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Congressman Allen Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) recognized the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition during a special reception held at his Augusta office. Members of Congress sponsor this competition each spring, challenging students from across the nation to produce an original artwork depicting life in their home district. This year's competition drew participants from across Georgia’s 12th District, whose submissions were scored by a panel of judges.

The first-place winner's artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one full year. Other finalists will have their work displayed in one of Congressman Allen's district offices.

Following last night's reception, Congressman Allen issued the statement below:

“I look forward to the Congressional Art Competition every year as the gifted young artists who call Georgia-12 home put their artistic talents on full display. It is a privilege and a blessing to spend time with these students, parents, and teachers, to celebrate their achievements and dedication. I am eager to showcase this beautiful artwork in the U.S. Capitol and my district offices for the next year."

First Place: Kaiden Oliver, from Davidson Fine Arts, with his piece: "Southern Bell"

First Runner-Up: Arianna Brunk, from Columbia Virtual Academy, with her piece: "Lady in Red"

Second Runner-Up: Taylor Tankersley, from Davidson Fine Arts, with her piece: "Soul of Augusta"

Third Runner-Up and People's Choice Award Winner: Nidhi Patel, from Lakeside High School, with her piece: "The Ocean is not Blue"

Rep. Allen Announces Winners of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) announced that Lakeside High School students Saisurya Lakkimsetti, Arnav Patel, and Mingzhe Zhang have been selected as the winners of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge for Georgia’s 12th District.

The students were chosen for their work developing Tempo, a software application that blends productivity, mental health, and brain wellness into a single intelligent experience. It helps users stay organized, focused, and mentally sharp while maintaining balance and emotional awareness. At its core, Tempo is a smart planner that learns each user’s daily rhythm, adapting reminders and focus sessions to match natural energy levels. It includes valuable tools such as a Flow Timer for deep work, a planner for task management, and a Rhythm Log that visualizes how time is divided between focus, rest, and leisure. For seniors, Tempo offers an optional Brain Health Hub with simple cognitive games, memory prompts, and medication reminders that strengthen focus and recall.

As the winner of this year's App Challenge, Tempo will be featured on the U.S. House of Representatives website and displayed in a U.S. Capitol exhibit. Additionally, the students are invited to Capitol Hill for the #HouseOfCode celebration, where they will have the opportunity to demo their app to Members of Congress.

Upon the announcement, Congressman Allen issued the following statement:

"I extend my warmest congratulations to Saisurya, Arnav, and Mingzhe for winning the 2026 Congressional App Challenge. The creativity they displayed in developing Tempo from the ground up is nothing short of remarkable. I am very proud to recognize these students for a job well done, and for using their extensive talents to create something that will truly benefit others."

Allen touts improvements at Bon Air Apartments

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Originally Published in The Augusta Press
By: Susan McCord

Congressman Rick Allen toured the Bon Air apartment complex this week with officials from Redwood Housing Partners and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The visit is the latest public step in a longstanding effort to address problems at the historic property. The current structure opened in 1923 as a luxury hotel, but has functioned as subsidized housing since the early 1980s. Redwood paid $25 million for the Bon Air and downtown Richmond Summit hotel in 2020.

Soon after, Redwood renewed a 20-year agreement with HUD to provide Section 8 project-based rental assistance at the properties. Numerous issues including fire code and property maintenance code violations, crime and a lack of heat and AC soon came to light.

In 2022, Allen sent a letter to HUD and Redwood demanding Redwood be held accountable for conditions at the properties. Since then, his office has been in “regular communication” with HUD and Redwood demanding that substantial renovations be made, according to a statement released Monday.

The commissioner who represents the Bon Air, Catherine Smith Rice, has pushed for inspections and improvements over the last few years. District 1 Commissioner Jordan Johnson, who represents the Richmond Summit area, pressed for similar improvements downtown.

Last year, the commission put Redwood’s license on probation in an effort to get the company in line. Redwood responded by shuttling residents wearing “We Support Redwood” t-shirts to a commission meeting.

In a statement, Allen said a Monday tour of renovated units and common areas convinced him that Redwood and HUD have met his office’s demands. Elevators have been repaired, management is routinely meeting with tenants as well as the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office and Augusta Fire Department, “and much more,” he said.

“Over the last several years, members of my team and I have been in regular communication with HUD and Redwood, consistently demanding that substantial renovations be made at the Bon Air to ensure residents can enjoy a clean and safe living environment,” the statement said.

