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131 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "NE" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending

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http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E4D94CDE-5BA2-4301-9F9D-12749A564817 Sasse Statement on New York Religious Liberty Win 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit struck down Governor Cuomo's discriminatory restrictions on religious gatherings, delivering a key win for the First Amendment. The First Amendment is what America is all about, and that means heavy-handed politicians can't act like religious liberty is theirs to bestow or to withhold. Governor Cuomo's intentional targeting of religious New Yorkers has been slapped down in court, again. The Judicial branch is screaming from the rooftops: a pandemic doesn't rewrite the Constitution. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/rural-radio-fortenberry-usda-ag-research-facility-unl-and-covid-relief Rural Radio: Fortenberry on USDA Ag Research Facility at UNL and COVID Relief 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Rural Radio: Fortenberry on USDA Ag Research Facility at UNL and COVID Relief 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-merry-christmas Fort Report: Merry Christmas 2020-12-25 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Please sign up here to receive my email newsletter or periodic text updates.You may cancel or unsubscribe at any time. * marks required fields of data. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=089F70A5-1159-4425-A673-412675E4F0CF Sasse Statement on Latest Round of Trump Pardons 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse released the following statement after President Trump exercised his constitutional power to issue pardons to another tranche of felons like Manafort and Stone who flagrantly and repeatedly violated the law and harmed Americans. This is rotten to the core. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/time-rededication A Time of Rededication 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy At Christmas each year, I like to share a portion of a Christmas speech from President Reagan - I would like to think the hope he shared 40 years ago matches the hope we can have as we enter 2021. After a year of unprecedented challenges, it can be difficult to look for the bright side of things. It is important to remember, although the COVID pandemic is unprecedented, we have been in difficult times before. In 1981, President Reagan took office amidst high inflation, an energy crisis, low confidence, and a recession. At his Christmas address, President Reagan did not shy away from the issues America was facing. He spoke about other difficult times in our history and reminded us that we have always persevered. Finally, he asked us to remember our dedication to Christ and the miracle of Christmas. Known to history as the Great Communicator, President Reagan had a special gift of speaking to Americans. Today, we can take the lessons he taught us about finding Christ, especially during difficult times, apply them to our fight against COVID, and get through this together. President Ronald Reagan Radio Address to the Nation December 23, 1981 At Christmas time, every home takes on a special beauty, a special warmth, and that's certainly true of the White House, where so many famous Americans have spent their Christmases over the years. This fine old home, the people's house, has seen so much, been so much a part of all our lives and history. It's been humbling and inspiring for Nancy and me to be spending our first Christmas in this place. We've lived here as your tenants for almost a year now, and what a year it's been. As a people we've been through quite a lot -- moments of joy, of tragedy, and of real achievement -- moments that I believe have brought us all closer together. G. K. Chesterton once said that the world would never starve for wonders, but only for the want of wonder. At this special time of year, we all renew our sense of wonder in recalling the story of the first Christmas in Bethlehem, nearly 2,000 … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/nebraska-today-fortenberry-achieves-11m-funding-usda-agriculture-research-facility Nebraska Today: Fortenberry achieves $11M in funding for USDA agriculture research facility at Nebraska 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Congressman Jeff Fortenberry, ranking member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, was successful in achieving $11.2 million in federal funding for the planning and design of aUSDAAgricultural Research Servicefacility. The funding is included in the federal 2021 omnibus appropriations bill, which was approved by Congress yesterday. Fortenberry said the University of NebraskaLincoln will be the site of thefacility. Congressman Fortenberry has been a tremendous supporter of moving agriculture into the 21st century and continuing America's role as both the leading innovator and food producer in the world. He's also been an incredible supporter of the ground-breaking work being done at our university, Chancellor Ronnie Green said. This project wouldn't have happened without his hard work and diligence in obtaining funding. It's an incredible opportunity for partnership betweenUNLand theUSDA, fueling the future of agriculture and foodproduction. As the ranking member on ag appropriations, and through tough negotiations, I am very pleased that a newUSDAbuilding forARSis slated for the Nebraska Innovation Campus atUNL, Fortenberry said. With this new funding,USDAwill expand its strategic research investments in areas such as agricultural innovation and precision agriculture. This effort aligns the needs of our country and the university's agricultural researchmission. Nebraska is the nation's third-largest ag economy, with agricultural production contributing more than $21 billion annually. Nebraska is known for the scale and diversity of its crop and livestock commodities, as well as for the abundance of its natural resources. The university is consistently ranked among the top agricultural colleges in the United States, with respected, established research programs in food, agriculture, climate, water and natural resourcesciences. Nebraska is the epicenter of agriculture in the United States, said Mike Boehm, vice president and vice chancellor for agriculture and natural resources at Nebraska. News … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/norfolk-daily-news-fortenberry-credits-norfolk-doctor-his-work-covid-vaccine Norfolk Daily News: Fortenberry Credits Norfolk Doctor for His Work on COVID Vaccine Development 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy It was encouraging recently to see Congressman Jeff Fortenberry credit a Norfolk doctor for his work in helping to develop a vaccine for COVID-19. It was through the efforts of many people that the vaccine was developed, but Norfolkans should be proud of the hometown connection. Fortenberry noted that part of the supplemental COVID funding in Congress included $20 billion for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) to stimulate investment in vaccine development. Under Operation Warp Speed, over $2.5 billion was directed to Moderna for research, testing, and to purchase over 100 hundred million doses of its vaccine. Robust federal support was also provided to eight other drug companies with vaccines in efficacy trials and 30 others in the early phases of human studies. Fortenberry wrote in part, Dr. Keith Vrbicky, a Norfolk doctor, has been working on two vaccine trials right here in Nebraska.The new science of this vaccine appears to be highly effective and safe, Vrbicky said. I had two patients who were pregnant at 18 and 26 weeks, respectively, who each became very sick from the virus. They were very healthy women, yet they were in the hospital. We still don't know what the long-term effects may be for their babies. Finding a vaccine is important. That's why I agreed to help do the research right here in Norfolk. In the Moderna trial, we randomized 300 patients 50-50 to a placebo or vaccine group. For the Pfizer trial, we did the same thing with 200 patients. We required weekly diaries and blood draws some had a sore arm or a nighttime fever. These were among the worst side effects we saw. Not a single patient said they wished they had not entered the trial. Both vaccines were successful in stimulating antibodies for COVID at very high levels. Also, patients in the placebo arm were much more likely to be later diagnosed with COVID than those who got the vaccine. