Columns
Spanning our state - Missouri River to panhandle - Nebraska’s Third District has been blessed with a breadth of natural resources. Although much of our state is naturally arid, generations of hard work, determination, and feats of engineering have maximized our resources to provide for local needs, feed the world, and minimize flooding risks.
As we look ahead to America 250 next year – a milestone which invites reflection on our nation’s remarkable journey – I am reminded of the timeless wisdom of those who guided us through earlier tests of unity and purpose.
While we have successfully enacted major legislation this year to protect our borders, cut taxes for families, and restore faith in government this year, opportunities abound for further progress to improve the lives of Nebraska families. Nowhere is that more clear than in the House Ways and Means Committee, where I serve.
This week, as we do every November 11, America paused to remember the brave men and women who have put their lives on the line to defend liberty and opportunity for their neighbors at home and friends of freedom around the world. The following day, the House of Representatives approved the Senate-passed agreement which will reopen the federal government through the end of January.
On October 15, despite the ongoing federal government shutdown, the Medicare open enrollment window began. This important annual opportunity allows seniors to select their Medicare coverage, including Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, for 2026.
As farmers conclude the harvest season, market access for high-quality American products is top of mind for the agriculture industry. Because Third District Nebraskans have an extraordinary ability to meet demand for consumers around the globe, advancing sound trade policy is at the forefront of my work in Congress.
American farmers and ranchers work hard to provide the world with high-quality, nutritious, and affordable food options, all while dealing with many challenges outside of their control. Agricultural markets are inherently volatile, and the high-risk nature of the agriculture industry means producers are particularly exposed.
It is now nearly one month since the House passed its clean continuing resolution to keep open the federal government. On September 19, House Republicans did our job. We passed legislation which would have prevented—and still could immediately end—the shutdown. This funding bill has received bipartisan support in the Senate.
Events in recent weeks have highlighted the importance of safety, security, and the vital role of law enforcement in our communities. Violence has no place in American life, yet we have seen troubling attacks and disruptions within our country as well as international unrest which puts Americans abroad and our allies at risk.
Each day hardworking parents, farmers, ranchers, linesmen, teachers, and laborers across the country get out of bed and do what it takes to provide for their families and pay their bills. This week, as Americans continued to go to work, unfortunately ideological, partisan demands from Senate Democrats again obstructed commonsense legislation to keep the federal government open.