{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"NE\" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-new-years-statement-0", "Congressman Flood\u2019s New Year's Statement", "2024-12-31", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a recorded statement ahead of New Year\u2019s Day, which is observed January 1, 2025. Video of the remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. Full text of the speech is provided below.\n\nFriends and fellow Nebraskans,\n\nAs we approach the New Year, I want to take a moment to reflect on some of the high points from 2024. This seems especially important given the constant stream of negative stories often dominating the airwaves and social media platforms.\n\nOver the past year, House Republicans have worked to tackle burdensome red tape and kept government working for the American people. Thanks to Speaker Johnson and our leadership team, we\u2019ve successfully navigated tough political issues with a narrow majority.\n\nThis November, Republicans held our majority in the House, President Donald Trump reclaimed the presidency, and we took back the Senate\u2026 creating a conservative trifecta to deliver for the American people in the upcoming year.\n\nIn Nebraska, all five members of our federal delegation will return next year to continue working for you.\n\nOver the past year, I\u2019m proud to say that my office has helped hundreds of constituents with federal agency casework and helped to secure $48 million to fund projects throughout the First District of Nebraska. My team and I are here to serve the people of Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District, and we look forward to assisting you in the year ahead.\n\nThank you once again for the opportunity to represent the First District. From Lincoln to Norfolk and Columbus to Bellevue and everywhere in between, I continue to advocate for you and the communities we all love.\n\nWe have so much to be grateful for this year and even more to look forward to in the next.\n\nOn behalf of my wife, Mandi, my sons, and myself: Have a safe and happy New Year! I look forward to what 2025 holds.\n\nMay God bless you and may God bless the United States of America.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-passing-president-carter", "Smith Statement on Passing of President Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), released the following statement after the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter at 100 years of age.\n\n\"Beginning with his service in the U.S. Navy, President Carter\u2019s lifetime of service was consistent across many areas of his life and carried on long after he left the presidency. His charitable endeavors well into his 90s are emblematic of American resilience and our dedication to giving back to community and neighbor alike.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-honors-legacy-howard-hawks", "Congressman Flood's Statement on Former U.S. President Carter's Passing", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following news that former U.S. President Jimmy Carter had passed away.\n\n\u201cPresident Carter will long be remembered for his kindness towards others, his marriage and devotion to Rosalynn, and his love for Georgia. He reminded the world that presidential leadership wasn\u2019t just about the time in office \u2013 it\u2019s about character and leading by example even in retirement. After leaving Washington, he rolled up his sleeves to build houses for Habitat for Humanity. He quietly taught Sunday School for decades. And along the way, he used his time and talents to help some of the least among us. Mandi and I join our fellow Americans in mourning his passing and remembering the legacy of service to others that he leaves.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5F2D6DE5-0C90-4979-ADCB-CF5CEB8DA1B5", "Fischer Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement on the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter:\n\n\u201cThroughout his long life, President Carter served his country and his fellow man. He showed his love for others through many actions \u2014 serving in the Navy, as our 39th President, teaching Sunday School, and most memorably as a home builder for Habitat for Humanity. Bruce and I extend our deepest condolences to his family,\u201dsaid Senator Fischer.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/12/fischer-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-president-jimmy-carter", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-statement-on-death-of-jimmy-carter/", "Ricketts Statement on Death of Jimmy Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement on the death of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States:\n\n\u201cJimmy Carter\u2019s life was marked by faith, family, and service. He defended our country as a member of the U.S. Navy. He served as our 39th president. After leaving office, he faithfully taught Sunday school and advocated for human rights around the world. His 77-year marriage to Rosalynn Carter modeled love and dedication. Susanne and I send our condolences to the Carter family as they grieve.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-events-14", "Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Outreach Events", "2024-12-27", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a member of his staff during January in Harrison, Grant, Alliance, Chadron, Ogallala, and Rushville.\n\nA staff outreach event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency interaction, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nThursday, January 2, 2025\n\nSioux County Courthouse\n\n325 Main Street, Harrison\n\n2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. MT\n\nMonday, January 6, 2005\n\nPerkins County Courthouse\n\n200 Lincoln Avenue, Grant\n\n9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. MT\n\nBox Butte County Courthouse\n\n515 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance\n\n11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MT\n\nTuesday, January 14, 2025\n\nDawes County Courthouse\n\n451 Main Street, Chadron\n\n12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. MT\n\nWednesday, January 15, 2025\n\nKeith County Courthouse\n\n511 N. Spruce Street, Ogallala\n\n9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. MT\n\nTuesday, January 28, 2025\n\nSheridan County Courthouse\n\n303 East 2nd Street, Rushville\n\n12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. MT", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-christmas-statement-1", "Congressman Flood\u2019s Christmas Statement", "2024-12-24", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a recorded statement ahead of Christmas, which is observed December 25, 2024.\n\nVideo of the remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. The full text of the speech is below.\n\nFriends and Fellow Nebraskans,\n\nAs we enter the Christmas season, it\u2019s time to reflect on the profound significance of this holiday: The birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.\n\nThis annual celebration of Jesus\u2019s birth in a manger, heralded to shepherds by angels, is more than a historical event\u2014it is a reminder of God\u2019s love for humanity. In sending His Son, God gave us the ultimate gift: Hope, redemption, and the promise of salvation for all who come to Him.\n\nTwo thousand years later, the message of Christmas continues to call each of us to live lives rooted in faith, hope, and love.\n\nChristmas is also a time for us to reflect on and express gratitude for the sacrifices of the men and women serving our country; their commitment today is rooted in generations of tradition.\n\nMany of us recall learning in school about General George Washington and the Continental Army camped at Valley Forge during one of the bleakest moments of the Revolutionary War. In the bitter cold of December, facing starvation and disease, General Washington turned to prayer, seeking the Lord\u2019s guidance to carry his soldiers through their trials. The image of Washington kneeling in prayer at Valley Forge is forever etched in the tapestry of our nation's history, reminding us of how our country\u2019s strength is rooted in faith.\n\nAs we close out a year marked by historic events and challenges, let\u2019s take a moment to honor the brave men and women of our Armed Forces, who guard our freedoms even now. Their selfless service allows us to celebrate this season in peace and joy with our loved ones.\n\nMay this Christmas bring new cherished memories, reminding us of what truly matters: Our families, our communities, and our faith. From Mandi, the boys, and me, we want to wish your family safe travels, warmth, and a very Merry Christmas!", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-merry-christmas-nebraska/", "Ricketts: \u201cMerry Christmas, Nebraska!\u201d", "2024-12-23", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "December 23, 2024\n\nOMAHA, NE \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement in anticipation of Christmas Day:\n\n\u201cChristmas is a season of joy and reflection. As we gather with loved ones, let\u2019s embrace the traditions that make this season special. Let\u2019s celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, who brought hope and healing to our broken world. Let\u2019s remember those who will spend the holidays away from their families, especially those in the military. And let\u2019s recommit ourselves to helping those in need.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn behalf of my family and my team I wish you a peaceful and joyous Christmas. May you experience the true joy of this season. Merry Christmas, Nebraska!\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-announces-new-committee-assignments/", "Ricketts\u00a0Announces New Committee Assignments", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "December 21, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his committee assignments for the 119th Congress. Ricketts will serve on four committees. He will continue to serve on the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. He will also join the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and the U.S. Senate Committee on the Budget.\n\n\u201cAfter four years of overregulation, an appeasement-first foreign policy, and reckless spending, it\u2019s time to get our country back on track,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cOn the Environment and Public Works Committee I\u2019ll fight to give Nebraska families relief, not regulation. On the Foreign Relations Committee I\u2019ll help President Trump restore American strength on the world stage. Only through strength can we deter our adversaries and prevent future conflicts.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m honored by the opportunity to use my business experience on the Budget and Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committees,\u201dRicketts continued. \u201cThese committees will play an important role in extending the Trump tax cuts, controlling our spending, and providing regulatory relief to job-creators. I\u2019m excited to work with President Trump and my colleagues to deliver conservative solutions for Nebraskans.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nU.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works is responsible for legislation and oversight of the natural and built environment and for studying matters concerning environmental protection and resource conservation and utilization. This includes oversight of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.\n\nU.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations is instrumental in developing, influencing, and overseeing U.S. foreign policy. The Committee considers, debates, and reports important treaties and legislation involving everything from foreign aid to arms sales to international organizations like the United Nations. It overseas the U.S. State Department and holds jurisdiction over all diplomatic nominations, including the U.S. Secretary of State. Ricketts will be the second highest ranking Republican on the Committee.\n\nU.S. Senate Committee on the Budget is responsible for drafting budget plans for Congress. It also monitors and enforces rules surrounding spending, revenue, and the federal budget. The Committee\u2019s primary responsibility is to develop a concurrent resolution on the budget to serve as the framework for congressional action on spending, revenue, and debt-limit legislation. This includes jurisdiction over the budget reconciliation process. The Committee also has oversight of the president\u2019s Office of Management and Budget (OMB).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-comments-on-government-funding-bill/", "Ricketts Comments on Government Funding Bill", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "December 21, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement after voting for a Continuing Resolution to fund the federal government through March 14 and extend the Farm Bill by one year.\n\n\u201cThis bill avoids a government shutdown and supports Nebraska\u2019s farmers and ranchers. It gives them the certainty and assistance they need to make crucial decisions. I\u2019m committed to working with President Trump and my colleagues to pass a comprehensive, five-year farm bill next year.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-dispute-panel-ruling-mexicos-ban-us-grown-corn", "Smith Statement on Dispute Panel Ruling on Mexico's Ban Of U.S.-Grown Corn", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after a dispute panel announced its finding that Mexico had violated its commitments under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) with its decree barring U.S.-grown biotech corn. Under USMCA rules, Mexico has 45 days from the date of the report to comply with the ruling.\n\n\"I have spent four years advocating for hardworking American farmers, and this decision is a victory for American agriculture producers and the future of rules-based, science-driven trade. While President Biden could have encouraged a resolution much sooner with a simple public statement, USMCA has worked as it should, and the integrity of USMCA has been upheld in this case. With the USMCA review coming in 2026, it is essential the U.S. continues to stand up for American industry and hold our trade partners to their commitments. I urge President Sheinbaum to swiftly comply with the findings of the panel and ensure fair market access for American corn growers, and I look forward to working with President Trump and his administration to hold Mexico accountable.\"\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nDuring USMCA negotiations, Smith traveled to Montreal and Mexico City to participate in discussions. In December 2020, Mexico issued a presidential decree to ban imports of U.S. biotech corn for human consumption contrary to its commitments under USMCA. Smith repeatedly petitioned the Biden administration to hold Mexico accountable and sent letters to USTR Amb. Katherine Tai and Agriculture Sec. Tom Vilsack calling for formal dispute consultations under USMCA.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/update-smith-shares-deadline-request-tickets-presidential-inauguration", "UPDATE: Smith Shares Deadline to Request Tickets for Presidential Inauguration", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) encouraged interested residents of Nebraska\u2019s Third District to submit ticket requests for the 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremonies by December 27, 2024.\n\nEach congressional office receives a limited number of tickets, which Smith will distribute to interested constituents who plan to be in Washington, D.C. at the time of the ceremonies, taking place Monday, January 20, 2025. To submit a ticket request, please visit adriansmith.house.gov/services/inauguration-ticket-requests or contact Smith\u2019s Washington office at 202-225-6435.\n\nNote: Tickets can only be provided to residents of Nebraska\u2019s Third District. Due to limited supply, submitting a request does not guarantee reservation of tickets. Inauguration tickets may not be mailed and constituents selected to receive tickets should plan to pick up their tickets at Smith\u2019s Washington office on Sunday, January 19, 2025.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2589", "Bacon Votes to Keep Government Open", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington - Rep. Don Bacon voted yes today on H.R.10545 - American Relief Act, 2025(CR), which keeps the government funded through March 14, 2025, at current spending levels. It also includes additional funding for disaster relief and an extension of the 2018 Farm Bill.\n\nThe $110 billion in disaster relief funding targets resources for rural communities, particularly farmers and ranchers facing both a tough farm economy and the aftermath of multiple disasters. For disaster relief, $10 billion in economic assistance is provided to farmers. It passed on a vote of 366-44-1.\n\nHe posted a statement to X:\n\n\"There was no way we could shut the government down and cut discretionary spending because it would've affected two million service members, border patrol agents, air traffic controllers, and many others. We are also providing critical relief to natural disaster victims and farmers. There was no room for a Christmas shutdown.\"\n\nhttps://x.com/RepDonBacon/status/1870283126842544258\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-votes-keep-our-government-working-people", "Rep. Flood Votes to Keep Our Government Working for the People", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following the passage of the \u201cAmerican Relief Act,\u201d which funds the federal government until early next year.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s vote to keep Washington working for the people is a win for Nebraska\u2019s hardworking families, farmers, and communities. This measure includes critical ag programs and ensures that active-duty military service members get paid through the holidays. While I\u2019m disappointed year-round E15 was not included in the final measure, I\u2019ll keep fighting for it as we enter the next Congress. I commend our House Republican leadership for their tireless efforts to unite Members and keep our government running, despite the political games of Congressional Democrats and President Biden. I urge the Senate to act quickly to ensure our government continues serving the American people through the holiday season.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=978A5288-0DA4-4648-93C1-53E94994913C", "Fischer Announces Committee Assignments for 119th Congress", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) announced her committee assignments for the 119th Congress. She will continue serving on all six committees from the 118th Congress:\n\nArmed Services\n\nAppropriations\n\nCommerce, Science, and Transportation\n\nAgriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry\n\nRules and Administration\n\nSelect Committee on Ethics", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CEB9131E-1A9E-4B3D-99F1-6AD72911FA94", "Fischer Celebrates U.S. Victory In USMCA Dispute on GMO Corn", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after a dispute panel announced its finding that Mexico had violated its commitments under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) with its ban on GMO corn:\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve been clear from the start \u2013the United States would not accept Mexico\u2019s unscientific ban against genetically modified corn. This ruling will hold Mexico accountable and prevent its blatant trade violation under the USMCA. This decision is a victory for family farmers, Mexican consumers, and the future of agricultural technology innovation. I look forward to working with President Trump and his administration to continue to hold Mexico accountable and ensure Nebraska\u2019s farmers have access to the markets they rely on,\u201dsaid Senator Fischer.\n\nUnder USMCA rules, Mexico has 45 days from the date of the report to comply with the ruling.\n\nBackground:\n\nIn 2022, Senator Fischer led 25 of her bipartisan Senate colleagues in calling for the administration to hold Mexico accountable, including by pursuing a dispute settlement process through USMCA.\n\nIn March of 2023, USTR requested and held technical consultations with Mexico. Technical consultations for biotechnology issues are required before any dispute settlement can be pursued.\n\nThat following June, Senator Fischer commended USTR\u2019s decision to formally request dispute settlement consultations with Mexico concerning the country\u2019s ban on genetically modified corn. Under the USMCA, member countries can request dispute settlement consultations to resolve trade compliance issues.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/12/fischer-celebrates-u-s-victory-in-usmca-dispute-on-gmo-corn", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-announces-united-states-military-service-academy-nominations-2/", "Ricketts\u00a0Announces United States Military Service Academy Nominations", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced the names of 30 Nebraskans he is nominating for application to the United States Military Service Academies. The selection of students will have the opportunity to be admitted to our nation\u2019s various service academies for the Class of 2029.\n\n\u201cNebraska has long been a proud supporter of our nation\u2019s military, said Senator Ricketts. \u201cThroughout this process, our team has met with these very talented Nebraskans. All of them have high moral character and are committed to service. I am proud to nominate these young women and men from across Nebraska to attend our United States service academies.\u201d\n\nIn total there are fifteen Air Force Academy, thirteen Naval Academy, thirteen Military Academy, and three Merchant Marine Academy nominations.\n\nThe nominees are as follows:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-legislation-introduced-smith-safeguard-food-supply-chain-passes", "Bipartisan Legislation Introduced by Smith to Safeguard Food Supply Chain Passes House", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Congressmen Adrian Smith (R-NE), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA), Drew Ferguson (R-GA), and Dan Kildee (D-MI), led U.S. House approval of S.759, the Beagle Brigade Act by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 381-20. The bill passed the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent in November 2024. Having passed both chambers, the bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\nIn May 2023, Reps. Smith, Bishop, Ferguson, and Kildee introduced the House companion bill, H.R. 1480, which was approved by the U.S. House Agriculture Committee by a unanimous vote. S. 759 was introduced by Sens. Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA).\n\nThe bill will permanently authorize the National Detector Dog Training Center, located in Newnan, Georgia. The Center extensively trains detector dogs\u2014mostly beagles\u2014and their U.S. Customs and Border Protection handlers to sniff out prohibited agricultural items that could carry foreign plant or animal pests and diseases into our country. Dogs are selected from animal shelters, rescue groups, and private owners. Those that retire from the program or do not complete training are offered for adoption.\n\n\u201cProtecting American consumers and our agriculture industry from foreign threats to food safety before they enter our food supply is a critical task,\u201d said Rep. Smith. \u201cOur hardworking farmers and ranchers are tirelessly vigilant to safeguard their stock from contaminants, and the passage of this bill will augment Customs and Border Protection efforts to effectively identify and stop foreign pests and diseases before they can enter our food supply chain. I thank Reps. Bishop, Ferguson, and Kildee for their collaboration on this bipartisan bill, and I encourage President Biden to sign it into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe U.S. agriculture sector is a $1 trillion industry constantly under the threat of foreign pests and diseases\u2026 that could be introduced through our nation\u2019s ports of entry, including airports, harbors, and mail and cargo facilities,\" said Rep. Bishop during floor debate. \"Some of these diseases could cost the American economy tens of billions of dollars to contain and eradicate, if they are found to be in the country. Agriculture detector dogs \u2013 known as the \u2018Beagle Brigade\u2019 \u2013 are an important tool in preventing these threats and eradicating them in the event they overcome our safeguards\u2026 An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The Brigade is well worth its value.\u201d\n\n\"The Beagle Brigade Act would permanently authorize the training center to ensure that America\u2019s food supply stays protected from potentially devastating foreign pests and diseases,\" said Rep. Ferguson during floor debate. \"The National Detector Dog Training Center in Georgia\u2019s 3rd Congressional District does important work to properly train detector dogs to sniff out prohibited agricultural items in domestic and international trade.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to see the House pass our bill, the Beagle Brigade Act, to strengthen the inspection of food imports. Michigan's farmers work hard to feed our families every day, and this bill will help to protect our local food supply,\u201d said Rep. Kildee. \u201cThis legislation will help defend American agriculture from foreign diseases that could harm our livestock and increase food prices.\u201d\n\n\u201cIowans know firsthand how important prevention and preparedness efforts are in combatting diseases like avian influenza, foot-and-mouth disease, and African swine fever. The Beagle Brigade is our first line of defense against foreign animal diseases that have the potential to devastate our farmers, producers, and food supply chain,\u201d said Sen. Ernst. \u201cThe House and Senate have done our jobs to protect our agricultural community, and the president must sign this bipartisan legislation into law immediately.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery day, USDA\u2019s National Detector Dog Training Center in Newnan plays an essential role in keeping our food supply safe from contamination. This legislation permanently authorizes their work and will continue to strengthen our nation\u2019s agriculture industry and the well-being of our communities,\u201d said Sen. Warnock. \u201cAs a member of the Senate Agriculture committee and champion for Georgia\u2019s farmers, I am proud to have worked with my Senate and House colleagues, including Congressman Bishop, to get this bipartisan legislation over the finish line, and I urge President Biden to swiftly sign it into law.\u201d\n\nCosponsors of H.R. 1480 include: Reps. Mike Flood (R-NE), Lisa McClain (R-MI), John Moolenaar (R-MI), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), Wiley Nickel (D-NC), Yadira Caraveo (D-CO), Abigail Spanberger, (D-VA), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Mike Bost (R-IL), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Donald Davis (D-NC), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Angie Craig (D-MN), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), James Baird (R-IN), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Jeff Jackson, (D-NC), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Shontel Brown (D-OH), David Rouzer (R-NC), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), John Garamendi (D-CA), Bill Huizenga, Bill (R-MI)\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-slams-epa-for-approving-californias-ban-on-gas-cars-delusional/", "Ricketts Slams EPA for Approving California\u2019s Ban on Gas Cars: \u201cDelusional\u201d", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Clean Air, Climate, and Nuclear Safety, slammed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) after it approved California\u2019s plan to ban the sale of gas-powered cars by 2035.\n\n\u201cEPA bureaucrats shouldn\u2019t approve such a reckless mandate in the closing days of this failed administration,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cCalifornia\u2019s mandate restricts freedom and ignores the high cost of EVs. It also disregards supply chain and infrastructure challenges and excludes American biofuels. I expect President Trump to revoke this delusional decision. Congress must pass the Preserving Choice in Vehicles Act to stop EPA bureaucrats from doing this again.