David Rouzer has been serving as the U.S. Representative for North Carolina’s 7th Congressional District since 2015. His time in public office is characterized by his legislative experience and a focus on agricultural and infrastructural issues. Below is a summary of his career, legislative actions, policy positions, and information about his district.
Career Path to Congress
Early Life and Education:
David Rouzer was born on February 16, 1972. He graduated from North Carolina State University, where he earned a degree in Agricultural Business Management, Agricultural Economics, and Chemistry.
Professional Background: Before entering politics, Rouzer established his own business, focusing on consulting and sales, primarily within the agricultural sector.
State Senate Service: Rouzer served two terms in the North Carolina Senate from 2009 to 2012, representing Johnston and Wayne counties. During his tenure, he was recognized as a pro-business legislator and was involved in crafting balanced budgets without raising taxes.
Congressional Elections:
2012: Rouzer ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in North Carolina’s 7th District but was narrowly defeated by incumbent Democrat Mike McIntyre.
2014: Following McIntyre’s retirement, Rouzer won the seat with nearly 60% of the vote and has been re-elected in subsequent elections.
Sponsored Legislation
As of May 2019, Rouzer had sponsored 24 pieces of legislation during his tenure in Congress, with two becoming public law. Notable legislative efforts include:
World War II Heritage City Designation: Rouzer co-authored a provision in the John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, granting the Secretary of the Interior authority to designate a World War II Heritage City annually. This provision became law in 2019, with Wilmington, North Carolina, expected to be among the first cities designated.
Agricultural Initiatives: Serving on the House Agriculture Committee, Rouzer has been active in promoting policies beneficial to farmers and the agricultural community, reflecting his district’s economic interests.
Votes and Stances on Major Social Issues
Same-Sex Marriage: In 2015, Rouzer co-sponsored an amendment to the U.S. Constitution aimed at banning same-sex marriage, indicating his opposition to its legalization.
2020 Presidential Election: Following the 2020 election, Rouzer was among 126 House Republicans who supported a lawsuit seeking to overturn the election results in four states. The Supreme Court declined to hear the case due to lack of standing.
Votes and Stances on Major Economic Issues
Tax Policy: During his time in the North Carolina Senate, Rouzer advocated for lower taxes and was involved in crafting balanced budgets without increasing tax burdens. He has continued to support pro-business tax policies in Congress.
Economic Growth: Rouzer emphasizes the importance of incentivizing work and investment to maintain the United States’ economic standing. He advocates for federal policies that promote economic growth both nationally and within North Carolina.
Demographic Data of the 7th Congressional District
North Carolina’s 7th Congressional District encompasses a diverse population. Key demographic statistics include:
Population: Approximately 754,700 residents as of 2022.
Median Age: 41.9 years.
Ethnic Composition:
White (Non-Hispanic): 62.6%
Black or African American (Non-Hispanic): 18.3%
American Indian & Alaska Native (Non-Hispanic): 6.89%
Two or more races (Non-Hispanic): 3.54%
Other (Hispanic): 3.31%
Median Household Income: $60,203, with a 6.32% increase from the previous year.
Poverty Rate: 16.1%, reflecting a 4.55% increase from the prior year.
Controversial Statements
Rouzer’s support for the lawsuit challenging the 2020 presidential election results was a significant point of contention. Additionally, his co-sponsorship of the 2015 constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage attracted criticism from advocates of LGBTQ+ rights.
Throughout his career, David Rouzer has maintained a focus on agricultural interests, economic growth, and conservative social policies, aligning with the priorities of his constituents in North Carolina’s 7th District.