“After my visit today, I can confidently say that we have achieved that goal,” he said.

Allen, now facing election-year challenges in the May 19 primary as well as the November general election, also lives in the Summerville community that surrounds the Bon Air.

He said he hopes with communication and accountability, the Bon Air will remain a “modern, safe and enjoyable atmosphere” for residents and visitors and “a place of pride for the surrounding community.”

Congressman Allen Visits Bon Air Apartments Following Renovations

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) visited the Bon Air Apartment Complex in Richmond County. Congressman Allen was joined by representatives from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Redwood Housing for a walkthrough of the facility, including several renovated units and floors. After the visit, Congressman Allen issued the following statement:

"Over the last several years, members of my team and I have been in regular communication with HUD and Redwood—consistently demanding that substantial renovations be made at the Bon Air to ensure residents can enjoy a clean and safe living environment. After my visit today, I can confidently say that we have achieved that goal.

"Units and common areas have been updated, security measures are now in place, elevators have been repaired, property management is conducting routine meetings with tenants and representatives from the Richmond County Sheriff's Office and Fire Department, and much more. This has been a long process, and at times challenging, but one thing has been clear from the beginning: we were not taking no for an answer. I am hopeful that with continued communication and accountability, the Bon Air Apartments will remain a modern, safe, and enjoyable atmosphere for all residents and visitors and a place of pride for the surrounding community."

Allen Applauds Federal Court Ruling Overturning Biden-Era Fiduciary Rule

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, a federal court vacated the 2024 Biden Administration Department of Labor's (DOL) 'Retirement Security Rule,' also known as the 'Fiduciary Rule.' This disastrous rule redefined when a financial services provider would become subject to regulation as a fiduciary under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), which will eliminate options for working-class Americans, reduce their ability to retire, and limit their access to financial advice by imposing significant regulatory burdens and litigation risks.

Following the ruling, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12), Chairman of the Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee, issued the statement below:

"From the outset, when President Biden's DOL proposed their overreaching fiduciary rule, I have consistently sounded the alarm on its negative impacts. By muddying the waters with overregulation, the previous administration undoubtedly did more harm than good—garnering bipartisan, bicameral opposition. This federal court ruling is a win for retirees, savers, and working families seeking sound financial advice and a prosperous retirement. I look forward to working with President Trump's DOL on a commonsense proposal that works for all consumers and families."

BACKGROUND: In 2024, Congressman Allen and Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced H. J. Res 142, a Congressional Review Act (CRA) Joint Resolution of Disapproval to overturn the Biden Department of Labor’s (DOL) finalized fiduciary rule, which was later advanced by the Education and Workforce Committee. Under current ERISA laws, a fiduciary is a person who is already required to provide investment advice "solely in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries."

Congressman Allen Introduces the PBM Kickback Prohibition Act

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

This week, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12), Chairman of the Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee, introduced the PBM Kickback Prohibition Act. This legislation would amend the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to prohibit pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from paying kickbacks or referral fees to brokers, consultants, advisors, or similar intermediaries in exchange for directing employer health plan or insurer business to the PBM. Upon the bill's introduction, Congressman Allen issued the following statement:

"The Trump Administration and House Republicans are laser-focused on lowering prescription drug prices and making health insurance more affordable. The PBM Kickback Prohibition Act—a signature component of the President's 'Great Healthcare Plan'—would rein in PBMs by ending kickbacks that deceptively raise the cost of health insurance for patients, workers, and families. I thank Chairman Walberg for his support in introducing this bill and look forward to working with the administration and my colleagues to get it across the finish line," said Congressman Rick Allen.

"If we’re serious about lowering health care costs, we have to take on the middlemen driving prices higher. Banning kickbacks paid by pharmacy benefit managers to a medical plan’s advisor or consultant is a commonsense reform that protects workers, employers, and patients. Simply put, Rep. Allen’s bill makes sure decisions are made based on what’s best for patients and plan sponsors—not who’s paying the biggest kickback. This kind of transparency is a key part of the broader effort Republicans are advancing with President Trump to bring down health care costs and make the system work better for American families," said Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI).

BACKGROUND: Specifically, the PBM Kickback Prohibition Act adds a restriction to ERISA section 408 stating that when a PBM provides pharmacy benefit management services to a covered health plan, the PBM may not provide any direct or indirect compensation to third parties for referring that plan’s business. The prohibition would apply to plan years beginning after the bill’s enactment, aiming to reduce conflicts of interest and increase transparency in PBM contracting with employer-sponsored health plans.

