Senator Ted Budd is a Republican representative from North Carolina, having been elected to the U.S. Senate for a term beginning January 3, 2023. Born on October 21, 1971, in Davie County, North Carolina, Budd earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Appalachian State University in 1994, followed by a Master of Arts from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1998, and an MBA from Wake Forest University in 2007. Before his political career, he was a business owner, which has informed his approach to various legislative issues.
Throughout his time in the Senate, Budd has been active in several key committees, including the Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Armed Services, and Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. His legislative focus includes both domestic and international concerns, particularly emphasizing economic development, security, and health services.
Budd has sponsored and supported several significant bills that reflect his political priorities and ideological leanings, favoring traditional conservative values around government regulation, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. For example, he co-sponsored the Justice for Jocelyn Act, which seeks to rein in immigration policies by limiting the Alternatives to Detention program. This reflects a strong stance on immigration enforcement and a commitment to national security. Furthermore, Budd's involvement with the Disaster Assistance Fairness Act underscores his priority on robust disaster relief measures and infrastructure support following disruptive events.
The senator has also engaged in discussions around healthcare, as seen in his sponsorship of the Healthy Poultry Assistance and Indemnification Act aimed at providing financial compensation for poultry growers. This illustrates his attention to agricultural interests in his state, aligning with his support for rural economic development.
Politically, Budd resonates with conservative ideals that promote lower regulation and fiscal restraint, advocating for a zero-based budgeting approach in government. Among his legislative efforts, he has also been part of initiatives designed to enhance military readiness and veterans' services, showcasing his support for both national defense and veterans' welfare.
In terms of family and personal life, Budd is married and is the father of three children. His family values guide much of his political philosophy and engagement with constituent issues, emphasizing the importance of stable and secure communities.
In summary, Senator Ted Budd stands as a key figure in contemporary conservative politics, representing North Carolina's interests while engaging on national platforms concerning security, healthcare, and fiscal responsibility. His background as a business owner, combined with his legislative actions, positions him as a decisive voice on economic and social matters in the Senate.