Carter Announces 2024 Congressional Art Competition Winner

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative John R Carter (R-TX-31)

Representative John Carter (TX-31) announced that Charlotte Chen, a junior from Rouse High School in Leander ISD, won the 2024 Congressional Art Competition. Charlotte’s mixed-media (oil pastel/oil paint) artwork, “End of Day,” will hang in the United States Capitol for millions of visitors to see over the next year.

“I’m so proud to have Charlotte’s incredible artwork represent Texas’ 31st district in the United States Capitol,” said Representative Carter. “During our visit, she explained that her piece represents people from all backgrounds coming together to appreciate a field of bluebonnets, and I can’t think of anything that represents Central Texas better than that. I congratulate Charlotte for her hard work and look forward to having her visit DC to see her artwork in the Capitol building.”

2024 Congressional Art Competition Winner:

Representative Carter met with Charlotte at his Georgetown Office to present her with a flag flown over the United States Capitol in her honor and a certificate for Congressional Recognition.

“End of Day” by Charlotte Chen, Rouse High School

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Representative Carter Secures $1.6 Million for Bell County Diversion Center

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative John R Carter (R-TX-31)

Today, Representative John Carter announced that he secured $1.6 million for the Bell County Diversion Center in the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill that was recently signed into law. The Diversion Center gives law enforcement officers another option outside jail facilities or local hospitals to help individuals suffering from mental health crises.

Today, Representative John Carter announced that he secured $1.6 million for the Bell County Diversion Center in the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill that was recently signed into law. The Diversion Center gives law enforcement officers another option outside jail facilities or local hospitals to help individuals suffering from mental health crises.

“As a former judge, I’ve witnessed firsthand the human cost of mental health crises and what happens when individuals don’t get the help that they desperately need,” said Representative Carter. “The Diversion Center helps law enforcement officers effectively handle individuals suffering from mental health issues, and I applaud Bell County for their long-term commitment to this cause. I also thank Judge Blackburn for his leadership and advocacy on behalf of Bell County.”

“These funds will help those who can’t help themselves…and it saves taxpayer dollars by keeping individuals who don’t need to be in the criminal justice system out of the criminal justice system,” said Bell County Judge David Blackburn. “Bell County is most appreciative of Judge Carter’s support for our Diversion Center.”

Representative Carter Supports America’s Troops with NDAA Vote

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative John R Carter (R-TX-31)

Representative Carter Supports America’s Troops with NDAA Vote

Washington, June 14, 2024

U.S. Representative John Carter (TX-31) released the following statement after voting for the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. 

“America is facing increased global threats, and the men and women who defend the homeland deserve to be adequately supported. This year’s NDAA focuses on improving quality of life while ensuring our service members have the resources they need to do their job effectively. The bill also pays special attention to cutting waste, fraud, and abuse so taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars are used efficiently. I remain committed to taking care of America’s Armed Forces and the families that support them, and this bill does just that. I’m proud to support it.” 

Representative Carter Secures $748,000 for Copperas Cove Mental Health Response Team

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative John R Carter (R-TX-31)

Representative Carter Secures $748,000 for Copperas Cove Mental Health Response Team

Copperas Cove, TX, June 13, 2024

Today, Representative John Carter announced that he secured $748,000 for Copperas Cove Police Department’s Mental Health Response Team in the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill that was recently signed into law.

Today, Representative John Carter announced that he secured $748,000 for Copperas Cove Police Department’s Mental Health Response Team in the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill that was recently signed into law.

“As a former judge, I witnessed firsthand the added stress on police officers to respond to mental health crisis calls,” said Representative Carter. “Having a trained team to respond to these difficult calls will help Copperas Cove residents suffering in crisis get the help they need and keep officers focused on community safety. I applaud Chief Wilson and Mayor Yancey for their vision and partnership to get this done. I think the citizens of Copperas Cove will greatly benefit from this responsible use of federal tax dollars.”

