Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Angel Cabrera on his appointment as the next president of the Aspen Institute. The Aspen Institute is a globally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to unlocking human potential, fostering understanding, and creating new possibilities for a better world. Dr. Cabrera currently serves as the 12th president of the Georgia Institute of Technology. Since taking office in 2019, he has led the university through a period of extraordinary growth and achievement. Under his leadership, enrollment has grown by 55 percent to more than 56,000 students, while annual sponsored research awards have exceeded $1.4 billion. His impact has been felt far beyond campus, helping strengthen innovation, develop talent, and drive economic opportunity across Georgia and beyond. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Dr. Cabrera on this well-deserved appointment and wish him continued success in this next chapter. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Melinda Schneider

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Melinda Schneider, affectionately known as the Yellow Bow Lady, whose dedication to service left an enduring mark on her community and on our State. Born in Savannah, Melinda spent decades serving others through civic leadership, volunteerism, and unwavering support for veterans and military families. She was a tireless advocate for veterans, holding leadership roles with DAV Auxiliary Unit 46, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 789, the Hinesville Military Affairs Committee, and the Veterans Memorial at Bryant Commons. Melinda also served as a member of the Liberty County Board of Elections, secretary of the Liberty County Republican Party, and a volunteer at Winn Army Community Hospital. Her devotion to the soldiers and families of Fort Stewart earned her the affectionate title of ``Marne Rock Star.'' Mr. Speaker, Melinda leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service, compassion, and community leadership. We extend our deepest condolences to her family and honor a life well lived. Honoring Miss Georgia and Miss Teen Georgia 2026

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the recent winners of Miss Georgia 2026 and Miss Teen Georgia 2026. At the 81st annual Miss Georgia Scholarship Competition, Sophia Wootten, representing northwest Georgia, was crowned Miss Georgia, and Melony Tidmore, representing Capital City's Teen, was named Miss Georgia's Teen. The candidates competed for scholarships and the opportunity to represent the State of Georgia in the Miss America and Miss America's Teen competitions this September. Sophia, from Peachtree City, is currently a student at the University of Georgia, with her community service initiative focusing on disability advocacy in education. Melony, from Powder Springs, currently attends Liberty University Online Academy, with her community service initiative being ``Initiative Dance: A Movement Toward Better Health.'' Mr. Speaker, I congratulate these young women and wish them the best of luck in the upcoming Miss America competition. Recognizing Dr. Willie Underwood III

