David Rouzer, Representative of North Carolina, emphasized the importance of advanced manufacturing in his district for national security and the support of American service members. This statement was made on the social media platform X.
“It was great to tour Raglan Defense Technology and see firsthand how their cutting-edge work supports our national defense,” said David Cheston Rouzer, U.S. Representative from North Carolina. “In NC-07, they’re building the advanced systems which help keep our service members safe and our country secure. Manufacturing like this is not only the backbone of our economy. It’s also vital to our defense readiness.”
Defense manufacturers in North Carolina’s 7th Congressional District contribute directly to U.S. national security by producing key aerospace components and military technologies. According to the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, companies such as GE Aviation and General Dynamics play a strategic role in supplying equipment and supporting the Department of Defense. These firms also boost the local economy through skilled employment and innovation.
As reported by the Aerospace Industries Association, North Carolina’s aerospace and defense sector supported over 19,500 jobs in 2023, with nearly $2 billion in wages. Of those jobs, about 9,200 were direct industry positions while the remainder were in supporting roles. This reflects the sector’s deep integration into the state’s workforce and economy. These jobs represent 0.88% of the national total in aerospace and defense.
North Carolina ranks among the top states for defense spending impact, receiving $12.5 billion in Department of Defense funds in 2023 and generating $66 billion annually through defense-related activity. According to the Department of Defense’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program, the state’s military and contractor footprint surpasses that of many others, supported by billions in prime contracts and a robust defense industrial base.
According to Wikipedia, David Rouzer is a Republican serving North Carolina’s 7th District since 2015, following earlier roles in the North Carolina Senate and as a policy advisor. He currently serves on the House Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, Agriculture, and Science, Space and Technology, with a legislative focus on infrastructure, coastal resilience, and economic development.
