Columns

While Nebraska continues to see a strong job market, the national economy remains weak with unemployment above 8 percent for 39 consecutive months. The tepid pace of growth is due in large part to the overregulation coming out of Washington, paralyzing employers with uncertainty. And just as a rising tide lifts all boats, the opposite is also true.

As I travel the Third District, one of the issues I hear about most often is the future of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The USPS is an important part of life in Rural America, where efficient and effective mail delivery is vital to commerce and everyday life.

Dealing with severe weather is an unfortunate part of life in Nebraska. As we saw with last year’s record flooding, nature can be unpredictable and unrelenting. Ensuring you, your family, your home, and your business are prepared for a weather emergency is critical to minimizing the devastating impact extreme events can have on life and property.

This past week marked the 64^th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel. From day one, the United States and Israel have enjoyed a strategic partnership based on shared democratic values, friendship, and respect.

Agriculture is a bright spot in our nation’s economy, sustainably meeting growing demands to provide food, feed, fuel and fiber for the world. Nebraska’s producers are masters of efficiency and make high-quality products. As the landscape continues to evolve, public policy will have to change with it.

Nebraska has always had a rich tradition of service. Each year, young men and women from the Third District attend our nation’s prestigious Service Academies. These institutions provide a first-rate education and unmatched opportunities for young people looking to achieve their highest potential in education and service.

While pranks are common on such a day, it was no joke when on April 1^st the United States’ 35 percent corporate tax rate became the highest in the world. Our current system is a relic of the Post-War era, when the U.S. reigned as the unchallenged industrial leader, and government efficiently regulated the market.

America’s looming debt crisis is the most predictable – and avoidable – economic calamity in our nation’s history. Make no mistake: empty promises from both political parties have gotten us where we are today. This explosion of debt is threatening to cripple our nation and rob our children and grandchildren of their future.