporated. Over the past 97 years, this family-owned and independent business has served the citizens of Sumter Country, Georgia across three different businesses, including the Clinic Drug Store, Plains Pharmacy, and Cafe Campesino Community Coffeehouse. The businesses have worked hand in hand with The University of Georgia's Small Business Development Center to elevate their services and provide excellent care to rural Georgia. Three families have owned this business on since its establishment: the Mont's, the Godwin's and presently the Pinnell family, who continue to provide a superior level of service to patients and customers alike. Their hard work and dedication were recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration during National Small Business Week back in May of this year, where they received the award in Atlanta. Today, we congratulate the Clinic Drug Store, Inc. small business of a century of providing service and care to our rural citizens in Georgia, and their recognition by the SBA.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 220, H.R. 747, as amended.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize two esteemed universities in Georgia. This year, Forbes Magazine introduced a list of 2025 ``New Ivy'' league schools. The list highlights 10 public and 10 private institutions across the country that are at the Ivy-League-level of prestige. Because of their academic rigor, competitive admissions, and strong career outcomes, Georgia Tech University and Emory University stood out. Georgia Tech is renowned for its innovation and return on investment. Their recent graduate career placement rates consistently hover above 90 percent, which is an impressive figure. Emory has earned praise for its research programs and global health initiatives, with a history of groundbreaking medical discoveries. One of these discoveries includes the first successful bone marrow transplant in a human patient. The recognition cements both schools as academic powerhouses--and proves Georgia continues to rise as a destination for elite higher education. We should all be proud of both universities for this tremendous accomplishment.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the amazing sporting clays achievements of Connor Daniel. Connor has been competing worldwide representing team USA in England and Cyprus. While competing Connor placed in the top 20 both times overall and won the World English Sporting Junior Championship and the World FITASC championship. Connor was also a member of the USA team which took home the World English Sporting Junior and World FITASC Junior team championships. His performances in these tournaments earned him the FITASC Junior World Cup as well. Connor has also recently committed to Georgia Southern to compete on their clay shooting team. Today, we celebrate Connor and his amazing achievements in the world of clay shooting.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Tom Cousins. Tom Cousins was one of the most influential figures in Georgia's history, transforming Atlanta into one of the Nation's leading cities. At just 16, he enrolled at the University of Georgia, earning a degree in finance and graduating in the top ten percent of his class. After graduation, he served in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of First Lieutenant. Following his service, he founded a real estate company with his father, becoming the largest homebuilder in Georgia. Tom later purchased key properties in downtown Atlanta and was instrumental in relocating the St. Louis Hawks to the city. Beyond business, he led the East Lake revitalization project, turning the neighborhood into a thriving urban community. His vision and leadership left an enduring mark on Georgia and its capital. Today, we remember Tom Cousins for his extraordinary contributions.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the late Larry Stokes, who passed away on July 10, 2025. Dr. Stokes was a well-respected and beloved professor at Savannah State University. He dedicated his life to education and influenced countless students during his tenure at the University. Because of his unwavering commitment, Dr. Stokes will be fondly remembered for his contributions to academia. He is also known for fostering a love of learning within his classroom and amongst students. His life was marked by his marriage to The Honorable Judge Tammy Tokes, whom he met and married in 2002. Their relationship is often described as a testament to love, mutual respect, and shared values. Together, they created a loving home for their two children, Kendall and McKenzie. Dr. Stokes also took immense pride in being a grandfather and greatly cherished the memories with his loved ones. Today, I ask that we all take a moment to remember Dr. Stokes' legacy of knowledge, kindness, and compassion.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an important moment for environmental conservation in Georgia, this year's first public release for the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. On June 25, 2025, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island released six rehabilitated sea turtles back into the Atlantic ocean-- five green sea turtles and one Kemp's ridley. The Kemp's ridley is one of the most endangered sea turtle species in the world. The release marks another success in their mission to protect coastal wildlife and stands as a testament to the incredible work of the Center's staff and volunteers. Their tireless efforts not only save individual animals but also protect Georgia's coastal wildlife and educate thousands of visitors each year. Today, we express our gratitude to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center for their impact on our state and beyond.