Wednesday, January 3, 2024: During the holidays, I had a number of interviews, including one with Fox Business on the day after Christmas to discuss the economy and border.
I also had surgery on my ankle to fix an old sports injury- I hurt it on the golf course- that gave me a true perspective on a few things. First of all, I am fortunate and grateful to have access to quality health care from some of the best health care professionals around. I’ve always said we have the greatest health care system in the world- right here in the United States- and now I know because I’ve experienced it first-hand. I cannot thank the doctors, nurses, aides, and others who took care of me during this process and provided outstanding care. Having a physical limitation like a cast on my leg has also opened my eyes to the challenges that people with disabilities face with activities of daily living. The things we often take for granted like showering, walking up steps, driving, etc., become real challenges when one has a physical limitation. My appreciation of the Americans with Disabilities Act has grown exponentially, and I will continue working in Congress to ensure that the benefits I’ve had access to during this healing process, from quality care to accessible parking, are there for those who need them.
After an all-staff conference call yesterday to catch up and plan out our remaining week, I finally venture out today and head to Wilmington Island in Savannah for a meeting of the Chatham Area Republican Women where I have the opportunity to speak; but, even better, I have the opportunity to hear my good friend, local talk show radio host Scott Ryfun speak and share his thoughts on local and national news. After a call with my good friend, Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie, I head to the Brunswick Historic City Hall in Glynn County where I attend the swearing in ceremony of newly elected City Commissioners Lance Sabbe and Gwen Williams.
Rep. Carter speaks at the Chatham Women's Republican Lunch
Thursday, January 5, 2024: I’m up early and at the Savannah Convention Center on Hutchinson Island in Chatham County as I attend the 2024 annual meeting of the Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA) as they review the outstanding successes, they have had in 2023 and preview what promises to be an exciting 2024. Afterwards, I head to the Creative Coast in Downtown Savannah where I visit with a new maternal health start up “Leto Maternal Health.” I am extremely excited about this project as I have worked on the issue of maternal mortality since my time in the Georgia State Legislature. Recently, along with Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA), I introduced the Healthy Moms and Babies Act to combat maternal mortality, modernize the health care system, and improve health outcomes for women and children.
After a great visit, I head to our Savannah District office where I have a live interview on Cavuto Coast to Coast on Fox Business as we discuss the southwest border disaster. Next, I head to Windsor Forest High School in Southside Savannah as I have the opportunity to speak to American Government Teacher Jason Brown’s class and participate in a question-and-answer session. Without question, this is the most rewarding part of my service- interacting with students- and this group is exactly why. What a great group of young people! When I say that I believe our country’s greatest times are still ahead of us, some people look at me like I have a third eye. All they need to do is meet young people like this and they’ll understand what I’m talking about.
Afterwards, I head to Pooler City Hall where I have the honor of giving the introduction at the inauguration of newly elected Mayor Karen Williams and City Council members, including new members Wesley Bashlor and Michael Carpenter. As many of you know, I had the honor and privilege of serving as Mayor of the City of Pooler from 1996-2004 and I could not be prouder of the city I have called home since 1980.
Next, I head to Tybee Island where I have the honor of speaking at the inauguration ceremony of my good friend, newly elected Mayor Brian West, and newly elected council members William Garbett, Tony Ploughe, Nick Sears, and Kathryn Williams. While most areas struggle with their voter participation rate, Tybee Island typically has around a 90% participation rate. To say they take their politics seriously on Tybee Island is an understatement!
Later in the evening, I join in on a virtual call with the American Optometric Association (AOA) as I give them an update on health care legislation in Congress.
Rep. Carter speaks at the City of Pooler inaugurations
Friday, January 5, 2024: After an early morning radio interview with my good friend Scott Ryfun on StraightTalk to discuss news of the day, I head to Alma in Bacon County where I have the honor of administering the oath of office to Mayor Larry Taylor and council members Bernita Lewis and Michael Morrison who have all been re-elected to serve another term. I’ve always said you can’t get any closer to the people than being on City Council or County Commission and these fine public servants are perfect examples of this as the citizens have rewarded their hard work with another term.
Afterwards, I meet with elected officials and business leaders from the area before heading to our Brunswick District office where I film this week’s edition of Buddy’s Briefings and have a virtual interview with WJCL TV in Savannah to discuss our upcoming work in Congress.
Next, I head to St. Mary’s in Camden County where I join members of the Georgia State House Economic Development and Tourism Committee, including Chairman Ron Stephens (R-Savannah) and Rep. Steven Sainz (R-St. Mary’s) for a reception in honor of Pigmental Studios, an independent entertainment company locating to the area.
Rep. Carter swears in Mayor Larry Taylor in Alma
