Columns

The massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut has caused grief and reflection across the nation.  I join all Nebraskans and Americans in mourning the victims and in prayer for their families and friends.  Such an act of horror naturally invites debate over what can and should be done to protect children and prevent senseless acts of violence in the future.

One of the most basic functions of government is to pass a budget – to decide how to use tax dollars based on the needs of the nation.  The House of Representatives has passed a budget every year since Republicans won a majority, but the House cannot act alone.  The Senate, which has not passed a budget in nearly four years, must also act to address our long-term deficit and debt.