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Brunswick native, Bessie Mabel Mumford Pello. Bessie was an upstanding member of both Morningside Baptist Church and Beverly Shares Baptist, where she served in multiple leadership roles and utilized her artistic talents to teach Sunday School. She was a veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Korean War, and she was one of the first enlistees of the Women's Army Corps (CORE). After her military service, she married her husband Dan, and they started their family. Once the children and grandchildren were out of the house, Bessie went to work for her son Steve at Pello Body Shop, where she remained for over 30 years. Today, we honor a remarkable woman who was a faithful servant to her Lord and Savior, a leader, and a pillar of the Brunswick community.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Georgia Ports Authority for their decades of servitude to Georgia, the United States, and the entire world. Georgia Ports authority operates the national gateway ports of Savannah and Brunswick, allowing customers to compete and succeed in global markets. The Savannah Port is one of the most connected ports in the United States with over thirty-five ships, forty-two double stack trains, and sixteen thousand trucks moving in and out every week. Consisting of more than six hundred and nine thousand jobs throughout Georgia, they look towards the future with enriching intern and community involvement programs that pave the way for future generations. In the picture next to me is one of Savannah's own, Ross Goodman, a rising senior at the University of Georgia, who is interning at the Savannah Port. Over the next decade, Georgia Ports Authority will invest $4.5 billion in port and inland infrastructure to ensure that the state and entire southeast region continue to have the most competitive ports in the Nation. Today, we honor Georgia Ports Authority for their unwavering effort in providing a strong future for American commerce.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the City of Midway, Georgia and to honor its centennial celebration which occured on August 28th. Midway is located in Liberty County, a name given to the town in remembrance of its citizens, Lyman Hall and Button Gwinnett, who bravely signed their names to the Declaration of Independence, in direct defiance of British rule. Adding to the town's historical significance, another Midway resident by the name of Nathan Brownson served in the Continental Congress from 1776 to 1778, helping guide our young nation through the turbulent revolutionary years. Established in 1752, the Midway Congregational Church was destroyed during the Revolutionary War, highlighting the immense sacrifice made by the citizens of Midway in advancing the cause of liberty. The town is now home to Georgia's only colonial museum and serves as one of the First District's most important cultural landmarks. I am honored to celebrate the one-hundred-year anniversary of the town's incorporation.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of our country's heroes, Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Scott Ruskan. Scott Ruskan hails from New Jersey and was an accountant at KPMG before enlisting to serve in the Coast Guard in 2021. After joining the U.S. Coast Guard, Scott participated in and completed rescue swimmer training and was stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas. In the early morning of July 4, Scott, along with other local and Federal first responders, was dispatched to aid in rescue efforts at Camp Mystic in Kerr County as flooding from the nearby Guadalupe River hit the camp. Scott, while leading the Coast Guard triage at Camp Mystic, was able to save over 160 people through his efforts, including my twin granddaughters, whose birthday is today. Scott's selflessness and bravery in the face of danger is something that we should all strive to embody. I thank Scott for his courage and for changing the course of many families' lives, including my family. May God bless him.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 215 and YEA on Roll Call No. 216.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to rally support for addressing the growing abuses of vision benefit managers, or VBMs. The industry is dominated by two vertically integrated giants whose actions are undermining healthcare access and threatening the existence of eye care practices in all of our districts. It is concerning that some VBM patient and doctor mandates appear to be aimed solely at benefiting the optical products labs, patient data gathering, and mass retail operations built around them. The growing VBM acquisition and control over independent eye care practices have created worrying conflict of interest issues. As I speak, VBMs are attempting to link physician reimbursements not to quality care standards but solely to their own product sales. We must protect against VBM schemes that invade the safeguarded sanctity of a doctor's exam room. Confronting VBM abuses is the central focus of my bipartisan bill, the DOC Access Act, as well as multiple active investigations in Congress and by the GAO, FTC, and others. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me, along with patient and consumer advocates like Patients Rising, the National Consumers League, and the American Optometric Association, to ensure VBM accountability is a priority in Congress.