Earl L. "Buddy" Carter is a prominent Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Georgia's 1st Congressional District since January 3, 2015. Born on September 6, 1957, in Port Wentworth, Georgia, Carter graduated from Robert W. Groves High School in 1975 and earned an Associate's degree from Young Harris College in 1977, followed by a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Georgia in 1980. He worked as a pharmacist and a business owner before entering politics, during which he served on the Pooler City Council (1994-1995), as Mayor of Pooler (1996-2004), and as a member of the Georgia State House (2005-2009) and State Senate (2009-2014).
In Congress, Carter has been instrumental in various legislative efforts, co-sponsoring several bills that reflect his interests in health care, energy, and agricultural policies. Notably, he is a co-sponsor of the "Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act of 2025" (H.R. 1909), aimed at enhancing federal support for state maternal mortality review committees. This bill seeks to increase funding to $100 million annually for five years to address maternal health issues. His legislative focus shows a commitment to public health and the well-being of mothers, reflecting a broader goal of improving healthcare outcomes in the United States.
Carter has also introduced and co-sponsored bills aimed at energy efficiency and agriculture, including the "Lower Energy Costs Act" (H.R. 1), which promotes the development and export of energy resources while simultaneously reducing regulatory burdens on energy projects. His support for agriculture is evident in initiatives like designating the U.S. National Poultry Research Center in Athens, Georgia, as the "Abit Massey Poultry Research Center" (H.R. 1596). This highlights his dedication to supporting local agricultural industries and research.
In addition to his focus on healthcare and energy, Carter has been involved in legislation regarding public safety and emergency response communication. For example, he sponsored the "Institute for Telecommunication Sciences Codification Act" (H.R. 1455), which aims to establish the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences as a key entity in federal emergency communication. His legislative portfolio indicates a blend of priorities designed to bolster both economic growth and community safety.
Carter’s political leanings are evident in his Republican affiliation and his support for conservative policies that align with traditional party values, particularly regarding limited government intervention in economic matters. Many of the bills he has co-sponsored emphasize deregulation, promoting personal and corporate responsibility, and reducing government oversight in sectors like energy and agriculture. This legislative agenda suggests a commitment to enhancing economic opportunities for Georgians while also showing a responsiveness to critical health and safety issues.
While serving in Congress, Carter has maintained ties to his community and continues to advocate for policies that benefit the constituents of Georgia's 1st District. He is recognized for balancing his professional expertise as a pharmacist with a commitment to legislative responsibilities, positioning him as a significant figure in Georgia's representation at the federal level.