After traveling more than 1,500 miles and holding public events across all 12 counties of the 8th District in August and speaking with so many of you, I heard time and time again that we share a lot of the same concerns. Our outrage at the president’s dangerous nuclear deal with Iran, our disgust at the alleged crimes by Planned Parenthood, and our need to bring good-paying jobs here were some of the most talked about topics. I return to Washington for the week this week, and I can assure you that continuing to work to address these concerns remains at the top of my list. I’d like to take this opportunity to let you know what I’ve been doing on these important issues.

We must hold Planned Parenthood accountable for the revolting practices highlighted in recent videos. As I know you are, I continue to be absolutely appalled and disgusted by the barbaric actions that were discussed. My anger over the practices highlighted in these videos is heightened as Renee and I prepare for the arrival of our first child. That’s why I support legislation that defunds Planned Parenthood and have led the fight for a full investigation into the organization. I stand firm in my belief that our tax dollars should not be used to perpetuate these and other gruesome practices embraced by Planned Parenthood.

While it’s obvious we must defund Planned Parenthood, we also need a full investigation into alleged criminal activity, and we have to demand that federal prosecutors hold these bad actors accountable. That’s why my colleagues on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and I will hold hearings in the coming weeks to get all the facts behind these abhorrent videos, and I will continue to put pressure on the U.S. Justice Department to prosecute those responsible for any crimes that were committed. Our country has no place for such heartless indifference for life, and these folks must be held accountable. Life is the most sacred, precious gift from God that begins at conception, and I will continue to fight to protect it.

Hands down, the most prevalent topic discussed in the last month was staunch opposition to President Obama’s nuclear deal with Iran. I’ve made myself abundantly clear that I oppose this deal. The more we learn about it, the worse it sounds for us and our allies. With secret side deals, skepticism from nuclear experts, a pathetic, untrustworthy verification process, and $150 billion to the world’s largest state sponsor of terror — this deal is not a victory, it’s a surrender. That’s why I remain committed to fighting to stop the president’s nuclear deal with Iran and keeping our country safe. Perhaps no vote in September will be as significant as my vote of disapproval of this dangerous deal.

And last — but not least — jobs. It’s clear we understand our economy is made stronger and jobs are created not by government, but by the hard work of our small business owners and the strength of the American worker. I know you work hard — for yourself, for your family and for our community — and that’s why I’m fighting in Congress on your behalf. With Labor Day this week, I tip my hat to you and celebrate your contribution to our economy and your hard work to build a stronger nation.

Clearly, there will be some tough issues ahead, but you can trust me to continue listening to your concerns and ideas, standing on our shared principles, and fighting on your behalf.

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Richard Hudson, a Republican from Concord, represents the 8th District in the U.S. House of Representatives, which includes most of Robeson County.