Columns
On July 4, 2026, we celebrated 250 years of the greatest experiment in self-governance the world has ever known—the United States of America. From the thirteen original colonies to the fifty states, one federal district, and several territories we know today, our nation's history is nothing if not storied.
When I am not fighting for Nebraskans in Washington, I am back home meeting with constituents across Nebraska's Third District. From Kimball to Auburn, Valentine to Superior, and everywhere in between, the conversations I have with Nebraskans help shape my work in Congress. There is no substitute for hearing directly from the people I represent, and every visit gives me a better understanding of how I can better serve our state.
As we celebrate Independence Day, our nation stands on the doorstep of an extraordinary milestone. On July 4, 2026, Americans will mark 250 years since the birth of the United States—the greatest experiment in self-governance the world has ever known.
From our founding pioneers to today, Nebraskans have always been known for our grit, determination, and resilience. Unfortunately, this year those characteristics have been tested like never before as communities across our state faced the worst wildfires in Nebraska’s history.
There is nothing quite like summer in Nebraska. Long days in the hayfields give way to evenings at the ballpark with family and friends. Weekends offer opportunities to float our winding rivers, spend hours outside fishing, or simply gather with neighbors to celebrate the season.
As we approach the 250th anniversary of our great nation, I often find myself reflecting on the miracle of the American experience. As a sixth‑generation Nebraskan, I am proud to call it home. It is where I grew up, where I chose to raise my family, and for whom I have the privilege of serving in Congress.
Every day, I go to work in Congress with a simple goal: to help make life a little better for Nebraska’s families by working to solve problems, strengthen our communities, and create opportunities for the next generation.
Six years ago, Washington managed to do something many people thought was impossible. Amidst President Trump’s first term and Democrat leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives, Republicans and Democrats came together to enact the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
In today’s political environment, that kind of bipartisan accomplishment feels increasingly rare. However, it happened because lawmakers on both sides recognized how important trade with our North American neighbors is to American workers, manufacturers, and farmers.
In Congress, I work every day to make the American Dream more attainable by advancing commonsense policies that strengthen our communities, support working families, and preserve the values that make our nation great.
From Falls City to Lyman, Valentine to Superior, and everywhere in between, Nebraska’s Third District is home to some of the hardest-working people I know. Serving them in Congress remains the honor of a lifetime, and one I will never take for granted.