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nCalifornia had applied for a waiver to implement its \u201cAdvanced Clean Cars II\u201d regulation. This regulation requires 35% of car sales to be zero-emission vehicles in model year 2026, 68% by 2030, and 100% by 2035. This waiver came under a provision of the Clean Air Act of 1970. Eleven other states and the District of Columbia, representing about 30% of the U.S. car market, are adopting California\u2019s rule.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5D417B10-5511-40FC-8A90-E960F9DB98E7", "Fischer Legislation to Give Tribal Colleges and Universities a Stronger Voice in Education Funding Heads to President\u2019s Desk", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Last night, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer\u2019s (R-Neb.) National Advisory Council on Indian Education Improvement Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives. It now heads to the president\u2019s desk.\n\nThe legislation would give Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) greater input over federal funding discussions that impact them by requiring at least one of NACIE\u2019s members be the president of a Tribal College or University.\n\n\u201cNative voices deserve to be heard in decisions that directly impact their communities, and too often Tribal Colleges and Universities are excluded from the federal funding decision-making process,\u201d said Senator Fischer. \u201cIt\u2019s time TCUs have a seat at the table, and that\u2019s what this legislation delivers\u2014I encourage President Biden to sign it.\u201d\n\n\"Today is a historic moment for Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) with the passage of the NACIE Improvement Act. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Senator Fischer of Nebraska for her leadership and vision in championing this cause. We also thank the members of the Senate and House for their bipartisan support in advancing this vital, long-overdue legislation,\u201d said Manoj Patil, President of Little Priest Tribal College.\n\n\u201cRequiring A Tribal College president on the NACIE board was a needed step forward in making sure all of the educational entities that serve Native American learners have a voice on the similar challenges that we all face,\u201d said Dr. Michael Oltrogge, the President of Nebraska Indian Community College. \u201cWorking together we can make Native America stronger!\u201d\n\n\u201cWith great appreciation, the American Indian Higher Education Consortium would like to thank Senator Deb Fischer and her colleagues for sponsoring and ushering the NACIE Improvement Act into law. Now, with the requirement of at least one TCU President appointed to the NACIE council, Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) will have a voice on matters related to American Indian and Alaska Native Higher Education,\u201d said AIHEC President & CEO Ahniwake Rose. \u201cThe passage allows our Tribal Colleges and Universities to have greater input on federal funding discussions impacting their students and programs and bolsters the critical role they play in advancing the educational and economic well-being of Native communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a Tribal College graduate, I am extremely grateful for the strong foundation it has provided me as I serve the Winnebago people. By requiring a Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCU) President to serve on the National Advisory Council on Indian Education (NACIE), the NACIE Improvement Act ensures that TCU voices are heard during important discussions regarding funding and administration of critical programs that help shape the next generation of Tribal leaders. The Winnebago Tribe would like to thank Senator Fischer for championing this effort, and we look forward to the President signing the bill into law,\u201d said Chairwoman of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, Victoria Kitcheyan.\n\nSenator Fischer\u2019s bipartisan, bicameral legislation unanimously passed the Senate last year. It was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jon Tester (D-Mon.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.). And it was introduced in the House by Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO-2). The legislation now heads to the president\u2019s desk.\n\nBackground The Department of Education\u2019s Tribal advisory group, the National Advisory Council on Indian Education (NACIE), advises the Secretaries of Education and Interior on programs serving Tribes and their members. NACIE releases an annual report, but the Department of Education does not have a process for considering NACIE\u2019s report when developing its budget request.\n\nAdditionally, Department of Education tribal consultation sessions often do not provide the opportunity for TCU leaders to provide direct input.\n\nThe National Advisory Council on Indian Education Improvement Act would address these challenges by:\n\nRequiring at least one of NACIE\u2019s members be the president of a Tribal College or University", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=66E57E35-4989-466F-AE60-DBC48FCAB3D7", "Defense Bill Including Fischer Wins Heads to President", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, released the following statement after the Senate passed the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act:\n\n\u201cThis bill is the cornerstone of our defense policy. I\u2019m glad my colleagues finally came together to reaffirm our bipartisan commitment to a strong national defense and give our military service members a pay raise. Our bill includes key elements of my Restoring American Deterrence Act that will overhaul America\u2019s nuclear preparedness by rebuilding our aging nuclear deterrent.\u201d\n\nSenator Fischer secured dozens of defense provisions in the bill, outlined below.\n\nMilitary Pay Raise\n\nSenator Fischer supported a provision authorizing a 4.5 percent pay raise for military members.\n\nMilitary Construction Projects for Nebraska\n\nSenator Fischer secured full authorization of funds for her two Nebraska MILCON requests:\n\nAdditional $158 million for the planning and design of the Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) facilities at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nAdditional $6 million for the planning and design of a Consolidated Training Complex/Professional Development Center at Offutt\n\nKey Nebraska Priorities\n\nSenator Fischer secured authorization of funds above the President\u2019s budget request for U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM) and the 557th Weather Wing, both based at Offutt. The bill authorizes:\n\n$3 million for the NC3 Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub (REACH) program\n\n$5 million for Weather Wing research and development projects\n\nSenator Fischer also secured a provision that:\n\nClarifies the Offutt-based Weather Wing\u2019s authorities to provide weather data to the U.S. Air Force and Army\n\nRestoring American Deterrence\n\nSenator Fischer secured several provisions from her Restoring American Deterrence Act, which she introduced in April to overhaul America\u2019s nuclear preparedness. These provisions:\n\nRequire the Department of Defense (DOD) to develop strategies to respond to growing threats from our adversaries, including an assessment of U.S. nuclear forces necessary to implement that strategy\n\nRequire the Secretary of Defense to develop a strategy to promote a skilled nuclear manufacturing and vocational trade workforce\n\nRequire the Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to develop a comprehensive integrated air and missile defense architecture for the United States\n\nRequire the Secretary of the Air Force to develop a plan to procure and deploy an additional 50 Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missiles above the current plan of 400\n\nMake significant management and process improvements to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), and clarifies that NNSA\u2019s primary responsibility is to maintain and enhance the performance, reliability, security, and safety of nuclear weapons\n\nRequire the Secretary of Energy to conduct an assessment evaluating two to four locations in the United States best suited to host movable, scalable uranium enrichment facilities\n\nEstablish an Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs to advise on nuclear deterrence policies, operations, and programs\n\nSLCM-N\n\nSenator Fischer established a program of record for SLCM-N in the FY24 NDAA. The FY25 NDAA authorizes the U.S. Navy and NNSA to explore options that would allow SLCM-N to be fielded on a faster timeline. Senator Fischer also secured the following:\n\nAuthorization of an additional $70 million for NNSA to research and develop the SLCM-N warhead\n\nAuthorization of an additional $252 million for the Navy to research and develop the SLCM-N missile\n\nFencing of 10 percent of the Secretary of the Navy\u2019s travel budget until the Secretary certifies to Congress that the Navy has established a program office for SLCM-N and is taking the required steps to comply with the DOD\u2019s SLCM-N decision acquisition memorandum\n\nChain of Command\n\nSenator Fischer secured a provision mandating that the DOD notify Congress when the Secretary of Defense is unable to perform the functions of the office. Earlier this year, Senator Fischer spoke out against DOD chain of command problems when Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin failed to notify Congress of a medical absence.\n\nThe provision requires the Deputy Secretary of Defense to notify Congress 24 hours in advance of any planned transfer of authorities and not later than 24 hours after any unplanned transfer of authorities.\n\nMunitions\n\nSenator Fischer also secured provisions addressing issues within the munitions industrial base, including provisions that:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F7114FAD-BCA0-4C2D-BE11-B31D182270D5", "Fischer Bill Ending Cuts to Railroad Benefits Heads to President", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the U.S. Senate passed U.S. Senator Deb Fischer\u2019s (R-Neb.)Railroad Employee Equity and Fairness (REEF) Act. The legislation will protect railroad employees by ending government mandated cuts to their unemployment and sickness benefits once and for all. The bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk.\n\n\u201cToday marks a victory for our nation\u2019s railroad workers. My REEF Act will right the wrong of unfair cuts and ensure that the people who keep our trains moving receive the benefits they\u2019ve earned. I look forward to seeing this bill signed into law,\u201dsaid Senator Fischer.\n\n\u201cFor too long, budget sequestration of Railroad Retirement Board benefits has unjustly harmed thousands of Teamsters railroaders who find themselves in the difficult position of trying to support their families following layoffs, illnesses, and injuries. Today\u2019s victory ensures that not one more rail worker will be subjected to these cuts. The Teamsters thank Senator Fischer for her tireless effort over the years to ensure that the REEF Act becomes law,\u201dsaid Teamsters General President Sean M. O\u2019Brien.\n\nWithout the hard work of Senator Fischer and her staff, the REEF Act would not be headed to the President\u2019s desk. This important legislation provides all railroaders and their families with the certainty that they will have access to the full benefits they have earned.\u201dsaid Association of American Railroads President and CEO Ian Jefferies.\n\n\u201cAs America\u2019s largest transportation labor federation, we've seen firsthand how unemployment and sickness benefits are a lifeline for workers in times of need. After more than a decade of waiting, passenger and freight rail workers will finally receive the full value of the benefits they have earned. We thank Senator Fischer, Representative Schakowsky, and our congressional partners who got this bill across the finish line,\" said AFL-CIO Transportation Trades Department (TTD) President Greg Regan.\n\n\u201cThe REEF Act is a win for the railroad industry\u2019s workforce, and we were happy to work with both industry and labor partners on it under the leadership of Senator Fischer. The law will ensure that the unemployment and sickness safety nets in the railroad industry will be maintained fairly, while having no negative effect at all on federal finances,\u201d said American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) President Chuck Baker, representing the nation\u2019s 603 short line railroads and their suppliers.\n\nBackground:\n\nRailroad unemployment and sickness benefits are funded solely by railroads\u2019 and railroad workers\u2019 contributions. The Budget Control Act of 2011 and subsequent implementation mandates require railroad unemployment and sickness benefits to be reduced by a certain percentage each year. All other regular unemployment benefits are exempt from sequestration. Without the REEF Act, sequestration will likely result in a 5.7 percent reduction in railroad unemployment and sickness benefits through Fiscal Year (FY) 2030.\n\nWhile a temporary version of the REEF Act was included in the COVID-19 relief bill passed in December 2020, that measure expired on May 10, 2023, 30 days after the expiration of COVID-19 national emergency declaration. Without this legislation, these benefits would be subject to sequestration through FY 2030.\n\nIn the Senate, the REEF Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio). Companion legislation was introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) and is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.), Jes\u00fas Garc\u00eda (D-Ill.), and Pete Stauber (R-Minn.).\n\nClickhere to view text of the legislation.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/12/fischer-bill-ending-cuts-to-railroad-benefits-heads-to-president", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-nebraska-wins-in-defense-bill/", "Ricketts Celebrates Nebraska Wins in Defense Bill", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE)celebrated passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included provisions from his bipartisan BOLSTER Act. Ricketts made the comments on a conference call with Nebraska media.\n\n\u201cWe live in the most dangerous period in our country\u2019s history since World War II,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cThe People\u2019s Republic of China (PRC), Russia, Iran, and North Korea all need to be deterred. This NDAA focuses on deterring aggression and keeping Americans safe. It\u2019s one way we help restore American strength. I\u2019m incredibly grateful to Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Don Bacon for their leadership on the Armed Services Committees. And I will continue to fight to ensure our military has what it needs to keep us safe.\u201d\n\nWins in the NDAA:\n\nAuthorizes $895 billion for national defense next year\n\nGives a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers\n\nGives a 4.5% pay raise to all other servicemembers\n\nAuthorizes critical funding for modernizing our nuclear triad, including the Sentinel ICBM program\n\nIncludes elements of Ricketts\u2019 bipartisan BOLSTER Act, which will strengthen European support for Taiwan\u2019s efforts to deter the People\u2019s Republic of China\n\nNebraska-Specific Wins:\n\nAuthorizes $158 million for facilities to permanently base the Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) aircraft fleet at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nAuthorizes $6 million for a Consolidated Training Complex and Professional Development Center at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nAuthorizes $3 million to support the innovative NC3 Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub program, or REACH\n\nAuthorizes $5 million in research and development funding for the 557th Weather Wing\n\nRicketts\u2019 BOLSTER Act:\n\nRequires coordinated plans with the EU and European countries to impose sanctions in response to specific PRC actions against Taiwan\n\nRequires the president to submit a report on the expected economic impact of a PRC blockade or quarantine of Taiwan\n\nPushes European countries to increase their political and economic engagements with Taiwan\n\nCalls on European countries to increase their support for Taiwan\u2019s self-defense\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cOne of the federal government\u2019s most important priorities is to provide for the common defense.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s right there in the preamble to the Constitution.\n\n\u201cThat starts with making sure our women and men in uniform have what they need to keep us safe.\n\n\u201cToday, the Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act \u2013 or NDAA.\n\n\u201cIt authorizes $895 billion for national defense next year.\n\n\u201cIt gives a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% pay raise to all other servicemembers.\n\n\u201cIt authorizes critical funding for modernizing our nuclear triad.\n\n\u201cThis includes funding for the Sentinel ICBM system, parts of which are in Nebraska.\n\n\u201cAnd it includes elements of my bipartisan BOLSTER Act, which will strengthen European support for Taiwan\u2019s efforts to deter the People\u2019s Republic of China.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m especially pleased that this year\u2019s NDAA supports important missions in Nebraska.\n\n\u201cIt includes authorized funding to plan and design various facilities at Offutt Air Force Base.\n\n\u201c$158 million to permanently base the Survivable Airborne Operations Center, or SAOC, aircraft fleet.\n\n\u201cAnd $6 million for a Consolidated Training Complex and Professional Development Center.\n\n\u201cThe bill authorizes $3 million to support the innovative NC3 Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub program, or REACH.\n\n\u201cAnd it authorizes $5 million in research and development [funding] for the 557th Weather Wing.\n\n\u201cFinally, this NDAA supports our allies as we work together to deter our adversaries.\n\n\u201cIt fully funds our missile defense programs in cooperation with Israel.\n\n\u201cIt authorizes $15.6 billion to strengthen our deterrence against the People\u2019s Republic of China in the Indo-Pacific.\n\n\u201cAnd as I\u2019ve said, it includes provisions of a bill I wrote to increase our allies\u2019 support for Taiwan\u2019s self-defense.\n\n\u201cWe live in the most dangerous period in our country\u2019s history since World War II.\n\n\u201cThe People\u2019s Republic of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea all need to be deterred.\n\n\u201cThis NDAA focuses on deterring aggression and keeping Americans safe.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s one way we help restore American strength.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m incredibly grateful to Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Don Bacon for their leadership on the Armed Services Committees.\n\n\u201cAnd I will continue to fight to ensure our military has what it needs to keep us safe.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ll make one other point before I take questions.\n\n\u201cThe Senate Armed Services Committee \u2013 including Senator Fischer \u2013 passed its version of the defense bill six months ago.\n\n\u201cThat vote was overwhelmingly bipartisan. 22 to 3.\n\n\u201cSo why didn\u2019t the Senate take this up immediately?\n\n\u201cBecause Majority Leader Chuck Schumer believed holding show votes and confirming Biden nominees was more important than our national defense.\n\n\u201cNot only did this send the wrong signal to our adversaries, but it also delayed starting critical negotiations with the House on a final bill.\n\n\u201cOur women and men in uniform should be our first priority, not our last.\n\n\u201cWe could and should have passed this bill weeks ago.\n\n\u201cNot the last work week of the year.\n\n\u201cNext year, under Republican leadership, the NDAA won\u2019t be put on the back burner.\n\n\u201cInstead, we\u2019ll ensure that nothing comes before keeping our country safe.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-introduces-ending-green-giveaways-act", "Rep. Flood Introduces the Ending Green Giveaways Act", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood introduced the \u201cEnding Green Giveaways Act.\u201d The legislation removes funding from a section of the Inflation Reduction Act which expedites certain federal grants from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) targeting \u201cenvironmental and climate justice challenges.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhile the American people oppose the Green New Deal, the Biden administration continues to shovel money out the door even though Americans have elected a Republican trifecta that\u2019s set to take office,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cPresident Trump has promised to roll back the Green New Deal, and this bill takes a key step towards doing that. The Ending Green Giveaways Act returns unused funds from the $3 billion of taxpayers\u2019 money allocated to an out-of-touch, unaccountable \u2018environmental justice\u2019 grant program managed by the EPA.\"\n\nThe \u201cEnding Green Giveaways Act\u201d eliminates text related to the \u201cCommunity Change Grants\u201d program and rescinds any unspent funds allocated to the program under the Inflation Reduction Act. This program, which received $3 billion in federal funding, is expedited by the EPA. The EPA\u2019s Inspector General previously testified before Congress, expressing \u201c[concerns] that, in seeking to reach new recipients, the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights [which administers the grant program] will eschew or elide important internal controls and anti-fraud protections.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=32F9F104-EF66-4171-A08A-43C36289E3E4", "Fischer Secures Year-Round E-15 in CR", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after securingnationwide, year-round E15in the upcoming continuing resolution:\n\n\u201cMy legislation is the only permanent, nationwide solution to unleashing the power of year-round E15. This will once and for all solidify President Trump\u2019s pledge to allow the sale of year-round E15\u2014giving America\u2019s producers and consumers the certainty they deserve. This will put an end to years of patchwork regulations and finally make nationwide year-round E15 a reality.\u201d\n\nFischer\u2019s legislation earned support from a historically diverse coalition of stakeholders\u2014including those from the petroleum industry, fuel marketing and retail sector, ethanol industry, agriculture, and consumers\u2014uniting in support of this mutually beneficial solution.\n\nBackground:\n\nSenator Fischer has been a steadfast champion for year-round E15 since 2015, when she first co-led a bill to theto allow year-round E15 during the 114th Congress.\n\nIn 2017, during the 115th Congress, she introduced theConsumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Actto amend the Clear Air Act and help make year-round E15 a reality. Later that year, she testified before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee insupport her bipartisan legislation.\n\nIn 2019, Senator Fischertraveled with President Trump to Nebraska and Iowa whenhe announced regulatory efforts to allow the sale of E15. When President Trump\u2019s efforts were stuck down by courts, Senator Fischer continued to lead by reintroducing this legislation in2021, during the117th Congress.This was followed by Senator Fischer releasing an updated bill in 2022that included unprecedented support.For almost a decade, nationwide year-round E15 has remained one of Senator Fischer\u2019s top legislative priorities. In 2023, she introduced theNationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2023 to break down the remaining barriers and unlock the full potential of nationwide year-round E15, further advancing America\u2019s energy independence. In the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03)introduced companion legislation.\n\nList of Stakeholder Support:Senator Fischer gathered support from a diverse group of stakeholders including National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, the America Farm Bureau Federation, Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, American Coalition for Ethanol, American Petroleum Institute, SIGMA, National Association of Truck Stop Operators, and National Association of Convenience Stores.\n\nList of Cosponsors:Cosponsors of the bill include U.S. Senators Shelley Capito (R-W. Va.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.).\n\nClickhere to read the text of the bill.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/12/fischer-secures-year-round-e-15-in-cr", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-honors-the-life-and-legacy-of-john-gottschalk/", "Ricketts Honors the Life and Legacy of John Gottschalk", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "December 17, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) spoke on the Senate floor to honor the life and legacy of John Gottschalk, the former chairman and CEO of the Omaha-World Herald, who passed away last month.\n\n\u201cJohn and his wife, Carmen, were extraordinary people,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cJohn led the Omaha World-Herald into the digital age and also spearheaded a number of the efforts to increase the technology. And it spread throughout the state of Nebraska, different communities. He made the Omaha World-Herald a standard for how a newspaper should be run. He himself was known for his integrity and his courage. He was never shy about being direct with a budding politician, to let that politician know when he believed that politician might have erred. And he was one of those people that cared about the community.\u201d\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cMr. President, I rise today to honor a great Nebraskan and a great American\u2014John Edmund Gottschalk.\n\n\u201cJohn Gottschalk was born in Omaha in 1943, and grew up in a small town in Nebraska called Rushville.\n\n\u201cHe was a Boy Scout, and he went on to attend the University of Nebraska, majoring in political science and journalism.\n\n\u201cHis father started the Sheridan County Star, and John worked there as well, getting his break into journalism and the newspaper business.\n\n\u201cIn 1972, John bought the Sidney Telegraph in Sidney, Nebraska, and became mayor of the town of Sidney.\n\n\u201cAnd then in 1975, he joined the Omaha World-Herald as an assistant to the president.\n\n\u201cHe eventually worked his way up to become the publisher and CEO in 1989, and he remained that until 2009.\n\n\u201cJohn and his wife, Carmen, were extraordinary people.\n\n\u201cJohn led the Omaha World-Herald into the digital age and also spearheaded a number of the efforts to increase the technology. And it spread throughout the state of Nebraska, different communities.\n\n\u201cHe made the Omaha World-Herald a standard for how a newspaper should be run.\n\n\u201cHe himself was known for his integrity and his courage.\n\n\u201cHe was never shy about being direct with a budding politician, to let that politician know when he believed that politician might have erred.\n\n\u201cAnd he was one of those people that cared about the community.\n\n\u201cAs I mentioned, he was a Boy Scout.\n\n\u201cHe served as chairman of our local Mid-America Council of Boy Scouts, but also became national president of the Boy Scouts of America.\n\n\u201cHe served as chairman for the Board of Governors for the USO.\n\n\u201cHe cared about our veterans, wanted to make sure we were serving them.\n\n\u201cHe cared about our military people.\n\n\u201cHe also cared about the arts.\n\n\u201cHe was chairman of the Omaha Performing Arts Center.\n\n\u201cHe and his wife, Carmen, cared about people.\n\n\u201cTogether, they fostered more than 100 infants awaiting adoption.\n\n\u201cJohn was an outdoorsman and a conservationist.\n\n\u201cHe really was one of those people we would describe as a renaissance man.\n\n\u201cRunning a fantastic business, giving back to the community, he was the kind of American that built this country.\n\n\u201cJohn passed away last month, leaving a legacy that is having a lasting imprint on our community of Omaha, the state of Nebraska, and indeed our entire country.