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/taking-advantage-technology-2020 Taking Advantage of Technology in 2020 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy Over the past two weeks, I have met via video conference with winners of the Third District Excellence in Innovation and Adaptation Recognition (EIAR), as well as the Third District's winner in this year's Congressional App Challenge. While I prefer meeting with Nebraskans in person, being able to recognize Nebraskans who innovated in the face of a pandemic while using technology seemed entirely appropriate. I rarely used video conferencing to host meetings before the pandemic. However, after being invited to participate in an online forum with the Kearney Chamber of Commerce in April, I decided to start hosting my own virtual outreach to provide timely COVID relief information to individuals and businesses in the Third District. Video technology was useful for hospitals and healthcare workers to talk about the CARES Act's provider relief funding, for banks and small businesses to ask questions about programs like the Payroll Protection Program, and for producers to learn about assistance from USDA. This technology has allowed me to meet with Nebraskans throughout the district in the same way. In a typical year, I meet daily with constituents who are visiting Washington, D.C., whether they are in town with groups such as the Nebraska Farm Bureau or visiting as tourists. This year, I was able to connect with many of these groups via video, and discuss the important issues facing Nebraskans. One of my favorite parts of my job is meeting with students in the classroom. It was interesting to logon with student groups and see how they were utilizing online learning. I have found video meetings could be helpful in connecting Nebraskans with federal officials who may not typically find the time to get out to rural areas like the Third District on a regular basis. This benefit was on display when we were able to speak with United States Trade Representative Ag Negotiator Gregg Doud and USDA Farm Service Agency Administrator Richard Fordyce as part my online Agriculture Summit this summer, and when Ted McKinney, the USDA … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/1011-news-fortenberry-speaks-house-passage-covid-relief-bill 1011 News: Fortenberry Speaks on House Passage of COVID Relief Bill 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy 1011 News: Fortenberry Speaks on House Passage of COVID Relief Bill 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/net-news-fortenberry-covid-relief NET News: Fortenberry on COVID Relief 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy NET News: Fortenberry on COVID Relief 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-passage-2020-budget-and-covid-relief-package Fortenberry Statement on Passage of 2020 Budget and COVID Relief Package 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (WASHINGTON, DC) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-1) made the following statement on the approval tonight by the U.S. House of Representatives of a roughly $1.4 trillion omnibus appropriations bill to fund the government through September 2021 and $900 billion in COVID relief. The House bill advances national security, food security, environmental security, and health care security for Nebraska, America, and the world. A key component of the bill is a responsible COVID relief package for individuals, families, and small business. While we have made great progress in fighting through the pandemic, with large-scale vaccine distribution already in progress, many Americans are still hurting badly, necessitating additional federal support, Fortenberry said Qualified persons will receive a $600 payment. Persons suffering unemployment will receive $300 in extra payments. And we continue funding the hugely successful Paycheck Protection Program. The PPP has been a lifeline for small business, saving over 300,000 jobs in Nebraska. We lead the nation in per capita PPP loans approved, Fortenberry added. The omnibus appropriations bill and COVID relief package are expected to be quickly approved by the Senate, and then signed into law by the President, Fortenberry said. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A398EEB6-5854-48C6-A9F3-142931CF925F Senate Passes Sasse, Van Hollen Bill to Punish Foreign Companies, Individuals for IP Theft 2020-12-20 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy Today, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the bipartisanProtecting American Intellectual Property Act, legislation authored by U.S. Senators Ben Sasse (R-NE) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) to mandate strong economic penalties on firms and individuals involved in stealing American intellectual property. The Senators' bill requires sanctions on individuals and firms found to engage in, benefit from, or enable the significant and serial theft of U.S. intellectual property. This is a big step forward. Senator Van Hollen and I have worked hard to get this passed in the Senate and we urge the House to act quickly and take up this bipartisan legislation. We can't afford more delay. China's thieves and hackers have been robbing American companies of our intellectual property, and it's time we get serious about using our economic tools like sanctions to fight back,said Senator Sasse. Foreign companies are working overtime to steal U.S. technology, damaging our economy and our national security in the process. The need to fight back could not be more urgent especially after the series of cyberattacks we have witnessed aimed at the COVID-19 vaccine. The U.S. cannot sit idly by as these companies and the governments enabling them cheat their way to success,said Senator Van Hollen.This bill draws a line in the sand outlining clear consequences these bad actors will face if they steal American innovation and technology. I was proud to work with Senator Sasse on this bipartisan effort, I'm glad to see the Senate act to hold these foreign entities accountable and protect American jobs. I urge the House to take up this bill immediately. Background The Protecting American Intellectual Property Act requires a report to Congress every six months identifying: Any individual or firm that has engaged in, benefitted from, or materially assisted the significant theft of U.S. trade secrets, if that theft constitutes a major threat to the national security, foreign policy, economic health or financial stability of the United State… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=C6C983A8-9D2B-4807-AE6E-E18DBF47C1B8 Sasse, Merkley Unveil Urgently Needed Legislation to Crack Down on Online Sexual Exploitation 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy Videos and photos posted without individuals' consent violate fundamental human rights and ruin lives U.S. Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE) and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) today introduced theStop Internet Sexual Exploitation Act, groundbreaking legislation that would require all online platforms that host pornography to put in place critical safeguards to protect Americans from sexual exploitation online. The introduction followsdisturbing reportsof how videos and photos are uploaded to websites like Pornhub without the consent of individuals who appear in them haunting and traumatizing victims. "Human dignity matters. A decent society has an obligation to fight sexual exploitation and human trafficking,said Sasse.For years, Pornhub and its parent company Mindgeek monetized rape, abuse, and child exploitation. While these suit-wearing traffickers got rich, their victims have lived with the pain and fear. That has to end now. Our bill is aimed squarely at the monsters who profit from rape. Washington ought to be able to come together to combat human trafficking and make this right." "The posting of intimate photos and videos without participants' consent is a massive invasion of privacy that drives shame, humiliation, and potentially suicide,"said Merkley.While some online platforms have recently announced steps to change some practices, much more needs to be done. We must ensure that not another single life of a child, man, or woman is destroyed by these sites." TheStop Internet Sexual Exploitation Actwould require platforms hosting pornography to verify the identity of users who upload videos, and require a signed consent form from every individual appearing in the video. The legislation would also prohibit video downloads, and would create a private right of action against an uploader who posts a pornographic image without the consent of an individual in the image. Platforms would be required to create an expedited system in which victims can get videos deleted off websites. That system includes required deletion w… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-getting-it-done-covid-relief FORT REPORT: Getting it Done, COVID Relief 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Please sign up here to receive my email newsletter or periodic text updates.You may cancel or unsubscribe at any time. * marks required fields of data. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/baton-rouge-advocate-lifetime-ago-when-boy-learned-about-segregation Baton Rouge Advocate: A lifetime ago, when a boy learned about segregation 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy When I was in third grade, I had a friend named Phillip Brown. My birthday party was nearing, and it was common at the time to invite all the boys in the class to a party. I did invite everyone, including Phillip, who was a particularly close friend. The party was at a roller-skating rink in Baton Rouge. As I was opening presents, my father came up to me and whispered in my ear, Jeffrey, is Phillip a Black boy? I said, Yes. Then I didn't think about it anymore. On the following Monday at school, I saw Phillip. I was somewhat hurt because he did not show up at my birthday party. I asked him, Phillip, why didn't you come? He said, I did. They wouldn't let me in. I was 8 years old. The year was 1968. It turns out my father had to go outside and awkwardly explain to Phillip's father that this establishment was apparently a disturbing remnant of the old ways. Black children were not allowed in. Fast forward 50 years. I am now a member of the United States Congress, representing Nebraska. After business concludes each day in Congress, there is a period when representatives from each side of the political aisle take time to speak, with Democrats and Republicans taking turns. One evening, Rep. Al Green, an African American Democrat from Houston, was speaking about Black History Month. Green spoke extensively of his difficult times as a young lawyer facing a segregated courthouse and about important progress on civil rights that had been made in the country, adding there was still a need for more understanding. As I was preparing my thoughts for my own address next listening closely as Green was wrapping up his speech I kept thinking about Phillip. The thought occurred to me to ask if the congressman would yield a courteous way of seeking time to interject something. In this circumstance, it would be unusual, but I couldn't let the thought go. I decided, Yes, this is important, and asked, Will the gentleman yield? A bit startled, Green said, I would be happy to yield to the gentleman. I thanked him for his words and to… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/fort-floor-national-christmas-tree Fort from the Floor: The National Christmas Tree 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Fort from the Floor: The National Christmas Tree 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D8928F7E-62C8-4EFD-94E6-BC7284999B8C Sasse Praises Another Win for Religious Liberty 2020-12-15 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement after the Supreme Courtruledin favor of a Colorado church. "The Supreme Court has smacked down another ham-fisted restriction specifically targeting religious liberty. We've seen this again and again and the answer is the same: a pandemic cannot rewrite the Constitution. The First Amendment is what America is all about and a public health crisis isn't going to undermine religious liberty." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=DDEFD0DE-A4DF-4998-AA24-32D0BC6847B7 Sasse: Chinas Blood Cotton Is An Unmitigated Evil 2020-12-15 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy "We should state this truth over and over again:Chairman Xi's dictatorship is enslaving more than half a million Uyghurs and they are being forced to pick blood cotton The Chinese Communist Party is convinced that the American people and that the institutions of the United StatesGovernmentwill simply look away." Video of Senator Sasse's remarks is availablehereor by clicking the image above. Tonight on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, condemned the Chinese Communist Party's use of Uyghur slave labor in the cotton industry. More than half a million Muslim Uyghurs are enslaved in Xinjiang and forced to hand-pick blood cotton. Sasse's remarks follow a newreportfrom the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation's Dr. Adrian Zenz. A transcript of Senator Sasse's remarks is found below. Mr. President, I rise because in a few minutes I must ask unanimous consent to enter into the record a new report released last night by Adrian Zenz of the Victims of Communism Foundation. Now, it isn't often that we enter into the Congressional Record reports that are really things that we want our constituents to read, but this report is different. This report is a report that every American needs to know about because it makes clear two things. First, it makes clear that cotton from Xinjiang - which is about 20 percent of all the world's cotton, it's about 85 percent of all the cotton coming out of China, but it's about 20 percent of the global cotton, and it's a lot of the best cotton on the globe - is stained by slave labor.And the second thing that it makes clear is that a lot of this cotton is destined for the United States. We are the ones demanding it and our people are making a market for this blood cotton. Mr. President, under the guise of Orwellian terms like poverty alleviation, the Chinese Communist Party is for forcibly mobilizing minority labor, the Uyghurs, to replace the majority Han Chinese labor market that has traditionally picked some of … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8C76005C-DA40-4C1F-B905-087BED050724 Sasse Statement on Uyghur Slave Labor 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy New report details CCP's use of Uyghur slaves in cotton industry. U.S. Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement regarding a new report from the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation's Dr. Adrian Zenz thatdetailsthe Chinese Communist Party's exploitation of Uyghur slave labor in the cotton industry. Chairman Xi's dictatorship is enslaving more than half a million Uyghurs in Xinjiang and forcing them to hand-pick blood cotton. The Chinese Communist Party is systematically oppressing the Uyghurs enslaving them, ripping their families apart, and raping and forcibly impregnating women by non-Uyghur men. Americans cannot be corporate sponsors of slavery and genocide. We need to ban the importation of goods that depend on Uyghur slave labor." