Norman, Ralph RSS Articles

Big Brother is watching, and Congress wants to keep it that way

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Americans would be outraged if the government could walk into their home, search through their personal papers, and leave without ever getting permission from a judge.

Yet, something eerily similar is happening today. Federal agencies can search through vast databases containing YOUR sensitive information without getting a warrant first!!

The debate to stop this issue is happening RIGHT NOW in Congress.

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) was created to help intelligence agencies monitor foreign terrorists, spies, and adversaries overseas. Protecting our nation from foreign threats is a critical responsibility, and intelligence tools play an important role in that mission. But over time, FISA has drifted from its purpose.

Under the Biden administration, the FBI improperly used warrantless search powers against U.S. citizens more than 278,000 times in the year ending November 2021, according to an unsealed Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISC) filing. To this day, there has been zero accountability. That should concern every American, regardless of political party.

The Fourth Amendment is clear. Americans should not lose their constitutional rights simply because their information happens to be stored in a government database.

FISA is scheduled to expire on June 12. Now more than ever, Congress has the chance to renew the tools necessary to protect our nation from foreign threats, and also restore constitutional protections that have been steadily eroded.

Here are three reforms conservatives are fighting for:

Require a warrant before searching Americans' communications. If the FBI or another federal agency wants to search the communications of an American citizen, they should first obtain a warrant from a judge. That is how our constitutional system is supposed to work.
Increase transparency and accountability. Americans deserve to know when surveillance authorities are being misused. Agencies that abuse these powers should face real consequences, and Congress should have stronger oversight to ensure these authorities are not weaponized against innocent citizens.
Protect Americans from overly broad data collection. Current law allows the government to compel a wide range of businesses and service providers to assist in surveillance operations. Congress should narrow these authorities and ensure that Americans' private information is not unnecessarily swept into government databases.

American privacy is sacred, and this debate is not about choosing between security and freedom. We CAN do BOTH!!

Civilian spying may be common practice in communist China or in the dictatorship of North Korea, but it certainly is not acceptable in our great United States of America. Our Founding Fathers did not write the Bill of Rights so that government agencies could search Americans’ private communications without judicial oversight.

It’s time to amend FISA to its original intent, and keep BIG BROTHER out of our homes.

Proud to Support the FARM Bill

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Farmers in SC deserve SUPPORT for their tremendous work feeding America.

That’s why I was proud to vote in favor of the FARM Bill!! 🌾

Norman Bill Cracks Down on DEI Abuse in Federal Research Funding

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON — Congressman Ralph Norman (R-SC) introduced legislation to prohibit federal agencies from using Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) requirements or ideological tests when awarding taxpayer-funded research grants.

The Merit Restoration Act would apply to all federal research agencies, ensuring grants are awarded based on scientific merit, quality of research, and public benefit, not political activism or identity-based standards.

After years of ideologically awarded funding under the Biden administration, Congressman Norman’s bill would prohibit agencies from considering DEI statements, mandatory diversity requirements, or ideological criteria when evaluating grant applications or continuing federal funding.

“Taxpayer-funded research should be awarded based on merit, innovation, and results, not DEI-driven activist handouts,” said Congressman Ralph Norman. “Americans are tired of watching universities prioritize ideological checkboxes over achievement. Federal research dollars should support the strongest proposals and the best science, whether in medicine, engineering, or scientific innovation, not political agendas. That’s what taxpayers expect and deserve.”

The bill follows growing concerns over federal grant programs that prioritize DEI and identity-based criteria over merit. In one example, the Biden administration’s National Institute of Health (NIH) funded a National Cancer Institute program that stated “fostering diversity by addressing underrepresentation in the scientific research workforce is a key component of the NIH strategy” and prioritized participation based on racial and ethnic classifications identified as “underrepresented.” Similarly, the National Science Foundation (NSF) supported an academic conference travel award program that stated “students from underrepresented groups will be given priority.”

Congressman Ralph Norman’s legislation would prohibit federal agencies from using taxpayer dollars to impose or incentivize these types of ideological or identity-based requirements in scientific research funding.

Read the bill HERE.

SC National Guard Keeping D.C. Safe

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

There is no greater pride than being an American.

