| Dear Friend,
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Pandemic Recovery: A Conservative Approach
Last week the Democrats voted to put politics ahead of facts and science. In a vote series that lasted more than 14 hours, my colleagues on the Left blocked a number of amendments to a budget resolution that would have protected South Carolinians and people across this country suffering from the physical and economic fall-out from the coronavirus.
I introduced amendments to protect our elderly people, get kids back in classrooms, prevent harmful tax increases, and stop an artificial minimum wage increase during a pandemic that has already caused millions of businesses to close their doors. Democrats unanimously blocked my amendment that would require states to accurately report data about the number of COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes. I know we must have accurate information to protect the most vulnerable among us. While the Democrats voted against this amendment, I will never stop fighting to protect our seniors.
I was glad that my amendments on stopping tax increases and a minimum wage hike during a pandemic—which would close businesses and eliminate jobs—passed. We launched a video series last week that explains just how harmful a government-mandated minimum wage hike would be. Click here to watch our First and Second videos in the series.
Launching My 46-County Tour
I am proud to carry on a tradition I started when joining the Senate of visiting all 46 counties in South Carolina. While my 46-county tour is virtual this time, it is important to me to hear from everyday South Carolinians about what makes their county unique. For the first stop on my tour, I virtually visited Orangeburg to speak with first-generation farmer Antron Williams. In my conversation with Antron we talked about the resilient history of the citizens of Orangeburg, the contributions of African American farmers, and the impact farmers have on their local communities.
I am so glad technology has made it possible for me to continue these conversations with folks across the Palmetto State as we work to re-open our economy, get our kids back in school, and ensure a stronger economic landscape today and greater educational opportunity for generations to come. If you have ideas on where I should go next on my virtual tour, email my team at [email protected].
National Prayer Breakfast
Last week, I had the opportunity to once again co-chair the annual National Prayer Breakfast. While this year’s event looked a little different, it served as a special reminder that we are still united in our shared belief that we are a stronger nation because of our faith in God. My prayer for our state and our country is that, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, we can trust in the promise that better days are ahead. Click here to view my remarks and the full program.
Sincerely, | 