Answers on Fort Gordon hospital could come soon

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Originally Published in WRDW
By: Meredith Anderson

Augusta’s congressman says the community could have a timeline on the future of Eisenhower Army Medical Center within 90 days.

This is an update to a 12 On Your Side investigation reporter Meredith Anderson first broke in November, when reports surfaced of potential cuts at the Fort Gordon hospital.

Reported cuts to Eisenhower include closing the emergency room and operating room and ending in-patient care.

Sen. Jon Ossoff launched an official inquiry first. Then Reps. Rick Allen, Joe Wilson, Austin Scott and Sheri Biggs sent a letter to the Defense Health Agency.

Their offices said they had received reports of departments, staffing and services at Eisenhower being “severely reduced.” The letter also noted there is no equal military hospital within 300 miles and that the CSRA already has a limited number of TRICARE-approved providers.

Allen, R-Augusta, toured the hospital Jan. 30 and met with installation and hospital leadership. He said it was apparent cutbacks had been happening.

“They’ve been cutting back. And, you know, we couldn’t get an answer on that,” Allen said.

Allen said he brought those concerns to House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers, who has placed a hold on any changes until the Defense Health Agency submits a required report.

“And I guess that’s why they haven’t replied to our letter, is they’re preparing this report which should tell us all what the heck’s going on and how we fix it,” Allen said.

Allen said one of the most basic questions — whether the cuts stem from a hiring and funding shortfall — still hasn’t been answered.

“If they don’t have the money to hire personnel, we need to know about it,” Allen said. “Those are the answers we’re looking for.”

He said he expects those answers within roughly three months.

“Hopefully in 90 days, we’ll have the answers and be able to fully address this issue,” Allen said.

The Defense Health Agency has not denied that service reductions could happen at Eisenhower, but no official announcement has been made. Fort Jackson converted its hospital to a clinic in 2016.

Congressman Allen Issues Statement on War Powers Resolution and DHS Funding

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

This evening on the House floor, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) voted no on H. Con. Res. 38, otherwise known as the War Powers Resolution, which would unnecessarily tie the hands of the Administration during hostilities with Iran. Congressman Allen also voted yes on H.R. 7744, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Appropriations Act of 2026, which fully funds DHS and supports efforts to defend our homeland. Following tonight's floor activity, Congressman Allen released the statement below:

"Iran is responsible for more American deaths than any other terrorist regime in the world. The last thing we need to do is hamstring the Administration and our military leaders as they actively defend American citizens from the evolving threat that Iran poses. The President fulfilled the requirements under the War Powers Resolution by briefing the Gang of Eight before the strikes on Iran occurred. Additionally, Article II of the U.S. Constitution is clear that the President is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and has a duty to act in defense of our nation.

"For that reason, I voted no on the War Powers Resolution offered by Reps. Massie and Khanna. I agree with President Trump that the Iranian regime must never obtain a nuclear weapon, and after receiving a classified briefing earlier this week on Operation Epic Fury, I am even more confident that we will achieve the objectives laid out in detail by the Administration.

"Further, and more important now than ever, we must fully fund the Department of Homeland Security. For nearly three weeks, Democrats have obstructed and irresponsibly shut down the department tasked with defending our homeland. That is shameful. House Republicans once again did our work to fully fund DHS—including the Coast Guard, TSA, FEMA, and Air Traffic Controllers. The longer Democrats keep DHS shut down, the more danger they impose on the American people, especially during this time of heightened uncertainty.

"Robin and I continue to pray for the families and loved ones of the service members we lost and all of those who continue fighting to ensure Iran’s terrorist proxies can no longer harm Americans and destabilize the Middle East."

One non-citizen voting in any American election is one too many

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Originally appeared in the Augusta Press
By: Congressman Rick W. Allen

In his latest guest column about the SAVE America Act, I am pleased that John Morris and I agree that only American citizens should decide American elections. He is absolutely correct that this principle is widely shared across parties and across states.

Here’s where we seemingly disagree. Mr. Morris chalks up his main point of contention with the SAVE America Act as a question of “proportional response” or whether the “approach” is worth the “scale of the problem.” Allow me to be crystal clear where I stand: one non-citizen voting in any American election is one too many. That’s why I supported House passage of the SAVE America Act.