These South Carolina National Guard members are leaving their families and communities behind to answer the call of duty and help keep our nation's capital safe. Representing the VERY BEST of the USA.

Praying for their safety!! 🇺🇸

Today I Introduced the Merit Restoration Act

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, I introduced the Merit Restoration Act to stop DEI requirements and ideological tests from influencing taxpayer-funded research grants.

Federal research funding should be awarded based on merit, innovation, and scientific excellence, not political agendas or identity-based QUOTAS.

For years, and particularly under the Biden administration, federal agencies have pushed universities and research institutions to prioritize DEI statements and activist criteria over achievement and results. That’s wrong, and taxpayers are tired of footing the bill for it.

My legislation ensures agencies like the NIH and NSF award grants based on the quality of the research and the benefit to the American people, not ideological checkboxes.

Daily Wire EXCLUSIVE on Merit Restoration Act

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

🚨Daily Wire just dropped an EXCLUSIVE on my new legislation cracking down on DEI requirements in federal research funding.

Taxpayer dollars should fund scientific excellence, not ideological activism.

FIX FISA

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

American privacy is precious and COMPLETELY nonnegotiable.

With FISA set to expire on June 12, Congress has a golden opportunity to protect Americans from government surveillance and finally enact meaningful reforms.

We've seen what happens when Washington operates without accountability. Federal agencies abused surveillance authorities, violated Americans' privacy, and repeatedly exceeded the limits of their power.

We live in the United States of America, not communist China. It’s high time for Congress to FIX IT!! 🔍

Violence from protestors in New Jersey

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

PAID protestors and VIOLENT agitators have shown up again, exposing their true colors.

Democrats are losing their voter base!!

Military Appreciation Month

Thu, 28 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

As Military Appreciation Month draws to a close, I want to thank all members of the United States military and their families for the sacrifices they have made in the line of duty. These brave men and women have given everything to defend our great nation and the freedoms that we cherish.

In particular, I want to commend Major James Capers Jr. of Bishopville, South Carolina, for his unprecedented valor while serving in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Major Capers demonstrated extraordinary courage, risking his life in order to save his fellow Marines while he was seriously wounded. His heroism is outstanding, and I am proud to have sent legislation to the President’s desk to award him the Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest military award for valor.

The Medal of Honor is reserved only for those individuals that go above and beyond the call of duty in service to our nation. Major Capers is more than deserving of this recognition.

As May concludes, let us thank our troops for their service. Our nation is the strongest, safest, and most free country in the world thanks to their courage. 🇺🇸

🔗 https://norman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx.

PASS SAVE AMERICA

Tue, 26 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

As South Carolinians head to the polls starting today, remember a VALID PHOTO ID is required to vote.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Senate still refuses to pass the SAVE AMERICA ACT.

PASS IT!!

Meet Maj. James Capers

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 21:30:00 GMT

Please join me on Wednesday, April 12th as we meet and hear from Maj. James Capers, one of the most decorated Marines in Force Reconnaissance history!

I've filed a bill in the House, H.R. 587, to authorize the President to award the Medal of Honor to Maj. Capers for acts of valor during the Vietnam War. As the recipient of a Silver Star, two Bronze Stars with “V” for valor, and three Purple Hearts, I believe he is highly deserving of this honor.

During this special event, you'll get a chance to meet Maj. Capers, hear his story, and learn more about this effort in Congress. This event will held at the American Legion Post 34 in Rock Hill starting at 5:30 PM on Wednesday April 12th. It's free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be available.

This is sure to be a memorable event. I hope to see you there!

South Carolina Economic Forum

Wed, 04 May 2022 15:30:00 GMT

How long will inflation continue to rise? How long will labor shortages continue to be a problem? Is a recession on the horizon? How should companies and employees prepare for the next 12-18 months?

To help answer these questions, I’ll be hosting and moderating a special forum in Sumter starting at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, May 4th. Joining me to provide their insight will be three experts on South Carolina’s economy and labor force:

Dr. Joey VonNessen – Research Economist, Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina
Michele Abraham – State Director, SC Small Business Development Center
Dr. Bryan Grady – Labor Market Information Director, SC Department of Employment and Workforce

This event will take place on the campus of Central Carolina Technical College in Seminar Room M401. Admission is free and this event is open to the public. (Please scroll down below for a map and parking information.)

