Columns

Each year, Tax Day is an unpleasant reality check on how complicated and outdated our tax code has become. Tax reform is next on our legislative agenda, and we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lessen the burden on American families and businesses.

To help more people climb out of poverty, our federal social programs must have the end goals of independence and productivity. The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program, known as MIECHV (pronounced McVee), is a positive example.

Strong trade policy strengthens relationships around the world. Due to the efficiency of our agriculture producers, we have immense opportunity before us to boost our economy and improve diplomacy through trade. Pursuing an agreement with Japan, one of our allies and top trading partners, is a logical place to start.

Nebraska has a lot to celebrate during National Ag Week. Thanks to the hard work and innovative practices of our farmers and ranchers, the Third District is the top-producing agriculture district in the country. We are grateful for their many contributions to our lives and economy, and committed to ensuring a strong future for the industry.

There has been a lot of discussion lately about the rhetoric in our country. National news networks roll footage of contentious meetings between public officials and those they represent. On the other hand, my experiences in the Third District have made me even more proud to be a Nebraskan.

After nearly 18 hours of debate in the Ways and Means Committee, we passed the American Health Care Act on Thursday to begin the repeal and replacement of Obamacare. This was the first step in a longer process to unravel Obamacare's taxes and mandates, and reset our health care system.

With its healthy optimism and sense of urgency, it is no surprise President Trump’s address to Congress earned a 76 percent approval rating among viewers in a CBS News poll. Expectations are high among Americans, and they should be. We have a lot of work to do.

On March 1, 1867, Nebraska became the 37th state admitted to the Union. As we celebrate 150 years of statehood, we honor the legacies of all those who took great risks and overcame countless obstacles in pursuit of opportunity.