Born on January 7, 1966, in Greenville, South Carolina, this representative has established a significant career in public service after graduating from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1988. Prior to his election to the U.S. House of Representatives, he served in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 2003 to 2010. He has since been elected as a Republican to multiple terms in Congress, beginning in January 2011, and will not seek reelection in 2024.

The representative's professional background includes experience as a banker and a real estate broker, which may inform his legislative priorities and understanding of economic issues. His political career reflects a solid commitment to the values and interests of his constituents in South Carolina.

In Congress, he serves on various committees that shape policy in areas such as energy, commerce, and judiciary. This involvement allows him a direct hand in crafting legislation that impacts a broad range of issues from public health to energy production.

Among the notable legislation he has sponsored, the Teddy Roosevelt Fair Competition and Public Trust Act of 2023 (link: HB147) stands out as an attempt to apply antitrust laws specifically to professional baseball. This legislation aims to address competitive practices within the sport, a significant cultural pillar in America.

Additionally, he has proposed the Protecting American Energy Production Act (link: HB150), which seeks to prevent federal moratoriums on hydraulic fracturing without congressional approval, arguing for state control over energy regulation. This reflects a commitment to bolstering fossil fuel production and energy independence, appealing to constituents favoring traditional energy sources.

Further pursuing social issues, he co-sponsored the Fund and Complete the Border Wall Act (link: HB114), a significant piece of legislation designed to increase funding and infrastructure to enhance U.S.-Mexico border security. This showcases his alignment with stringent immigration policies and reflects the concerns of many constituents regarding national security and immigration control.

He has also shown interest in legislative efforts pertaining to health and welfare, sponsoring the SAFE Act of 2023 (link: HB6211), which emphasizes the need for policies that safeguard individuals from extremism, further demonstrating his focus on community safety and security.

The representative’s political leanings, based on his sponsored and co-sponsored bills, indicate a conservative approach with particular emphasis on issues like energy independence, strict immigration control, and traditional family values. His legislative record supports business interests and regulatory reductions while promoting measures that provide local and state authorities with significant control over various sectors such as energy production.

In his personal life, he is known to value family and community, which has likely influenced his political motivations and legislative priorities. He has a strong connection to his constituents, evidenced by his long tenure in public office and the nature of the legislation he backs. As he moves toward the end of his current term, his focus remains on leaving a legacy of policies that resonate with the values he deems essential for the future of his state and the nation.