Constituents say Rep. David Rouzer’s office declined meeting

SURF CITY, NC (WWAY) — Some constituents in Surf City say their voices weren’t heard when they were trying to express their concerns to their representative. 

Each month, US House Representative David Rouzer holds a public meeting that constituents can attend to share their thoughts, concerns, or to ask questions, to Rouzer, someone attending on his behalf. 

The Town of Surf City provides a temporary office space for the meeting at the town’s municipal complex. 

But this month, more people showed up than normal, and they were told to relocate to a larger space at the town’s welcome center. 

After waiting, the group was told that the staffer would not be hearing their concerns. 

 Susan Kirkendoll said she was there to express her concern about Elon Musk’s growing influence in the federal government. 

“Him having control now over the treasury and stopping payments. Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, he can stop, start, do whatever he wants,” Kirkendoll expressed. “We just wanted to be heard and be active, and not just sit and home and think ‘okay, well it’ll be alright,’ no, it’s not alright.” 

Kirkendol said other constituents were concerned about their social security benefits, and Rouzer’s proposal to dismantle the department of education. 

“As a constituent, I want my congressman to hear my opinion, no matter what side he’s on, left or right. He needs to be available for people to hear their concerns and he did not do that for us.” 

We reached out to Rouzer’s office about the incident. Communications Director Stowater sent WWAY a statement that reads:

“Congressman Rouzer’s office holds mobile office hours throughout his district to ensure constituents can receive one-on-one assistance with casework. It’s unfortunate an organized group of protesters disrupted individuals who had traveled to Surf City seeking help with agencies like the VA, Social Security Administration, and Immigration and Customs. Congressman Rouzer’s office remains committed to listening to constituents’ concerns, however it’s important for those exchanges to take place in a respectful and orderly way.

Any constituents who wish to share their opinions or need assistance dealing with a federal agency can visit Rouzer.house.gov for more information.”