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Willie Underwood III, a distinguished urologic surgeon, educator, and advocate, on his inauguration as the 181st president of the American Medical Association. Mr. Speaker, I applaud Dr. Underwood for assuming his presidency at a defining moment for American healthcare. Dr. Underwood is only the second urologist and third Black physician to serve as AMA president, a historic milestone for American medicine. A graduate of Morehouse College and SUNY Upstate Medical University, Dr. Underwood brings more than 25 years of urologic surgery experience, including 15 years specializing in robotic urologic oncology. He is a proud prostate cancer survivor whose personal experience deepened his commitment to closing gaps in care and ensuring every patient receives the treatment they deserve. Mr. Speaker, as a pharmacist, I look forward to working alongside Dr. Underwood to build a healthcare system that provides more choices, lower costs, and better outcomes for all Americans. Recognizing Barrett Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my middle son, Barrett Carter, a proud southeast Georgia native and accomplished PGA Head Golf Professional. Barrett graduated from the University of Georgia before settling in the New Orleans area in 2009, where he has built an impressive career as a PGA Class A Professional. He has served at some of the region's premier facilities, including TPC Louisiana and Metairie Country Club, and now currently serves as head golf professional at Oak Knoll Country Club in Hammond, Louisiana. Barrett is passionate about growing the game through instruction and by creating welcoming programs for golfers of all ages and abilities. Although Barrett and his wife live in Metairie with their three precious daughters, the First District of Georgia is still proud to claim him as one of our own. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate my son on all he has done to inspire new players and grow the game of golf. His mother and I are very proud of him. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 216; YEA on Roll Call No. 217; YEA on Roll Call No. 218; NAY on Roll Call No. 219; and YEA on Roll Call No. 220.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, Chief Chris Eddy's Law. Battalion Chief Chris Eddy tragically passed away at the age of 35 from an explosion while attempting to put out a fire in a refrigerated container unit. Chief Eddy was a fearless firefighter with 17 years of service at fire departments including Walton, Rockdale, Morgan, Putnam, and Greene County. His death is a true tragedy. Unfortunately, it was an avoidable one. That is why I have introduced Chief Chris Eddy's Law, which will create substantial changes that will help prevent this from happening again. By requiring placarding for refrigerated containers, firefighters will quickly be able to recognize if a container truck has the potential to explode before they decide how to handle the fire. Our firefighters put their lives on the line for us every day. The least we can do is ensure they have the information necessary to perform their jobs safely and effectively. Mr. Speaker, Chief Eddy dedicated his life to saving others, and we owe it to him to ensure that this tragedy brings substantive change.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today infuriated by my Democratic colleagues who have put the safety and the security of American citizens last. First, they opened the border to millions of unvetted, illegal immigrants. Now, they have repeatedly refused to fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection agents, failing in the number one responsibility of elected officials: keeping our citizens safe. The consequences have been devastating for families. For instance, in my district, Linda Davis, a beloved special education teacher at Hesse K-8 School in Savannah, was killed by an illegal immigrant who rammed into her while fleeing law enforcement. Danny Sharpe, a husband, a father, a son, he was killed by an illegal immigrant who was driving under the influence and without a license in Effingham County. Then, of course, in the State of Georgia, Laken Riley, a bright nursing student, was murdered while out for what should have been a pleasant jog in Athens. Linda Davis, Danny Sharpe, Laken Riley, these are real people, real people who should be with us today. Their families have experienced unimaginable pain because of these reckless politics. It is time for Democrats to do the right thing.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Deano's Italian on being named the Best Italian Restaurant in the State of Georgia. Deano's is a beloved family-owned and -operated Italian restaurant in Dublin, Georgia. This great honor highlights how a small town eatery with a deep compassion for its community can compete with restaurants in larger cities across the State. The restaurant was evaluated on multiple criteria, such as food quality, consistency, atmosphere, and its overall dining experience. Voters noted that what made Deano's stand out was its combination of authentic Italian cuisine and southern hospitality. The city of Dublin also believes this achievement will bring business to nearby shops, cafes, and local attractions, creating a meaningful impact on their economy. Deano's has proven just how far commitment to customers can take you. This level of service is a great example of Georgia's growing tourism industry. Recognizing Gussie Gammon's 100th Birthday

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Augusta ``Gussie'' Gammon's 100th birthday. Gussie has dedicated much of her life to public service and an unwavering commitment to the Republican Party. Born on June 25, 1926, in Philadelphia, Gussie moved to Georgia in 1983, becoming a strong force within Republican politics by founding four women's Republican clubs and serving as a delegate to three Republican Presidential conventions. She also served as Glynn County campaign manager for President George H.W. Bush and Congressman Jack Kingston. Aside from her work in politics, she founded Johnson Insurance Agency in 1969 in the Florida Keys with her late husband. Together, they raised four daughters and were blessed with eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Gussie later married Don Gammon, with whom she continues her remarkable journey. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to wish Ms. Gammon a happy 100th birthday. Honoring Dr. Paul Brooksher

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Paul Brooksher, who retired from the position of superintendent of Bryan County Schools this year. Paul has faithfully worked in public education for 31 years, serving as superintendent for 14 of them. Bryan County is one of the fastest- growing school systems in Georgia, and Paul has worked tirelessly to lay the foundation necessary to support this growth through effective investment in teachers, facilities, and programs. After he announced his retirement, his colleagues encouraged him to reconsider, a true testament to how well- liked and highly regarded he was in his role. Paul said he was ready to step into a new chapter of his life, one where he could focus on spending time with the ones he loves the most. Mr. Speaker, I thank Paul for his contribution to the education of young Georgians, and I wish him the very best. Recognizing Dr. Randy Kluender

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Randy Kluender for his more than 40 years of experience and service in the field of dentistry. Randy currently serves as the president and a board of trustees member of the Georgia School of Orthodontics. He has enjoyed a wonderful and fulfilling career, including as administrator at the University of Colorado and leadership roles in the American College of Dentists and Omicron Kappa Upsilon. Chosen for ADEA's Harry Bruce Legislative Fellowship in Washington, D.C., Randy brought a wealth of experience to legislative issues concerning dentistry. There, he worked to increase funding for the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Above all, Randy is a man of good character who has spoken with numerous prospective dental students, conveying his passion and the importance of upholding ethical standards in dentistry. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Randy. Honoring Frederick Lawrence Muller

