Dr. Raymond Smith’s platform for NC-03
Fighting Corruption and Promoting Good Government
Right now, it seems like everything in Congress is controlled by billionaires, lobbyists, and special interest groups. Members of Congress are sitting in their office trading stocks instead of delivering for constituents, and places like Eastern North Carolina are suffering because of it. It’s time that we push major campaign finance reform, bring an end to Citizens United, and ban stock trading from members of Congress. We must fight corruption from both parties in all forms.
Lower Costs for Working Families
The cost of living has gotten out of control while politicians in DC focus on lining the pockets of their billionaire donors. Eastern North Carolina families know about hard work and should be able to afford groceries, housing, and healthcare without sacrificing the basics. In Congress, Raymond will focus on lowering the cost of necessities and raising the standard of living for all North Carolinians. By focusing on affordability, job creation, and infrastructure we can build a better future for all our neighbors.
Quality, Accessible Healthcare
In Congress, Raymond will work to build a healthcare system that brings down costs, expands access, and makes quality care affordable for more people. As a State Representative, he worked across the aisle to reform the healthcare system to focus on patients over profits. Eastern North Carolina deserves a member of Congress who will expand healthcare access in rural areas while keeping care affordable.
Infrastructure for the 21st Century
For too long Eastern North Carolina’s infrastructure has been an afterthought to politicians in D.C. Raymond will fight for our fair share of project funding and investment. We deserve access to modern infrastructure that can move our economy forward, such as broadband internet access, as well as major investments in floodwater resilience and prevention.
Protecting our Veterans and Military Families
As a combat veteran, Raymond knows first-hand the struggles of returning to civilian life after serving our country. In Congress, he will work across the aisle to ensure America’s veterans and soldiers get the benefits and respect they deserve. By improving the VA, expanding childcare access for the families of service members, and addressing the base housing crisis, we can ensure that we can protect those who risked their lives to protect our country.
Strong Public Education
Quality public education is the best investment we can make in the next generation, and in Congress, Raymond will fight to protect the fundamental right to a sound, basic education. His experience as an educator and a member of the Wayne County Board of Education showed him the importance of local control of schools, but the federal government still plays a critical role in general funding, special education, and protecting civil rights.