“The demand on police officers continue to increase along with the need for a wider skill set to meet all community expectations,” said Copperas Cove Police Chief Eddie Wilson. “With a lack of available mental health resources, our officers have become the primary first responders to a mental health crisis. Police officers are not licensed clinicians but are mandated to make mental health related decisions with minimal training and experience. Most communities like Copperas Cove lack the funding and resources to appropriately manage the increasing number of mental health related calls for service. Numerous attempts for similar grants have failed in previous years. This grant will serve as the single largest amount of funding ever received by the Copperas Cove Police Department and would not have been possible without the help of Congressman Carter’s Office. I speak for the Copperas Cove community when I say we’re truly grateful for the support received from Congressman Carter and his incredible team. I can assure this funding will be put to great use.”

“On behalf of myself and the entire Copperas Cove City Council, we express sincere gratitude and appreciation for this amazing grant opportunity which has been bestowed by Congressman Carter’s Office,” said Mayor Dan Yancey. “Annual budgeting for Municipalities has become routinely challenging, as we attempt to balance available financial resources with increasing community needs and expectations. Approval and awarding of this monumental $748,000 grant will provide an amazing pathway to necessary mental health resources to better allow the City of Copperas Cove and the Copperas Cove Police Department serve those in our community. We are appreciative of the allocation and thankful for the opportunity to better serve our citizens, thank you.”

Carter Statement on President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative John R Carter (R-TX-31)

Carter Statement on President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

Washington, March 4, 2025

Representative John Carter (TX-31) released the following statement after President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress.

Representative John Carter (TX-31) released the following statement after President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress.

“Tonight, President Trump delivered a clear and unapologetic message: The days of Biden’s weakness and wokeness are over. A new dawn for America is here. He reaffirmed his commitment to revitalizing our nation, putting the American people first, and restoring common sense and the American Dream. With President Trump leading the way and congressional Republicans standing beside him, America will be strong, prosperous, and patriotic once again. God bless President Trump, and God bless America.”

 

Representatives Chuck Fleischmann and Marc Veasey Launch Bipartisan American Energy Dominance Caucus

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN)

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), current Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, and U.S. Representative Marc Veasey (TX-33) released the following joint statement announcing the creation of their new, bipartisan American Energy Dominance Caucus. The American Energy Dominance Caucus’ mission is to raise awareness of all forms of American-made energy and bring together Members of Congress, the private sector and public sector, and energy producers to promote the growth of domestic energy production and increase American energy independence and security.

“I am excited to announce the creation of the new American Energy Dominance Caucus that I will Co-Chair alongside Rep. Marc Veasey. Increasing the production of all forms of American-made energy, especially new nuclear energy, should never be a partisan issue. With the growth in AI, cryptocurrency, and new industries, America is rapidly facing a shortage of energy necessary to power our economy and the everyday lives of Americans. Recent nonpartisan studies have estimated that electricity demand is projected to increase by 13-15 percent annually through 2030, leaving the United States with a shortage of power needed to keep our country moving forward,” said Chairman Fleischmann. “To meet our growing electrical demands, America needs an ‘all-of-the-above’ energy policy that utilizes every form of American-made energy to create jobs, grow our economy, and secure our energy independence. I look forward to working with my Co-Chair, Rep. Veasey, and bipartisan Members of the House on the American Energy Dominance Caucus to promote the growth and production of American-made energy and make our country the world leader in new energy production.”

“The American Energy Dominance Caucus represents a crucial step forward in securing our nation’s future—economically, energetically, and strategically. In 2023 alone, the U.S. was importing energy from 86 different countries every day,” said Congressman Marc Veasey. “Rep. Fleischmann and I are honored to co-chair this important caucus. America’s energy security is not a partisan issue; it’s one that requires cooperation from both sides of the aisle. As the world faces rising authoritarian regimes using energy as a weapon, it’s essential that we take control of our energy future. Developing American-made energy will create jobs, lower costs for families, and, most importantly, reaffirm America’s position as a global energy leader. Rep. Fleischmann and I look forward to working together, understanding that the future of our nation’s economic, national, and energy security depends on the work we do here.”