\n\n\u201cI greatly admire John Gottschalk for the kind of man he was, the example he set for the rest of us.\n\n\u201cHe will be greatly missed, and I will miss him greatly.\n\n\u201cThank you, Mr. President.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-offers-tickets-presidential-inauguration-0", "Smith Offers Tickets for Presidential Inauguration", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) encouraged residents of Nebraska\u2019s Third District interested in attending the 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremonies on Monday, January 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C., to contact his office for information on obtaining tickets.\n\nEach congressional office receives a limited number of tickets, which Smith will distribute to interested residents of Nebraska\u2019s Third District. To submit a ticket request, please visit adriansmith.house.gov/services/inauguration-ticket-requests or contact Smith\u2019s Washington, D.C. office at 202-225-6435.\n\nNote: Tickets can only be provided to residents of Nebraska\u2019s Third District. Due to limited supply, submitting a request does not guarantee reservation of tickets.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-us-military-service-academy-nominations-class-2029", "Congressman Flood Announces U.S. Military Service Academy Nominations for Class of 2029", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced the nomination of several constituents from Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District to the nation\u2019s Military Service Academies. The announcement follows a rigorous interview and selection process, guided by a committee of diverse Nebraskans that included military leaders and community members.\n\n\"Many of our nation's brave service members come from the great state of Nebraska,\" said Congressman Flood. \"I am honored to nominate these outstanding and talented Nebraskans from the First District to the Military Service Academies. I also want to thank the committee for their work, which provided valuable insights into each applicant. Congratulations to the nominees on this prestigious achievement.\"\n\nThe committee included retired Brigadier General Roma Amundson of Lincoln (AUS), Dave Merritt of Norfolk (USN), Mace Kant of Norfolk (USAF), and Col. Robert J. Newbauer of Omaha (USACE). Their thorough evaluations considered each applicant's knowledge of the Military Service Academies, their understanding of roles within the Armed Forces, their commitment to serving the nation, academic achievements, and ability to communicate effectively in high-pressure situations.\n\nBased on the committee's recommendations, Congressman Flood nominated applicants who met the stringent academic and physical requirements of the Military Service Academies. These include the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Notably, no applications were submitted for nomination to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.\n\nCongressman Mike Flood\u2019s nominations are in alphabetical order by last name.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-trump-administration-should-scrap-radical-anti-meat", "Congressman Flood: Trump Administration Should Scrap Radical Anti-Meat Recommendations", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following the release of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee\u2019s Scientific Report. This report confirms previous reporting about new anti-meat dietary guidelines earlier this year.\n\n\u201cThe Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee tries to claim they are promoting flexibility and individual choice, while they push plant-based proteins at the expense of red meat. This attempt to re-write your grocery list and push meat off the menu has nothing to do with a healthy diet and everything to do with appeasing radical environmental activists. For example, it takes three cups of quinoa to deliver the same amount of protein as only three ounces of beef. As the Beef State, Nebraska knows firsthand what kind of threat this poses. Reducing the role of meat in our diets is not only bad for consumer health but also undermines our country\u2019s food security and way of life. I urge the incoming Trump administration to scrap these anti-meat recommendations from unelected bureaucrats and to return the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to a commonsense approach that supports our great American farmers and ranchers who grow the food that helps feed the world.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E6CB48C2-3CF7-4662-9D9D-39335604467F", "Bill to Transfer Ownership of Swanson & Red Willow Reservoirs Heads to President", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the Senate passedlegislation to transfer the Bureau of Reclamation (BoR) Swanson Reservoir land to Hitchcock County and the BoR Red Willow Reservoir land to Frontier County. The bill, introduced by U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and U.S. Representative Adrian Smith (NE-03), now heads to the President\u2019s desk.\n\n\u201cIn two months, the federal government will force Swanson and Red Willow Reservoir residents to leave, destroying the communities and small businesses these Nebraskans have built over the last 50 years. Thankfully, today Congress has agreed to right this wrong by transferring control of this land back to local officials. For the sake of the residents in both these communities, I encourage the president to sign this bill into law as soon as possible,\u201dsaid Senator Fischer.\n\n\u201cToday is an exciting day for Hitchcock and Frontier Counties. This bill protects Swanson and Red Willow residents and surrounding communities. I\u2019m grateful for the months of diligent engagement from stakeholders that made this day possible. President Biden should sign this bill without delay,\u201dsaid Senator Ricketts.\n\n\u201cYears of extensive collaboration have culminated in the passage of this legislation which empowers local control and maintains public access at no cost to the federal government. Tourism and recreation at the Swanson and Red Willow Reservoirs are critical to economic development in Hitchcock and Frontier Counties. I have been grateful to work closely with Senator Fischer and the entire Nebraska delegation to advance this solution on behalf of the local community, property owners, and visitors,\u201dsaid Congressman Smith.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the commissioners for Hitchcock and Frontier counties and the whole community of Swanson and Hugh Butler Reservoirs, we sincerely thank the U.S. Congress for acting to secure a future for their homes and businesses, which have been part of the community for generations, and preserving the great recreational area for public use. Thanks to the hard work of United States Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Adrian Smith and their Nebraska Congressional colleagues, Senator Pete Ricketts, Congressman Don Bacon, and Congressman Mike Flood this crucial economic hub for local businesses, supporting jobs in outdoor recreation, tourism, and hospitality will thrive for generations to come,\u201dsaid Hitchcock and Frontier Counties Boards of Commissioners.\n\nBackground:\n\nFollowing disagreement about how the BoR was managing the concession areas at the Swanson and Red Willow Reservoirs, the Nebraska congressional delegation received numerous requests to introduce legislation to transfer the ownership of the areas from the BoR to a local entity.\n\nIn June 2023, members of the Nebraska Congressional delegation wrote a letter stating they would sponsor legislation to authorize a land transfer once they received official documentation from a local, public entity that was willing to accept the land, was cable of managing it for the public, and would take on the associate responsibilities and liabilities.\n\nThe bill was drafted in collaboration with Hitchcock County, Frontier County, and the Bureau of Reclamation. Hitchcock and Frontier Counties have now provided confirmation that they are supportive of the legislation as drafted.\n\nClick hereto view text of the legislation.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/12/bill-to-transfer-ownership-of-swanson-red-willow-reservoirs-heads-to-president", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-cardin-risch-shaheen-statement-on-putins-assault-on-romanias-presidential-election/", "Ricketts, Cardin, Risch, Shaheen Statement on Putin\u2019s Assault on Romania\u2019s Presidential Election", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "December 16, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jim Risch (R-ID), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), four senior members of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, released the following statement in response to Romania\u2019s efforts to address Russian interference in its presidential elections:\n\n\u201cVladimir Putin\u2019s assault on Romania\u2019s elections is yet another example of the hybrid war he is waging on our European allies and partners,\u201d said the Senators. \u201cAs a strong NATO ally, we support Romania as it fights for the integrity of its elections. We condemn Putin\u2019s manipulation of Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-controlled TikTok to undermine Romania\u2019s democratic process. The world must wake up to the serious threat to democracy posed by Russian manipulation of TikTok to undermine our free societies.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Romanian government has uncovered this assault on their democracy, and we appreciate its decision to declassify intelligence related to its investigation and keep the United States and the international community informed. The United States stands in support of Romania as it urgently moves to hold certifiably free and fair presidential elections.\u201d\n\nRicketts and Shaheen are Ranking Member and Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation, respectively. Cardin and Risch are the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=79C34588-7EB1-4EB7-AEF1-249FEBBC4B44", "Fischer Secures Defense Wins, Nuclear Preparedness Overhaul", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, released the following statement in response to the final Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act:\n\n\u201cThis year, Americans voted to make America safe, strong, and prosperous. That starts with our national defense. This year\u2019s defense bill authorizes key military construction projects in Nebraska and authorizes a well-deserved pay raise for our service members. It also includes critical elements from my Restoring American Deterrence Act, landmark legislation that will rebuild our nation\u2019s nuclear forces for the next generation.\u201d\n\nSenator Fischer secured dozens of key defense provisions in the bill, outlined below.\n\nMilitary Pay Raise\n\nSenator Fischer supported a provision authorizing a 4.5 percent pay raise for military members.\n\nMilitary Construction Projects for Nebraska\n\nSenator Fischer secured full authorization of funds for her two Nebraska MILCON requests:\n\nAdditional $158 million for the planning and design of the Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) facilities at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nAdditional $6 million for the planning and design of a Consolidated Training Complex/Professional Development Center at Offutt\n\nKey Nebraska Priorities\n\nSenator Fischer secured authorization of funds above the President\u2019s budget request for U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM) and the 557th Weather Wing, both based at Offutt. The bill authorizes:\n\n$3 million for the NC3 Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub (REACH) program\n\n$5 million for Weather Wing research and development projects\n\nSenator Fischer also secured a provision that:\n\nClarifies the Offutt-based Weather Wing\u2019s authorities to provide weather data to the U.S. Air Force and Army\n\nRestoring American Deterrence\n\nSenator Fischer secured several provisions from her Restoring American Deterrence Act, which she introduced in April to overhaul America\u2019s nuclear preparedness. These provisions:\n\nRequire the Department of Defense (DOD) to develop strategies to respond to growing threats from our adversaries, including an assessment of U.S. nuclear forces necessary to implement that strategy\n\nRequire the Secretary of Defense to develop a strategy to promote a skilled nuclear manufacturing and vocational trade workforce\n\nRequire the Secretary of Defense and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to develop a comprehensive integrated air and missile defense architecture for the United States\n\nRequire the Secretary of the Air Force to develop a plan to procure and deploy an additional 50 Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missiles above the current plan of 400\n\nMake significant management and process improvements to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), and clarifies that NNSA\u2019s primary responsibility is to maintain and enhance the performance, reliability, security, and safety of nuclear weapons\n\nRequire the Secretary of Energy to conduct an assessment evaluating two to four locations in the United States best suited to host movable, scalable uranium enrichment facilities\n\nEstablish an Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Policy and Programs to advise on nuclear deterrence policies, operations, and programs\n\nSLCM-N\n\nSenator Fischer established a program of record for SLCM-N in the FY24 NDAA. The FY25 NDAA authorizes the U.S. Navy and NNSA to explore options that would allow SLCM-N to be fielded on a faster timeline. Senator Fischer also secured the following::\n\nAuthorization of an additional $70 million for NNSA to research and develop the SLCM-N warhead\n\nAuthorization of an additional $252 million for the Navy to research and develop the SLCM-N missile\n\nFencing of 10 percent of the Secretary of the Navy\u2019s travel budget until the Secretary certifies to Congress that the Navy has established a program office for SLCM-N and is taking the required steps to comply with the DOD\u2019s SLCM-N decision acquisition memorandum\n\nChain of Command\n\nSenator Fischer secured a provision mandating that the DOD notify Congress when the Secretary of Defense is unable to perform the functions of the office. Earlier this year, Senator Fischer spoke out against DOD chain of command problems when Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin failed to notify Congress of a medical absence.\n\nThe provision requires the Deputy Secretary of Defense to notify Congress 24 hours in advance of any planned transfer of authorities and not later than 24 hours after any unplanned transfer of authorities.\n\nMunitions\n\nSenator Fischer also secured provisions addressing issues within the munitions industrial base, including provisions that:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-reflects-on-successful-year-fighting-for-nebraska/", "Ricketts Reflects on Successful Year Fighting for Nebraska", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "December 13, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) reflected on the achievements he and his office delivered for Nebraskans over the past year. Ricketts made the comments while on a conference call with Nebraska media.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud of the work my team and I have done fighting for Nebraskans,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cWhether it\u2019s meeting with Nebraskans or helping them navigate the federal government, my goal remains the same. I will make sure Nebraskans\u2019 voices are heard and their concerns are addressed. My team and I are committed to advancing Nebraska\u2019s priorities in Washington.\u201d\n\nRicketts highlighted his efforts to remain accessible to Nebraskans. Ricketts held 87 public events across Nebraska in 2024, released the \u201cRicketts Review\u201d on abusive and wasteful spending, authored 52 weekly columns, and participated in nearly 150 exclusive interviews seen or heard by Nebraskans. Ricketts also reflected on his team\u2019s commitment to excellent constituent services.\n\n\u201cFinally, I\u2019m proud of our work to help Nebraskans navigate the federal bureaucracy, Ricketts closed. \u201cMy constituent services team held nearly 700 outreach events in Nebraska this year. This includes Mobile Office Hours in all 93 counties \u2013 twice. We helped nearly 800 Nebraskans access federal services. We cut through red tape and recovered almost $5 million owed to them by the federal government.\u201d\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cToday, I\u2019m going to recap the year we\u2019ve had.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud of the work my team and I have done fighting for Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cWhether it\u2019s meeting with Nebraskans or helping them navigate the federal government, my goal remains the same.\n\n\u201cI will make sure Nebraskans\u2019 voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.\n\n\u201cMy team and I are committed to advancing Nebraska\u2019s priorities in Washington.\n\n\u201cOne of my greatest priorities is remaining accessible to Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cI continue to do what I did as Governor. Get around the state. Talk to people. Listen to their concerns.\n\n\u201cThis year, I held 87 public events across the state.\n\n\u201cFederal Spending Briefings and Border Security Briefings. Community Meetings, and a well-attended, capstone Federal Issues Forum at the Nebraska State Fair.\n\n\u201cI released the \u201cRicketts Review\u201d filled with examples of abusive and wasteful spending. It also highlighted my targeted solutions to get us back on track.\n\n\u201cIn addition, I released 52 weekly columns to keep folks at home informed.\n\n\u201cI did nearly 150 exclusive interviews that were seen or heard across the state.\n\n\u201cI held 23 of these weekly press calls to answer your questions.\n\n\u201cSenator Fischer and I also hosted regular telephone townhalls to answer questions directly from Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cThese events will continue.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m also proud of the legislative successes we\u2019ve achieved this year.\n\n\u201cWe passed landmark legislation to ban foreign adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party from owning apps like TikTok.\n\n\u201cWe passed the ADVANCE Act to expand and support for advanced nuclear energy, including in Nebraska.\n\n\u201cWe passed the Winnebago Land Transfer Act, which returns 1,600 acres of wrongfully seized land by the Army Corps of Engineers back to the Winnebago Tribe.\n\n\u201cWe passed a water bill that included seven of my solutions to increase transparency from the Army Corps of Engineers, expedite permit processing times, mitigate ice jam impacts to critical infrastructure and report on the accuracy of cost estimates.\n\n\u201cAnd this week, we will pass a National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that provides critical funding for modernizing our nuclear deterrent.\n\n\u201cAll these wins were bipartisan.\n\n\u201cThe Senate also passed the Kids Online Safety Act, which requires social media platforms to put the well-being of kids first.\n\n\u201cI hope the House will consider it soon.\n\n\u201cDespite Republicans being in the minority, we delivered results for Nebraska.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m also hopeful we will soon pass a Farm Bill that works for Nebraska.\n\n\u201cThe Farm Bill framework proposed by future Ag Committee Chairman John Boozman ensures our farmers and ranchers will have the tools they need.\n\n\u201cIt improves crop insurance and strengthens trade promotion programs.\n\n\u201cIt includes my bills to improve flood protection, make infrastructure more resilient, and assist rural microentrepreneurs.\n\n\u201cIt also includes my bill to give a next step to workers on SNAP.\n\n\u201cWe need to pass it as quickly as possible. Our farmers and ranchers deserve it.\n\n\u201cFinally, I\u2019m proud of our work to help Nebraskans navigate the federal bureaucracy.\n\n\u201cMy constituent services team held nearly 700 outreach events in Nebraska this year.\n\n\u201cThis includes Mobile Office Hours in all 93 counties\u2014twice.\n\n\u201cWe helped nearly 800 Nebraskans access federal services.\n\n\u201cWe cut through red tape and recovered almost $5 million owed to them by the federal government.\n\n\u201cFor example, one constituent had developed leukemia related to his time serving our country.\n\n\u201cDespite this, the VA denied him compensation, inaccurately claiming he was \u201casymptomatic.\u201d\n\n\u201cHis appeal went unheard for months \u2013 until he contacted my office.\n\n\u201cThankfully, the VA soon acknowledged they made an error.\n\n\u201cThey issued him $83,000 as backpay and monthly compensation for continued treatment.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re going to continue delivering excellent customer service for our constituents.\n\n\u201cThere\u2019s still much work to do, and I\u2019m just getting started.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to fight for Nebraska in the U.S. Senate.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-reported-ustr-efforts-renegotiate-trade-agreements", "Smith Statement on Reported USTR Efforts to Renegotiate Trade Agreements", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after it was reported the Office of the United States Trade Representative is attempting to renegotiate provisions of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement and the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement without consulting Congress or American industry stakeholders.\n\n\"I am extremely troubled by reports the lame duck Biden-Harris administration is attempting to bypass Congress to alter USMCA and the U.S.-Colombia agreement. President Biden and Ambassador Tai have wasted the past four years by slow-walking or forgoing any opportunity to fight for American producers and consumers, and there is no reason to trust any last-ditch trade actions will demonstrate any regard for congressional intent. I strongly urge USTR to gather and consider stakeholder input and consult Congress on any negotiations related to these agreements and respond to the letter I sent with nine of my colleagues three months ago in a fashion which holds Mexico accountable to its USMCA obligations.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-january-mobile-office-hours", "Congressman Flood Announces January Mobile Office Hours", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced his Nebraska Mobile Office Hours for the month of January.\n\nCongressman Flood\u2019s staff will be hosting Mobile Office Hours throughout Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District to assist constituents with issues involving federal agencies. Constituents are encouraged to bring relevant documentation to help address their concerns.\n\nWhether constituents face challenges with Social Security or Medicare benefits, need assistance obtaining a passport, or have questions about the IRS and other matters, Congressman Flood\u2019s team is available to provide support and work with them.\n\nMobile Office Hours information can be found below or at flood.house.gov/about/events.\n\nElmwood Mobile Office Hours\n\nElmwood Community Center\n\nThursday, January 16th\n\n11:00am-12:00pm\n\n144 N 4th Street, Elmwood, NE 68359\n\nBellevue Mobile Office Hours\n\nBellevue Public Library\n\nWednesday, January 22nd\n\n1:00pm-2:30pm\n\n2206 Longo Drive Bellevue, NE 68005\n\nPapillion Mobile Office Hours\n\nPapillion Public Library\n\nWednesday, January 29th\n\n3:00pm-4:30pm\n\n222 N Jefferson Street, Papillion NE 68046", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-introduces-no-more-dc-waste-act", "Congressman Flood Introduces the No More D.C. Waste Act", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, joined by Rep. William Timmons (SC-04) and Rep. Adrian Smith (NE-03), introduced the \u201cNo More D.C. Waste Act.\u201d This bill provides oversight to the D.C. Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG) program and reins in its excessive funding moving forward.\n\n\u201cFor nearly ten years, the D.C. local government has quietly stockpiled tens of millions of taxpayer dollars from an overfunded program,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThe DCTAG program has enough prior federal funding to be entirely self-sustaining for at least two years without needing another dime of taxpayer money. House Republicans are fighting to eliminate bloated and wasteful federal spending, and this bill is a straightforward step toward getting our federal checkbook in order.\u201d\n\n\"Congress allocates millions of dollars annually to the DCTAG program, leading to significant overfunding. Throughout my time in Congress, I\u2019ve made it a priority to protect American taxpayer dollars from waste, fraud, and abuse. This bill ensures that excess funds are not carried over by the D.C. government to be used in the following year. We must be responsible stewards of taxpayer money and ensure it is spent efficiently and effectively,\u201d said Rep. William Timmons (SC-04).\n\nThe DCTAG program has received $40 million annually from Congress since 2015. However, it consistently falls short of awarding this full amount each year, leaving at least $60 million in unspent funds accumulated over time.\n\nThe \u201cNo More D.C. Waste Act\u201d amends current law by preventing the D.C. government from carrying over surplus funds in the future to avoid further wasted taxpayer dollars. Specifically, the bill accomplishes this by eliminating the D.C. government\u2019s ability to roll over funding from the previous year, beginning in FY2026.\n\nThis legislation additionally improves congressional oversight by requiring the D.C. government to report DCTAG\u2019s finances, key statistics, and outcomes to Congress annually.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=45BED9C3-F356-4851-9E81-0A632AE501B4", "Fischer Implores Colleagues Once Again to Pass Land Transfer Act to Save Nebraska Homes", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cNebraskans\u2019 very homes and communities are now on the line in this final hour. They cannot wait. They should not have to pay the price for stalled negotiations.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb) spoke on the Senate floor urging her colleagues, once again, to pass her legislation to transfer control of the Bureau of Reclamation (BoR) Swanson Reservoir land and the BoR Red Willow Reservoir land to local officials. She cited the thousands of Nebraskans who petitioned for this legislation, and how the transfer of land would save Nebraska homes from being unnecessarily removed.\n\nThis appeal follows Senator Manchin\u2019s (I-W.V.) block of Fischer\u2019s petition yesterday for her colleagues to pass this bill.\n\nIn her remarks, she emphasized the urgency needed to save these Nebraska homes and the devastation her constituents would endure if this bill were to not pass.\n\nSenator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) blocked the measure, despite his earlier support for it. In her rebuttal, Senator Fischer appealed to the gravity of the situation and implored her colleagues to set politics aside and save Nebraska homes.\n\nClick the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks.\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=8CECC555-F145-452F-8947-17E215C11868", "Fischer Urges Colleagues to Pass Land Transfer Act to Save Nebraska Homes", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cMr. President, it\u2019s time to do what\u2019s right and save these communities.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb) spoke on the Senate floor urging her colleagues to pass her legislation to transfer control of the Bureau of Reclamation (BoR) Swanson Reservoir land and the BoR Red Willow Reservoir land to local officials. The bill would make Hitchcock and Frontier Counties responsible for the management of the land.\n\nIn her remarks, Fischer emphasized the thousands of Nebraskans who petitioned for this legislation, and how the transfer of land would save Nebraska homes from being unnecessarily removed.\n\nSenator Joe Manchin (I-WV), blocked the measure, despite his earlier support for it. In her rebuttal, Senator Fischer vowed to keep fighting and urged Senator Manchin to reconsider.