Visiting Cross Cut Wood Products in Gibson
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I enjoyed a great visit to Cross Cut Wood Products in Glascock County this week. Philip Stevens founded the business in 2023, and his team now produces about 40,000 board feet of Southern yellow pine lumber each week, of which about 15,000 is kiln-dried.
Philip's primary motivation in starting Cross Cut Wood Products was to provide his son with an opportunity to run a business, employ hardworking Georgians and Gibson natives, and sustain the local community. What began as a desire to contribute to Glascock County—and to instill a strong work ethic in his son—has grown into a thriving small business. Truly an inspiring story right here in rural Georgia! |
Speaking with Students at the Academy of Richmond County
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At the Academy of Richmond County, I was invited to speak to student members of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) about the power of faith and the importance of Scripture in our daily lives.
Since 1954, FCA has been challenging coaches and athletes on the professional, college, high school, junior high, and youth levels to use the platform of sports to reach every coach and every athlete with the transforming power of Jesus Christ. |
Stopping by Evans Memorial Hospital
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I had the opportunity to visit Evans Memorial Hospital in Claxton, where I met with Bill Lee, Chief Executive Officer, and members of the medical team to hear about their top achievements in 2025 and some of their challenges.
We also discussed the Rural Health Transformation Program, which was established in the Working Families Tax Cuts. This program allocated over $218 million to Georgia's rural hospitals, like Evans Memorial, and I look forward to seeing how this unprecedented investment will strengthen rural health care in our communities. |
Speaking at Augusta West Rotary
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I was grateful to see so many familiar faces at the Augusta West Rotary Club meeting on Thursday. I spoke about what is going on in the halls of Congress and took a few questions from those in attendance. Thanks for having me! |
Meeting with the Candler County EMS Director
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I traveled to Metter and visited with Candler County EMS Director Xavier Winkler. Candler County EMS works closely with first responders from the City of Metter and Candler County to ensure rapid emergency response is available to residents in the community.
Whether responding to accidents, medical emergencies, or natural disasters like Hurricane Helene—these dedicated men and women work tirelessly to protect and care for our community. Their commitment, courage, and selfless service do not go unnoticed. Thank you to our Candler County EMS teams for being there when we need you most. |
Attending the Jenkins County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast
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In Millen, I enjoyed providing an update on my work in Congress at the annual Jenkins County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast. During my remarks, I detailed some of our major victories just over one year into the 119th Congress. |
Speaking at the Claxton Rotary Club Meeting
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Similarly, I attended the Claxton Rotary Club meeting and gave a brief update on my work on behalf of Georgia families and hardworking Americans, including the SAVE America Act, which protects the integrity of U.S. elections. |
Visiting Battle Lumber Company
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In Wadley, I stopped by Battle Lumber Company to meet with the leadership team and learn more about their business. Since 1962, Battle Lumber has been at the forefront of the timber industry, making numerous strides over the decades to grow from a local mill with a staff of eight to an international supplier employing over 250 hardworking Georgians. |
Meeting with Johnson County Leadership
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I also enjoyed stopping by the Wrightsville-Johnson County Chamber of Commerce, where I met with community leaders to receive a brief update on business growth in Johnson County and how I can better serve the community in Washington. |
March Community Office Hours
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Throughout March, members of my staff will be available across the 12th District to assist constituents closer to home with a variety of federal issues, including help navigating various federal agencies such as FEMA, Social Security, Veterans Affairs, Medicare, and others.
To find the dates, times, and locations near you, CLICK HERE. |
Now Accepting 2026 Summer Internship Applications
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I recently announced that my office is seeking applications for our 2026 Summer Internship Program. This program is open to college students and young professionals interested in learning about the legislative process and assisting with the responsibilities of a congressional office.
Summer internships are split into two six-week sessions and will be offered from May to August 2026, with specific dates to be discussed during the interview process.
Interested candidates can apply here by March 20, 2026. |
The 2026 Congressional Art Competition is Underway
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The 2026 Congressional Art Competition is quickly approaching! Every year, Members of the U.S. House of Representatives sponsor a nationwide high school art competition. This contest is open to all high school students (9th – 12th grade) in Georgia’s 12th District. The winning piece will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol, and its student artist will receive an invitation to travel to Washington, D.C. to attend the national winners’ reception.
This competition is a special tradition that provides high school students the opportunity to display their art for the country to see. I look forward to seeing submissions from our young artists in the 12th District, and encourage all interested high school students to participate.
More information HERE. |
This Week's White House Highlight
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President Trump and House Republicans are delivering real progress in making homeownership and housing more affordable for American families. Now, fresh data from Freddie Mac shows that mortgage rates have fallen to their lowest level since September 2022 — underscoring our ongoing commitment to lowering costs for hardworking Americans.
These encouraging developments are part of a broader wave of positive momentum in the housing market: - The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has dipped to a new multi-year low, driving monthly housing payments to their most affordable levels in over two years and mortgage affordability to a four-year high.
- The National Association of Realtors’ Housing Affordability Index has climbed to its highest level since March 2022 as family incomes rise and rates moderate, marking seven straight months of improvement.
- Apartment rents have declined for six straight months, dipping to their lowest level in four years.
- In 2025, 62% of homebuyers purchased properties at a discount to the original listing price — the highest share since President Trump’s first term.
- Home purchase applications are up nearly 10% over last year, signaling growing confidence among buyers.
- Builders are accelerating construction, with housing starts at a five-month high.
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Follow me on Social Media!
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Social media is a great way to stay connected and I encourage you to keep up with my work in Congress by ‘liking’ my Facebook page and following me on X, formerly known as Twitter, and Instagram.
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As always, my office is here to help. If you'd like to email me, please click here.
To contact one of our district offices, please click here.
To stay informed about what is happening in Washington D.C. and in our district, please follow me on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Sincerely,
Rick Allen
Member of Congress |
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