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-floor-national-christmas-tree Fort from the Floor: The National Christmas Tree 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Please sign up here to receive my email newsletter or periodic text updates.You may cancel or unsubscribe at any time. * marks required fields of data. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-conservation-and-national-security-0 FORT REPORT: Conservation and National Security 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy I invite you to review an interview I did this week at a forum on Conservation and National Security. In it, I begin to unpack a new architectural paradigm for the 21st century in which we are safe, prosperous, and aligned with a healthy, clean environment. An ethos in which we move away from make, take, and waste, to one where we regenerate. That's how we protect our natural security in the 21st century. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-2020-election Fortenberry Statement on 2020 Election 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (LINCOLN, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-1) issued the following statement today on the 2020 election. The Electoral College has voted and affirmed Vice President Biden's victory. I wish to thank President Trump for his service, and I wish President-Elect Biden the best as he assumes the awesome responsibility of governing our great nation, Fortenberry said. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-2020-election-0 Fortenberry Statement on 2020 Election 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (LINCOLN, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-1) issued the following statement today on the 2020 election. The Electoral College has voted and affirmed Vice President Biden's victory. I wish to thank President Trump for his service, and I wish President-Elect Biden the best as he assumes the awesome responsibility of governing our great nation, Fortenberry said. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-fda-approval-pfizer-covid-vaccine Fortenberry Statement on FDA Approval of Pfizer COVID Vaccine 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (WASHINGTON, DC) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-1) issued the following statement today on FDA approval of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. On a call with the FDA and other leaders in Congress today about emergency use authorization of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, the FDA noted that this vaccine meets the gold standard for safety and efficacy, and that no corners were cut, Fortenberry said. The FDA will continue to hold public meetings as additional vaccines are considered for approval. While this is an important milestone for America, our oversight role in Congress will continue with robust surveillance of vaccine safety and assurance that vaccines are administered fairly, Fortenberry added. Please see the FDA fact sheet here: https://bit.ly/2Wbbap2 Fortenberry Tweet on FDA Approval: https://bit.ly/3oGGecs Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=58BCE3A2-48DA-47E1-B853-B1CF8A40BF00 Sasse Statement on Passage of 2021 NDAA 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after the passage of the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. "The uncomfortable truth is that we've been lagging behind when it comes to cyber and wars are already being fought with hackers. Here's the good news though: because of the Solarium Commission's work, this year's defense bill makes our cyber strategy stronger than ever before. We've got a whole lot more work to do, but this is real progress. Two dozen of our provisions are in this defense bill and that's exactly why I've been working on this front for years." Background: This year's NDAA includes 26 provisions that were led by Senator Sasse and the rest of the legislative commissioners appointed to Solarium. Most notably, they include: Establishes a National Cyber Director and the Office of the National Cyber Director within the Executive Office of the President in a Senate-confirmed capacity. Creates a Continuity of the Economy Plan to ensure we have a recovery plan in place in the event of a major disruption. Forms the Joint Cyber Planning Office under CISA to facilitate the planning of cohesive cybersecurity campaigns between federal agencies and the private sector. Directs the Executive Branch to submit a report to Congress that evaluates current Federal cybersecurity centers and areas for improvement. Tasks DHS with conducting a Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Review on the ability of CISA to accomplish its current missions. Establishes a Department of Homeland Security CISA Director. Establishes a Cybersecurity Advisory Committee. Gives administrative subpoena authority to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to identify vulnerable systems and notify both public and private system owners. Authorizes CISA to perform threat hunting identification on federal networks. Codifies sector specific agencies as Sector Risk Management Agencies that will establish responsibilities and requiremen… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=FB0F1390-1281-4AC0-9E2E-E200CF2C533B Sasse Statement on Supreme Courts Election Decision 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement after the United States Supreme Court rejected the Texas attorney general's lawsuit to overturn the presidential election results in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. "Since Election Night, a lot of people have been confusing voters by spinning Kenyan Birther-type, Chavez rigged the election from the grave' conspiracy theories, but every American who cares about the rule of law should take comfort that the Supreme Court including all three of President Trump's picks closed the book on the nonsense." ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/protecting-second-amendment Protecting the Second Amendment 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy At the end of November, Nebraska closed another successful deer hunting season. While hunting is a great benefit of our constitutional right to bear arms, it is not the primary reason our founders chose to specifically enumerate this protection in our Bill of Rights. Nationwide our Second Amendment rights continue to be under threat. In fact, ongoing attempts by the House majority to weaken our Second Amendment rights, not to mention possible future presidential actions, have destabilized the arms and ammunition markets causing widespread shortages and shocking prices for common hunting and self-defense firearms and ammunition. In order to protect our Second Amendment rights, we must always be vigilant to ensure the government is upholding these rights. For this reason, I have cosponsored several bills and signed letters which seek to cement these rights, and to gain ground which has been unconstitutionally lost in the past. Although the Second Amendment is quite clear, a well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed, states continue to find ways to muddy the waters and pass laws effectively diminishing this right. One way anti-gun activists have been successful in undermining the Second Amendment is through restrictions on interstate travel and sales with firearms, even though they are not necessary due to the robustness of the FBI's current federal background check database. Removing interstate sales restrictions does not hinder states' abilities to regulate gun purchasing. To address this, I have cosponsored the Firearms Interstate Commerce Reform Act (H.R. 2443) which would reduce the burden on law-abiding citizens, including active duty military and their accompanying spouses, to allow them to buy firearms across state lines, as