\n\nClick the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks.\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nFollowing is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks as prepared for delivery:\n\nM. President,\n\nI come before you today to discuss a grave situation that\u2019s unfolding in the southwestern part of my state.\n\nTwo Nebraska communities\u2014one at Swanson Reservoir and the other at Red Willow\u2014are at risk.\n\nOver the past 50 years, the residents of these two communities have built friendships, started and supported businesses, and enjoyed the recreation that the local area offers.\n\nBut in just two months, these Nebraskans will be forced to leave. They\u2019ll be forced out of their homes over a disagreement between the federal government and local stakeholders on how the land should be managed.\n\nThe good news is that there\u2019s a simple solution to this problem.\n\nWorking with the rest of the Nebraska delegation as well as the Bureau of Reclamation, I\u2019ve introduced legislation that benefits all parties. It transfers ownership of this land from the federal government to local officials.\n\nI want to thank Congressman Adrian Smith especially for introducing companion legislation in the House.\n\nOnce the counties control the land around these reservoirs, the residents of Red Willow and Swanson can work with local authorities to chart a better path forward, one that preserves the communities and improves the recreation areas.\n\nSince I introduced this bill, I\u2019ve heard from over 1,000 Nebraskans about how urgently they need this land transferred. I\u2019ve received numerous letters of support from local communities and businesses.\n\nEveryone involved supports this bill.\n\nThe residents and their local government officials support this bill.\n\nOur colleagues on both sides of the aisle have offered no objection to this bill.\n\nEnergy and Natural Resources Committee passed this bill on a voice vote.\n\nWe also worked with the Bureau of Reclamation on this solution.\n\nEveryone agrees that my bill offers the best future for the hundreds of Nebraskans who call these areas home.\n\nMr. President, it\u2019s time to do what\u2019s right and save these communities.\n\nSenator Fischer\u2019s Rebuttal\n\nM. President,\n\nThis really is outrageous.\n\nMy legislation cannot wait.\n\nAs I\u2019ve said, it passed the Energy and Natural Resources Committee on a voice vote.\n\nLast week, it passed the full House of Representatives unanimously.\n\nThis bill is different than the rest of the package that my colleagues are negotiating. Nebraskans are watching this bill. They are watching my bill. Because Nebraskans will be kicked off this land starting in February\u2014two months from now\u2014if it\u2019s not signed into law.\n\nI have been working with the Chair and his team for over a year on this legislation, incorporating feedback from them and continuously emphasizing the urgency with my legislation.\n\nNone of my colleagues are objecting to policy of the bill. They know it is the right thing to do. In fact, my colleague objecting has already voted in favor of this bill in committee.\n\nRather, objecting to this legislation is choosing to use these people, their homes at the reservoirs, and the small businesses as political leverage for unrelated matters.\n\nI\u2019ve heard from over a thousand constituents in support of this legislation. They know it will chart a better path forward for the local community and the federal government.\n\nThey did not ask to be used as political leverage, and I hope my colleague will reconsider his objection.\n\nOtherwise, I will continue coming to the floor day after day this week and asking for unanimous consent.\n\nAlthough M. President, I have been told by our cloakroom that there is no time available tomorrow for any action like this on the floor.\n\nIt needs to happen now.\n\nThank you M. President. I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2581", "Bacon Praises Passage of FY 2025 NDAA", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON - Today, Rep. Don Bacon voted with his House colleagues to support final passage of H.R. 5009, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of Fiscal Year 2025, with a bipartisan majority of 281 to 140.\n\n\u201cAfter an intense two-year effort, I am pleased that this year\u2019s NDAA is built around the needs of the All-Volunteer Force, which is the foundation of our America\u2019s military strength,\u201d said Rep Bacon, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee\u2019s Military Quality of Life Panel and the Cyber, Information Technology, and Innovation Subcommittee. \u201cThe 2025 NDAA is a historic victory for our service members and military families, and I am grateful for the bi-partisan effort that made it possible.\u201d\n\nThe 2025 NDAA:\n\nAuthorizes $895 billion for national defense \u2013 approximately 3 percent of U.S. gross domestic product \u2013 with significant investments in the defense industrial base, munitions production, and critical technologies, including artificial intelligence, space, autonomous systems, and hypersonic weapons. This amount is consistent with the topline defense discretionary spending agreement as part of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA)\n\nDirects the most comprehensive reform of military quality of life programs in the history of the United States; this legislation was developed by the bi-partisan House Armed Services Committee Military Quality of Life Panel chaired by Rep. Bacon in the 118th Congress and delivers historic improvements to junior enlisted pay, housing, healthcare, childcare, and support to military spouses\n\nAuthorizes a 14.5 percent targeted pay increase for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5 percent increase for all other service members\n\nFully funds the modernization of the U.S. nuclear weapons enterprise to replace aging systems and reverse the dangerous decline in the effectiveness and reliability of America\u2019s nuclear deterrent\n\nCombats antisemitism and imposes additional prohibitions on divisive radical ideologies and policies like critical race theory and controversial transgender medical treatments and therapies for dependent children of military personnel\n\nThe 2025 NDAA also includes the following additional legislative provisions championed by Rep. Bacon:\n\nDirects establishment of a subordinate unified command for cyber defense of the Department of Defense Information Network under U.S. Cyber Command\n\nDirects permanent establishment of the Department of Defense Hackathon Program\n\nDirects the Secretary of Defense to prepare a strategic assessment on space and satellite security for allies and partners in the Middle East, including the State of Israel\n\nRequires the Department of Defense to develop an operational modeling and simulation capability for multi-domain joint electromagnetic spectrum operations\n\nExtends the availability of security assistance funding for foreign capacity building for a period of up to three years\n\nAuthorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to designate qualified former members of the Air Force as \u201cLegacy Guardian\u201d\n\nDirects the Department of Defense to maintain current student-to-teacher ratios\n\nAuthorizes $158 million in military construction funding to begin planning and design associated with the permanent basing of the E-4C Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) aircraft fleet at Offutt AFB\n\nAuthorizes $13 million for USSTRATCOM\u2019s nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) rapid engineering architecture collaboration hub (REACH) initiative at Offutt AFB.\n\n\u201cThis year\u2019s NDAA prioritizes the servicemembers and military families who valiantly dedicate their lives to defending us by making their quality of life the cornerstone of this legislation,\u201d said Bacon. \u201cThis is a landmark defense bill, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have helped deliver on our promise to those who keep us safe and free.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-honors-legacy-howard-hawks-0", "Rep. Flood Honors the Legacy of Howard Hawks", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) delivered remarks on the House floor celebrating the life and legacy of Howard L. Hawks of Nebraska.\n\nA video of his remarks can be accessed by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes. The full text of Congressman Flood\u2019s speech is provided below.\n\nMister Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the incredible life and legacy of Nebraska\u2019s own, Howard Hawks.\n\nHoward was a generational leader, who lived the American dream, co-founding, an energy company called Tenaska. Since founding the company in 1987, he helped grow it into one of the largest privately held companies in America.\n\nIf anyone knows Howard Hawks, you\u2019d know that if he got involved in a project, people in a five-state area knew exactly what was going on and it would get done.\n\nOne of his greatest investments was at the University of Nebraska where he gave of both his time and his treasure. He served almost two decades as a regent and helped strengthen our Husker athletic program as a booster. In recent years, he provided the lead gift that helped build the University of Nebraska-Lincoln\u2019s business school.\n\nThis is just one example of the philanthropic projects that Howard took on through the years.\n\nHoward will be greatly missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to Rhonda and the entire Hawks family as we mourn his loss.\n\nThank you, I yield back.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-introduces-housing-supply-and-innovation-frameworks-act", "Rep. Flood Introduces the Housing Supply and Innovation Frameworks Act", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) introduced the Housing Supply and Innovation Frameworks Act. This bill directs the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to develop frameworks for best practices on zoning and land-use policies. The legislation also provides local and state governments with the necessary resources to confront barriers to housing development and construction.\n\nThe HUD-established frameworks would serve as a starting point for states and localities that are interested in reforming their zoning and land-use policies. The frameworks will serve as a resource for jurisdictions that need guidance on how to reform local laws, ordinances, and regulations to spur more building and growth. This legislation will be especially critical in communities facing shortages in housing and will create a playbook for communities that want to change their policies to encourage that development and growth.\n\nWith a severe shortage of between 4 to 7 million homes in the United States, this legislation will be critical for local and state governments to bolster their housing supplies, helping more Americans achieve this cornerstone of the American Dream.\n\n\u201cThe rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach for working families across our country,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cWe need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America\u2019s housing crisis. To this end, the Housing Supply and Innovation Frameworks Act helps established suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction. Thank you to my colleague, Rep. Blunt Rochester, for helping lead this bipartisan bill that is one small but important step towards bringing down the cost of housing and make it more accessible and affordable.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn conversations with Delawareans up and down our state, one of the top concerns I hear about is the urgent need for more affordable and available housing. From Wilmington to Dover to our rural communities, it is the voices of these residents that have inspired me to introduce this bipartisan legislation,\u201d said Congresswoman Blunt Rochester. \u201cThe Housing Supply and Innovation Frameworks Act will give state and local governments the resources they need to overcome barriers to affordable housing and ensure that more Americans have a safe place to call home. I will continue to do everything I can to bring resources such as these to Delaware to help increase our housing supply and lower costs for families across the state. I am grateful to Congressman Flood for his collaboration on this bill, and I look forward to working across the aisle with our colleagues to bring it to a vote on the House floor.\u201d\n\nThe Housing Supply and Innovation Frameworks Act is supported by key stakeholders including the following:\n\n\"Up for Growth Action proudly supports the introduction of the Housing Supply and Innovation Frameworks Act. This common-sense legislation empowers local and state governments with the tools and strategies needed to streamline land-use policies and unleash the potential for increased housing production,\" said Mike Kingsella, CEO of Up for Growth Action. \"By reducing red tape and encouraging practical solutions, this Act paves the way for stronger communities and expanded economic opportunity. We commend Representatives Flood and Blunt Rochester for their leadership in advancing bipartisan solutions to tackle America\u2019s housing challenges.\"\n\n\"MBA is committed to working with Congress on legislative solutions that help fix our nation\u2019s ongoing housing supply shortage. We look forward to working with Congressman Flood and Senator-elect Blunt Rochester on H.R. 10351 and any parallel Senate legislation. The proposed legislation requires HUD to publish guidelines and best practices for state and local zoning frameworks, an effort MBA supports as a way to encourage more housing development,\u201d said Bill Killmer, Senior VP for Legislative and Political Affairs, Mortgage Bankers Association.\n\n\u201cAddressing our nation\u2019s longstanding housing shortage is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and it demands bold and bipartisan action,\u201d said National Apartment Association (NAA) President and CEO Bob Pinnegar. \u201cWorking alongside subject matter experts from across the housing space, this important legislation would provide states and localities with frameworks for positive and meaningful housing policy reform. NAA thanks Reps. Mike Flood (R-NE) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) for their steadfast leadership across the aisle and applauds this bill as an important step to help boost our nation\u2019s housing supply.\n\n\u201cWe view this legislation as a good first step and look forward to working with Congress to find solutions to break down the regulatory barriers that jeopardize our ability to create the housing that is needed for residents across all income levels,\u201d said National Multifamily Housing Council President Sharon Wilson G\u00e9no.\n\n\u201cCommunities and states across the nation are looking for new solutions that break down barriers to producing the affordable and attainable housing options we need to combat the nation\u2019s housing crisis. The American Planning Association is proud to endorse the Housing Supply and Innovations Framework Act. APA applauds the leadership of Representatives Flood and Blunt Rochester in advancing this policy aimed at making HUD a better partner and a resource for communities looking to advance locally-led housing solutions. The frameworks proposed in this bill will unlock innovative and much needed housing supply reforms,\u201d said Angela Brooks, FAICP, President, American Planning Association.\n\n\u201cNot only does the Delaware State Housing Authority support this bill, but Delaware is doing similar work through the Affordable Housing Production Task Force,\" said Delaware State Housing Authority Director Cynthia Karnai. \u201cWe are happy that Congresswoman Blunt Rochester and her team are working for not only Delawareans, but all around our country to create and execute on sensible and achievable goals.\u201d\n\nSupporters of the Bill: Up for Growth Action, National Apartment Association, National Multifamily Housing Council, Mortgage Bankers Association, American Planning Association, National Association of Realtors, National Association of Home Builders, Coalition For Home Repair, Council for Affordable and Rural Housing, Enterprise Community Partners, Grounded Solutions Network, Habitat for Humanity International, Inc., Housing Assistance Council, Inclusive Abundance Initiative, Leading Builders of America, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, LOCUS: Responsible Real Estate Developers and Investors, Modular Housing Institute, National Affordable Housing Management Association, National Association of Rental Property Managers, National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, National Leased Housing Association, National Low Income Housing Coalition, National NeighborWorks Association, National Rental Home Council, National Urban League, Niskanen Center, Smart Growth America, UnidosUS, and YIMBY Action.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-votes-strengthen-us-armed-forces-support-offutt-air-force-base", "Rep. Flood Votes to Strengthen U.S. Armed Forces, Support Offutt Air Force Base", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\n\n\u201cThis year\u2019s NDAA delivers a 14.5% pay raise for junior service members to help with recruitment and retention, while also controlling spending by phasing out billions in Pentagon waste and outdated programs. This bill includes critical resources to support STRATCOM and Offutt Air Force Base in the coming year, including resources for a consolidated training complex and professional development center. I urge the Senate to act quickly, so that the President can sign the NDAA into law before the holidays.\u201d\n\nHighlights from the FY25 NDAA Legislation from the Office of Speaker Mike Johnson:\n\nProvide junior enlisted service members with a 14.5% pay raise.\n\nFully support the deployment of National Guard at the southwest border to intercept illegal aliens and drugs.\n\nIncludes dozens of sections that address PRC security threats and economic security issues\n\nPrevent Chinese espionage in our military, supply chains, and research institutions.\n\nExpand U.S.-Israel military exercises and fully fund cooperative missile defense programs.\n\nIncrease funding for U.S. defense initiatives in the Indo-Pacific to bolster Taiwan\u2019s defense and support Indo-Pacific allies.\n\nSave $31 billion by cutting inefficient programs, obsolete weapons, and bloated Pentagon bureaucracy.\n\nCut $4 billion in programs that do not meet requirements.\n\nProhibit contracts with advertising firms that blacklist conservative news sources, like NewsGuard Technologies Inc.\n\nAbolish the DEI bureaucracy and climate change programs.\n\nBans the teaching, training, or promotion of critical race theory.\n\nPermanently ban transgender medical treatment for minors.\n\nCounter antisemitism by prohibiting sale of goods at DOD commissaries and exchanges from any entities that have or are engaged in a boycott of Israel.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F9DDB6C7-8174-4E97-9BE7-E819114B7425", "Fischer Announces University of Nebraska\u2013Lincoln\u2019s University Singers to Perform at the 60th Presidential Inauguration", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, announced today that the University of Nebraska\u2013Lincoln\u2019s University Singers will perform during the 60th Presidential Inauguration at the U.S. Capitol on January 20, 2025.\n\nThe University Singers, directed by Dr. Peter Eklund, will perform outdoors during the nationally televised inaugural ceremony. As the flagship choral ensemble of the University of Nebraska\u2013Lincoln, the University Singers perform a wide range of choral music. With a rich history of prestigious performances, including multiple appearances at Carnegie Hall and international tours, the University Singers showcase the finest and most versatile choral talent at the University of Nebraska\u2013Lincoln.\n\n\u201cI am thrilled to announce that the University of Nebraska\u2013Lincoln\u2019s University Singers will take the national stage during the 60th Presidential Inauguration. These incredibly talented students are not only representing our university, but also showcasing the spirit and excellence of Nebraska to the entire country. Their performance will be a proud moment for all Nebraskans, and I\u2019m confident they will leave a lasting impression on the millions of Americans watching the ceremony,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\n\u201cThis is an incredible opportunity for University of Nebraska\u2013Lincoln choral students to showcase their significant talent to the country. We could not be more pleased to have received the invitation from Senator Fischer and are proud to represent the state of Nebraska at the inauguration of the President of the United States,\u201d said UNL Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/12/fischer-announces-university-of-nebraska-lincoln-s-university-singers-to-perform-at-the-60th-presidential-inauguration", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-edwards-colleagues-call-day-one-elimination-irs-direct-file", "Smith, Edwards, Colleagues Call for Day-One Elimination of IRS Direct File", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Chuck Edwards (R-NC) along with 27 House colleagues sent a letter asking President Trump to immediately end the IRS' unlawful Direct File pilot program upon taking office in January. Copies of the letter were addressed to Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, Trump's selections to lead his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) as well as Treasury Secretary-Designee Scott Bessent, and Trump's selection to lead the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Russell Vought.\n\nCosigners of the letter include:\n\nReps. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Carol Miller (R-WV), Mark Alford (R-MO), Rick Allen (R-GA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Mike Carey (R-OH), Ron Estes (R-KS), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Kevin Hern (R-OK) Erin Houchin (R-IN), Young Kim (R-CA), David Kustoff (R-TN), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Greg Murphy (R-NC), August Pfluger (R-TX), Keith Self (R-TX), Pete Sessions (R-TX), Greg Steube (R-FL), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), William Timmons (R-SC), Beth Van Duyne (R-TX), Steve Womack (R-AR), Andrew Clyde (R-GA), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX), and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY)\n\nIn the letter the members said:\n\n\"We write to urge you to take immediate action, including a day-one executive order, to end the Internal Revenue Service\u2019s (IRS) unauthorized and wasteful Direct File pilot program. The program\u2019s creation and ongoing expansion pose a threat to taxpayers\u2019 freedom from government overreach, and its shaky rollout and structural flaws have already come at a steep price.\n\n...\n\n\"This is deeply concerning and a clear conflict of interest.\n\n...\n\n\"Under the Biden-Harris administration, the IRS has undertaken an aggressive expansion of its influence, fueled by the exorbitant $80 billion provided by the Inflation Reduction Act, in which it has repeatedly overstepped its authority and targeted hardworking Americans with audits...Even prior, the IRS has a long record of abusing its authority to target political opponents. How can we entrust the IRS to responsibly prepare and enforce taxes when it has encroached on Americans\u2019 individual liberties at every opportunity? And how can we trust future administrations to not do as the Biden-Harris administration has done in wielding the IRS as a tool to silence political opponents and control private citizens? We should act now to end Direct File to protect Americans from further overreach.\n\n...\n\n\"Instead of Direct File, the IRS should be focused on improving its functionality and service to American taxpayers. Under the Biden-Harris administration, Americans experienced significant delays in receiving their tax returns, and the agency has failed to reduce the federal deficit despite the bloated enforcement funding provided by the Inflation Reduction Act. The agency\u2019s existing issues will only be compounded by an expanded Direct File venture...\"\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nSmith and Edwards introduced legislation in July of this year to terminate the IRS\u2019s unauthorized Direct File program. Smith also introduced legislation, passed by the House in January 2023, to repeal the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s $80 billion IRS expansion.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/following-election-in-november-ricketts-sworn-in-as-u-s-senator-for-nebraska/", "Following Election in November, Ricketts Sworn in as U.S. Senator for Nebraska", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "December 10, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Following his election in November, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) was sworn in yesterday to complete the remaining two years of his term as U.S. Senator for Nebraska.\n\n\u201cI am humbled by the responsibility of representing the great people of Nebraska in the U.S. Senate,\u201dRicketts said. \u201cI am committed to continuing my work of bringing proven Nebraska solutions to Washington, making government work better, and keeping Americans safe.\u201d\n\nRicketts was joined by his wife Susanne Shore and his father Joe Ricketts. Ricketts was appointed by Governor Jim Pillen to serve in the Senate following the departure of Senator Ben Sasse in 2023. Ricketts will now serve the final two years of that term. He will have to run for re-election in 2026 for a full six-year term.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-flood-bacon-invite-robert-kennedy-jr-view-nebraskas-food-production-and", "Smith, Flood, Bacon Invite Robert Kennedy Jr. to View Nebraska's Food Production and Rural Health System", "2024-12-09", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) along with Nebraska House delegation colleagues Congressmen Mike Flood (R-NE-01) and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) sent a letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary-Designee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to congratulate him on his expected nomination and invite him to Nebraska to witness firsthand the state's world-leading food supply chain and challenges to rural health care access.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\nFull letter text below\n\nDear Mr. Kennedy:\n\nCongratulations on the recent announcement that President-Elect Trump intends to nominate you to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in his second administration. As you proceed through the nomination process, it would be our pleasure to host you on a visit to Nebraska to see first-hand how HHS agencies and programs impact rural America and our nation\u2019s food supply.\n\nAgriculture is the lifeblood of Nebraska, supporting both our rural and urban communities while meeting the demands of a growing world population. Our state, comprised of ninety-three counties and spanning nearly 67,000 square miles, produces a variety of agricultural products, including beef, pork, poultry, grains, and edible beans. Nebraskans take great pride in delivering high quality products efficiently and sustainably. Our state is a national leader for innovation in agriculture, whether in production practices, biotechnology, or equipment. This ingenuity leads to higher yields utilizing fewer resources, all while providing high quality, safe, and nutritious food for the world.\n\nAgriculture drives rural economies, supporting valued-added manufacturing, infrastructure, and community resources. The rural communities who support our producers are also dependent on having access to quality, affordable health care. While access to care is a challenge for many across the country, rural communities must overcome small populations and remote locations which make it impossible for them to enjoy the economies of scale which benefit large urban health systems. Nebraska\u2019s 62 Critical Access Hospitals and 100+ Rural Health Clinics must be financially sound, innovative, and hardy in order to meet the health care needs of rural Nebraskans. With many rural communities confronting aging populations, changes in Medicare payment policies can often determine whether they can keep the lights on.