In addition to Co-Chairs Fleischmann and Veasey, bipartisan Members of the American Energy Dominance Caucus include:

Reps. Troy Carter (LA-02), Luis Correa (CA-36), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Mike Kennedy (UT-03), Bob Latta (OH-05), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Mike Simpson (ID-02), and Joe Wilson (SC-02).

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Rep. Chuck Fleischmann Highlighted for 100% Voting Attendance in 2024

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN)

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) was highlighted in Roll Call for being one of 13 Members of the House of Representatives out of 435 who had perfect voting attendance in 2024. Congressman Fleischmann maintained a 100 percent voting record in the House while simultaneously Co-Chairing seven energy-related caucuses, Chairing the powerful Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, meeting with constituents, and advocating for all East Tennessee. The specific breakdown of the 13 House Members who cast votes on all 516 roll call Floor votes held in the House of Representatives in 2024 was four Republicans and nine Democrats.

“As a Constitutional Conservative, I take my job representing the people of Tennessee’s Third Congressional District very seriously. If I miss a vote, East Tennesseans do not have a voice in Congress on important issues and legislation that impacts our community, state, and nation. As East Tennessee’s Congressman, I will always remember that the good, hard-working people of East Tennessee sent me to Congress to represent our values and beliefs and do what is best for America,” said Rep. Fleischmann. “Serving as the United States Representative for the Third Congressional District of Tennessee is the honor of my life, and as long as I have the privilege to serve my fellow Tennesseans, I will always work hard to give the best representation possible in our government.”

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ICYMI – Energy & Water Chairman Fleischmann Hosts Energy Secretary Wright at Oak Ridge National Lab

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN)

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, hosted U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) to showcase the groundbreaking, cutting-edge work ORNL is doing to fulfill President Trump’s agenda to unleash American energy and innovation. Rep. Fleischmann and Sec. Wright were also joined by U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.).

“I’m honored to have welcomed Energy Secretary Chris Wright to East Tennessee and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to highlight the outstanding work that ORNL is doing to advance breakthroughs in AI and supercomputing, develop new nuclear that will power our nation and economy through the 21st Century, reestablish American Energy Dominance, and strengthen our national security,” said Chairman Fleischmann. Throughout our visit to Oak Ridge and my many meetings with Secretary Wright, I’ve seen his determination to deliver on President Trump’s agenda to unleash American energy and innovation. I look forward to continuing to be a close partner with Sec. Wright over the next four years to expand American-made energy, win the AI race, and secure America’s preeminence in new energy technologies and scientific breakthroughs.”

“More than 70 years ago, experts from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Lab joined with innovators from around the United States in one of the greatest scientific and engineering accomplishments in history: the Manhattan Project,” Secretary Wright said. “We’re at the start of a new Manhattan Project. With President Trump’s leadership, the United States will win the global AI race, but first, we must unleash our energy dominance and restore American competitiveness. The collaboration of DOE’s national labs and technology companies is an important step in our efforts to secure America’s future.”

“It was great to join Secretary Wright and Representative Chuck Fleischmann in Oak Ridge,” Senator Hagerty said. “In order for the U.S. to win the Artificial Intelligence race, we need computing power and energy, and Tennessee has both. The U.S. can lead in this space with the Volunteer State at the tip of the spear. I am more than confident that we can achieve this under President Trump’s leadership.”

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Fleischmann Statement on President Donald J. Trump’s Historic Address to Congress

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN)

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) released the following statement following President Donald J. Trump’s historic Joint Address to Congress, the first speech to both Houses of Congress that President Trump has delivered in his second term as President of the United States.

