What's Important This Thanksgiving
Friends,
Turkey on your table. Apple pie in the oven. Gas in your car to visit the grandkids…
All of these are essential to the Thanksgiving holiday. And unfortunately, all of them cost more now than they did last year.
Heading into Thanksgiving, our nation is facing real challenges. I’m sure you and your family have noticed that gas prices are at a 7-year high. Inflation is at a 30-year high. And increased costs at grocery stores are making this the most expensive Thanksgiving in history.
However, the troubles don’t stop there.
Last week, we learned the crisis on our border is continuing at a breakneck pace. In fact, border apprehensions last month were the highest October numbers ever recorded. Overall, 1.6 million illegal immigrants have been apprehended this year - the most ever.
Instead of addressing these problems, Washington Democrats spent last week advancing their spending and tax spree boondoggle that will make inflation and the border crisis worse.
Included in their package is amnesty for up to 10 million illegal immigrants. For our economy, their so-called “Build Back Better” bill includes trillions in tax increases on hard working Americans like you. A natural gas tax and the banning of domestic energy production will make trips to the gas pump and home heating bills cost even more. However, last week the left-wing Washington Post revealed the bill would provide a $285 billion tax cut to the top 10% wealthiest Americans. This means you pay more and the rich get a big tax cut.
Additionally, this bill explodes entitlements and creates over 150 new government programs. Their plan doubles the size of the IRS to spy on your bank account and take money from you to pay for their spending. Yet the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office found even this would not be enough to pay for the spending in this bill. Overall, the 3 “B’s” in the Build Back Better bill should stand for bankrupting our economy, benefitting the wealthy, and building the bureaucracy.
While my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are focused on this radical agenda, I am focused on solutions - especially for our veterans.
As Fort Bragg’s Congressman and representative of the fastest growing veteran population in the nation, supporting our veterans and military families is a top priority. Tragically however, we lose 17 veterans to suicide every day. A recent report from the Pentagon revealed suicides among Army active-duty forces jumped 46% earlier this year.
This is unacceptable.
As I’ve said before, in North Carolina, Veterans Day is not just one day a year. It is a year-long call to action. That’s why I joined with Senator Thom Tillis last week in a press conference to bring awareness to veteran and active-duty military suicide.
First - if you or a veteran you know is in crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255.
Additionally, I sponsored legislation designating Sunday, November 21st as National Warrior Call Day. This is a time to reach out to a veteran or service member you know. Check in on them, and let them know how much their service matters. This small gesture may save a life, and it’s the least we can do to thank those who served.
Especially around Thanksgiving, I am so thankful for all who served or are serving, as well as their families. This week, thousands of men and women in uniform will be away from their families. Whether it’s Veterans Day, National Warrior Call Day, or Thanksgiving, remember them in your prayers and give thanks in any way you can.
It's true our nation is facing many challenges right now. Yet there is often more that unites than divides us, and there is always more to be thankful for in our everyday lives. This week, I hope you’re able to reflect on your blessings and spend time with your family. From mine to yours, Happy Thanksgiving.
Until Next Time,
Richard Hudson
Member of Congress