I’ve become increasingly disheartened and concerned as I’ve watched the recent events across our country these past few nights. Last night, these violent protests reached our community here in Raleigh.

Earlier this summer, I went downtown and spoke with peaceful protesters on several occasions. While we may have shared some political differences, we engaged in meaningful dialogue about the issues facing our county, state, and nation. I learned something from them, and they learned something from me. At the end of each discussion, we always valued the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversation, and we appreciated the fact that everyone was expressing their concerns in peaceful and productive ways.

Later protests in our city became violent, and these protests are now being seen again here in Raleigh. Let me be perfectly clear. The violence, destruction, and lawlessness that we saw last night have absolutely no place here in our community. We all have a duty to stand up for law and order. Upholding public safety throughout our community, and country, is paramount as we seek to rebuild following an unprecedented global pandemic. I urge protesters to do what I did earlier this year: engage in meaningful conversation and dialogue with those around you. Don’t tear down our community as we seek to improve and rebuild. Make your voices heard, but do so peacefully.

Above all else, remember that our community is best when we’re brought together by what unites us. We are all part of one #WakeStrong family determined to build the best community for everyone.

This November, I hope that you’ll remember that we need leaders who will always be willing to listen and support the right to peacefully assemble, but who will ensure that law and order are upheld to keep our communities safe.

- Alan

This morning, I was glad to join my friend Representative Mark Walker on The KC O'Dea Radio Show to talk a bit about my service and my campaign.

- Alan

Last night, #TeamSwain hosted a community roundtable on how COVID-19 has impacted our community. Last night’s discussion featured great conversation and calls to action. Special thanks to the incredible Mario Lomuscio for co-hosting, Tracy Savage Taylor for sharing updated statistics, and all of the amazing patriots who shared their voices, stories, and ideas for improvement.

This morning, Colonel Swain addressed a large crowd of law enforcement supporters at Back the Blue NC's Rally here in downtown Raleigh. Swain emphasized the need for us all to support the men and women of law enforcement as our country navigates these troubling times. Swain spoke on stage alongside Mark Robinson, candidate for Lieutenant Governor of North Carolina, and Ryan Fournier, Founder and Co-Chairman of Students for Trump, amongst others. 

Lately, it seems like politics is beginning to interfere with the operation of our schools.

Our students’ safety and academic success comes first; these must always be our top priorities. But sadly, it doesn’t seem to be the priorities of everyone.
​
The NCAE, which includes only a small number of North Carolina’s teachers, has recently presented arbitrary and irrelevant roadblocks to opening schools, and, at the same time, has sued to end opportunity scholarships. Their recent moves seem to counter and block our top priorities: student safety and success. As our schools develop new environments that follow CDC guidelines, parents should have the option of letting their kids return to school. Our students need face-to-face instruction along with ample time for social interaction and development. Furthermore, the NCAE’s attack on opportunity scholarships is an attack on students, parents, and families everywhere. A student’s zip code should not determine which school they are required to attend. These opportunity scholarships give all students the opportunity to choose their best possible learning environment. The NCAE’s blatant political objectives are harming our educational system as we prepare for a new school year.

I have three grandchildren, all of whom are currently in or will soon be in our education system. I’m concerned for their health and safety every day, and I also want them to receive the best overall education that they can. We must all come together and work to improve these things - we can provide safe environments that let students grow and learn. We need decisive leadership. We need organization. We need common sense. These are things I’ll bring to Congress to ensure a better educational system for all children.

- Alan