\n\nNebraska leads in providing the country with high quality nutrition while supporting vibrant communities through affordable and accessible healthcare services. As you begin your nomination process, we invite you to visit Nebraska at your earliest convenience so you can see first-hand both the first-class agricultural practices we use to feed our neighbors and the world and understand the unique needs of rural health care which you would expect to encounter regularly as HHS Secretary. We cannot allow federal policy to leave rural America behind.\n\nWe look forward to welcoming you to Nebraska.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-passing-howard-hawks", "Smith Statement on Passing of Howard Hawks", "2024-12-07", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), released the following statement after the passing of former member of the Nebraska Board of Regents and businessman Howard Hawks.\n\n\"Howard Hawks provided many decades of leadership in the Nebraska business sector, the university system, and broader community. In a great American success story, he co-founded and built one of the nation\u2019s most successful companies and worked tirelessly to give back to the community in countless ways. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity in business, determination to better the lives of others, and dedication to growth in our state. I offer my sincere condolences to the entire Hawks family.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3BD81E7E-D7DB-421C-92AC-6969813273AE", "Fischer Statement on Howard Hawks", "2024-12-07", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) issued the statement below following the passing of Howard Hawks, the cofounder of Tenaska, philanthropist, and former member of Nebraska Board of Regents:\n\n\u201cHoward Hawks\u2019 leadership will shape Nebraska for decades to come. After finding his success in business, Howard dedicated his time and resources to helping Nebraska\u2019s next generation prepare for their own successes. Bruce and I extend our deepest condolences to Rhonda and the Hawks family as they mourn this monumental loss.\u201d\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/12/fischer-statement-on-howard-hawks", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-comments-on-the-passing-of-howard-l-hawks/", "Ricketts Comments on the Passing of Howard L. Hawks", "2024-12-07", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement on the passing of Howard L. Hawks, co-founder of Tenaska Energy, philanthropist, and longtime member of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents:\n\n\u201cNebraskans have benefitted greatly from Howard Hawks\u2019s leadership and generosity. He was a visionary leader in the business and philanthropic community. His historic support for higher education opened countless new doors for Nebraska students. Howard and his wife Rhonda were also great partners and friends during my time as Governor. Susanne and I send our condolences to Rhonda and the Hawks family as they grieve the loss of a great Nebraskan.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-on-the-senate-floor-the-biden-harris-age-of-appeasement-is-ending/", "Ricketts on the Senate Floor: \u201cThe Biden-Harris Age of Appeasement is Ending\u201d", "2024-12-07", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Earlier this week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) spoke on the Senate floor, criticizing the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s foreign policy for failing to keep America safe and secure. Ricketts also condemned the administration for their appeasement-first approach and emboldening adversaries.\n\n\u201cAbout a month ago, the American people delivered a message that they were no longer going to stand for a government that was failing to keep them safe,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cThe Biden-Harris appeasement-first foreign policy strategy has made America weaker and less safe. The world that the Biden administration is leaving is a more dangerous place today than it was four years ago, when they took over.\u201d\n\n\u201cBy returning President Trump to the White House, the American people are sending a clear message,\u201d Ricketts closed. \u201cThere\u2019s a new sheriff in town. The Biden-Harris age of appeasement is ending. The resurgence of American strength is about to begin. And I am excited to see what the future holds.\u201d\n\nWatch the video HERE.\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cI\u2019ve always said that keeping people safe is one of the most fundamental roles the government plays. Keeping people safe.\n\n\u201cFor four years, the Biden-Harris administration has failed at this most fundamental mandate the government has.\n\n\u201cAbout a month ago, the American people delivered a message that they were no longer going to stand for a government that was failing to keep them safe.\n\n\u201cThe Biden-Harris appeasement-first foreign policy strategy has made America weaker and less safe.\n\n\u201cThe world that the Biden administration is leaving is a more dangerous place today than it was four years ago, when they took over.\n\n\u201cWeakness and appeasement have defined the current administration, starting with their disastrous pull out of Afghanistan.\n\n\u201cThat pull out in Afghanistan, cost American lives, including a Nebraskan, Marine Corporal Daegan Page.\n\n\u201cWe also left behind Americans, unbelievably, and we also left behind our Afghan security partners \u2013 abandoned them \u2013 in addition to the billions of dollars of American equipment, through this poorly executed debacle.\n\n\u201cSince then, we\u2019ve seen poor foreign policy fumbles and flip flops that have left our allies questioning our commitment. And worse yet, has the bad guys \u2013 Russia, China, Iran, North Korea \u2013 questioning our resolve.\n\n\u201cMost disturbing example of this is Iran.\n\n\u201cUnder the Trump administration, they knew that the way to deal with a dictator like we have in Ali Khamenei in Iran, is through strength and imposing sanctions.\n\n\u201cThe sanctions the Trump administration imposed took Iran\u2019s foreign reserves down from $122.5 billion to less than $14 billion.\n\n\u201cAnd what did that mean? Well, that meant that they couldn\u2019t fund the terrorism around the world that they\u2019ve been doing for the last four years.\n\n\u201cWhen you cut off their money supply, they couldn\u2019t give it to Hamas or Hezbollah. And so those terrorist organizations were going broke.\n\n\u201cThey didn\u2019t have the resources to be able to fund that terrorism. And then came along Joe Biden.\n\n\u201cJoe Biden and his administration relaxed the sanctions on Iran through a naive policy that somehow if we just give them enough money, they\u2019re going to be nice to us.\n\n\u201cBut that\u2019s not the way it works with dictators.\n\n\u201cIt enabled Iran to generate $100 billion in oil money, and that has consequences.\n\n\u201cIt was because of this appeasement-first policy and giving money to Iran that Hamas had the ability to attack our ally Israel on October 7th. And how Hezbollah has then since attacked Israel as well. How the Houthis have been able to shoot at ships in the Red Sea.\n\n\u201cIranian proxies like Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis have been emboldened by Biden\u2019s appeasement-first policy.\n\n\u201cThis is what is causing the chaos we are seeing right now in the Middle East.\n\n\u201cAnd while these attacks may seem far away, we must remember that Iran not only chants \u2018Death to Israel,\u2019 they chant \u2018Death to America.\u2019\n\n\u201cOver 40 Americans were killed on October 7th. Three American service members were killed by Iranian proxy drone attacks in January. The Houthis continue to shoot at American ships in the Red Sea.\n\n\u201cIslamic terrorists across have crossed our open border.\n\n\u201cAnd for crying out loud, Iran is trying to kill President Trump.\n\n\u201cAnd what has the Biden administration done? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. There has been no price for Iran to pay for all of this.\n\n\u201cOur adversaries, they see this and understand the weakness.\n\n\u201cThe Chinese Communist Party has been emboldened. They\u2019ve repeatedly violated our sovereignty. Spy balloons have been allowed to travel across our country spying on our sensitive military installations. We\u2019ve seen espionage operations set up in New York City and fentanyl has been killing Americans across our country. And while it may be coming across the southern border, the precursors are being made in China.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019ve also seen what Vladimir Putin has done, when Russia invaded Ukraine.\n\n\u201cOur freedoms, our way of life depends on peace. And how do we maintain peace? We maintain peace through strength.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s what the American people chose a month ago when they elected President Donald Trump. Under President Trump\u2019s first administration, we saw the dismantling of the ISIS caliphate and historic peace deals in the Middle East. The Middle East\u2019s first peace agreement in 26 years.\n\nAnd by the way, that should have been cause for a Nobel Prize award to President Trump. But the feckless Nobel Prize committee didn\u2019t see it that way. They couldn\u2019t bring themselves to acknowledge the great work that President Trump did.\n\n\u201cBy returning President Trump to the White House, the American people are sending a clear message. There\u2019s a new sheriff in town. The Biden-Harris age of appeasement is ending. The resurgence of American strength is about to begin. And I am excited to see what the future holds.\n\n\u201cThank you, Madam President.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-introduces-bonus-transparency-act", "Congressman Flood Introduces BONUS Transparency Act", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, joined by House Veterans\u2019 Affairs (VA) Committee Chairman Mike Bost (IL-12), Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), and Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), introduced the \u201cBONUS Transparency Act.\u201d This bill enhances communication transparency in bonus pay to Career Senior Executive Service (SES) employees across federal agencies.\n\n\u201cThe VA\u2019s inappropriate awarding of nearly $11 million to SES employees must be addressed,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cWhat makes this situation even worse is that the public only became aware of this misuse of funds because of the VA\u2019s Inspector General. This cannot happen again, which is why I\u2019ve introduced the BONUS Transparency Act. Congress has the obligation and authority to oversee how taxpayer funds are used by federal agencies. This bill promotes transparency\u2014and, in turn, accountability\u2014across our federal government, ensuring these funds are not abused for personal gain by Washington bureaucrats in the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cAfter the Biden-Harris administration tried to line the pockets of its senior VA executives during the bonus scandal earlier this year, we need my friend Rep. Flood\u2019s bill. The BONUS Transparency Act would ensure that this type of government waste never happens again. My Committee\u2019s investigation over the summer revealed that too often bureaucrats are getting ahead of their skis and money doesn\u2019t go to the right people \u2013 those who had actually earned it,\u201d said Chairman Bost. \u201cThis commonsense bill would increase transparency and accountability throughout the federal government overnight.\u201d\n\n\"Senior officials at federal agencies are meant to serve the American people, not to enrich themselves,\u201d said Congressman Ciscomani. \u201cAs we learned from our recent oversight of the Department of Veterans\u2019 Affairs, where $10.8 million in bonuses were inappropriately awarded, executive level staff must be held accountable and use taxpayer dollars to serve those who rely on federal agencies, like our veterans. I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of the BONUS Transparency Act to protect tax-payer dollars and ensure compliance with bonus caps.\u201d\n\n\u201cOversight on the use of taxpayer dollars is not optional \u2013 it is a necessity. If this magnitude of financial misconduct can occur at the Veterans Administration, it can happen at any other federal agency, and that will not be tolerated. The BONUS Transparency Act will draw a clear line to ensure that federal agencies are held to the highest standard and any misuse of funds is fully exposed\u201d said Congressman Van Orden.\n\nThe legislation follows a recent report by the VA\u2019s Inspector General, which revealed that funds allocated by Congress for recruitment and retention of VA employees that assist in processing veterans\u2019 benefits claims, were instead used to award bonuses to SES employees. These award bonuses averaged $55,000 per bonus, with multiple bonuses exceeding $100,000.\n\nThe \u201cBONUS Transparency Act\u201d requires that all bonuses awarded to SES employees must be reported to Congress, including the employee\u2019s name, job title, and annual rate of pay. Additionally, federal agencies must disclose the accounts from which the performance awards were funded.\n\nCurrently, no federal requirement exists for SES employee bonuses to be reported to Congress. While federal law generally caps bonuses at 20% of an SES employee\u2019s basic annual pay, the VA Inspector General\u2019s report revealed that several of these bonuses were closer to 25% of basic pay.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-president-trumps-selection-billy-long-irs-commissioner", "Smith Statement on President Trump's Selection of Billy Long for IRS Commissioner", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after President Trump released a statement announcing he will appoint former Congressman Billy Long to serve as Commissioner of the IRS.\n\n\"Despite his claims otherwise during the confirmation process, Commissioner Werfel\u2019s tenure at the IRS has largely focused on advancing the Biden-Harris agenda to intrude further into the financial privacy of American families and small businesses. We need an IRS commissioner who will restore accountability to the agency and its employees, address outdated technology infrastructure, return to wholly appropriated funding, end the unlawful Direct File Program, and have a true focus on serving taxpayers well. I applaud President Trump\u2019s announcement of his plan to nominate my former colleague Billy Long to do the job and look forward to Senate consideration of his qualifications.\"\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nSmith, a senior member of the Committee on Ways and Means, introduced legislation, passed by the House in January 2023, to repeal the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s $80 billion IRS expansion and legislation to terminate the IRS\u2019s unauthorized Direct File program.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-smith-bill-transferring-reservoir-land-local-control-passes-house", "VIDEO: Smith Bill Transferring Reservoir Land to Local Control Passes House", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives supporting passage of his bill (H.R. 8413) to transfer certain land at Swanson Reservoir and Red Willow Reservoir from the Bureau of Reclamation to Hitchcock and Frontier Counties, respectively. The bill passed with unanimous consent.\n\nRepresentatives Mike Flood (R-NE), Don Bacon (R-NE), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Sharice Davids (D-KS), and Lauren Boebert (R-CO) are cosponsors of the House bill. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) introduced companion legislation in the Senate with Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jerry Moran (R-KS), and Roger Marshall (R-KS).\n\nVideo of Smith's full remarks is linked here. Text is below:\n\nThank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to my colleagues on the Natural Resources Committee. I appreciate this opportunity. I appreciate your support of H.R. 8413.\n\nThe Swanson and Hugh Butler Reservoirs Land Conveyances Act would begin the process of transferring ownership of roughly 77 acres of land from the Bureau of Reclamation to the counties of Hitchcock and Frontier, together. Importantly, this land does not include any water or power assets.\n\nI am proud to represent the Third District of Nebraska, which is home to both reservoirs impacted by this legislation. Over the last few years, working closely with impacted stakeholders as well as Senator Deb Fischer, it is clear how important this transfer is to the local communities.\n\nThe current management of the land supports local marinas, housing communities, and areas for local economic activity. However, should the Bureau of Reclamation maintain ownership, impending changes to land use policies would force the removal of these businesses and communities from the land.\n\nWhen the bureau announced the planned management changes, it spawned extensive collaboration between the local communities, businesses, and housing owners. This collaboration generated outstanding support for a land transfer, which will allow for increased local control of the recreational areas.\n\nFurther, this would provide long-term certainty for the businesses which depend on revenue brought in by tourism, the locals who enjoy recreational activities at the reservoirs, and the some 180 housing owners from three states. These owners and their families have spent generations creating this \u201chome away from home.\u201d\n\nTourism cultivated by current land use arrangements is vital for the local economies. Both counties are highly rural, with Frontier County covering over 700 square miles with just 2,600 residents. There are three restaurants in the entire county \u2013 one of which is the marina included in this transfer.\n\nThe 110 lease holders at Swanson Reservoir bring in approximately 500 people multiple times throughout the year, who support other local businesses in the area as well. So, to put this into perspective \u2013 small businesses throughout Frontier and Hitchcock Counties estimate they would lose nearly $1.5 million in revenue if these leases are terminated.\n\nAdditionally, the marinas facilitate community activities and drive economic development, which would not occur if not for the patronage generated from the broader communities.\n\nWhen the public and the federal government disagree on how land intended for public access should be used, the reasonable solution is to empower local control, which best suits the local community and visitors, especially considering all the discussion here this afternoon.\n\nAdditionally, the transfer comes at no cost to the federal government, as the legislation ensures taxpayers are reimbursed at fair market value and public access is maintained.\n\nI thank the chair and ranking member for their work to move this bill forward and certainly Senator Fischer for her partnership in the Senate.\n\nI urge the passage of H.R. 8413 and yield back the balance of my time.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nEarlier this year, Smith and Fischer, with members of the Nebraska delegation, introduced the Swanson and Hugh Butler Reservoirs Land Conveyances Act after an outpouring of community dissatisfaction with Bureau of Reclamation management of the concession areas at the Swanson and Red Willow Reservoirs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A487B24D-33F5-4B1A-A482-8056A5F9B984", "ICYMI: Fischer Joins Fox Business to Talk DOGE, Cutting Spending", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) appeared on \u201cCavuto: Coast to Coast\u201d to discuss President Trump\u2019s new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and its mandate to reduce wasteful government spending. Senator Fischer emphasized the need to focus on the core responsibilities of the federal government and eliminate spending on unnecessary pet projects.\n\nIn the interview, Senator Fischer also addressed the challenge of working with Senate Democrats, urging the need to find those willing to stand up to wasteful spending and prioritize the interests of their constituents.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nOn working together to reduce wasteful spending:\n\n\u201cI think it\u2019s important that we\u2019re going to partner together to work with the administration. To work with people close to Donald Trump, and also to work together here as Republicans and Democrats, to deliver better results for the American people.\n\nAnd that really ties in with looking at how we\u2019re going to quit wasting taxpayer dollars. Find programs that work, focus on those, and find programs that don\u2019t work, and work to eliminate those.\u201d\n\nOn finding common ground with unlikely allies:\n\n\"I was really happy to see Senator Fetterman, Bernie Sanders. Not folks that I usually work with, but to be able to have a coming together of what we all should be interested in. And that\u2019s being able to prioritize taxpayer dollars on things that really are a duty of the federal government, and that have a true benefit to the American people.\u201d\n\nOn making progress in cutting wasteful spending:\n\n\"We have an administration where President Trump has been very forthright in making his views known, that that\u2019s what he wants to do. He wants to deliver for the American people on a variety of issues, and having a more effective and more efficient government is one of those.\u201d\n\n***", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-smith-speaks-house-floor-passage-bill-rename-lexington-post-office-after", "VIDEO: Smith Speaks on House Floor on Passage of Bill to Rename Lexington Post Office After Bill and Elsie Barrett", "2024-12-04", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives today on passage of his bill (H.R. 7507) to name the post office in Lexington, NE the \"William E. and Elsie L. Barrett Post Office Building.\" The bill passed with unanimous consent.\n\nSee Smith's full remarks below:\n\nThank you, Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7507, a bill which would name the post office in Lexington, Nebraska after former Congressman Bill and his wife Elsie Barrett.\n\nBill Barrett was born in Lexington, Nebraska in 1929. Following his service in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, Bill returned to his alma mater, Hastings College, serving as vice president for student admissions and later on the college\u2019s Board of Trustees for 32 years. In 1978 he was elected to the Nebraska Legislature, serving for 12 years, with his last four as Speaker. He was then elected to represent the Third District of Nebraska in the U.S. House. Known for his ability to cultivate consensus and connect with anyone, Bill was the president of his freshman congressional class, a group that included future Speaker John Boehner. Tirelessly focused on issues important to Nebraska\u2019s farmers and ranchers, Bill\u2019s former staff have recounted how he would always ask, \u201cDoes this help the Third District?\u201d During his 5 terms in Congress, he served on the House Agriculture Committee and co-authored the Freedom to Farm Act of 1996. He also presided over the weekly bipartisan prayer breakfast and was eventually appointed chairman of the National Prayer Breakfast. He set a lasting standard of dedicated statesmanship and summed up his approach to public service as a high calling with the quote, \u201cService to others is the best work of life.\u201d\n\nBill\u2019s wife, Elsie Carlson Barrett, was born in 1930 to a Swedish immigrant family in New London, Connecticut. Elsie and Bill met while he was stationed there for his Naval service, and the two married in 1952. They settled in Hastings, Nebraska, where Elsie worked as a nurse before the family moved to Lexington. In Lexington, Bill and Elsie raised four children. Her passion for improving the lives of children blessed many, as she served on the Nebraska Foster Care Review Board and as president of her local Philanthropic Educational Organization chapter. Bill and Elsie were an extraordinary team and worked together to help host the National Prayer Breakfast in 1997.\n\nWhether serving in the Navy, the Nebraska Unicameral, or in the U.S. House, Bill always put Nebraska first, and Elsie leaves behind a great legacy of bettering the lives of others. It is a great privilege to sponsor this bill, which would name the post office located at 203 East 6th Street in Lexington, Nebraska, for Bill and Elsie Barrett. I want to thank my colleagues in the Nebraska delegation who joined in this effort to honor Bill and Elsie, and I urge support for this bill. As Bill would say, in this body we all have \u201can armchair to history,\u201d I am honored to represent the same district he did.\n\nThank you, I yield back.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-after-meeting-with-lee-zeldin-im-excited-to-have-a-change-of-leadership-at-the-epa/", "Ricketts\u00a0After Meeting with Lee Zeldin: \u201cI\u2019m Excited to Have A Change of Leadership at the EPA\u201d", "2024-12-04", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "December 4, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, reacted to his meeting with former Congressman Lee Zeldin, President-Elect Trump\u2019s nominee for Administrator of the Environment Protection Agency (EPA). Ricketts was encouraged by Zeldin\u2019s plans to roll back the burdensome regulations of the Biden-Harris administration, provide transparency and certainty, and respect Nebraska priorities. Ricketts made the comments while on a conference call with Nebraska media.\n\n\u201cThe Biden-Harris EPA\u2019s delusional and expensive regulations caused prices to rise for families and businesses,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cThey wasted millions of taxpayer dollars with grants to far-left, partisan organizations. They issued mandates that limited choice and hindered American innovation. They stonewalled Senators and kept important information from the American people. That\u2019s just wrong.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday, I met with former Congressman Lee Zeldin, President-Elect Trump\u2019s nominee to lead the EPA,\u201dRicketts continued. \u201cWe discussed several issues critical to Nebraska and our country. I\u2019m excited to have a change of leadership at the Environmental Protection Agency. Lee and I discussed the need for an EPA that provides relief, not regulation.\u201d\n\n\u201cFormer Congressman Lee Zeldin has a strong record of public service,\u201d Ricketts closed. \u201cI\u2019m hopeful he will lead the EPA in a way that respects Nebraska\u2019s priorities. I look forward to working with him to advance these policies that will benefit Nebraska and all Americans.\u201d\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cThe Biden-Harris EPA\u2019s delusional and expensive regulations caused prices to rise for families and businesses.\n\n\u201cThey wasted millions of taxpayer dollars with grants to far-left, partisan organizations.\n\n\u201cThey issued mandates that limited choice and hindered American innovation.\n\n\u201cThey stonewalled Senators and kept important information from the American people.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s just wrong.\n\n\u201cToday, I met with former Congressman Lee Zeldin, President-Elect Trump\u2019s nominee to lead the EPA.\n\n\u201cWe discussed several issues critical to Nebraska and our country.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m excited to have a change of leadership at the Environmental Protection Agency.\n\n\u201cLee and I discussed the need for an EPA that provides relief, not regulation.\n\n\u201cThe EPA\u2019s role is to protect our environment without placing unnecessary roadblocks in the way of hardworking Americans.\n\n\u201cI know Lee Zeldin understands how the EPA\u2019s overreach has hurt farmers and businesses.\n\n\u201cI was encouraged to hear his plans for rolling back these burdensome regulations and supporting innovation and economic growth.\n\n\u201cAnother issue we discussed was the need for an EPA that unleashes American energy, instead of attacking it.\n\n\u201cWe need to end regulations like the Clean Power Plan that undermine our energy security and economic growth.\n\n\u201cWe need to streamline permitting processes to save consumers money, support American workers, and boost our economy.