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Frederick Muller, who passed away on May 19, 2026. Muller was a UPenn and Georgetown graduate, husband, Navy lieutenant, and successful investment manager. During the Cuban missile crisis, Muller served to enforce the naval quarantine of Cuba. After 2 years in the North Atlantic, he served an additional 2 years with the Navy intelligence unit in Washington. In addition to his military service, Muller was also successful professionally. He founded, grew, and eventually sold his own institutional investment firm. Outside of work, Muller continued to serve others in new ways. In Georgia, he was a trustee for the Savannah Country Day School, a member of the University of Georgia Library's Board of Visitors, a member of the Trust Committee of Saint John's Episcopal Church, and a trustee of the Mighty Eighth Foundation. Frederick Muller leaves behind a legacy of family devotion, military service, American entrepreneurship and servant leadership. Congratulating Jere's Antiques

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Jere's Antiques in Savannah on their 50th anniversary. Since 1796, Jere's Antiques has been a major source of supplies for antique auction houses, designers, and individuals. Over the years, he has created a destination filled with history, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty. From sourcing extraordinary pieces across England and Europe to welcoming generations of customers into his Savannah showroom, Jere's passion and dedication have never wavered. Jere's success is not only measured in business achievement, but in the countless people he has inspired, helped, and connected with over the decades. Mr. Speaker, I thank Jere for preserving the past, enriching Savannah's homes, and all of his hard work for the past 50 years. Honoring James G. Minter, Jr.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of James G. Minter, Jr. of Inman, Georgia, who passed away on May 27, 2026, at the age of 95. Minter was a proud graduate of Fayette County High School and University of Georgia, where he earned a degree in journalism. Following his education, he served his country as an infantry training officer during the Korean war before beginning a distinguished journalism career with The Atlanta Journal and The Atlanta Constitution. Over the course of decades, Minter became the executive editor of the combined Atlanta Journal-Constitution, helping shape one of Georgia's leading newspapers. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and lifelong member of the Methodist Church. I extend my deepest condolences to his wife of 70 years, Anne; his family; and all who knew and loved him. We honor his service, his leadership, and his enduring impact on his community. Honoring McHugh ``Mac'' Maurin

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor McHugh ``Mac'' Maurin, who will be turning 100 years old on June 4. Mr. Maurin served our country as a Navy World War II veteran. He was raised in Reserve, Louisiana, where he attended and graduated from LSU in 1951 following the war. After graduating, he began to work as a civil engineer in the roofing manufacturing industry. His successful career took him and his family to New Jersey, Texas, and finally Peachtree City, Georgia, in 1981. He then retired to Concord, Georgia, before following his youngest daughter to St. Marys. Mr. Maurin's accomplishments also extended to the home and family he created. He raised six children with his late wife, Peggy, who passed away earlier this year, after more than 72 years of marriage. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Maurin for his service and wish him a happy birthday. Recognizing Commander Nathaniel L. Robinson

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Commander Nathaniel L. Robinson for his dedication to protecting the American people. Commander Robinson is the commanding officer of the Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit, where he serves as Captain of the Port, officer in charge of marine inspections, Federal maritime security, and on-scene operations throughout coastal Georgia. He is a graduate of the University of West Florida, Southern New Hampshire University, and the U.S. Air Force Command and Staff College. For his esteemed work, Commander Robinson received a certificate in executive leadership from the University of Notre Dame. Prior to the Coast Guard, he was the director of marketing for the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation. He was granted his commission from the United States Coast Guard's Officer Candidate School in 2006. His decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Coast Guard Commendation Medal, Coast Guard Achievement Medal, and Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon. Mr. Speaker, I thank Commander Robinson for his outstanding service. Honoring O.V. Lewis