long as they meet applicable requirements at the point of purchase and in their home state of record. I have also cosponsored the Lawful Interstate Transportation of Firearms Act (H.R. 59… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/smith-congratulates-sallie-and-alan-atkins-their-introduction-nebraska Smith Congratulates Sallie and Alan Atkins on their Introduction to the Nebraska Cattlemen Hall of Fame 2020-12-09 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE),released the following statement after Sallie and Al Atkins were inducted into the Nebraska Cattlemen Hall of Fame on December 4, 2020. Sallie and Al were innovators on their ranch near Halsey, Nebraska, where they raised commercial Angus crossbred cattle and served their community and state in many leading roles in the agriculture industry. Sallie previously served as Agriculture Director in Smith's office, where she led engagement efforts on statewide agriculture issues and served as the liaison for Third District producers, agriculture groups, and other stakeholders. Sallie has more than 30 years of experience in Nebraska agriculture, including having served as regional director of membership for the Nebraska Farm Bureau. She has also served as executive director and chairman of the Nebraska Beef Council, vice president of Nebraska Cattlemen, and board chairman of the Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council. Additionally, she has been active in Nebraska 4-H and FFA. Her work on the Nebraska State Fair earned her the 2011 Nebraska Volunteer of the Year award. Sallie and Al have been staples of Nebraska agriculture for a long time, said Smith. I have had the pleasure of visiting their AL Ranch.' It is an impressive operation. Few Nebraskans have had the impact on Nebraska agricultural that Sallie and Al have, and I couldn't think of a more fitting recognition than the Nebraska Cattlemen Hall of Fame. I thank them for all they have done for our great state. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/lincoln-journal-star-fortenberry-gathers-240-co-sponsors-bill-combat-als Lincoln Journal Star: Fortenberry gathers 240 co-sponsors for bill to combat ALS 2020-12-09 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Rep. Jeff Fortenberry has gathered the signatures of 240 House co-sponsors for a bill to speed and expand access to critical and promising therapies for ALS patients while streamlining the drug review process that sometimes stands in their way. For ALS patients, there is no time to waste. It usually takes 2-5 years for ALS to destroy a body, Fortenberry said during a House floor speech. ALS patients are currently trapped in "an overly deliberative process that is killing hope" by delaying access to critical therapies and investigational treatments, Fortenberry said, and they could be helped by "a more consistent and streamlined drug review process." The legislation is designed to be "more responsive to patients suffering right now," the 1st District Republican congressman said. "We can act quickly if we want to," Fortenberry said. "We can act quickly if we are determined. We can do this." ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which is often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a fatal nervous system disease. "There is no cure," Fortenberry said, but there are promising therapies. Earlier this year, he said, "my wife's little brother" died as a result of ALS at the age of 37, leaving behind his own wife and four small children. Fortenberry's bill, titled Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act, would establish a Center of Excellence for Neurodegenerative Diseases at the Federal Drug Administration to accelerate development and approval of therapies. "This is a full-court press," the congressman said. "So many people of good heart have helped us build tremendous bipartisan momentum." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=64E521BE-115F-46EE-AC1F-D72CBCF4EBAD Sasse Applauds 26 Cyber Solarium Recommendations in 2021 NDAA 2020-12-04 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, creator of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, applauded the inclusion of 26 recommendations from the commission into the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. "Modern wars are fought not just with bombs but also with bytes. The creation of the National Cyber Director and the inclusion of two dozen of our Solarium recommendations in this year's defense bill is great news. We've got a lot more work to do, but this is real progress today." Background: Through Sen. Sasse's legislativeinitiative, the Cyberspace Solarium Commission was signed into law as part of the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act. Sen. Sasse was appointed to serve on the Commission, which officially launched in April 2019. In March 2020, the Commissionreleasedtheir finished report. Of the 26 recommendations adopted in this year's NDAA, a number of provisions were led by Sen. Sasse and Sen. King, the Co-Chairs of the Commission: Establishment of the National Cyber Director and the Office of the National Cyber Director within the Executive Office of the President to serve in a Senate-confirmed capacity as the President's principal cyber advisor and provide a nexus for cybersecurity leadership in the White House. Creation and maintenance of a Continuity of the Economy Plan to ensure the rapidreboot of national critical functions of the economy following a catastrophic cyberattack. Several recommendations to strengthen the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency including the establishment of a Joint Cyber Planning Officeto facilitate comprehensive planning of defensive cybersecurity campaigns and the review of federalcybersecurity centers for integration within CISA. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/commonsense-health-care Commonsense Health Care 2020-12-04 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy When I meet with hospitals and health care providers around Nebraska, both prior to and during the current pandemic, the impact of unnecessary regulations on their ability to provide care in rural areas is always at the top of their list of concerns. Over the last four years I have appreciated working with the Trump administration on these issues because of their persistent willingness to listen to rural Americans, take these concerns seriously, and act. We cannot afford to go in the other direction. A commonsense, innovation-centric approach to health care has helped America take center stage in the fight against COVID. Operation Warp Speed, made possible by the CARES Act, has expedited the vaccine process, while maintaining the U.S.'s world class safety standards. The U.S. leads the world in vaccine development and millions of vaccine doses are expected to be ready to distribute to frontline health care workers in the coming weeks once the Food and Drug Administration affirms what we have seen in preliminary results from vaccine trials. The pandemic has also renewed our focus on the critical need for flexibility and innovation in our health care system. When facing an unprecedented health crisis, we must be able to adjust and implement new ideas and solutions, not just place new limits. In high risk locations such as skilled nursing facilities, this is particularly important. For this reason, I have introduced the RUSH Act, legislation I was developing even before the pandemic, which would allow patients in these facilities to be treated in place using new technologies like telehealth, rather than risking a trip to the hospital. This potentially life-saving legislation creates incentives for skilled nursing facilities to use innovative technologies and improve rural health care. In rural America we know what works in New York City, may not work in York, Nebraska. Regulations like Medicare's 96-hour rule, which requires small rural hospitals to take steps to discharge or transfer a patient to another hospital wi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/smith-statement-passing-richard-everett Smith Statement on Passing of Richard Everett 2020-12-04 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the passing of Richard Everett of Runza Restaurants. There is hardly anything more identifiably Nebraskan than Runza.Richard Everett carried forward his mother's entrepreneurial spirit while providing Nebraskans with high quality restaurant options and cities across our state with many a community gathering place. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-vaccine-development-safety-timing Fort Report: Vaccine Development, Safety, Timing 2020-12-04 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy As I have done throughout the pandemic, I want to provide you with the latest and best information from our nation's leading experts. Given my work as the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA), I recently took the opportunity to converse with FDA Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn on the development of COVID vaccines and continued testing. Dr. Hahn and I spoke about the rigorous review process the FDA undertakes to ascertain the safety and efficacy of vaccines, and how he anticipates this process playing out over the coming weeks. As Dr. Hahn noted, the typical schedule will be compressed, but there will be no cutting corners in ensuring that vaccines are safe and meet the FDA's highest quality standards. Dr. Hahn encouraged you to join the public FDA Advisory Committee meeting on December 10 to gain an in-depth understanding of the FDA's processes before releasing vaccines for general use. I will be sharing a link to that meeting on my social media pages. For now, I invite you to review our enlightening and optimistic discussion about our fight against coronavirus. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=569CFCF2-5A1E-492D-A9A9-595AB45011AD Sasse Statement on California Restrictions 2020-12-03 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement after the Supreme Court handed a win to Harvest Rock Church which is fighting restrictions on worship in California. "This is more good news for the rule of law and religious liberty. The Supreme Court is right: A pandemic doesn't rewrite our Constitution. States like California need to go back to the drawing board and figure out a way to be smart about fighting this nasty virus without trampling Americans' First Amendment freedoms." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/c-span-fortenberry-speaks-house-floor-behalf-act-als C-SPAN: Fortenberry Speaks on House Floor on behalf of the ACT for ALS 2020-12-02 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy C-SPAN: Fortenberry Speaks on House Floor on behalf of the ACT for ALS 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/media-center/blog-posts/blog-post Blog Post 2020-12-01 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy   0 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/media-center/blog-posts/tribute-baba-sheikh Tribute to Baba Sheikh 2020-12-01 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Tribute to Baba Sheikh 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/als-patients-hope-congress-can-deliver-access-potential-therapies-bipartisan-bill ALS patients hope Congress can deliver access to potential therapies with bipartisan bill 2020-11-30 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy It's the fight of her life. Mayuri Saxena is 36 years old, holds a double master's degreeand has lost the ability to use her body bit by bit. She was diagnosed with ALS four years ago, and the progression of theneurodegenerative diseasehas been swift and relentless. She can no longer walk, stand, use her arms or legs, swallow unassistedor speak. As a New Yorker coming of age in a post-9/11 world, she once hoped to affect change through her work in international relations. But as a quadriplegic, she now relies on round-the-clock care for the most basic of necessities, and even a cough could prove fatal. Mayuri is one of about 30,000Americans who are staring down a death sentence. The typical timeline from the onset of symptoms to death for an ALS patient is two to five years, and about 6,000Americans die each year with the disease, which affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The disease disproportionately affects those in the military; one in six people diagnosed is a veteran. Pat Quinn, co-founder of the popular ALS Ice Bucket Challenge that raised awareness about the illness,died fromit earlier this week. He was37. While there is no cure and few therapeutics on the market, pharmaceutical companies are developing drugs and therapies that might treat this terminal illness -- and the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act, better known as the Act for ALS, would grant more patients access to those potential therapies currently in trials. Mayuri's brother, Mayank Saxena, says this legislation could mean the difference between life and death for his sister. "There's no word to describe the agony I feel that she's going through that, knowing there's biotechnology that exists on this planet that could have helped her and could help her still," he said. "This will give [patients] a pathway. Even if it doesn't work for them, at least they're marching toward some type of hope." Rep.Mike Quigley, D-Ill., who is co-sponsoring theHouse legislationalong with Jeff Fortenberry, R-Neb., echoes that sent… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/fox-news-als-patients-hope-congress-can-deliver-access-potential-therapies Fox News: ALS patients hope Congress can deliver access to potential therapies with bipartisan bill 2020-11-30 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy It's the fight of her life. Mayuri Saxena is 36 years old, holds a double master's degreeand has lost the ability to use her body bit by bit. She was diagnosed with ALS four years ago, and the progression of theneurodegenerative diseasehas been swift and relentless. She can no longer walk, stand, use her arms or legs, swallow unassistedor speak. As a New Yorker coming of age in a post-9/11 world, she once hoped to affect change through her work in international relations. But as a quadriplegic, she now relies on round-the-clock care for the most basic of necessities, and even a cough could prove fatal. Mayuri is one of about 30,000Americans who are staring down a death sentence. The typical timeline from the onset of symptoms to death for an ALS patient is two to five years, and about 6,000Americans die each year with the disease, which affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The disease disproportionately affects those in the military; one in six people diagnosed is a veteran. Pat Quinn, co-founder of the popular ALS Ice Bucket Challenge that raised awareness about the illness,died fromit earlier this week. He was37. While there is no cure and few therapeutics on the market, pharmaceutical companies are developing drugs and therapies that might treat this terminal illness -- and the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act, better known as the Act for ALS, would grant more patients access to those potential therapies currently in trials. Mayuri's brother, Mayank Saxena, says this legislation could mean the difference between life and death for his sister. "There's no word to describe the agony I feel that she's going through that, knowing there's biotechnology that exists on this planet that could have helped her and could help her still," he said. "This will give [patients] a pathway. Even if it doesn't work for them, at least they're marching toward some type of hope." Rep.Mike Quigley, D-Ill., who is co-sponsoring theHouse legislationalong with Jeff Fortenberry, R-Neb., echoes that sent… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3CA67445-9096-4E70-8252-D71441EB6236 Sasse Statement on Supreme Courts Religious Liberty Ruling 2020-11-26 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy Lincoln, NE --U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement after the Supreme Courtruled in favorof Religious Liberty andagainstGovernor Andrew Cuomo. "This Thanksgiving, Americans should be grateful for our First Amendment and for this straightforward ruling that simply affirms that government cannot disregard religious liberty in a crisis. The beating heart of America is the First Amendment, and this nasty virus won't change that. This is good news." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=65C97A67-9744-4F64-877C-FE672487C485 Sasse Statement on Thanksgiving 2020-11-26 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement. "This has been a gut punch of a year, but even in the middle of this nasty virus America has much to be thankful for. Especially in times of struggle and anxiety, it's important to take stock of our blessings after all, President Lincoln established a national day of Thanksgiving when the Civil War was in full swing. This year, in the face of real health and economic hardship, Americans are grateful for the workers who have kept shelves stocked and lines moving, grateful for the doctors and nurses who have cared for the sick, and grateful for the Americans who have done what Americans always do lend their neighbors a helping hand. We are blessed to live here in this free country with a Constitution that preserves liberty through upheaval and now in this time of unparalleled opportunity. Let's commit ourselves to the hard work of choosing gratitude over grievance and building stronger communities for our kids and grandkids. Melissa and I thank God for His continued providence, ask for His blessing on all those suffering and all those searching for a cure, and pray that He sheds His grace on our nation." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/let-s-keep-trade-rolling Lets Keep Trade Rolling 2020-11-24 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy Over the last four years, we have updated our trade relationships and trade agreements at a historic pace. We secured updated comprehensive trade agreements with Canada, Mexico, and South Korea; entered into Phase One agreements with China and Japan that address many significant impediments to U.S. exporters in these major markets; and achieved important progress to remove trade barriers faced by particular sectors in several other countries. Together, these nations purchase almost 50 percent of the United States' current exports. These agreements facilitated increased opportunities and fairer treatment for American producers and consumers struggling during the pandemic, and they are important platforms to open additional opportunities for U.S. exporters in the future. In part as a result of these agreements, we have seen exports increase 27 percent from the May low. While these agreements continue to bear fruit, it is vital we treat them as the first steps of a long journey toward more open markets and equitable treatment for U.S. goods and services, not an excuse to relax when there is so much more work to be done. While the President is empowered to conduct U.S. foreign policy and has been delegated authority to address some trade issues through executive action, our Constitution empowers Congress to write and pass trade policy. First on Congress' agenda must be reauthorizing the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and Miscellaneous Tariff Bill (MTB) two key programs which improve our competitiveness. Both programs will expire at the end of the year absent prompt action by Congress. Renewing these programs, which have enjoyed bipartisan support, will reduce costs and uncertainty for American businesses as they continue to grapple with the effects of COVID. GSP benefits all Americans by promoting economic growth in developing countries while also providing a tool for the U.S. to encourage good practices like protecting intellectual property, providing reasonable market access to U.S. exports, and treating … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/smith-announces-2020-congressional-app-challenge-winner Smith Announces 2020 Congressional App Challenge Winner 2020-11-24 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) today announced the winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge for the Third District of Nebraska. The winning app will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol and featured on www.House.Gov. The winning app, titled Quick Mental Math, was created by Andy Vu, a junior at Kearney High School. According to Andy, he was inspired to create his app for his brother. During Coronavirus quarantine, he noticed his brother spending time learning math skills and using a lot of paper. He created Quick Mental Math to help his brother learn and do so through an environmentally friendly, convenient approach. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/smith-announces-winners-excellence-innovation-and-adaptation-recognition Smith Announces Winners of Excellence in Innovation and Adaptation Recognition 2020-11-24 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) today honored nine individuals and businesses for receiving the Innovation and Adaptation Recognition. The award was created to acknowledge the contribution of individuals, organizations, and those who are working every day to improve and help their communities in the current environment. The winners will be recognized by Smith before the U.S. House of Representatives. I'm proud to honor the recipients of the Innovation and Adaptation Recognition. Nebraskans know our communities grow when individuals step up: helping their neighbors, being involved, and creating opportunity, Smith said. To all Nebraskans who work tirelessly to create thriving communities, I will continue to support your efforts and pursue policies to get the federal government out of the way and empower your success. Winners Billy Estes is the Executive Director of the Midwest Theater of Scottsbluff. Midwest Theater's programming, which includes live performances, orchestras, and concerts, makes an important contribution to the cultural and social experiences of Nebraska's panhandle. When the Coronavirus pandemic reached western Nebraska, under the guidance of Mr. Estes, the Midwest Theater partnered with the Legacy of the Plains Museum to create the Skyview Drive-in Movie Theater. As the pandemic progressed, this venture proved so popular they outgrew their location and had to move to larger accommodations. Thanks to the creativity and leadership of Mr. Estes, in spite of the pandemic, the Midwest Theater has continued to thrive throughout 2020. Grand Central Foods of York is owned by the Warren Thomas family. Mr. Thomas prides himself on his commitment to the York community. In "normal" times, Warren and the Grand Central Team are the first to ask where they can help with a project or how can they partner on events. The selflessness shown by everyone at Grand Central is a testament to the example of the ownership. Within a few days of the pandemic's arrival to York, Warren purchased a second gr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-viral-hope Fort Report: Viral Hope 2020-11-20 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy As our state and nation continue to fight through the global pandemic, we've received some good news. In the last two weeks, two pharmaceutical companies reported that their experimental vaccines to prevent COVID-19 infection were roughly 90% (Pfizer) and 94% (Moderna) effective. In developing what is being called messenger RNA vaccines, the companies deployed the same novel approach: injecting a portion of the SARS-CoV-2 genetic code to generate antibodies and T-cells to fight off the virus. While each company's clinical trials are still ongoing, and more rigorous evaluations are forthcoming from the federal government, the breathtaking speed of the initiativedubbed Operation Warp Speed by the Department of Health and