Congressman Don Davis

Economic growth starts with investing in people and communities.

Congratulations to Judco Manufacturing on the opening of its new headquarters in Greene County, which is creating new jobs, expanding opportunities, and fostering continued confidence in the future of eastern NC.

Keeping eastern North Carolina safe starts with supporting the law enforcement officers and first responders who serve our communities every day.

Grateful to meet with Washington County Sheriff Arlo Norman, Commissioner Ann Keys, and County Manager Curtis Potter to discuss the challenges facing rural law enforcement and the resources needed to protect our communities. Strong partnerships help build safer communities and a stronger eastern North Carolina.

At the Halifax County Intergovernmental Association meeting, leaders from across the county discussed priorities impacting families, businesses, and rural communities. We also shared updates on efforts to strengthen agriculture, advance the Farm Bill, and support economic growth across eastern North Carolina.

Strong communities are built when local leaders come together to solve problems and create opportunities.

At a time of growing challenges around the world, the decision to join the military right out of high school and defend our nation speaks to the character, patriotism, and strength that continue to define eastern North Carolina.

Honored to join Our Community Salutes at Elizabeth City State University to recognize the Class of 2026 enlistees from across eastern North Carolina. The future of America is in good hands. 🇺🇸

Friday in the First

Jessica Rice-Hawkins, a lifelong resident of Henderson, has dedicated her life to helping others become stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally. As the owner of AimHigh Personal Training, Jessica has spent more than two decades using health and wellness to uplift individuals and inspire positive change across her community.

During the isolation and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jessica saw people struggling with loneliness, stress, and disconnection. Rather than stand still, she stepped up to create AimHigh: Keep Pressing, a nonprofit focused on keeping people active, connected, and encouraged during one of the most difficult periods many families had ever faced. What began as a virtual 5K to bring the community together during quarantine grew into a larger mission rooted in faith, service, and perseverance.

Through her work, Jessica continues to help people improve their health, build confidence, and believe in themselves during life’s toughest moments. Her leadership and compassion have made a lasting impact on families across Vance County and beyond.

Some of the most inspiring stories in eastern North Carolina start on family farms.

Kristin Watson is honoring her family’s legacy by reclaiming her grandfather’s land and carrying on a third-generation farming tradition in Rich Square. She raises chickens and goats while supporting soybean farming, showing that family farming continues to be vital in eastern North Carolina.

Cotton remains a crucial part of our rural economy.

Grateful for the opportunity to join growers in Seaboard to discuss expanding markets for American-grown cotton and supporting legislation like the Buying American Cotton Act. When we back American agriculture, we support rural communities, local jobs, and the farmers who keep our country running.

Family farms serve as the backbone of eastern North Carolina, but many are facing some of the toughest challenges in a generation.

At Fleming Brothers Farms, we discussed rising costs for fertilizer, fuel, equipment, and supplies that continue to squeeze farm operations. Protecting family farms means safeguarding rural communities and a way of life that has supported eastern North Carolina for generations.

Faith in action is a powerful force. At Walnut Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Roanoke Rapids, volunteers with Men on a Mission traveled from across the country to help build a new church, using their skills and time, while standing on faith.

Special thanks to Rev. Dr. Tommy Arrington for his vision. Moments like these remind us that eastern North Carolina is strongest when communities work together.