Congressman Buddy Carter on Appropriations, Venezuela Crackdown, and GOP Priorities

Avoiding Government Shutdowns

• 🎯 Republicans and Democrats are aligned in wanting to avoid another government shutdown, with a top-line budget number agreed upon before Christmas.
• 🗓️ Five or six of the appropriations bills are reportedly nearing completion, with expectations to move them as early as this week.
• ✅ The goal is to have all appropriations bills finalized before the January 30th deadline to prevent a shutdown.

Trump's Venezuela Action and Political Divide

• ⚖️ The Trump administration briefed lawmakers on "Operation Absolute Resolve" regarding Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, who pleaded not guilty to narco-terrorism charges.
• 🇺🇸 A bipartisan war powers resolution is set to be voted on in the Senate to block further military action in Venezuela.
• 🗣️ Congressman Carter highlights the perceived safety improvements for the U.S. and the Western Hemisphere following Maduro's apprehension, citing drug trafficking and gang issues.
• 🎭 Carter criticizes Democrats for their stance on Maduro, suggesting they are unhappy that President Trump is the one who took action.

GOP Election Year Priorities

• 🏥 Healthcare is a key priority, with a focus on drug pricing and reducing healthcare costs through increased competition.
• 💰 Carter supports proposals to direct funds to individuals rather than insurance companies to foster market competition.
• 📈 The congressman believes that President Trump's policies are putting the U.S. on track for economic improvement throughout the year, contrasting with the effects of the Biden-Harris administration.

America First and 250th Anniversary

• 🇺🇸 Nine states, including Georgia, are introducing "America First" license plates to commemorate the nation's 250th birthday.
• 🌟 Carter expresses hope that the America 250 celebration will unify the country, emphasizing the significance of a 250-year-old democracy.
• 🗳️ He reiterates Georgia's support for President Trump and his "America First" policies.