McMaster Leads Republican Governors in Support of Trump's DOGE Initiative

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South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster led fellow Republican governors in sending a joint letter to Congressional leadership expressing their support for President-elect Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Initiative, as well as emphasizing the importance of balancing the federal budget.

“We are writing today to express our overwhelming support for President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Initiative and request that Congress work alongside him to solidify the efficiencies that are found into law," the governors wrote. 

They added, "As chief executives for our states, we know a thing or two about streamlining government, removing unnecessary bureaucracy, and bringing efficient, result-driven solutions to state government. We stand by President Trump as he works to do the same with the federal government." 

The letter continued: “These results don’t just happen overnight. Our states are successful because we live within our means. We balance our budgets, lower taxes, leverage surpluses, pay down debt, improve the efficiency of state governments, and create an environment where our constituents can build a prosperous future for themselves, their family, and their community.

“It is past time for Washington to live within its means too. We support President Trump’s appointment of Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy and agree with their assertion that the federal government needs to be cut down to size. We stand ready to help.”

Led by McMaster, RGA Policy chair, signatories include: Governor Kay Ivey (AL) Governor Mike Dunleavy (AK), Governor Sarah Sanders (AR), Governor Ron DeSantis (FL), Governor Brian Kemp (GA), Governor Brad Little (ID), Governor Eric Holcomb (IN), Governor Kim Reynolds (IA), Governor Jeff Landry (LA), Governor Tate Reeves (MS), Governor Mike Parson (MO), Governor Greg Gianforte (MT), Governor Jim Pillen (NE), Governor Joe Lombardo (NV) Governor Kelly Ayotte (NH), Governor Kelly Armstrong (ND), Governor Mike DeWine (OH), Governor Kevin Stitt (OK), Governor Kristi Noem (SD), Governor Bill Lee (TN), Governor Greg Abbott (TX), Governor Spencer Cox (UT), Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA), Governor Jim Justice (WV), and Governor Mark Gordon (WY).

New Powerboat Retail Sales in 2024 Declined

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), which represents approximately 85 percent of the U.S. market for recreational boat, marine engine and accessory manufacturers, reported total new powerboat retail unit sales in 2024 declined an estimated 9-12 percent, to approximately. 230,000-240,000 units in the U.S. 

Throughout 2024, the industry continued to normalize following record demand during the COVID pandemic while navigating persistent inflationary pressures and rising interest rates, officials said.

Looking to 2025, NMMA anticipates sales of new powerboats to begin to show signs of a return to growth driven by innovative new products, changes in U.S. economic policies and consistent consumer demand for on-water experiences. 

With Americans continuing to hit the water in record numbers since 2020, U.S. boating expenditures in 2025 are expected to sustain those record highs and come in as much as 3-5 percent above 2024’s anticipated final tally of $55 billion.

In terms of boat sales trends, new freshwater fishing boats, one of the largest boat segments from a volume standpoint, held steady in 2024 and are expected to end the year flat compared to 2023 at approximately 51,000-54,000 new units sold. 

The other two volume leaders in 2024 were new personal watercraft and new pontoon boats, estimated to see approximately 70,000-75,000 and 52,000-55,000 new unit sales, respectively, with expected declines between 10-13 percent in 2024. 

Officials said that in addition to providing a versatile experience, these categories often represent a lower comparable price point and ease of use as they are typically towed to local waterways, signaling continued demand for boating among value-seeking buyers.

Synovus Names Katie Webb Chief Consumer Digital And Client Experience Officer

Synovus has named Katie Webb as its chief consumer digital and client experience officer. 

Webb will lead the consumer digital strategy, focusing on enhancing the client experience through strategic integration of physical and digital channels. 

Officials said she will drive development of new digital capabilities and innovative experiences to ensure Synovus continues to meet the evolving needs of its growing client base. 

Webb reports to Liz Wolverton, executive vice president, head of consumer banking and brand experience.

“Our digital capabilities are a critical part of delivering high-touch and high-tech relationship banking, which includes an efficient experience that embeds elements of advice and guidance to help our clients manage their financial lives,” Wolverton said.

Wolverton added, “Katie has a proven track record of using advanced technologies to create engaging and empowering experiences. We’re thrilled to have her on board to build enabling capabilities for Synovus clients and team members.”

Webb joins Synovus from Aflac, where she served as the vice president of digital product and experience, leading digital innovation and transformation. 

She has more than 15 years of experience in sales, marketing and digital, with a strong background in the financial services industry.

Synovus Bank, a Georgia-chartered, FDIC-insured bank, has branches in Georgia, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina and Tennessee.

A Faster and More Convenient Way to Request a Social Security Number and Card 

Do you need an original Social Security number or a replacement Social Security card? 

Social Security officials say they offer a faster and more convenient way for you to start – and possibly finish – the application online.

When you visit the  Social Security number and card page, the officials will ask you a few questions to determine the best way for you to apply. 

You may be able to:

* Complete the application online.

* Start the application online, self-schedule an appointment, then bring any required documents to your local Social Security office or card center to complete the process.

* Schedule an in-office appointment to complete your application. If you are not able to use our online option or you do not get the option to schedule an appointment online, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment at a local office or card center.

If you need to visit a local Social Security office or card center, you are urged to make an appointment.

Before your visit to complete your application, you also are urged to follow these steps:

1. Determine what documents you need to bring with you. They must be originals or certified copies.

2. Follow directions at the kiosk when you arrive at the office. Mobile Check-in Express makes it easier to check in. To use Mobile Check-in Express, scan the QR code posted near the entrance and turn on your mobile notifications.

Officials will alert you when they’re ready to help you.

3. Meet with an employee who will verify the information you submitted online and review your documents. Social Security employees don’t need to keep them.

Whether you apply for a Social Security card online or at an office, officials will process the application and mail a card to you, usually within 14 business days.

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