A Representative from South Carolina, this member of Congress was born on June 20, 1953, in Rock Hill, York County, South Carolina. After graduating from Rock Hill High School in 1971, they earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Presbyterian College in 1975. The member has a background in real estate development and served in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 2005 to 2006, and again from 2009 to 2017. They were elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican by special election in 2017 to fill the vacancy caused by Mick Mulvaney's resignation and have since been re-elected in subsequent Congresses.
The member’s legislative activity suggests a strong alignment with conservative principles, particularly in their fiscal and regulatory stance. As a member of the Budget Committee and the Financial Services Committee, they focus on economic issues, taxation, and financial regulations. Recent sponsored and co-sponsored bills reflect a commitment to reducing government oversight on businesses and advocating for tax reforms such as implementing the FairTax Act of 2023, which aims to replace current taxation methods with a national sales tax. This legislation would impose a 23% sales tax while eliminating various existing federal taxes.
Another notable bill, the Article I Regulatory Budget Act, seeks to establish a federal regulatory budget, limiting costs associated with federal regulations and promoting transparency regarding the projected costs associated with these regulations. This indicates a legislative focus on curbing what is often perceived as excessive governmental regulation, a common theme in conservative policymaking.
Among other initiatives, the member has shown interest in national security and foreign affairs, evidenced by their participation in various bills related to immigration control and accountability. For instance, their support for the Protecting the Second Amendment in Financial Services Act signals a commitment to protecting gun rights, while bills like the Stop TSP ESG Act aim to limit investment in businesses engaging in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, reflecting a broader anti-ESG sentiment among conservative lawmakers.
The member's personal life remains private, though their career as a real estate developer may influence their legislative perspectives, particularly regarding property rights and economic development. Such a background is likely a driving force behind their advocacy for policies supporting small businesses and reducing regulatory burdens on entrepreneurs.
In summary, the member of Congress from South Carolina actively champions conservative economic policies and regulatory reforms, aligns closely with Republican party ideologies, and utilizes their professional background to inform their legislative priorities. As they continue to serve, their focus on these key issues positions them as a significant player within their party and among conservative voices in the House.