US Representative

Laurel Lee Biography

Biography

Richard Hudson is a Republican Representative from North Carolina, having been born on March 26, 1974. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Florida and subsequently completed his Juris Doctor at the same institution in 1999. Prior to entering politics, Hudson served as a law clerk to United States District Court Judge James S. Moody Jr., practiced law privately, acted as an assistant federal prosecutor, and served as a circuit court judge in Hillsborough County, Florida, from 2013 to 2019. He was appointed as Florida's Secretary of State, a position he held until 2022, and was elected to the One Hundred Eighteenth Congress, taking office on January 3, 2023. Notably, he was appointed as one of the managers by the House of Representatives for the impeachment proceedings of Alejandro N. Mayorkas, the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security.

In his legislative activities, Hudson has demonstrated a focus on a wide range of issues through various bills and resolutions. Among significant legislation, he co-sponsored the Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act, which aims to allow veterans with service-connected disabilities of less than 50% to concurrently receive retired pay and disability compensation. This bill could significantly benefit veterans who have devoted their lives to military service yet face financial difficulties due to existing compensation policies. It acknowledges the challenges faced by those who do not meet the threshold for higher disability ratings while improving their financial well-being.

Additionally, Hudson supported the Fentanyl-related Substances Weapon of Mass Destruction Resolution, expressing a strong stance on combating the opioid crisis and the dangers of fentanyl. Another significant piece of legislation he backed is the Fair and Open Competition Act, focusing on promoting fair competition in the public contracting sphere. Through his support of these various initiatives, Hudson emphasizes fiscal responsibility, support for veterans, and public safety.

Hudson is a member of several key committees, including the Energy and Commerce Committee, the Judiciary Committee, and subcommittees focused on Communications and Technology, as well as Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement. This committee involvement suggests a legislative focus on issues affecting technology, healthcare, and immigration policies.

In defining his political leanings, Hudson's sponsorship and support of legislation centered around themes of fiscal conservatism, national security, and veteran affairs suggest a solid alignment with mainstream Republican priorities. His advocacy for measures that impact economic growth and consumer trust aligns with conservative economic principles, whereas his legislative actions addressing criminal justice and veteran rights indicate a comprehensive approach to governance that seeks to balance traditional values with pressing contemporary issues.

Outside of his professional career, Hudson's personal life details remain less publicized, but his educational background and legal expertise underscore a commitment to public service and law. He resides in North Carolina, where he continues to engage with his constituents on a range of critical issues facing the state and the nation.