“Last night, America and the world heard President Trump’s bold America First Agenda to renew the American Dream across our nation. In less than two months since taking office, President Trump has been moving at a breathtaking pace to make our government work for the American People again, revitalize our economy, secure our borders and end uncontrolled illegal immigration, and make America respected again internationally. Working together, Congressional Conservatives and President Trump have delivered real results for the American People, like the passage of the Laken Riley Act to give law enforcement new tools and resources to detain and deport criminal illegal aliens and laying the groundwork to fulfill President Trump’s and Republican’s promise to cut taxes for workers and families and codify into law ‘no tax on tips,’ ‘no tax on Social Security,’ and ‘no tax on overtime,’” said Congressman Fleischmann.

“Last November, the American People voted overwhelmingly for real change in Washington and demanded an end to the status quo that for too long has failed to meet the needs of citizens. I applaud President Trump’s vision to renew the American Dream, so every American man, woman, and child can achieve their hopes, goals, and aspirations.”

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Congressman Fleischmann Leads Bipartisan Legislation to Defend Nuclear Assets Related to National Security Against Drones

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN)

Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, Rep. Susie Lee (NV-03), Mark Amodei (NV-02), and Seth Moulton (MA-06) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Nuclear Ecosystem Drone Defense (NEDD) Act in the House to increase the protection of Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear assets and facilities related to national security, including the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), from unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) is leading companion legislation in the Senate.

NNSA is the federal agency responsible for safeguarding national security through the military application of nuclear science. NNSA has a footprint in Oak Ridge at the Y-12 National Security Complex, which works to ensure a safe and effective nuclear weapons deterrent for the United States.

Currently, the DOE lacks the authority to adequately protect the full range of nuclear facilities from drones. Recent unauthorized drone sightings have highlighted the need for the DOE to have expanded authorities and capabilities to combat evolving threats. DOE currently only has the authority to protect facilities that house nuclear material, but this excludes a wide range of facilities and activities that are critical to the nuclear security enterprise and national security.

The NEDD Act will:

  • Allow DOE to develop systems to defend a broad range of nuclear-related assets and facilities against UAS threats.
  • Expand the definition of covered assets to include facilities that house nuclear weapons components and vehicles owned or contracted by the United States to transport nuclear weapons or components.
  • Give the DOE authorities to acquire UAS technology similar to that of our adversaries to test counter-UAS systems.

“The NEDD Act will strengthen our nuclear security enterprise by enabling the Department of Energy (DOE) to protect against threats posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS). As Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations and Co-Chair of the Nuclear Security Working Group, it is my priority to ensure that our entire nuclear enterprise is protected throughout all stages of production. The DOE, through the National Nuclear Security Administration, is the cornerstone of our strategic production capabilities, and this bill ensures it will have the tools to protect our most sensitive security capabilities,” said Rep. Chuck Fleischmann.

“Unauthorized drones pose a serious threat to America’s nuclear resources related to national security, including at the Nevada National Security Site where we maintain America’s nuclear weapons ecosystem,” said Congresswoman Lee. “Our bipartisan NEDD Act bill will give the Department of Energy the tools it needs to defend all its nuclear and national security assets from unauthorized enemy drones.”

“In recent years, there has been a growing threat from both foreign and domestic unmanned aerial systems (UAS) targeting our nation’s nuclear sites, including six reported incidents at the Nevada National Security Site,” said Rep. Mark Amodei. “At present, the Department of Energy lacks the authority to intercept these drones and investigate their origins and intentions, allowing them to freely gather sensitive data for malign purposes. This bill empowers us to counter these threats in real-time and ensure they are not equipped to undermine our national security.”

“Our adversaries should not be able to fly a drone over anywhere in this country that makes part of a nuclear weapon. This bill closes down loopholes to make sure the Department of Energy can fully protect our most sensitive national security capabilities against the threat of drones,” said Rep. Seth Moulton.

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