Click here to view and download a PDF flyer for this forum.

PLEASE NOTE: Please see the map below for available parking lots. Seminar Room M401 is located inside Building M400.

Special Law Enforcement Forum on April 19th

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 19:30:00 GMT

ATTN: law enforcement officers and agencies – please join me for a special forum in Camden at 3:30 PM on Tuesday, April 19^th. This event will start at 3:30 PM at the Woolard Technology Center, located at 70 Innovation Way in Camden.

We’ll cover a wide variety of law enforcement topics, including crime trends throughout our congressional district, the rise in fentanyl & other illicit drugs, plus insights into various federal funds that are available for local law enforcement agencies.

Joining us will be guest expert presenters from SLED, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy. This will also be a great opportunity to hear directly from you, the men & women who keep our communities safe.

ALL law enforcement officers and agencies are welcomed to attend this free event, which should last about an hour. There will be plenty of parking & seating, and light refreshments will be provided. This forum is also open to the general public, so any constituents who would like to learn about these issues and show their support for our law enforcement officers are welcome to attend as well.

For questions, please contact Joseph Mott in my congressional office at 202-740-6881 or by email at Joseph.Mott@mail.house.gov.

To the men and women in law enforcement, THANK YOU for the hard work you’re doing, and I hope to see many of you on Tuesday, April 19^th!

Click here to download a print-ready PDF flyer.

Tele-Town Hall - April 5, 2022 6:00 PM

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 22:00:00 GMT

Please make your calendar for Tuesday, April 5th at 6:00 PM ET for a special live telephone town hall. Joining me will be two other congressman from South Carolina, Rep. Jeff Duncan and Rep. William Timmons!

During this call, we'll be discussing the important domestic issues facing our country, including rising inflation, increases in violent crime, and alarming levels of illegal immigration. We’ll also discuss the U.S. response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and other topics. Additionally, I’ll take as many questions from callers as time will permit.

There is no cost to participate, and it's easy to register. Simply visit the link below to provide your number, and we'll call you directly when the live event begins at 6:00 PM on April 5th. (Your phone number will remain private.)

*** Important note: there will be tens of thousands of people on the phone during this live call. Because of the large volume, it will take a few minutes to dial out to everyone, so please be patient. Similar questions will be consolidated with 1-2 callers. If you have any follow-up questions, please remain on the line at the end of the call to leave a message, which will be returned as soon as possible.

I also plan on live-streaming this event on my Facebook page, and make it available for replay on Facebook and my congressional website by the following afternoon.

We have a lot of important issues facing our nation, and these telephone town halls have been a very effective way to talk directly with thousands of constituents. I hope you can join me for this special event. Once again, to register to be automatically dialed at the start of this call, please visit:

https://norman.house.gov/forms/form/?ID=8

York County Town Hall

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 21:30:00 GMT

I'll be hosting a live town hall in York County on Thursday, September 2^nd!

This town hall will be taking place at the York Electric Co-Op, located at 1385 Alexander Love Hwy in York. We'll get started at 5:30 PM with a legislative update on recent votes, major initiatives in Congress, and a look at what's ahead over the next 6-12 months. And of course I'll take questions from those in attendance. This town hall should last around an hour, depending on how many questions there are.

Additionally, I've invited a couple of experts from a great organization called Americans for Prosperity to attend this event. They'll be speaking for a short while about some of the wasteful spending coming out of Washington, and what effect that will have on us and our future generations. In fact, wasteful spending will likely be a big theme for this particular town hall.

If you live in western York County or eastern Cherokee County, this may be the closest event to you. However, I'm holding several other town halls that week around South Carolina’s 5th congressional district, so please check out the Events page on my website for additional town halls if this date or location isn't convenient.

*** Also, two important notes:

First, if you or someone you know needs assistance with any department of the federal government, I'll have an expert case worker from my office in attendance who will be able to help you directly. This includes the VA, IRS, immigration, passports, Social Security, Medicare, etc.