For those unfamiliar with the bill, here’s what it does: it requires individuals to present an eligible photo identification document before voting. It requires states to obtain proof of citizenship – in person – when registering an individual to vote. And it requires states to remove non-citizens from existing voter rolls. According to the Pew Research Center, and conveniently left out of Mr. Morris’ column, 83% of Americans support requiring government-issued photo ID. As a member of Congress, I can tell you firsthand that very few issues in American politics demand this type of bipartisanship.

While Mr. Morris is correct that Federal law already bans non-citizens from voting—in no way does that mean it is not happening in some states. As we’ve sadly learned, those who enter our country illegally clearly do not follow our laws. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, at least 10 million illegal aliens poured into communities nationwide. In many states, these illegal aliens are eligible for driver’s licenses and other benefits, providing ample opportunities to illegally register to vote in Federal elections. In some jurisdictions, non-citizens are even able to vote in local elections. It bears repeating, one non-citizen voting in any American election is one too many.

In fact, there is a long list of countries around the world that require voter ID. Why not us? In the United States, you need an ID to drive, to open a bank account, to rent a hotel room, to board a flight, to sign up for government benefits, and to get into the Democrat National Convention. Yet the United States does not federally require a photo ID to vote? We need to fix that, which is exactly why I am also calling on the Senate, including our two Georgia Senators, to pass the SAVE America Act and send it to President Trump’s desk.

Thankfully, here in Georgia, we already require a photo ID to vote. Additionally, in 2024, Governor Brian Kemp signed legislation into law further bolstering election integrity in the Peach State. While you may remember the constant fear mongering and hysteria claiming this legislation would make it harder for Georgians to vote, the law actually led to record turnout in 2024.

The way I see it, when voters are confident in their elections, they will go to the polls and exercise their fundamental right to vote. It’s that simple. That’s what the SAVE America Act is all about: restoring confidence in America’s elections. It’s not about disenfranchising anyone; it’s about ensuring that only U.S. citizens vote in federal elections. Mr. Morris, with all due respect, it is common sense.

Representative Rick W. Allen, a Republican, represents Georgia’s 12th Congressional District and supported passage of the SAVE America Act on the House floor.

Eggs and Issues served at Legislative Breakfast

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Originally Published in The Millen News
By: Deborah Bennett

The annual Legislative Breakfast was held Saturday, Feb. 21st, at the Cafe on Cotton with U. S. Rep. Rick Allen, State Sen Max Burns, State Rep. L.C. Miles, and a representative with the U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock’s office in attendance. The event was sponsored by the Georgia Power Company, Planters Electric Membership Corporation, Queensborough Bank & Trust Company, Jenkins County Farm Bureau, and Durden Banking Company. The legislators were introduced by Jenkins County FFA members.

National and state legislators highlighted Georgia’s strategic positioning in the race to host data centers and described the expansion of digital infrastructure as being critical to economic dominance, particularly as the global economy shifts toward artificial intelligence and 5G and 6 G technology.

Rep. Allen noted that Georgia is viewed as a well-run state and positioned competitively in the global marketplace. He spoke on the national debt and emphasized the need to reduce the federal deficit. He also noted that the American Taxpayer Relief Act has been extended, resulting in savings for each Georgia taxpayer. Rep. Allen called attention to the Big Beautiful Bill and the $50 billion included shore up the rural healthcare, $218.8 Georgia will receive. He also discussed a reduction in the nation’s inflation rate.

Rep. Allen discussed the two-front military war, commenting, “God raised this nation to be the great peacemaker.”

Sen. Burns highlighted property tax structures at the county level and explained the distinction between taxes and “freefor service” models. He noted that transparency ensures those who receive services are responsible for paying for them. He reported on the state’s $42.2 billion budget, stating that 38% goes to secondary education; 15% to higher education; 20% to healthcare; and 9% to transportation.

Sen. Burns also discussed Senate Bill 476, described as the largest tax relief legislation passed in Georgia history. The bill includes a reduction of the state income tax rate and is projected to benefit approximately 65% of Georgians.

On the topic of data centers, Sen. Burns said, “Georgia is poised to enjoy the challenge of hosting data centers.”

Rep. Myles emphasized the importance of helping Georgians “live, work, and earn” through policies aimed at lowering grocery bills, increasing access to childcare, supporting fair wages, and expanding healthcare access, especially in rural communities. He advocated for fair wages, childcare, lower grocery bills, and education.

Concerns were raised regarding the rising Affordable Care Act premiums, totaling an estimated $400 billion nationally. Lawmakers suggested that broader healthcare reform efforts are expected to be introduced on the House floor in the near future, citing concerns that “the healthcare system is broken.”