U.S. Rep. David Rouzer says the newly advanced 2026 Farm Bill includes several provisions that would directly benefit farmers and rural communities across Brunswick and Columbus counties, two areas where agriculture remains a major economic driver.
Rouzer, who spent much of last week in overnight House Agriculture Committee sessions, said the bill strengthens crop insurance, expands disaster assistance, and protects key commodities grown throughout southeastern North Carolina. Agriculture contributes more than $113 billion to the state’s economy, and Columbus County remains one of the region’s most agriculture‑dependent counties.
One of Rouzer’s amendments — now included in the bill — would allow tobacco growers to access future USDA disaster and economic assistance programs. Tobacco remains a foundational crop for many Columbus County farms, often supporting the production of sweet potatoes, soybeans, corn, and other row crops.
Rouzer said the change ensures “family farms in our region aren’t left behind when disaster strikes.”
The Farm Bill now heads to the full House for consideration.
Rep. Rouzer Secures USDA Aid for Tobacco Farmers
National Security Briefings Tie Back to Local Military Families
Rouzer also addressed ongoing U.S. military operations in the Middle East, including recent strikes against Iran. He noted that several service members from southeastern North Carolina are deployed in the region, and he offered condolences for the seven U.S. troops killed during recent operations.
Military families in Brunswick County — particularly those connected to the Wilmington and Jacksonville bases — continue to follow developments closely.
Rouzer Reflects on Early Career, Honors Coach Lou Holtz
Rouzer shared reflections on his early work for Sen. Jesse Helms, noting that his background in agriculture policy still shapes his approach to representing rural counties like Brunswick and Columbus.
He also paid tribute to former NC State football coach Lou Holtz, who died recently. Holtz coached the Wolfpack to an ACC Championship in 1973 and remains a well‑known figure among longtime North Carolina sports fans.
A Lighter Note: Fort Fisher’s Famous Otter Celebrates a Birthday
Rouzer closed his update with a nod to a local favorite — Ray the river otter at the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Ray celebrated his “golden birthday” with a seafood cake made of krill, smelt, and shrimp, a story that resonated with many families in Brunswick County who frequent the aquarium.
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