This past week, Americans across the country celebrated National Park Week, and on Tuesday, we marked the 110th birthday of the National Park Service.

This year’s theme, “Celebrate America’s Story,” could not be more fitting as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence. Our national parks preserve the places where our history was made, protect the natural beauty with which our nation has been blessed, and ensure that our story is passed down to future generations.

We are especially proud that Georgia’s First Congressional District is home to three remarkable National Park Service sites.

Fort Pulaski National Monument preserves a defining chapter of Civil War and military history, where the use of rifled artillery forever changed coastal defense. Fort Frederica National Monument tells the story of General James Oglethorpe, Georgia’s early settlers, and those who defended our young colony from Spanish forces. And Cumberland Island National Seashore showcases the extraordinary natural beauty of Georgia’s largest barrier island, from its maritime forests and wide marshes to miles of undeveloped beaches.

Each of these special places tells a different chapter of our nation’s story. Together, they remind us of the courage, sacrifice, ingenuity, and natural beauty that have shaped Georgia and our country.

As National Park Week comes to a close, I am grateful for the dedicated men and women who protect these treasures and preserve them for generations to come. I hope you and your family will take time to learn more about these sites and maybe even plan a visit to experience the history and beauty we are so fortunate to have right here in Georgia’s First District.

One of America's greatest natural wonders isn't out West, it's right here in southeast Georgia and this week's Buddy's Briefing explains why.

Monday, August 24, 2026: On Saturday, I was honored to be in Warner Robbins in Houston County for the annual Central Republican Fish Fry that took place at the Roy H. “Sonny” Watson Health Pavilion. This prominent, standalone outpatient medical facility was named for longtime Houston healthcare system board chair, Roy H. “Sonny” Watson, a great example of the many great Georgians who have dedicated themselves to improving healthcare in our state. The event is a regional gathering for conservatives to connect with local, state and congressional candidates and is hosted by the Houston, Peach, and Bibb County Republican parties. Afterwards, I traveled to Monroe in Walton County for the 5th annual 10th District Barbeque Bash where we heard from statewide and local candidates. With over 400 attendees, live music and great food, the event was a rousing success. I’m in Baxley in Appling County this morning where I join Dr. Knicole Lee and the Southern Healthcare Collaboration for an exciting announcement of grant awards they have received recently. In 1870, the Macon and Brunswick Railroad was built through Appling County and Baxley was settled as Station Number 7. Soon afterward it was named Baxley after one of the communities’ first settlers, Wilson Baxley of North Carolina.  Appling County is named for Lt. Col Daniel Appling, a soldier in the War of 1812, and was the 42nd county created in Georgia. The Southern Healthcare Collaboration is a regional healthcare partnership that is focused on strengthening coordination among hospitals, clinics and community providers across South Georgia. They emphasize collaborative problem solving to improve patient outcomes, expand access to care, and support workforce development in the healthcare sector. Afterwards, I head to Jesup in Wayne County where I meet with Sherriff Chuck Mosely before meeting with Mayor Ralph Hickox. Jesup was named for Thomas Jesup, a general during the Second Seminole War while Wayne County was named for Mad Anthony Wayne, whose military career had made him a well-known hero. He acquired the nickname “Mad” Anthony when on July 15, 1779, he surprised the British garrison at Stony Point. He was a vital member of General George Washington’s staff and served under General Nathanel Green in 1781 during the American Revolution. Next, I head to Blackshear in Pierce County where I meet with Mayor Keith Brooks and Fire Chief Bucky Goble who are doing a great job in this growing area. Blackshear was named after General David Blackshear, who was a patriot in the American Revolution and fought in the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge and the Battle of Buford’s Bridge. He also served as a general during the War of 1812 and served in the Georgia state legislature as Senator from Laurens County. Afterwards, I head back to St. Simons Island where I am honored to speak at the Glynn County Republican Party campaign office ribbon cutting and introduce Georgia Labor Commissioner Barbara Rivera Holmes who is visiting our area.

Rep. Carters meets with Sheriff Chuck Mosely

Tuesday, August 25, 2026: During my drive to Pooler in West Chatham County, I join in on our all staff conference call and, once in Pooler, am treated to a tour of the most impressive Galen College of Nursing. One of the largest dedicated private nursing educators in the nation, the Pooler campus is the college’s first location in Georgia and operates in close partnership with Memorial Health. Offering a number of degrees, the college is exclusively dedicated to nursing education. After a great visit, I head to midtown Savannah where I meet with my good friends, Joel Smoker and Rev. Herb Hubbard with the Coastal YMCA to learn more of the great work they are doing throughout the region. Next, I head to our Savannah district office where I meet with representatives from the American Association of Kidney Patients before meeting with the Georgia Council for International Visitors. After a meeting with representatives from the University of Georgia to discuss their work in our district, I meet with the Turkish American Hizmet Community Group, a transnational service-oriented civil society community that advances education, multi-cultural dialogue, civic engagement, and humanitarian service. 

Rep. Carter visits Gallen School of Nursing

Wednesday, August 26, 2026: I wake up early in Macon in Bibb County this morning and am live on Fox Business’ Mornings with Maria as I discuss the economy, midterm elections, Iran and Canada. Later, I head to Mercer University where I am honored to present to the Georgia House Study Committee on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and 340b. The committee is chaired by Rep. Ron Stephens (R-Richmond Hill) and includes a virtual update from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on their current study on the impact of PBM’s on independent pharmacies. Afterwards, I head back to St. Simons Island and, once at home, have a live interview on Washington Watch with Tony Perkins and guest host Jody Hice to discuss Canadian and Chinese tariffs and drug prices. Next, I head to the Georgia Narcotics Officers’ Association (GNOA) meeting on St. Simons and join sheriffs and other law enforcement agents from around the state who are meeting on the island this week.

Rep. Carter speaks on PBMs and 340B

Thursday, August 27, 2026: My morning begins with a radio interview with my good friend, Scott James, in Valdosta as we discuss news of the day. Next, I head to Hahira in Lowndes County where I meet with Mayor Terry Davis and City Manager Jonathan Sumner to learn more of the exciting happenings in this fast-growing area. Afterwards, I head to Moody Air Force Base in Valdosta for a briefing and tour of this great facility that is home to the 23rd Wing “Flying Tigers,” which handles combat search and rescue and close air support. Moody is the last base in the nation to house the A-10 aircraft and recently became home to the F-35A’s. After a great visit, I head to the alumni house at Valdosta State University for a pregame event where the Blazers are hosting their first football game of the year.

Rep. Carter visits Moody Air Force Base

Friday, August 28, 2026: After an early morning meeting on St. Simons Island with a constituent to discuss a project in Camden County, I head to downtown Savannah to the Tomochichi Courthouse on Bull St. where I meet Judge Stan Baker who gives me a tour of this historic building that is being renovated. The work that has gone into this legacy project is impressive and will serve the citizens of this area for many years to come. Afterwards, I have a meeting downtown with constituents before heading to southside Savannah where I have a meeting with a business owner to discuss tariffs. 

Rep. Carter visits courthouse construction site in Savannah

Georgia has more than 4,100 miles of railroad track, helping connect the state's farms, factories, and ports to markets across the nation.