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m confident that Lee Zeldin will be a good partner in this effort.\n\n\u201cWe also discussed the need for an EPA that respects proven solutions like Nebraska biofuels.\n\n\u201cBiofuels like ethanol save consumers money at the pump, help clean up our environment, and support our farmers and ranchers.\n\n\u201cI emphasized the importance of strengthening the Renewable Fuel Standard.\n\n\u201cI encouraged him to ensure that Renewable Volume Obligations are set at levels that reflect the full capacity and potential of the renewable fuels industry.\n\n\u201cThis is critical for our nation\u2019s energy security.\n\n\u201cFormer Congressman Lee Zeldin has a strong record of public service.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m hopeful he will lead the EPA in a way that respects Nebraska\u2019s priorities.\n\n\u201cI look forward to working with him to advance these policies that will benefit Nebraska and all Americans.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-announces-senior-staff-updates-names-amelia-breinig-as-chief-of-staff/", "Ricketts Announces\u00a0Senior Staff Updates, Names Amelia Breinig as Chief of Staff", "2024-12-04", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "December 4, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced several senior staff updates. Matt Miltenberger is departing for the private sector after 10 years as Ricketts\u2019 Chief of Staff. Amelia Breinig has been promoted to Chief of Staff. Daniel Yarbrough has joined the team as Legislative Director.\n\n\u201cMatt Miltenberger has been an exceptional Chief of Staff, trusted advisor, and friend for over a decade,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cFrom navigating a global pandemic in the governor\u2019s office to managing my transition to the U.S. Senate, Matt has been an essential part of my work fighting for Nebraskans. I\u2019m grateful for his friendship and thankful for all he\u2019s done for me and for Nebraska.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m excited to have Amelia Breinig and Daniel Yarbrough step into their new roles as Chief of Staff and Legislative Director,\u201d Ricketts continued. \u201cAmelia and Daniel bring varied experience across all levels of government, including in the U.S. Senate and the first Trump administration. I\u2019m confident their wisdom and leadership skills will help us continue delivering results for Nebraskans.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s been the honor of a lifetime to serve Pete Ricketts and the state of Nebraska for these past 10 years,\u201d said Miltenberger. \u201cSenator Ricketts represents the best of what public service should be. I\u2019m humbled by all the wonderful Nebraskans we\u2019ve been privileged to serve and I\u2019m incredibly proud of the work we\u2019ve done together.\u201d\n\n\u201cNebraska is and always will be home,\u201d said Breinig. \u201cI\u2019m thrilled to take on this important role and excited to work with the entire Nebraska delegation to make government work better and bring positive results to all Nebraskans.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nAmelia Breinig, who will serve as Chief of Staff, has experience in the House and Senate, including time with Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), former U.S. Representative Lee Terry (R-NE-02), and the Senate Finance Committee. Breinig worked on trade issues in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative during the first Trump administration. She also served as Deputy Director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture under then-Governor Pete Ricketts, helping to oversee agency operations, legislative affairs and agriculture promotion and development for the State of Nebraska. Prior to joining Senator Ricketts\u2019 team earlier this year as Deputy Chief of Staff, Breinig worked in the private sector for Merck Sharpe & Dohme focusing on federal and multilateral affairs. She has a B.A. in broadcast journalism from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and an MBA from the University of Minnesota. Born and raised in Arapahoe, Nebraska, Breinig is a sixth-generation Nebraskan.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-elected-vice-chair-republican-main-street-caucus", "Congressman Flood Elected Vice Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus", "2024-12-03", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The Republican Main Street Caucus (RMSC) recently elected new leadership for the 119th Congress. Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-At-Large) was re-elected Chair and Congressman Mike Flood (NE-01) was elected as Vice-Chair.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s an honor to serve as the Republican Main Street Caucus Vice Chair for the 119th Congress,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cFrom cutting taxes to rolling back the Biden administration\u2019s failed policies, Main Street Republicans are leading the way in the House, working to enact conservative policy that will grow communities and help more families live the American dream. I look forward to teaming up with my good friend and RMSC chair, Rep. Johnson, as he we kick off a new Congress and work with President Trump and our entire caucus to champion our conservative principles.\u201d\n\nAbout the Republican Main Street Caucus", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1961E468-6DCC-4331-9358-A2554407AEC0", "Fischer, Ricketts, Bacon, Flood, Smith Announce Selection of Offutt Air Force Base for New 95th Wing", "2024-12-03", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts, along with U.S. Representatives Don Bacon, Mike Flood, and Adrian Smith, announced the U.S. Air Force\u2019s selection of Nebraska\u2019s own Offutt Air Force Base as the location of the new 95th Wing.\n\nToday\u2019s announcement confirms the Nebraska delegation\u2019s announcement in August that the Air Force intended to activate the new 95th Wing at Offutt.\n\nThe 95th Wing, whose mission will be to strengthen strategic command and control, will be a subordinate unit of the Air Force Global Strike Command. Through centralizing nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) at Offutt, the Air Force will streamline its planning and administrative forces. The 95th Wing is expected to be fully operational by January, and it is projected to add 70 personnel to Offutt.\n\n\u201cThe Air Force\u2019s choice of Offutt as home to the 95th Wing reinforces Nebraska\u2019s status as the center of gravity for NC3 missions,\u201d said Senator Fischer, Ranking Member and incoming Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee\u2019s Strategic Forces Subcommittee. \u201cNebraska is proud of our leading role in America\u2019s national defense.\u201d\n\n\u201cOffutt Air Force Base will continue to play a critical role in ensuring America\u2019s strategic deterrence against existing and emerging threats posed by adversaries like China and Russia. Nebraska is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cI look forward to welcoming the women and men who will call Omaha, Nebraska home as part of this newly activated unit.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is excellent news for Offutt Air Force Base, the state of Nebraska and the nation,\u201d said Representative Bacon, member of the House Armed Services Committee\u2019s Strategic Forces Subcommittee. \u201cThe decision to base the new 95th Wing at Offutt is the culmination of years of hard work by the Air Force and Nebraska\u2019s Congressional delegation. This new wing will strengthen the command control of America\u2019s strategic nuclear deterrent and provide significant economic benefits for the greater Omaha region in the years ahead.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Offutt Air Force Base begins its second century, the 95th Wing will not only grow the base\u2019s role in serving our Armed Forces, but also its footprint, creating great jobs right here in Nebraska\u2019s First District,\u201d said Representative Flood. \u201cThank you to the Air Force for their ongoing commitment to Offutt and Sarpy County. I am looking forward to welcoming the new 95th Wing to Nebraska as we continue to support the base and the people serving at Offutt and carrying out its critical missions.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-fischer-bacon-flood-smith-announce-selection-of-offutt-air-force-base-for-new-95th-wing/", "Ricketts, Fischer, Bacon, Flood, Smith Announce Selection of Offutt Air Force Base for New 95th Wing", "2024-12-03", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts and Deb Fischer, along with U.S. Representatives Don Bacon, Mike Flood, and Adrian Smith, announced the U.S. Air Force\u2019s selection of Nebraska\u2019s own Offutt Air Force Base as the location of the new 95th Wing.\n\nToday\u2019s announcement confirms the Nebraska delegation\u2019s announcement in August that the Air Force intended to activate the new 95th Wing at Offutt.\n\nThe 95th Wing, whose mission will be to strengthen strategic command and control, will be a subordinate unit of the Air Force Global Strike Command. Through centralizing nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) at Offutt, the Air Force will streamline its planning and administrative forces. The 95th Wing is expected to be fully operational by January, and it is projected to add 70 personnel to Offutt.\n\n\u201cOffutt Air Force Base will continue to play a critical role in ensuring America\u2019s strategic deterrence against existing and emerging threats posed by adversaries like China and Russia. Nebraska is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cI look forward to welcoming the women and men who will call Omaha, Nebraska home as part of this newly activated unit.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Air Force\u2019s choice of Offutt as home to the 95th Wing reinforces Nebraska\u2019s status as the center of gravity for NC3 missions,\u201d said Senator Fischer, Ranking Member and incoming Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee\u2019s Strategic Forces Subcommittee. \u201cNebraska is proud of our leading role in America\u2019s national defense.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is excellent news for Offutt Air Force Base, the state of Nebraska and the nation,\u201d said Representative Bacon, member of the House Armed Services Committee\u2019s Strategic Forces Subcommittee. \u201cThe decision to base the new 95th Wing at Offutt is the culmination of years of hard work by the Air Force and Nebraska\u2019s Congressional delegation. This new wing will strengthen the command control of America\u2019s strategic nuclear deterrent and provide significant economic benefits for the greater Omaha region in the years ahead.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Offutt Air Force Base begins its second century, the 95th Wing will not only grow the base\u2019s role in serving our Armed Forces, but also its footprint, creating great jobs right here in Nebraska\u2019s First District,\u201d said Representative Flood. \u201cThank you to the Air Force for their ongoing commitment to Offutt and Sarpy County. I am looking forward to welcoming the new 95th Wing to Nebraska as we continue to support the base and the people serving at Offutt and carrying out its critical missions.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-2024-congressional-app-challenge-winners", "Congressman Flood Announces 2024 Congressional App Challenge Winners", "2024-12-02", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Kyle Van Sant and Leo Geck, students from Papillion La Vista High School, as the co-winners of the Congressional App Challenge for Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District.\n\nTheir submission, Volunteering Opportunities of Nebraska (VON), is an app designed to help students log, access, and discover volunteer opportunities with local organizations. Kyle and Leo aim to foster community engagement and encourage students to give back to their communities through VON.\n\n\u201cVolunteer activities help lay the foundation for connecting the next generation of Nebraskans to their communities and getting them civically engaged,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cKyle and Leo\u2019s app is not only impressive but also a great example of how Nebraska has become known as the \u2018Silicon Prairie.\u2019 I want to congratulate them and thank everyone who participated in the Congressional App Challenge. I look forward to seeing future innovations from Kyle and Leo.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Congressional App Challenge was an incredible opportunity for me to learn about programming and engineering while creating something that can contribute to my community,\u201d said Kyle Van Sant, Co-Winner of the Congressional App Challenge for Nebraska\u2019s First District.\n\n\u201cAs an aspiring engineer seeking to make the world a better place, this experience showed me how the engineering process works and will guide me throughout college and my professional career\u201d added Leo Geck, Co-Winner of the Congressional App Challenge for Nebraska\u2019s First District.\n\nOne review committee member praised VON, stating, \u201cThis app expands student volunteering opportunities, simplifies tracking hours, and encourages community involvement. Kyle and Leo have done an exceptional job creating something with immediate impact. It\u2019s inspiring to see young people applying creativity and innovation for the benefit of their peers.\u201d\n\nKyle and Leo\u2019s submission was reviewed by a committee of professionals working in the start-up and digital community from the First Congressional District.\n\nApplications submitted through the contest are generally not immediately commercially available.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-pardon-hunter-biden", "Smith Statement on Pardon of Hunter Biden", "2024-12-01", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after President Joe Biden announced he had signed a pardon for his son Hunter Biden.\n\n\"Just as President Biden lied when he said he would not pardon his son Hunter, he isn\u2019t telling the whole truth about the pardon he issued for him tonight. While his statement was framed as addressing Hunter\u2019s gun and tax charges, this blanket pardon covers all crimes Hunter may have committed from 2014 through 2023\u2014a period covering his son's suspect business dealings in Ukraine, China, and other foreign nations\u2014and removes them from further DOJ scrutiny. Hunter's refusal to comply with investigations by the House Ways and Means, Oversight, and Judiciary Committees shows the Biden family is not serious about letting the American people make an informed judgment on the evidence pointing to extensive corruption. President Biden has gone back on his word and abused the power of the presidency. This is unacceptable.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-comments-on-trump-decision-to-appoint-lee-zeldin-as-epa-administrator/", "Ricketts Comments on Trump Decision to Appoint Lee Zeldin as EPA Administrator", "2024-11-11", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "November 11, 2024\n\nOMAHA, NE \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, issued the following statement on President Trump\u2019s selection of Lee Zeldin as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator:\n\n\u201cThe Biden-Harris EPA\u2019s delusional and expensive regulations have caused prices to rise for families and businesses. They wasted millions of taxpayer dollars with grants to far-left, partisan organizations. Their mandates limited choice and hindered American innovation. As a member of the Committee that oversees the EPA, I look forward to getting Lee confirmed as soon as possible so we can finally give the American people the relief they\u2019ve been calling for.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:02:12Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-statement-on-veterans-day/", "Ricketts Statement on Veterans Day", "2024-11-10", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "November 10, 2024\n\nOMAHA, NE \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement in anticipation of Veterans Day:\n\n\u201cPresident John F. Kennedy once said, \u2018A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors, the men it remembers.\u2019 Each Veterans Day, we honor the brave women and men who have made great sacrifices to protect our freedoms. We owe these veterans and their families a debt of gratitude that we can never repay. Let\u2019s take the time today to thank them for their service and listen to their stories.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:02:12Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2575", "Bacon, Houlahan and Quality of Life Panel Urge Senators to Accept their Recommendations in the Fiscal Year 25 National Defense Authorization Act", "2024-11-08", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Today, Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee\u2019s (HASC) bipartisan Military Quality of Life Panel, led the members of the panel in a letter to Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and Roger Wicker (R-MS), the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) urging them to include the provisions of the Panel\u2019s report that are a part of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Ac (NDAA). Title XVIII of H.R. 8070, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and FY25 NDAA includes the recommendations from the bipartisan Quality of Life Panel.\n\nThe Quality of Life Panel last year held detailed inquiries and learned about the alarming erosion of military quality of life and programs supporting it. The top five highlights include:\n\nCompensation. Sudden and significant increased to the cost of living have outpaced annual military pay raises and triggered economic, food, and housing insecurity for servicemembers and their families, particularly within enlisted ranks.\n\nHousing Quality. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) testified to the shocking disrepair of housing facilities which pose unacceptable health, safety, and readiness risks to servicemembers.\n\nHealthcare Access. The panel observed unacceptably long wait times for medical appointments, now cited as a leading reason for job dissatisfaction in the ranks with 40% of servicemembers ad dependents waiting two months or longer to see a specialist.\n\nChildcare Access. The work of the panel also affirmed the importance of reliable access to affordable childcare as essential to readiness and retention, especially for single parents, dual military, and the growing proportion of dual income families in general.\n\nSpouse Support. Military spouse unemployment is currently estimated to be 21%, more than four times the national average and consistently among the highest of any cohort in the country. Frequent moves, isolated locations, and other bureaucratic obstacles make finding and keeping a job difficult for military spouses and is why one in five military families now cite spouse employment challenges as a primary reason they consider leaving military service.\n\n\u201cToo many of our servicemembers and miliary families are struggling and it\u2019s not right,\u201d said Bacon, Chairman of the Military Quality of Life Panel. \u201cThe House of Representatives takes these concerns seriously and developed concrete, bi-partisan solutions to fix these widespread deficiencies. I urge our colleagues in the Senate to work with us to include these recommendations in the final NDAA agreement.\u201d\n\n\"As veterans, Rep. Bacon and I understand that our national security is at its strongest when our brave men and women in uniform are cared for. Our military personnel and their families are facing unique challenges right now, and it\u2019s our responsibility to deliver solutions,\" said Rep. Houlahan. \"The policies we've proposed to address the issues impacting service members\u2019 quality of life focused on housing, childcare, compensation, health care, and spouse support programs must be included in the final NDAA to ensure our military forces can face our nation's global challenges.\"\n\nOther House Members of the Quality of Life panel include Reps. Mark Alford (R-MO), Jim Banks (R-IN), Donald G. Davis (D-NC), Veronica Escobar (D-TX), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Jen A. Kiggins (R-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Nancy Mace (R-NC), James C. Moylan(R-Guam), and Marilyn Strickland (D-WA).\n\nClick here to view the letter sent to the Senate Armed Services Committee.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-calls-biden-administration-fight-anti-meat-agenda-cop29", "Congressman Flood Calls on Biden Administration to Fight Anti-Meat Agenda at COP29", "2024-11-08", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement ahead of the United Nations COP29 summit. The summit is set to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan from November 11th-22nd.\n\n\u201cAs COP29 kicks off next week, the Biden administration has an important job to do. COP summits have increasingly become a forum for anti-meat activists who want to restructure our food supply and end our way of life. Following last year\u2019s anti-meat guidelines, over 150 NGOs are pushing to curtail meat consumption as the parties convene again.\u201d\n\n\u201cDuring the summit, it\u2019s critical that Secretary Vilsack and other Biden officials in attendance push back on any attempt to reduce or eliminate meat production. Meat is an incredibly efficient way to deliver protein and is foundational to the world\u2019s food security and a healthy diet. The entire delegation needs to fight for America\u2019s farm and ranch families who help grow the food that feeds the world.\u201d\n\nRecently, the U.S. State Department announced the members of a delegation to the summit from the Biden administration, including U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.\n\nAhead of COP29, over 150 NGOs signed a letter pushing to \u201ctransition away from animal protein overconsumption.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-veterans-day-statement-1", "Congressman Flood\u2019s Veterans Day Statement", "2024-11-08", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA - U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement ahead of Veterans Day, which will be observed November 11, 2024.\n\n\u201cVeterans selflessly put their lives on the line in service to our country and to uphold our Constitution. This Veterans Day, we recognize and honor the millions of Americans who have answered the call to serve their country with courage. From the Civil War to present-day deployments across the globe, Nebraskans have served in our nation\u2019s military with bravery and distinction for generations. Thank you to the tens of thousands of veterans in Nebraska and to the millions of veterans across the country for your dedication and sacrifice made while defending our families, our communities, and way of life.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-fischer-urge-biden-harris-administration-to-end-safe-haven-for-hamas-in-qatar/", "Ricketts & Fischer Urge Biden-Harris Administration to End Safe Haven for Hamas in Qatar", "2024-11-08", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "November 8, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Deb Fischer (R-NE), along with 12 other GOP senators, sent a letter to multiple federal agencies with requests, including that the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Department of State:\n\nImmediately freeze the assets of Hamas officials living in Qatar.\n\nExtradite senior Hamas officials currently residing in Qatar and other locations, including Khaled Meshal whom the Department of Justice has already indicted, and Khalil Al-Hayya.\n\nAsk Qatar to end its hospitality of Hamas\u2019 senior leadership, as Hamas has exploited its safe haven in Qatar to confer with Iranian officials and reject reasonable negotiations in international media.\n\n\u201cThe defeat of Hamas is within reach, and ending the safe haven that its leadership enjoys abroad is vital to defeating it,\u201dthe senators wrote. \u201cWe urge you to act expediently so that this Iranian-backed terrorist organization is finally held responsible for the horrific terrorist massacre of October 7, 2023, and the war that it deliberately unleashed across the region.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Ricketts and Fischer, other signatories include Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), Jim Risch (R-ID), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC).\n\nRead the full letter here or below:\n\nDear Secretary Blinken and Attorney General Garland,\n\nThe Israel Defense Forces\u2019 killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar presents a critical opportunity for the United States to compel Hamas\u2019 surrender. This would end the war that Hamas started with its brutal terrorist massacre on October 7, 2023, in which it killed nearly 1200 people, including 46 Americans, and took 250 hostages, including twelve Americans. We therefore urge you to act quickly against Hamas\u2019 remaining leadership, so that the organization is destroyed and defeated.\n\nFirst, we urge you to reverse the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s policy toward the State of Qatar, whereby the administration has permitted Qatar to facilitate negotiations by hosting Hamas\u2019 leadership. Hamas\u2019 Doha-based leaders have exploited this arrangement, and used the relative freedom that Qatar has afforded them to oppose ceasefire negotiations in international media, host Iranian officials at Hamas\u2019 Doha headquarters, and travel abroad. Qatari officials have said repeatedly that they would change their policy towards Hamas if the Biden-Harris administration asked it to do so, and we believe that it is long past time the administration ask Qatar to freeze Hamas leaders\u2019 assets, shut their access to international media, end their ability to host foreign visitors, and prevent them from traveling abroad.\n\nSecond, we urge you to seek the extradition to the United States of Hamas leader Khaled Meshal, who currently resides in Qatar. The Department of Justice unsealed indictments pertaining to multiple Hamas leaders, including Mr. Meshal, on September 3, 20241 , and he should face justice for his leadership of a terrorist group that has American blood and hostages on its hands.\n\nThird, we urge you to seek indictments for Hamas\u2019 other senior officials abroad, foremost among them Khalil Al-Hayya, who resides in Qatar. According to The New York Times, during the year prior to Hamas\u2019 October 7, 2023 terrorist massacre, Mr. Al-Hayya sought Iranian and Hezbollah support for Hamas\u2019 brutal attack, with the goal of assaulting Israel on multiple fronts.2 Mr. Al-Hayya should no longer be permitted to live risk-free in Doha. He should be indicted immediately for his role in killing Americans and taking Americans hostage, and then extradited to the United States to face justice.\n\nThe defeat of Hamas is within reach, and ending the safe haven that its leadership enjoys abroad is vital to defeating it. We urge you to act expediently so this Iranian-backed terrorist organization is finally held responsible for the horrific terrorist massacre of October 7, 2023 and the war that it deliberately unleashed across the region.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:02:12Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-andy-barr-delivers-keynote-flyover-fintech", "Congressman Andy Barr Delivers Keynote at Flyover Fintech", "2024-11-07", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Recently, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood invited Congressman Andy Barr to give remarks and to take questions at this year\u2019s Flyover Fintech conference. Congressman Barr highlighted legislative priorities while additionally laying out the Republican case for financial services and innovation.\n\nVideo of the address can be found here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. Brief excerpts from the keynote address can be found below.