Energy

This week, the House was set to continue its work on the twelve annual appropriations bills to ensure the government is responsibly funded. Unfortunately, our legislative work to cut wasteful spending was disrupted when a small handful of Republicans voted with Democrats to remove the Speaker of the House. I voted against vacating the chair because it sets a disruptive precedent and because the House should be focused on delivering results for the American people.

Poorly considered policy driven by ideological agendas can have devastating consequences for Americans, bringing the greatest harm to those with the least recourse when good intentions go awry. There’s always room for improvement in federal policy. However, damage is often avoidable if decision-makers simply take the time to consider the impact of their decisions upon Americans and the variety of their needs and lifestyles across our country.

Over the last month, I’ve had the opportunity to meet with constituents in many of the Third District’s 80 counties. It has been a busy time with many hours spent behind the windshield, and I'm encouraged by the Nebraskans doing so much to help our communities thrive. From farmers and ranchers to entrepreneurs and small businesses to educators and families preparing the next generation, Nebraskans are working hard to support their families, serve their neighbors, and make our state a better place.

The significance of the agriculture industry to Nebraska’s Third District cannot be overstated. As the nation’s leading congressional district in market value of agriculture products sold, our farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our state’s economy. Ensuring federal agriculture policy reflects the needs of Nebraska’s outstanding producers places the Farm Bill among my top legislative priorities.

2023’s first quarter economic report showed a decline in the U.S. GDP growth rate to 1.1 percent, making clear the lasting impact severe inflation has had on our economy. The damage done by reckless and wasteful spending emphasizes the importance of fiscal responsibility and pro-growth policies. This is especially true as our nation’s debt crisis remains unresolved and we barrel toward reaching our debt ceiling.

Over the past two years, consumers everywhere have felt the consequences of stifled energy production and dependence on foreign energy sources. From day one of the Biden administration, the president’s misguided energy policies have caused skyrocketing energy prices. As fuel prices shot up more than 60 percent, families struggled to pay for essentials like gas and groceries. Sadly, this forced many to resort to increasing their levels of household debt or burning through their family savings.