Ted Budd: United States Senator Representing North Carolina

Theodore Paul Budd, commonly known as Ted Budd, is a prominent American businessman and politician serving as the junior United States Senator from North Carolina since January 3, 2023. His journey from a family farm in Davie County to the halls of Congress reflects a commitment to conservative principles, business acumen, and public service. ​

Early Life and Education

Ted Budd was born on October 21, 1971, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. During his early years, his family relocated to a 300-acre farm along the Yadkin River in Davie County, where they raised cattle and chickens. Budd's father, Richard, was a small business owner, operating a facility-services company. This rural upbringing instilled in Budd a strong work ethic and an appreciation for agriculture and entrepreneurship.​

Budd attended Davie County High School, graduating in 1990. He then pursued higher education at Appalachian State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1994. Furthering his academic credentials, Budd obtained a Master of Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1998 and a Master of Business Administration from Wake Forest University in 2007. These diverse educational experiences equipped him with a unique blend of theological insight and business expertise.​

Professional Career

Before entering politics, Budd was actively involved in the business sector. He worked for his family's janitorial company and later ventured into entrepreneurship by owning and managing a gun store in Rural Hall, North Carolina. His business endeavors provided him with firsthand experience in managing operations, finances, and customer relations, reinforcing his conservative views on fiscal responsibility and limited government intervention.​

Political Career

U.S. House of Representatives (2017–2023)

Budd's political journey began in 2016 when he ran for North Carolina's 13th congressional district seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Despite being a political newcomer, he secured the Republican nomination in a crowded primary, aided by support from conservative groups. In the general election, Budd defeated Democratic candidate Bruce Davis, emphasizing his commitment to conservative values and business-friendly policies.​

During his tenure in the House, Budd was known for his staunch conservative stance. He voted in favor of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and supported various Defense Authorization Spending Bills during the Trump administration. Budd also backed the United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement, highlighting its potential benefits for North Carolina's agricultural sector. Conversely, he opposed legislation such as the American Rescue Plan Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act under President Biden.​

Budd was an active member of the Freedom Caucus and the Republican Study Committee, aligning himself with the more conservative factions within the Republican Party. His committee assignments included the Committee on Financial Services, where he served on subcommittees focused on Consumer Protection and Financial Institutions, as well as Diversity and Inclusion.​

U.S. Senate (2023–Present)

In 2022, Budd announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by retiring Republican Senator Richard Burr. With endorsements from key figures, including former President Donald Trump, Budd secured the Republican nomination. In the general election, he faced Democratic nominee Cheri Beasley, a former Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. Budd's campaign focused on conservative principles, economic growth, and border security, resonating with many North Carolinians and leading to his victory.​

Legislative Priorities and Policy Positions

Senator Budd's legislative agenda reflects his commitment to conservative values, economic development, and national security.​

Economic Policy

Budd advocates for limited government intervention in the economy, emphasizing tax cuts, deregulation, and free-market principles. He supports policies aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, reducing the tax burden on individuals and businesses, and promoting job creation. Budd's experience as a business owner informs his perspective on the challenges faced by small businesses and the importance of creating a conducive environment for their growth.​

Healthcare

Budd supports market-based healthcare solutions that increase competition and provide consumers with more choices. He has opposed expansive government-run healthcare programs, arguing that they lead to increased costs and reduced quality of care. Instead, he advocates for policies that promote transparency, reduce regulatory burdens, and encourage innovation in the healthcare sector.​

Second Amendment Rights

As a gun store owner and National Rifle Association (NRA) member, Budd is a staunch defender of Second Amendment rights. He opposes restrictive gun control measures and supports legislation that upholds the rights of law-abiding citizens to own and carry firearms. Budd's firsthand experience in the firearms industry provides him with a unique perspective on issues related to gun rights and regulations.

Immigration and Border Security

Budd advocates for strong border security measures to address illegal immigration. He supports the construction of physical barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border, increased funding for border enforcement agencies, and policies that deter illegal entry into the country. Budd emphasizes the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of American citizens.​

Education

Budd supports school choice initiatives, including charter schools and voucher programs, to provide parents with more options for their children's education. He believes that competition in the education system can lead to improved quality and outcomes. Budd also emphasizes the importance of local control over education policies and curricula.​

Committee Assignments

As a U.S. Senator, Budd serves on several key committees that align with his policy interests and the needs of North Carolina:

• Committee on Armed Services: Addressing issues related to national defense and the U.S. military.

• Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP): Focusing on matters related to healthcare, education, labor, and pensions.

• Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: Overseeing issues pertaining to commerce, science, transportation, and communications.

• Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship: Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurial endeavors.

Personal Life

Ted Budd met his wife, Amy Kate Adams, during a mission trip to the Soviet Union in 1991. The couple married in 1994 and have three children. They reside on the family farm in Davie County, North Carolina. The Budds homeschool their children, reflecting their commitment to personalized education and family values. Budd is also actively involved in his community, serving as an assistant scoutmaster in his son's Boy Scout troop.

Final Summary

Senator Ted Budd's journey from a rural North Carolina farm to the United States Senate embodies his dedication to conservative principles, business experience, and public service. His legislative focus on economic growth, healthcare reform, Second Amendment rights, border security, and education reflects his commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of his constituents. As he continues his tenure in the Senate, Budd remains a steadfast advocate for policies that promote individual liberties, economic prosperity, and national security.\

References

Ballotpedia. (n.d.). Ted Budd. Retrieved March 30, 2025, from https://ballotpedia.org/Ted_Budd

Biographical Directory of the United States Congress. (n.d.). Budd, Theodore Paul. Retrieved March 30, 2025, from https://bioguide.congress.gov/search/bio/B001305

United States Senate. (n.d.). Senator Ted Budd. Retrieved March 30, 2025, from https://www.budd.senate.gov/

The News & Observer. (2022, November 9). Republican Ted Budd wins U.S. Senate seat in North Carolina, defeating Cheri Beasley. Retrieved from https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article268515992.html

WRAL. (2023, January 3). Ted Budd sworn in as U.S. senator, pledges to protect conservative values. Retrieved from https://www.wral.com/story/ted-budd-sworn-in-as-us-senator-pledges-to-protect-conservative-values/20656289/

Politico. (2022, May 17). Trump-backed Ted Budd wins North Carolina GOP Senate primary. Retrieved from https://www.politico.com/news/2022/05/17/ted-budd-north-carolina-senate-00033236

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