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and to honor Mr. O.V. Lewis of Blairsville, Georgia, for his upcoming 95th birthday on June 16, 2026. O.V. joined the Young Harris College faculty in 1952, after teaching high school for 2 years in Wayne and Appling Counties in south Georgia. During his time at Young Harris, he served as an accounting instructor for 48 years and as a registrar for 31 years. He retired in 2011, with the longest tenure of any previous college employee, but his service in advancing Young Harris College's mission did not end there. Through generous philanthropy and planned giving, he established the O.V. Lewis Endowed Scholarship to advance the education of future generations. In 2022, O.V. was honored with the Nancy Louise Haynes Stevens Sanderson Robertson Outstanding Friend Award. O.V. will tell you his fondest memories center around his time with Young Harris College faculty and students. The feeling is reciprocal. Many former students, such as myself, still maintain close relationships with him and credit him with having a significant influence on their success in life and careers, all because of O.V.'s unparalleled commitment to his students in the classroom and beyond their graduations. Mr. Speaker, I thank O.V. for his outstanding commitment to furthering the education of so many students, and I wish him a very happy 95th birthday. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Michael Jordan. Mr. Jordan is a 73-year-old resident of Bloomingdale, Georgia, who will begin a 950-mile bicycle journey from Bloomingdale to Washington, D.C. to honor, raise awareness, and respect American Gold Star Mothers and families as well as the law enforcement community. His 11-day-long journey will begin following the Memorial Day service at Margel D. Winn-Lieutenant Colonel Roland E. Waller Veterans Freedom Park. Although Jordan never served in the military himself, he said that the ride is his way of giving back. He spent his career working as a toolmaker at Gulfstream Aerospace and says that gratitude, not personal service, fuels his mission. During the ride, Jordan will wear a jersey honoring American Gold Star Mothers and cycling gear showing support for first responders, including law enforcement. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Jordan for his service of gratitude and pray for his success on his journey.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Griff Lynch for his outstanding service as president and CEO of the Georgia Ports Authority. For more than a decade, Mr. Lynch has led Georgia's ports through historic growth. Under his leadership, the Port of Savannah has become the Nation's busiest cargo hub outside of Los Angeles and New York. The authority also put more than $4 billion into infrastructure improvements during Mr. Lynch's tenure. These investments have strengthened our supply chain, supported thousands of jobs, and expanded economic opportunities across our great State. Mr. Lynch has announced he will retire in August of 2027 after years of dedicated service to Georgia. We thank him for his strong leadership and lasting impact on our State's economy. I am confident the company will see continued success as we welcome Kevin Price who will begin serving as president this July and will succeed Mr. Lynch as CEO. Honoring Life and Legacy of Ted Turner

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Ted Turner, the founder of CNN and a former Savannah resident. Mr. Turner passed away on May 6 after a battle with Lewy body dementia. He was a trailblazer in many fields, including media and sports. He founded CNN and grew it from a little-known cable news network to the media giant that it is today. He also bought the Atlanta Braves, a Major League Baseball team, and broadcast them nationally, making them America's team to many across the country. His vision turned the Braves into a dominant force in the nineties, culminating in a World Series title in 1995. His contribution to the State of Georgia and the Nation has left a legacy that will never be forgotten. Recognizing Michael Alexander

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michael Alexander, who is retiring from King & Prince Seafood after 15 years of leadership. Under Michael's leadership, King & Prince has earned multiple prestigious awards for their quality of food service. K&P is a major contributor to our coastal economy in southeast Georgia and, for the past century, has been part of the Brunswick community. Beyond seafood, K&P has launched its Be the Difference campaign that has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support people in the community. The company matches employee donations to boost giving for people in need. Michael has presided over significant growth for the company and has given back to the Brunswick community in a big way. We thank him for his work and wish him well in the future. Honoring the Memory of Mark Robertson

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the memory of Mark Robertson, whom I recognized on the House floor recently last September. Sadly, Mr. Robertson tragically passed away last month after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He retired in July of last year after a long career behind the microphone at 97.8 radio, becoming one of the most recognizable media figures in the area. Mr. Robertson began his career at 97.8 in 1977 and was a beloved voice on the air. Mark was a generous and philanthropic man who raised over $1 million for his annual Christmas Wish campaign, providing Christmas gifts for families dealing with cancer. His passing is a loss to the Savannah community, and his memory will never be forgotten. Honoring the Life of Demetria Blount

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Demetria Blount, who passed away on April 30 in a tragic accident. From 2000 to 2004, she proudly served her country in the Marine Corps during Operation Iraqi Freedom, demonstrating her courage and unwavering commitment to the U.S. and to those around her. Demetria was a small business owner and licensed massage therapist, a testament to her care for others in all aspects of her life. In 2023, she faced significant health challenges yet still completed a 5K walk. She was a resilient woman with a fighting spirit. I am praying for her friends and family as they carry her legacy of love and strength. Recognizing University of Georgia Mock Trial Team

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the University of Georgia Mock Trial team, which, for the first time, placed first at the American Mock Trial Association competition. Overcoming many difficulties, including financial obstacles, these brilliant minds embodied the best of the Bulldog spirit. No one wanted it more than these students. They organized and funded their team entirely on their own. These are the valuable lessons learned from faculty and friends at the University of Georgia, a place I was fortunate to attend. If you put in the work, trust that success will follow. Stories like these give me the utmost faith in our younger generations as we entrust them with the responsibility of carrying our communities and country into the future. Congratulations to the University of Georgia Mock Trial team on their tremendous success, and go Dawgs. Recognizing Adams Drugstore