\n\nBarr: [The Constitution says that] all legislative powers shall be vested in a Congress of the United States\u2026 meaning that no legislative power shall be vested in an executive branch administrative agency. Yet, we have in some cases unconstitutionally delegated away our lawmaking authority way too much to unelected bureaucrats in the executive branch. Think the Securities and Exchange Commission. Think the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB). Think the Vice Chairman of Supervision at the Federal Reserve. So, we need to claw that back.\n\nBarr: We need market structure for digital assets. We need that certainty and stability there\u2026 a regulatory framework so that we can be the destination for crypto investment in the United States. We also need a stablecoin regulatory regime.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-accepting-applications-spring-internship-program-0", "Congressman Flood Accepting Applications for Spring Internship Program in Washington, D.C.", "2024-11-07", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced his office is taking applications for the spring internship program in his Washington, D.C. office.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to announce that my team is currently accepting applications for our Washington, D.C. spring internship program,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThis program provides interns with invaluable experience in our nation's capital alongside with a front-seat view of Congress at work.\n\nInterns will have the opportunity to work alongside each team with the office\u2019s full-time congressional staff. The internship curriculum leaves interns with an understanding of how a congressional office administers constituent services, produces communications, its operations, works on legislative affairs, and conducts committee work.\n\nAdditionally, interns will have the opportunity to attend congressional hearings, policy briefings, guest speaker events, exhibits, and networking opportunities on Capitol Hill.\n\nThe deadline to apply for the spring internship is November 29, 2024. Applicants will be notified of their selection by December 6, and the internship will run from February 3 through May 16. Graphic design and writing experience are valued; examples may be submitted with your resume.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-passing-john-gottschalk", "Smith Statement on Passing of John Gottschalk", "2024-11-04", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the passing of former owner of the Sidney Telegraph, mayor of Sidney, NE, and CEO of the Omaha World-Herald John Gottschalk.\n\n\"Few have had the level of impact on the state of Nebraska that the life and legacy of John Gottschalk has. His committed leadership in journalism, public service, philanthropy, community development, and volunteerism is the fruit of a great American success story. He never forgot his small-town roots and relentlessly sought ways to pay it forward. My wife and I offer our condolences to his wife Carmen and family members.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-statement-john-gottschalks-passing", "Congressman Flood's Statement on John Gottschalk's Passing", "2024-11-04", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following news that John Gottschalk, former publisher of the Omaha World-Herald, had passed away.\n\n\u201cJohn Gottschalk had a passion for journalism and love for Nebraska that touched every corner of our state, from the Panhandle to metro Omaha. His legacy will live on through his family and the incredible work that he and Carmen did through the years.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-comments-on-the-passing-of-john-gottschalk/", "Ricketts Comments on the Passing of John Gottschalk", "2024-11-04", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement commenting on the passing of Nebraska community leader John Gottschalk:\n\n\u201cJohn guided Nebraska\u2019s largest newspaper into the digital age and fought to preserve downtown Omaha. At the USO, he supported our nation\u2019s military families. As an avid outdoorsman, he fought to conserve Nebraska\u2019s wildlife for future generations. Together with his wife, they fostered over 100 infants awaiting adoption. He did so much for the community and lived a life of good works and service to the state he loved. I will miss him.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:02:12Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-event", "Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Outreach Event", "2024-10-31", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a member of his staff during the month of November in Wilber.\n\nA staff outreach event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location:\n\nTuesday, November 12, 2024\n\nSaline County Courthouse\n\n204 High Street, Wilber\n\n10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. CT", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-hosts-state-national-leaders-flyover-fintech-2024", "Congressman Flood Hosts State, National Leaders at Flyover Fintech 2024", "2024-10-31", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Last week, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood hosted Flyover Fintech 2024, bringing together state and national policymakers as well as business leaders to spotlight the latest advancements related to cybersecurity, AI, and more in the fintech sector.\n\n\"It was an honor to host hundreds of leaders for another successful Flyover Fintech conference in Lincoln,\" said Congressman Flood. \"The conference covered a wide range of topics with panels on everything from AI\u2019s impact on housing to cybersecurity. It was a pleasure to host Financial Services Committee Chairman Patrick McHenry for a fireside chat and Congressman Andy Barr as one of our keynote speakers. I look forward to future Flyover Fintech conferences that continue to showcase how the Silicon Prairie is thriving in the First District and beyond.\n\nFlyover Fintech conferences provide a unique platform to highlight Nebraska\u2019s role in fintech innovation while drawing national attention to Lincoln and the First District.\n\nPhotos of Flyover Fintech 2024 are available here. News outlets are welcome to use the images for reporting purposes.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-sustainable-aviation-fuel-next-great-biofuels-revolution", "Congressman Flood on Sustainable Aviation Fuel: The Next Great Biofuels Revolution is Coming", "2024-10-30", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HOUSTON, TEXAS \u2013 Recently, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood delivered an address to Sustainable Aviation Futures North America. During his comments, Congressman Flood discussed how Nebraska is positioned to lead the coming sustainable aviation fuel revolution that is expected to sweep the nation\u2019s bioeconomy.\n\nA recording of Congressman Flood\u2019s full remarks can be accessed here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-chairman-mchenry-reflect-speaker-pro-tempore-digital-assets", "Congressman Flood & Chairman McHenry Reflect on Speaker Pro Tempore, Digital Assets during Fireside Chat", "2024-10-29", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Recently, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood was joined by Financial Services Committee Chairman Patrick McHenry for a frank fireside chat during this year's Flyover Fintech conference. The two discussed legislative agendas for the remainder of the Congress while also reflecting on Chairman McHenry's time as Speaker pro tempore.\n\nVideo of Rep. Flood's discussion can be found here. Financial Services Committee legislative agenda remarks are from 00:00-19:05 while reflecting on the Speakership and Congress is from 19:05-38:12. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. Brief excerpts from the fireside chat can be found below.\n\nMcHenry: ... You need a regulated stable coin regime at the federal level. And you need to clarify: What is a digital asset? Much of what pretends to be a digital asset is actually fraudulent activity in the current state of play because we have not defined what is a digital asset.\n\n\u2026we have the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the current chair of the SEC playing games with this industry rather than providing clarity. Trying to get headlines by suing Kim Kardashian [rather] than providing regulatory clarity over a trillion-dollar asset class... Talk about playing in triviality and really playing stupid games to get attention - that's what the SEC has done rather than provide any level of clarity... so Congress has to step in.\n\nFlood: What are the prospects of getting something from the Senate? How do you see that on market structure?\n\nMcHenry: Market structure and Stablecoin are two open questions for lame duck... The election outcome will dictate much of what happens in lame duck. The National Defense Authorization Act and government funding are the two major pieces of legislation we have to wrestle with between now and the end of the year, and those two must-pass bills have traditionally taken a larger policy set with them... The Senate is unlikely to take an independent Senate banking bill across the Senate floor\u2026\n\nYou have Members that want to offer amendments... to cut other people up or to go make a point, not to make policy. So, what happens is we have to build consensus for our products, and then those consensus items can make their way into law as a part of a larger package.\n\nFlood: A few months later, I was talking to Tom Cole, and he mentioned that you resisting that power was not done for the moment but was done for generations in the future...\n\nMcHenry: These systems develop over time... the power of the speakership developed over time... had I taken action, I would have eroded the power of the speakership in a way that would be detrimental to the insulation and the separation of powers... between the Congress and the Presidency...", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-fischer-secure-5-4-million-grant-for-nebraska-agricultural-supply-chain-efficiency-project/", "Ricketts, Fischer Secure $5.4 Million Grant for Nebraska Agricultural Supply Chain Efficiency Project", "2024-10-29", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "October 29, 2024\n\nOMAHA, NE \u2014 Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) announced a $5.4 million federal grant to enhance the Southeastern Nebraska Agricultural Supply Chain Efficiency Project. The grant was awarded to Manning Rail, Inc. to rehabilitate a rail line between Fairmont and Burress in Filmore County.\n\n\u201cFood security is national security so enhancing Nebraska\u2019s agricultural supply chain is an important use of these funds,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cRestoring the rail line will enhance the competitiveness of more than 100 local farmers. This project will not only improve grain transporting efficiency, but also enhance market access for local producers.\u201d\n\n\u201cInvesting in infrastructure keeps rural Nebraska strong,\u201d said Senator Fischer. \u201cRebuilding the rail line between Fairmont and Burress will connect more than 100 producers to the global marketplace and position Fillmore County for future success.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are grateful and excited to have been awarded this grant because of the tremendous opportunity it offers regional producers,\u201d said Kent Manning, President of Manning Rail. \u201cWhen we purchased the line twenty years ago, it had little chance of surviving. Since then, we have worked very hard to restore it. This grant provides the necessary funding for safe and efficient transportation of grain via rail. Once this project is completed, producers for generations to come will have access to 110-car shuttle trains on the BNSF railroad.\u201d\n\nThis project will focus on development, final design, and construction activities to restore the rail line. Manning Rail and Filmore County will contribute the 25 percent non-Federal match. The project qualifies for the statutory set-aside for rural area projects.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2571", "Eppley Airfield Receives an Additional $2.9 Million Grant from Infrastructure Bill", "2024-10-28", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Omaha, Neb. \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today responded to the announcement that Eppley Airport will receive an additional $2.9 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This allocation will pay for approximately five Passenger Boarding Bridges at Eppley Airfield, as part of the OMA Terminal Modernization Program.\n\nBacon voted in favor of the legislation in 2021, which will allocate $550 billion for roads and bridges, railroads, broadband access, power grid repair, water systems projects, public transportation, airports, and seaports. The other half of the bill\u2019s funding, approximately $650 billion of unspent COVID-19 funds, includes reauthorization of the Highway Trust Fund, Inland Waterways Trust Fund, and others which provides dedicated funds from existing taxes and fees for infrastructure that would automatically be spent with or without the bipartisan infrastructure bill.\n\n\u201cEppley Airfield serves approximately five million people per year, with more than 200 daily arrivals and departures,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThis federal funding continues to improve our aging infrastructure and advances our efforts to enhance Nebraska. The OMA Terminal Modernization Program will improve the customer service experience, thoroughly expand the facilities within the airport, and speed up reconstruction.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Omaha Airport Authority was pleased to be notified by Congressman Bacon\u2019s office that Eppley Airfield will be receiving a grant for the Build OMA Terminal Modernization Program. We are happy to be the recipient of $2.9 million in Federal Aviation Administration funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Airport Terminal Program,\u201d said Dave Roth, Chief Executive Officer of the Omaha Airport Authority. \u201cThis grant funding will create benefits for travelers from Omaha and throughout Nebraska. The funds will support continued improvements at Eppley Airfield including increased capacity, improved throughput, and an enhanced customer experience for decades to come.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-federal-agencies-should-reject-anti-meat-diet", "Congressman Flood: Federal Agencies Should Reject Anti-Meat Diet Recommendations", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following the announcement of new recommendations from the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee.\n\n\u201cThe far left\u2019s war on your grocery list is expanding. In this latest volley, the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee has taken aim not only at meat, but also at potatoes and other foods that are staples of a healthy diet. Meat is the most efficient way to deliver protein, and potatoes contain basic nutrients like potassium and Vitamin C. Meat and potatoes underpin our country\u2019s food security. I urge both the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to reject these ill-informed recommendations and the activist thinking which is trying to reshape our diets and the way of life for the farm families who grow our food.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-named-friend-of-farm-bureau-by-american-farm-bureau-federation/", "Ricketts Named \u2018Friend of Farm Bureau\u2019 by American Farm Bureau Federation", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "October 25, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Recently, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) was honored as a 2024 \u201cFriend of Farm Bureau\u201d by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) for his work advancing policies that support America\u2019s farmers and ranchers. The award recognizes lawmakers for their outstanding support of agriculture through legislative action and leadership.\n\n\u201cOur farmers and ranchers feed and fuel the country and beyond,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cI will always fight to ensure Nebraska\u2019s farmers and ranchers have the support they need to navigate current and future challenges.\u201d\n\nSenator Ricketts accepting the award from Mark McHargue, President of Nebraska Farm Bureau", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-cotton-colleagues-to-doj-and-ftc-systemic-weaponized-leaks-violate-ethics-rules/", "Ricketts, Cotton, Colleagues to DOJ and FTC: Systemic, Weaponized Leaks Violate Ethics Rules", "2024-10-24", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "October 24, 2024\n\nOMAHA, NE \u2014 Today, Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) and three colleagues to demand an investigation into systemic media leaks at the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC). These leaks, all to the same media outlet, resulted in negative headlines about the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s antitrust targets and potentially violated ethics rules.\n\n\u201cThese leaks result in negative headlines about the administration\u2019s targets while the targeted companies have no way to respond, as they haven\u2019t yet seen the potential lawsuits,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cBoth DOJ and FTC have ethics rules that prohibit leaking civil cases before the cases are filed.\u201d\n\nThe letter was sent to Department of Justice Inspector General Michael Horowitz and Federal Trade Commissioner Inspector General Andrew Katsaros. In addition to Senators Ricketts and Cotton, the letter was signed by Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA).\n\nFull text of the letter may be found here and below.\n\nOctober 24, 2024\n\nThe Honorable Michael Horowitz\n\nUnited States Department of Justice\n\nOffice of the Inspector General\n\n950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW\n\nWashington, DC 20530\n\nMr. Andrew Katsaros Inspector General\n\nFederal Trade Commission\n\n600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW\n\nWashington, DC 20580\n\nDear Inspectors General Horowitz and Katsaros,\n\nWe write asking you to investigate whether the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission have violated their own ethics rules by systematically leaking potential antitrust cases to a specific media outlet.\n\nSince 2023, Bloomberg News has broken the news in at least twelve instances that DOJ or FTC was \u201cpreparing\u201d or \u201cpoised\u201d to take legal action before a lawsuit was filed. Indeed, the same journalist reported on eleven of these cases. This pattern strongly suggests that certain officials at DOJ and FTC are intentionally publicizing legal action days or weeks before filing.\n\nThese leaks result in negative headlines about the administration\u2019s targets while the targeted companies have no way to respond, as they haven\u2019t yet seen the potential lawsuits. Both DOJ and FTC have ethics rules that prohibit leaking civil cases before the cases are filed.[*]\n\nBloomberg News reporting DOJ and FTC antitrust actions before the filing of a lawsuit\n\nJanuary 23, 2023: DOJ Poised to Sue Google Over Digital Ad Market Dominance\n\nFebruary 23, 2023: DOJ Preps Antitrust Suit to Block Adobe\u2019s $20 Billion Figma Deal\n\nMay 15, 2023: Amgen\u2019s $28 Billion Horizon Deal Faces Unexpected FTC Hurdle\n\nJune 29, 2023: Lina Khan Is Coming for Amazon, Armed With an FTC Antitrust Suit\n\nOctober 16, 2023: Real Estate Brokers Pocketing Up to 6% in Fees Draw Antitrust Scrutiny\n\nFebruary 20, 2024: FTC, States to Sue Over Kroger-Albertsons Deal Next Week\n\nMarch 20, 2024: Justice Department to Sue Apple for Antitrust Violations\n\nApril 10, 2024: Nippon Steel Bid to Buy US Steel Gets Extended Antitrust Review\n\nApril 17, 2024: Tapestry\u2019s $8.5 Billion Capri Deal Faces Planned FTC Lawsuit\n\nMay 22, 2024: US Justice Department to Seek Breakup of Live Nation-Ticketmaster\n\nJuly 10, 2024: FTC Preparing Suit Against Drug Middlemen Over Insulin Rebates\n\nSeptember 23, 2024: Visa Faces Justice Department Antitrust Case on Debit Cards\n\nThese leaks aren\u2019t just unethical, but they harm these companies\u2019 employees, shareholders, and others. If the companies have engaged in wrongdoing, by all means the government should try them in a court of law. But the Biden-Harris administration shouldn\u2019t try them in the liberal media. These leaks appear to be simply one more instance of this administration weaponizing the administrative state against politically disfavored opponents and critics, much like DOJ investigating parents at school-board meetings or the FTC targeting Elon Musk and Twitter for insufficient censorship of conservatives.\n\nWe urge you to investigate promptly these systematic, unethical, and potentially illegal leaks.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-fischer-risch-announce-plans-to-introduce-bill-to-end-u-s-funding-for-united-nations/", "Ricketts, Fischer, Risch Announce Plans to Introduce Bill to End U.S. Funding for United Nations", "2024-10-23", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "October 23, 2024\n\nOMAHA, NE \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), joined Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of SFRC, to announce their intent to introduce the Stand with Israel Act when the Senate reconvenes in November. This legislation would cut off U.S. funding to the United Nations (UN) and stop support to agencies that expel, downgrade, suspend, and restrict the participation of the State of Israel.\n\n\u201cThe United States will not stand by and allow the rampant antisemitism at the United Nations to go unchallenged,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cDowngrading Israel\u2019s membership at the UN should be seen as an attack on an American ally. Should the UN embrace this diplomatic terrorism, the United States will respond accordingly and must end its support for the UN system.\u201d\n\n\u201cDiminishing Israel\u2019s status within the UN would be a slap in the face to democracies across the globe. It is shameful for an organization supposedly promoting international peace and security to punish a democracy fighting for survival,\u201d said Senator Fischer. \u201cThe U.S. should not support any organization that attempts to restrict the participation of the State of Israel.\u201d\n\n\u201cAny attempt to alter Israel\u2019s status at the UN is clearly anti-Semitic,\u201d said Senator Risch. \u201cThat said, if the UN member states allow the Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organization to downgrade Israel\u2019s status at the UN, the U.S. must stop supporting the UN system, as it would clearly be beyond repair. I am disgusted that this outrageous idea has even been discussed and will do all we can to ensure any changes to Israel\u2019s status will come with consequences.\u201d\n\nText of the legislation can be found here.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nRecent reports indicate that the Palestinian Authority (PA) will attempt to downgrade Israel\u2019s status at the UN. The PA can do this after the UN General Assembly passed a resolution which enhanced the PA\u2019s status at the United Nations on May 10, 2024. The Stand with Israel Act would cut off U.S. funding to UN agencies that expel, downgrade, suspend, and restrict the participation of the State of Israel.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-constitutional-reforms-passed-mexican-legislature", "Smith Statement on Constitutional Reforms Passed by Mexican Legislature", "2024-10-17", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement on the Constitutional Reform of Strategic State Industries and Enterprises which passed the Mexican Senate. The legislation which had previously passed in the lower house, gives increased market preference to state-owned electric utilities.\n\n\"For years, the Biden-Harris administration has largely stood by as Mexico\u2019s disregard for its USMCA commitments places American workers at risk. While these changes to Mexico\u2019s constitution present new barriers to its USMCA compliance which were unanticipated when the agreement was enacted, impediments to a healthy bilateral trade relationship are not new, which is why I have repeatedly urged USTR to conduct robust engagement with stakeholders and Mexican leaders. I am disappointed by this administration\u2019s lack of urgency and cooperation in defending the integrity of USMCA. Lack of enforcement of our agreements, not to mention a lack of long-term strategy, destabilizes the regulatory environment and weakens our competitiveness, ultimately putting American industry in a precarious position. With the review of USMCA coming in 2026, we should be strengthening, not neglecting, our engagement with one of our closest trading partners.\"\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nIn September, Smith led a bipartisan group of colleagues in sending a letter to United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai expressing concerns regarding proposals related to electricity, mining, genetically modified corn, and regulatory bodies which were set to be considered by the Mexican government.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-comments-on-death-of-hamas-terrorist-leader-yahya-sinwar/", "Ricketts Comments on Death of Hamas Terrorist Leader Yahya Sinwar", "2024-10-17", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "October 17, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement commenting on the apparent death of Hamas terrorist leader Yahya Sinwar:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-condemns-biden-harris-administration-conditioning-israel-support/", "Ricketts Condemns Biden-Harris Administration Conditioning Israel Support", "2024-10-16", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "October 16, 2024\n\nOMAHA, NE \u2013 U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement after the Biden-Harris administration sent a letter to Israel conditioning further arms support:\n\n\u201cI\u2019m disgusted by the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s continued threats to withhold arms from an American ally fighting for its survival. Their appeasement-first foreign policy is undermining Israel and emboldening Iran and its terrorist proxies. The U.S. should be offering unconditional support to Israel in their fight to end Hamas and Hezbollah\u2019s brutality. Anything less than that pushes peace further out of reach.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-web-30-defi", "Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on \u201cWeb 3.0 & DeFi\u201d", "2024-10-11", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Flyover Fintech will include a panel on \u201cWeb 3.0 & DeFi.\u201d The panel, featuring experts from Multicoin Capital and Galaxy Ventures, will happen at the Congressman\u2019s Flyover Fintech conference in Lincoln on October 21, 2024.\n\n\u201cThe momentum behind Web 3.0 continues to grow as more people look to the next generation of internet,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThis panel features trailblazers from Multicoin and Galaxy Ventures pioneering decentralized web technologies and decentralized finance. Registration closes today, so I encourage anyone who is interested to sign up so that you can join us for a day full of outstanding speakers, wide-ranging panels, and great networking.\u201d\n\nJay Stolkin is Deputy General Counsel at Multicoin Capital, a thesis-driven, crypto-focused private fund manager. At Multicoin, Jay leads financing transactions, advises portfolio companies and counsels on a variety of corporate and regulatory matters. Prior to joining Multicoin, Jay was the General Counsel at Framework Ventures, another crypto-focused investment firm. Before Framework, Jay was in private practice at Paul Hastings, where he represented Web3 and sports industry clients in a variety of corporate transactions and regulatory matters.\n\nNeil Bhuta is an Investor at Galaxy Ventures. He focuses on investments across crypto-enabled payments, software, blockchain infrastructure, and DeFi applications. Prior to Galaxy, Neil worked at DCG where he spent his time on crypto investment activities across all stages. Neil started his career in M&A at Evercore and worked in long-short equity at Governors Lane.\n\nPhotos of the panelists can be found here.\n\nFlyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry.\n\nCongressman Flood has previously announced that House Financial Services Committee Chairman Patrick McHenry, Congressman Andy Barr, and Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance Director Kelly Lammers will also address this year\u2019s Flyover Fintech Conference. Recently, he announced a panel titled \"Digital Asset ETFs,\" with representatives from Bitwise Asset Management, Blackrock, Fidelity Investments, and Grayscale Investments.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-comments-on-sterile-solution-shortages-worsened-by-hurricane-helene/", "Ricketts Comments on Sterile Solution Shortages Worsened by Hurricane Helene", "2024-10-11", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "OMAHA, NE \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts urged prioritizing domestic manufacturing after hearing from Nebraska hospitals and patients unable to move forward with procedures due to sterile solution shortages. Baxter supplies approximately 60% of the U.S.\u2019 IV fluids and suffered significant damage from Hurricane Helene to their manufacturing facility in North Carolina. I.V. fluids were already experiencing a shortage before the storm.\n\n\u201cNebraska rural hospitals are being forced to cancel surgeries due to IV solution supply-chain issues exasperated by Hurricane Helene\u2019s impact on Baxter facilities in North Carolina,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cWhile the FDA is taking steps to mitigate shortages with temporary importation sources, we should\u2019ve never reached this crisis level. The FDA provided notice on their own website years ago that shortages of these products existed. Yet here we are without an increase to domestic production. Instead, the FDA has Americans relying on other countries, primarily China, to get the critical medical supplies that they need. The pandemic was supposed to be the wake-up call that America can\u2019t be reliant on China for our medical supplies. That we\u2019re back in the same situation a few years later is a direct reflection of the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s failures.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-white-house-agriculture-event", "Smith Statement on White House Agriculture Event", "2024-10-08", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement in response to today\u2019s White House event with select agriculture groups chosen by the administration.\n\n\"If the Biden-Harris administration is serious about supporting American agriculture producers, their actions have failed to align with their words.\n\n\"Their refusal to open new markets for American products through trade agreements has contributed to an agricultural trade deficit of more than $30 billion. Their failure to forcefully stand up to unscientific protectionism has left the Mexican ban on American white corn intact for far too long. Their lack of leadership or persuasive solution for Farm Bill renewal has left producers without certainty. Treasury\u2019s failure to release biofuel tax credit guidance in a timely fashion or fully incorporate GREET scientific standards for renewable fuels as intended by the legislation\u2019s authors has created broad uncertainty across supply chains while locking out long-time producers who have demonstrated good stewardship of their land. And their resuscitation of the Obama administration\u2019s overturned WOTUS rule puts every farmer and rancher in the country at the mercy of the EPA in a way Congress never intended.\n\n\"True support for American agriculture means empowering American producers to feed their neighbors and feed the world from planting to harvest to market, right now and across future generations. I have seen nothing from President Biden and Vice President Harris which demonstrates they truly understand that.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-bidens-jobs-report-rhetoric", "Smith Statement on Biden's Jobs Report Rhetoric", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after President Biden made comments on the latest jobs report.\n\n\"President Biden should take a moment and reflect before celebrating the latest jobs report. Under his presidency, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has consistently needed to downgrade its jobs estimates\u2014including a massive reduction of over 800,000 jobs in March of this year. As long as Biden-Harris policy fails to address our nation\u2019s labor shortage, lost trade opportunities for American producers, and other problems our country is facing, inflation and poor economic recovery will continue to harm American families.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-remembrance-october-7-attacks-israel", "Smith Statement on Remembrance of October 7 Attacks in Israel", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement marking one year since the October 7, 2023 terror attack in Israel.\n\n\"One year has passed since the terrorist group Hamas tragically massacred over one thousand innocent civilians in Israel, including dozens of American citizens. Shockingly, nearly one hundred hostages are still held by Hamas today. As the fight to free these remaining hostages and achieve peace continues, I am committed to standing up against terror and supporting our greatest regional ally, Israel.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2570", "Bacon's statement on October 7th War Anniversary", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington - Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued a statement on the first anniversary of the Hamas, Israel war that started a year from today.\n\n\u201cOur hearts are with the families of the murdered victims, the hostages, and their families. The barbarity we saw on 7 Oct was evil and Hamas must be fully rooted out of Gaza. We stand with Israel.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-statement-october-7th-attacks-anniversary", "Congressman Flood\u2019s Statement on the October 7th Attacks Anniversary", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement on the one-year anniversary of Hamas\u2019 evil attacks on Israel.\n\n\u201cOn this day, we pause to remember the more than 1,200 people who were killed and the hundreds taken hostage by Hamas one year ago. A year later, Israel not only continues to fight back against Hamas, but now faces attacks from Hezbollah and Iran. More than 100 hostages remain in captivity. Terrorist groups must never be allowed to carry out another attack like the one the world witnessed on October 7, 2023. The United States continues to stand with Israel as they seek to bring home the remaining hostages, root out these sources of terror, and find a return to stability and renewed peace in the region.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6A8B539C-D05D-4B85-A726-4C77A079A420", "Fischer Statement on Anniversary of October 7 Attacks", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today on the anniversary of the October 7 attacks on Israel:\n\n\u201cOne year ago, Hamas attacked our ally Israel\u2014slaughtering Israelis and Americans alike, abducting hundreds of hostages, and starting a war that still ravages the Middle East. Today, we remember those lost. Their memory strengthens our resolve to bring the remaining hostages home and aid in Israel\u2019s defense.\u201d\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/10/fischer-statement-on-anniversary-of-october-7-attacks", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=BBEA7FFB-423C-4FE0-92E6-50725C4D7ED9", "Fischer, Ricketts, Colleagues Criticize DOJ for Failing to Protect American Elections", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) joined their colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland criticizing the Department of Justice (DOJ) for failing to protect American elections. In their letter, they demanded an explanation from the DOJ about its failure to prevent illegal aliens from registering to vote in American elections or prosecute those who evidently have done so.\n\n\u201cWe are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections. As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department\u2019s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming,\u201d the Members of Congress wrote.\n\nSenator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) led this letter in the Senate. Along with Senators Fischer and Ricketts, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.).\n\nIn the House, the letter was led by U.S. Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05). In addition to Representative Biggs, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Andy Harris (R-MD-01), Clay Higgins (R-LA-03), Gary Palmer (R-AL-06), Matt Rosendale (R-MT-02), Ralph Norman (R-SC-05), Eli Crane (R-AZ-02), Andy Ogles (R-TN-05), Aaron Bean (R-FL-04), Josh Brecheen (R-OK-02), Nancy Mace (R-SC-01), Bob Good (R-VA-05), Eric Burlison (R-MO-07), Mike Ezell (R-MS-04), Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN-03), Tom Tiffany (R-WI-07), Lauren Boebert (R-CO-03), Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24), Michael Guest (R-MS-03), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01), Ben Cline (R-VA-06), Chip Roy (R-TX-21), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA-11), Mary Miller (R-IL-15), Paul Gosar (R-AZ-09), Lance Gooden (R-TX-05), Jeff Duncan (R-SC-03), Harriet Hageman (R-WY), Barry Moore (R-AL-02), Mike Collins (R-GA-10), Tim Burchett (R-TN-02), Greg Lopez (R-CO-04), Keith Self (R-TX-03), Brian Babin (R-TX-36), August Pfluger (R-TX-11), Alex Mooney (R-WV-02), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Randy Weber (R-TX-14), Rich McCormick (R-GA-06), and Matt Gaetz (R-FL-01).\n\nA copy of the letter can be found here and below.\n\nDear Attorney General Garland:\n\nWe are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections. As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department\u2019s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming.\n\nSince the initial letter, several more concerning reports have been released by state officials indicating that a large number of non-citizens appear on their voter rolls. For example, the Virginia Attorney General recently announced that 6,303 non-citizens were identified on and removed from Virginia\u2019s voter rolls in 2022 and 2023. In another troubling report released in August, over 6,500 non-citizens registered to vote in Texas were identified and removed from voter rolls. Of the 6,500 non-citizens identified, 1,930 had a voter history.\n\nClearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans\u2019 trust and confidence in election results.\n\nAccordingly, we respectfully reiterate the July 12 request for information on your Department\u2019s enforcement efforts. The initial deadline for providing this information was July 26, 2024, so the response is now 9 weeks overdue.\n\nPlease provide responses to the following no later than October 16, 2024:\n\n1). Please provide the number of aliens who have been charged, tried, or convicted under 18 U.S.C. \u00a7 611 since January 20, 2021, including the status of each case.\n\n2). Please provide the number of aliens who been charged, tried, or convicted under 52 U.S.C. \u00a7 20511 since January 20, 2021, including the status of each case.\n\n3). Please provide the number of aliens who have been prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. \u00a7 911 since 2021, including the status of each case.\n\n4). Please provide the number of referrals received from other government officials or the public in reference to the statutes cited in questions 1 through 3.\n\n5). How does the Department of Justice investigate allegations received of non-citizen voting or voter registration?\n\n6). What affirmative steps have the Department of Justice taken to detect, prevent, and deter illegal aliens and other non-citizens from registering and voting in federal elections?\n\n7). What affirmative steps have the Department taken to obtain relevant information from the Department of Homeland Security on aliens who have registered or voted in elections?\n\n8). What steps have been taken by U.S. Attorneys and the Public Integrity Section of the Criminal Division, which is responsible for prosecuting election crimes and assisting U.S. Attorneys in prosecuting election crimes, to obtain jury-related information that indicates aliens have unlawfully registered to vote?\n\n9). As the 2024 election nears, what steps will the Department take to detect, investigate, and prosecute non-citizens who violate 18 U.S.C.\u00a7 911, 52 U.S.C. \u00a7 20511, or 18 U.S.C. \u00a7 611 by voting or registering to vote in the 2024 election?\n\n10). What steps have the Department taken to contact Virginia and Texas election officials to obtain information and the voter registration and voter history files on each of the aliens removed from the voter rolls who were unlawfully registered and voting in those states?\n\nThank you for your attention to this matter and we look forward to your prompt reply.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-joins-senate-republicans-to-stand-with-israel-condemn-iran-backed-hamas/", "Ricketts Joins Senate Republicans to Stand with Israel, Condemn Iran-Backed Hamas", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "October 7, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, one year since the October 7th Hamas terrorist attack killed dozens of Americans, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined all 48 of his Senate Republican colleagues to fully condemn Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, support the forever survival of Israel, and call for the safe release of American hostages.\n\nThe Senate resolution was led by U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), chair of the Republican Policy Committee. Click here to view the full Senate resolution.\n\n\u201cOn October 7th, the world witnessed a heinous terror attack as Hamas murdered innocent women, men and children,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cWe must remain vigilant and unwavering in our commitment to bringing Hamas terrorists to justice. To the people of Israel, we stand with you, we mourn with you, and we will continue to support you until every hostage is brought home and Hamas surrenders.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,\u201d said Ernst, a combat veteran. \u201cI immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation\u2019s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its \u2018ironclad\u2019 commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nRicketts has been a staunch supporter of Israel\u2019s sovereignty, their right to defend themselves against Iran and its terrorist proxies, and Israel\u2019s efforts to bring home the remaining hostages.\n\nIn the weeks following the October 7th attack, Rickettsintroduced legislation to enact a permanent ban on U.S. funding for United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Since October 7th, numerous reports have revealed UNRWA staff was directly involved in Hamas\u2019 attack on Israel. The Stop Support for Hamas Act would:\n\nCut off contributions for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which has been described as \u201ceffectively a branch of Hamas;\u201d\n\nFreeze Economic Support Funds (ESF) to Gaza and the West Bank until Israel has verifiably dismantled the terrorist infrastructure of Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza;\n\nStrengthen certification requirements under the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006 to ensure that no ministry, agency or instrumentality of the Palestinian Authority (PA) employs members, agents or affiliates of Hamas;\n\nEnsure any U.S. assistance to nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) operating in Gaza and the West Bank does not benefit Hamas or any other terrorist organization; and\n\nStrengthen Taylor Force Act provisions to prevent any U.S. funding that directly or indirectly benefits the PA until it ends its \u201cpay for slay\u201d program.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-hagerty-urge-biden-harris-administration-to-protect-u-s-economic-interests-from-eu-regulatory-overreach/", "Ricketts, Hagerty Urge Biden-Harris Administration to Protect U.S. Economic Interests from EU Regulatory Overreach", "2024-10-03", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "October 3, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Recently, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Bill Hagerty (R-TN) sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and other Biden-Harris administration officials urging them to defend U.S. economic interests against the European Union regulatory encroachment.\n\nThe European Union (EU) recently adopted its Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), which forces U.S. businesses to comply with European policies, or face severe penalties. CSDDD\u2019s implementation raises serious concerns, including extraterritorial regulatory overreach, adverse impacts on supply chains, litigation risks, and unfeasible climate transition requirements.\n\n\u201cThe CSDDD\u2019s extraterritorial scope amounts to a serious breach of U.S. sovereignty and a direct threat to the global competitiveness of American companies,\u201d the members of Congress wrote. \u201cWe are deeply concerned that the [Biden-Harris] Administration is surrendering its regulatory responsibilities to European officials, allowing them to dictate draconian social and climate policies to American companies.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe EU is attempting to mitigate the relative damage of its onerous regulatory framework by forcing Americans to bear the burden as well,\u201d the members of Congress continued. \u201cAny policies impacting U.S. businesses should be debated and determined by the elected representatives of the American people, not overseas bureaucrats advancing their own agendas.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Ricketts and Hagerty, the letter was co-signed by 64 other members of Congress.\n\nFull text of the letter can be found here and below:\n\nSecretary Yellen,\n\nThe European Union (EU) has long been known for implementing vague, broadly scoped, and complex regulations that hinder business growth and raise consumer costs. The EU\u2019s longstanding regulatory overreach has had deleterious effects on its member states\u2019 economies and diminished the competitiveness of their firms on the global stage. According to the International Monetary Fund, the Eurozone economy grew only 6% in the 15-year period ending in 2023, compared to 82% growth for the United States. European companies have been quick to identify overregulation as an impediment to growth; in one study, more than 60% of EU companies deemed regulation to be a barrier to investment, while 55% of small and medium-sized enterprises cited regulatory obstacles and administrative burdens as their greatest challenge.\n\nNow, the EU is attempting to impose its debilitating regulatory agenda on American companies through its Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (also known as \u201cCSDDD\u201d or \u201cCS3D\u201d). Formally adopted by the Council of the EU on May 24, 2024, the CSDDD will impose significant legal obligations on U.S. businesses. The directive effectively converts the U.N. Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights\u2014and the provisions of three international human rights conventions, eight conventions of the International Labour Organization, eleven environmental law conventions, and the climate mitigation targets of the Paris Agreement\u2014into binding laws. CSDDD will include governmental enforcement mechanisms, including the possibility of substantial monetary penalties, and will also create private rights of action for those adversely affected by violations. EU member states must implement regulations and administrative procedures required by the directive within two years. Many U.S. companies will be harmed by this enormous compliance burden. After EU member states incorporate the European Parliament\u2019s broad legislation into their own national laws, the CSDDD will ultimately apply to U.S. multinational businesses with annual EU market revenue of more than \u20ac450 million, regardless of their corporate \u201cfootprint\u201d in the EU. While the full effect of CSDDD may not be clear until the member states begin to transpose the regulations into their own laws and the EU provides additional guidance, it is clear that \u201cin-scope\u201d U.S. businesses will be forced to ensure that their supply chains and other business partners are compliant. Companies will need to \u201cidentify, prevent, mitigate and account for how they address actual and potential impacts in their operations, supply chains and other business relationships.\u201d That is neither practical nor realistic\u2014nor does it genuinely constitute \u201cdue diligence,\u201d which is generally defined as review and analysis prior to actions being taken (e.g., \u201cprevent\u201d and \u201cmitigate\u201d). Notably, American companies will be required to comply with CSDDD even though the U.S. has not ratified many of the international conventions underlying the directive.\n\nThe CSDDD\u2019s extraterritorial scope amounts to a serious breach of U.S. sovereignty and a direct threat to the global competitiveness of American companies. Given this, the Biden-Harris Administration must meaningfully respond. Although you acknowledged the issue in your testimony before the House Financial Services Committee, there has been little evidence that the Administration has an effective strategy for engaging with European officials on the issue. To date, no other senior officials in the Biden-Harris Administration have expressed opposition to CSDDD despite the threat it poses to U.S. interests.\n\nWe are deeply concerned that the Administration is surrendering its regulatory responsibilities to European officials, allowing them to dictate draconian social and climate policies to American companies. The EU is attempting to mitigate the relative damage of its onerous regulatory framework by forcing Americans to bear the burden as well. If implemented in any manner substantially similar to its current form, the CSDDD could force companies to divest or reduce ties with European businesses, causing significant economic harm to both the U.S. and EU.\n\nAny policies impacting U.S. businesses should be debated and determined by the elected representatives of the American people, not overseas bureaucrats advancing their own agendas. Accordingly, we strongly encourage you and your colleagues at the relevant federal agencies to actively and publicly engage with your counterparts in Brussels and EU member-state capitals to delay implementation of CSDDD and work with the new European Parliament to repeal or substantially modify the directive. Such action is necessary to preserve U.S. sovereignty and sustain America\u2019s economic competitiveness.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=2D001C4E-BDEE-494E-A3FF-D932BD7DE0C0", "Fischer Bill Signed into Law: Expands Vets\u2019 Access to CDL Schools", "2024-10-02", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer\u2019s (R-Neb.) Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act was signed into law.\n\nThe legislation, which passed the Senate in November 2023 and the House last week, expands veterans\u2019 training opportunities in the trucking industry.\n\nCurrent laws prevent new trucking school locations from accepting GI Bill benefits for two years after opening, including new locations opened by schools that are already established. Senator Fischer\u2019s legislation allows new facilities to accept GI Bill benefits if their primary institutions have already received regulatory approval.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-ernst-introduce-bill-to-deport-illegal-immigrants-convicted-of-sex-crimes/", "Ricketts, Ernst Introduce Bill to Deport Illegal Immigrants Convicted of Sex Crimes", "2024-10-02", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "October 2, 2024\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) to introduce the Better Enforcement of Grievous Offenses by unNaturalized Emigrants (BE GONE) Act. The bill, led by Ernst, would allow the U.S. to deport sexual offenders currently in the country and block those seeking to enter.\n\nThe introduction comes after a shocking Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) report revealed that 16,320 illegal immigrants with sexual assault convictions are in the U.S. This legislation would also amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to include sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence as crimes that are defined as \u201caggravated felonies.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Biden-Harris administration\u2019s open borders policies have allowed violent sexual offenders to cross our border illegally then roam undeterred across America,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cThey should have never set foot in our country. Our bill will make sure these criminals are deported or stopped from ever crossing our border.\u201d\n\n\u201cThese violent criminals never would have entered America in the first place if we had real border security, but now that they\u2019re in our communities, they need to BE GONE,\u201d said Senator Ernst. \u201cSince Border Czar Kamala Harris won\u2019t protect this country, then I will. My legislation will combat sexual violence by ensuring predators are identified, stopped, and deported.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am honored to amplify and support the incredible efforts of Senator Joni Ernst on this bill. Senator Ernst has been the tip of the spear when it comes to enhancing our public safety,\u201d said Retired Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Tom Homan. \u201cThis bill will hold accountable those who commit the most heinous crimes and ensure they are dealt consequences. That is something this country not only demands but expects from our representatives and as always Joni Ernst comes through for America.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are grateful to Senator Ernst for introducing the BE GONE Act which will deport immigrants who have committed heinous acts,\u201d said NumbersUSA Director of Federal Affairs Michael Hough. \u201cThis is common sense legislation that Congress must pass, so criminals are identified and stopped to protect Americans.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:55:29Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-irans-missile-attack-israel", "Smith Statement on Iran's Missile Attack on Israel", "2024-10-01", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement on the missile attack launched by Iran against Israel.\n\n\u201cIran\u2019s unjustified attack on Israel shows the failure of the Biden-Harris foreign policy of empty words. Rogue states can\u2019t be told \u201cdon\u2019t\u201d without meaningful consequences to back it up. Lifting sanctions and bungling money transfers have emboldened an evil regime, putting our greatest ally in the Middle East in the crosshairs. While I welcome preliminary reporting of no serious injuries, Israel deserves our full support as they assess the damage and defend themselves from future Iranian threats.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 550, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"state\" = :p0 and \"year\" = :p1 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "NE", "p1": "2024"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 550, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2024&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 286, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2024&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}, {"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 264, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2024&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "NE", "label": "NE", "count": 550, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "2024", "label": "2024", "count": 550, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NE", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2024-10-01,https~3A~2F~2Fadriansmith~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fsmith-statement-irans-missile-attack-israel", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2024&_next=2024-10-01%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fadriansmith~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fsmith-statement-irans-missile-attack-israel&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 249.3279268965125, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}