Columns

From calving and planting to spring cleaning to graduations, busyness often seems to take on a special intensity across the early months of the year. This year has been no exception, and in the House of Representatives the new Majority has been hard at work on behalf of the American people.

Americans everywhere are still struggling under record inflation. The March Consumer Price Index, a key inflation indicator, showed a five percent inflation rate, with overall food prices up 8.5 percent over March of last year. Since 2021, Americans’ wages have declined 3.7 percent, which partially explains why workforce participation rates are so low at 62.6 percent. This has a ripple effect across our economy, leaving hardworking families and small businesses in a difficult position.

This spring I have been delighted to greet so many young Nebraskans from the Third District visiting Washington on school and family trips. It is always inspiring to see their patriotic curiosity in government service and hear the hopefulness in their questions. I have also appreciated the opportunity to visit several schools and learning centers during my travels in the Third District. Nebraska has a strong tradition of investment in younger generations, and I am always grateful to meet the dedicated sponsors and educators who invest in these students every day.

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.

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), chairman of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, released the following statement after the Biden administration announced a critical minerals agreement with Japan for electric vehicle battery development:

Elementary and secondary education has earned a spotlight nationwide, especially after schools went online during the pandemic. The unique setting provided parents a firsthand look at what goes on inside classrooms. Many didn’t like what they found and demanded greater involvement in determining their children’s educational content and experiences. While the solution isn’t about public vs.

The recent failures of Signature Bank and Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) have increased the concerns of many over the threat of a deepening international economic crisis. While the failure of major financial institutions is particularly troubling on top of the inflation and supply chain problems of the past two years, we should take time to ensure new policies enacted in response address real problems without harming the majority of local banks across states like Nebraska who are unconnected to the failed banks.

Agriculture producers in Nebraska have earned their standing as world leaders in agriculture through their excellence and tradition of respecting the natural resources with which our state is blessed. No one cares more about the land and water of our state than the farmers and ranchers whose livelihoods depend on careful management these resources.