Congressman David Price Visits Enloe

When we think of the current political climate, we tend to have contrasting opinions on the national issues that plague the House and Senate floors. When it comes to issues such as immigration and the budget, the elected officials that work in the Capital seem even farther away from their constituents. However, there are exceptions to this truth; in fact, this is precisely what Representative David Price (D) from North Carolina’s 4th Congressional District is trying to change. On May 3, 2018, Congressman David Price stopped by the Eagle’s Eye for a press conference.

Coming from Tennessee to UNC-Chapel Hill as a Morehead Scholar, Price’s undergrad experience was a defining moment of his career. “I went to UNC during the Civil Rights Movement. The events and actions that took place during that time altered my outlook in terms of religious and political beliefs.”

Presently, Congressman Price serves for The Triangle area. “When I first ran for a congressional office [in 1987], the 4th district was massive area-wise, containing multiple counties.” Congressman Price explains. “We will be adding a seat to make 14 NC Congressional Districts due to the rapid population increase.”

Being a part of Congress now for over 30 years, Congressman Price elaborated on how the political arena has changed. “I am worried about American politics,” he says. “Comprehensive immigration reforms are currently impossible. We can’t even do things on gun violence. We don’t know how to do it.” Congress has become divided to the point that it is unable settle on anything.

Although Price points out issues that have distanced the political parties, he also has seen successful cooperation through his congressional experience. “Not everything is consumed by partisanship,” he explains. “I am currently doing a project to reinitiate a bipartisan outreach program that develops underdeveloped legislatures around the world in countries such as Afghanistan, Kenya, and Indonesia.” The congressman also believes that Democrats and Republicans are starting to meet in the middle on issues such as gay rights, criminal justice reform, and net neutrality. “I do foresee Congress coming together and reversing the decision on ending net neutrality with an extraordinary majority.”