And second, if there are any updates or changes to this town hall, that information will be posted here and on my congressional Facebook page. Please be sure to check back closer to the event to make sure you have the latest information.

I hope to see you there!

=== UPDATE 8/20/2021 ===

I’ve received numerous questions about masks. Specifically, whether they’ll be “required” at my upcoming town halls. You all know I’m not in favor of mandates. Instead, here’s what I’d like everyone to know:

If you wish to wear a mask, that’s obviously fine. Understand, however, there will be individuals in attendance who choose NOT to wear a mask. Please treat them with decency and respect.

Likewise, if you do not wish to wear a mask, understand there will be individuals in attendance who choose TO wear one. Please treat them with decency and respect.

Next, I realize this is obvious, but if you’re symptomatic – I don’t care how mild your symptoms are – do not come. If you should be in quarantine or isolation pursuant to CDC guidelines, do not come. If there’s any chance your presence could jeopardize the health of others around you, do not come. Please see the links below for additional guidance from the CDC.

https://bit.ly/if-you-are-sick

https://bit.ly/when-to-quarantine

And finally, if you can’t make it in-person, I’ll be holding a live telephone town hall on Thursday, September 23^rd at 6:00 PM. (The date is firm, but the time may shift a little.) Details on that event will be posted soon.

Newberry County Town Hall

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 16:00:00 GMT

I'll be hosting a live town hall in Newberry County on Thursday, September 2^nd!

This town hall will be taking place at the Newberry Co-Op, located at 882 Wilson Road in Newberry. We'll get started at 12:00 PM with a legislative update on recent votes, major initiatives in Congress, and a look at what's ahead over the next 6-12 months. And of course I'll take questions from those in attendance. This town hall should last around an hour, depending on how many questions there are.

If you live in eastern Newberry County, western Kershaw County, or southern Union County, this may be the closest event to you. However, I'm holding several other town halls that week around South Carolina’s 5th congressional district, so please check out the Events page on my website for additional town halls if this date or location isn't convenient.

*** Also, two important notes:

I hope to see you there!

=== UPDATE 8/20/2021 ===

If you wish to wear a mask, that’s obviously fine. Understand, however, there will be individuals in attendance who choose NOT to wear a mask. Please treat them with decency and respect.

Likewise, if you do not wish to wear a mask, understand there will be individuals in attendance who choose TO wear one. Please treat them with decency and respect.

https://bit.ly/if-you-are-sick

https://bit.ly/when-to-quarantine

Kershaw County Town Hall

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 20:30:00 GMT

I'll be hosting a live town hall in Kershaw County on Wednesday, September 1^st!

This town hall will be taking place at Woolard Technology Center, located at 70 Innovation Way in Camden. We'll get started at 4:30 PM with a legislative update on recent votes, major initiatives in Congress, and a look at what's ahead over the next 6-12 months. And of course I'll take questions from those in attendance. This town hall should last around an hour, depending on how many questions there are.

If you live in Kershaw County, the northern parts of Sumter or Lee County, this may be the closest event to you. However, I'm holding several other town halls that week around South Carolina’s 5th congressional district, so please check out the Events page on my website for additional town halls if this date or location isn't convenient.

*** Also, two important notes:

I hope to see you there!

=== UPDATE 8/20/2021 ===

If you wish to wear a mask, that’s obviously fine. Understand, however, there will be individuals in attendance who choose NOT to wear a mask. Please treat them with decency and respect.

Likewise, if you do not wish to wear a mask, understand there will be individuals in attendance who choose TO wear one. Please treat them with decency and respect.

https://bit.ly/if-you-are-sick

https://bit.ly/when-to-quarantine

Sumter County Town Hall

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 16:00:00 GMT

I'll be hosting a live town hall in Sumter County on Wednesday, September 1^st!

This town hall will be taking place at The Restaurant at Second Mill, located at 2390 Broad St in Sumter. We'll get started at 12 noon with a legislative update on recent votes, major initiatives in Congress, and a look at what's ahead over the next 6-12 months. And of course I'll take questions from those in attendance. This town hall should last around an hour, depending on how many questions there are.

