Columns
In Nebraska, August marks the close of summer and the beginning of a busy new season. It means the return of Husker football and volleyball games, final preparations ahead of harvest, and the rush of back-to-school shopping.
Across our state, parents are helping their sons and daughters move into college dorms, sending them off on a new adventure, or getting younger students ready for their first day back in the classroom.
Now that the August district work period is officially underway, I am excited to spend the coming weeks on the road, listening to Nebraskans across the Third District and seeing firsthand the opportunities and challenges facing our communities.
I hit the ground running this week with a swing through the Panhandle, hearing directly from constituents about the issues that matter most to them and discussing how we can keep working together to make the Good Life an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.
As Congress begins its August work period, I’m looking forward to being back home meeting with Nebraskans across the Third District. As I prepare for my travels, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on my work for you over the past several months.
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.