As a lifelong resident of Hyde and Beaufort Counties, I was born and raised in a hardworking farming family right here in Hyde County. From my earliest days, I’ve witnessed the spirit of our local communities, especially those tied to the waters of the Pamlico Sound. Our fishing and shrimping families, the backbone of our coastal heritage, battling everything from unpredictable weather and rising operational costs to stringent regulations and competition from imported seafood. For generations, they’ve endured these trials with grit and determination, all while harvesting the freshest shrimp, crabs, and fish that grace tables across America.
I fully support their unwavering efforts to sustain this vital industry, not just for the economic lifeline it provides to our region—employing thousands and boosting local businesses—but for the way it preserves our way of life. These folks rise before dawn, navigate treacherous waters, and return with bounties that feed families nationwide, all while stewarding our estuaries for future generations. As your representative for District 79 in the North Carolina House of Representatives, I’ll stand with them: advocating for fair policies and promoting North Carolina seafood on a national stage. Together, we’ll ensure this proud tradition thrives, allowing our shrimpers and fishermen to provide for their families for decades to come.