If you live in Sumter County or southern Lee County, this may be the closest event to you. However, I'm holding several other town halls that week around South Carolina’s 5th congressional district, so please check out the Events page on my website for additional town halls if this date or location isn't convenient.

*** Also, three important notes:

First, The Restaurant at Second Mill has been kind enough to offer their space for this event as a service to the community. While there's obviously no cost to attend and no obligation to purchase anything, please them for your lunch plans! (I know I will.) It would be a great way for all of us to say thanks to them.

Second, if you or someone you know needs assistance with any department of the federal government, I'll have an expert case worker from my office in attendance who will be able to help you directly. This includes the VA, IRS, immigration, passports, Social Security, Medicare, etc.

And finally, if there are any updates or changes to this town hall, that information will be posted here and on my congressional Facebook page. Please be sure to check back closer to the event to make sure you have the latest information.

I hope to see you there!

=== UPDATE 8/20/2021 ===

If you wish to wear a mask, that’s obviously fine. Understand, however, there will be individuals in attendance who choose NOT to wear a mask. Please treat them with decency and respect.

Likewise, if you do not wish to wear a mask, understand there will be individuals in attendance who choose TO wear one. Please treat them with decency and respect.

https://bit.ly/if-you-are-sick

https://bit.ly/when-to-quarantine

Spartanburg County Town Hall w/ Rep. William Timmons

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 20:00:00 GMT

I'll be hosting a live town hall with Rep. William Timmons in Spartanburg County on Tuesday, August 31st!

This town hall will be taking place at RJ Rockers Brewing Company & Restaurant, located at 226-A W Main St in Spartanburg. We'll get started at 4:00 PM with a legislative update on recent votes, major initiatives in Congress, and a look at what's ahead over the next 6-12 months. And of course I'll take questions from those in attendance. This town hall should last around an hour, depending on how many questions there are.

If you live in Spartanburg or Cherokee County, this may be the closest event to you. However, I'm holding several other town halls that week around South Carolina’s 5th congressional district, so please check out the Events page on my website for additional town halls if this date or location isn't convenient.

*** Also, three important notes:

First, RJ Rockers has been kind enough to offer their space for this event as a service to the community. While there's obviously no cost to attend and no obligation to purchase food, please consider drinks, appetizers, or even sticking around afterwards for dinner! It would be a great way for all of us to say thanks to them.

I hope to see you there!

=== UPDATE 8/20/2021 ===

If you wish to wear a mask, that’s obviously fine. Understand, however, there will be individuals in attendance who choose NOT to wear a mask. Please treat them with decency and respect.

Likewise, if you do not wish to wear a mask, understand there will be individuals in attendance who choose TO wear one. Please treat them with decency and respect.

https://bit.ly/if-you-are-sick

https://bit.ly/when-to-quarantine

Union County Town Hall

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 16:00:00 GMT

I'll be hosting a live town hall in Union County during the lunch hour on Tuesday, August 31^st!

This town hall will be taking place at Midway BBQ, located at 881 Main Street in Buffalo, SC. We'll get started at 12:00 noon with a legislative update on recent votes, major initiatives in Congress, and a look at what's ahead over the next 6-12 months. And of course I'll take questions from those in attendance. This town hall should last around an hour, depending on how many questions there are.

If you live in Union County, southern Cherokee County, or western Chester County, this may be the closest event to you. However, I'm holding several other town halls that week around South Carolina’s 5th congressional district, so please check out the Events page on my website for additional town halls if this date or location isn't convenient.

*** Also, three important notes:

First, Midway BBQ has been kind enough to offer their space for this event as a service to the community. While there's obviously no cost to attend and no obligation to purchase lunch, please consider Midway for your lunch plans. (I know I will.) It would be a great way for all of us to say thanks to them.

I hope to see you there!

=== UPDATE 8/20/2021 ===

If you wish to wear a mask, that’s obviously fine. Understand, however, there will be individuals in attendance who choose NOT to wear a mask. Please treat them with decency and respect.

Likewise, if you do not wish to wear a mask, understand there will be individuals in attendance who choose TO wear one. Please treat them with decency and respect.

https://bit.ly/if-you-are-sick

https://bit.ly/when-to-quarantine