Human Serviceshas far surpassed the usual three-year window for vaccine development. While more needs to be done, including vigorous ongoing surveillance of adverse effects to ensure a high degree of product safety, this man-on-the-moon effort is impressive and unprecedented. It did not happen by accident. In the Appropriations Committee on which I serve, we have worked to advance drug trials faster. For example, new generic drug approvals increased to 107 in 2019, up from 73 in 2016. The FDA has also enabled more creative non-placebo drug trial testing design, resulting in a near doubling of approval of novel therapies in the two-year period of 2017-2019 compared to the previous five. Part of our supplemental COVID funding in Congress included $20 billion for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) to stimulate investment in vaccine development. Under Operation Warp Speed, over $2.5 billion were directed to Moderna for research, testing, and to purchase over 100 hundred million doses of its vaccine. Robust federal support was also provided to eight other drug companies with vaccines in efficacy trials and thirty others in the early phases of human studies. Dr. Keith Vrbicky, a Norfolk doctor, has been working on two vaccine trials right here in Nebraska. The new science … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/fort-floor-week-washington FORT FROM THE FLOOR: The Week in Washington 2020-11-20 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy FORT FROM THE FLOOR: The Week in Washington 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/ketv-7-omaha-offutt-named-finalist-space-command-hq KETV-7 Omaha: Offutt Named Finalist for Space Command HQ 2020-11-20 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy KETV-7 Omaha: Offutt Named Finalist for Space Command HQ 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/kmtv-3-omaha-offutt-named-finalist-space-command-hq KMTV-3 Omaha: Offutt Named Finalist for Space Command HQ 2020-11-20 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy KMTV-3 Omaha: Offutt Named Finalist for Space Command HQ 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E9DF7720-FDF0-4051-A7C3-4EB8A2EA1378 Statement on Tyson Virus Betting Allegations 2020-11-19 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse released the following statement after Tyson Foods suspended officials at an Iowa plant following allegations that plant managers bet on the number of workers that would be infected by Coronavirus. "These are some horrific allegations, and Tyson is right to launch an investigation. There appears to be systemic and cultural failures that allowed mismanagement and the virus to run rampant. The hardworking men and women on these lines deserve better because they're doing work that literally helps feed the world." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-offutt-air-force-base-being-named-finalist-spacecom Fortenberry Statement on Offutt Air Force Base Being Named a Finalist for SPACECOM Headquarters 2020-11-19 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (WASHINGTON, DC) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) issued the following statement today after Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, Nebraska was named one of six finalists to host United States Space Command Headquarters. We received some very exciting news today. Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue is one of six finalists to host United States Space Command Headquarters, Fortenberry said. Offutt is a critical piece of America's national security infrastructure and host to U.S. Strategic Command, the 55th Wing, and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA). Space Command would be a natural complement to Offutt's existing missionto protect U.S. military assets, dominate the battlespace, and support our heroic war fighters, Fortenberry added. It is premature to know if Offutt will be ultimately chosen, but the consideration alone shows how important Offutt now is to our nation and the world, Fortenberry said. Audio of Fortenberry Statement:https://youtu.be/JyxQbPfddP8 Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is a Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=78CFB689-544F-4078-A5CC-676E6BC9A1EB Sasse Statement on Pfizer Vaccine 2020-11-18 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement after Pfizer announced its vaccine is 95% effective in the final results of their study and they are moving to ask health regulators to authorize use. "This is great news. The folks over at Pfizer have been working around the clock to develop this vaccine and they deserve our thanks and praise. American innovation and creativity are going to beat this nasty virus." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=FB956A7B-181C-419B-AFB4-A2E986F08397 Sasse Statement on Retreat from Middle East 2020-11-17 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after it was reported that the U.S. is withdrawing thousands of troops from Iraq and Afghanistan."Headlines about bringing the boys home' sound good, but that's not what's happening. After this retreat, there will still be American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The most important question is whether those remaining troops will be able to prevent al-Qaeda, the Islamic State, Iranian proxies, and others from plotting attacks that can spill American blood, or if they will be exposed as jihadis gain ground. Terrorists will exploit vacuums President Obama's 2011 withdrawal from Iraq opened the door for ISIS. I fear this weak retreat is not grounded in reality and will make the world a more dangerous place." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/small-business-and-community-roundtables-recap Small Business and Community Roundtables Recap 2020-11-16 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy While votes are still being counted and recounted, there are other things we must focus on as well like getting our economy back on track. Through the use of tools like Zoom, I am able to meet with Nebraskans about our economy without skipping a beat. Many of my meetings center on our local economy. I enjoy hearing and speaking with organizations such as Hayes County Economic Development and Chambers of Commerce for North Platte, Dundy, and the State of Nebraska. In addition, it was great to hear from the Nebraska Farm Bureau about the harvest concluding successfully. Each meeting brings a different perspective and new ideas. This week, I hosted a series of Small Business & Community Roundtables to talk with small business owners directly. In each session, special guests, including hospitals CEOs, Third District entrepreneurs, economic development leaders, and local, state, and administration officials, shared effective approaches to grow and strengthen small businesses during the pandemic. A consensus view of the sessions was safely keeping our economy going and adapting to the current environment while taking steps to fight the virus. I particularly appreciated hearing from panelists like Janell Anderson Ehrke, of GROW Nebraska, about the focus they have put on helping more businesses go digital by creating a web presence to market and sell their products online as COVID has accelerated existing online selling trends. In the face of the challenges such as reduced foot traffic and less demand for certain products, Nebraskans have been hard at work finding solutions. Andrew Vrbas, Co-founder of Hastings-based Pacha Soap, saw the pandemic and its shutdowns as a major obstacle to his wholesale and retail business. Pacha Soap then pivoted to making hand sanitizer and other products they will now sell long-term. Despite disruptions to travel, we should not lose sight of the importance of exporting Nebraska products to consumers around the world as well. In the final session of my roundtable series we heard from … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=1935FC26-FDD1-4FF1-ACDF-43B9FA98FEC5 Sasse Statement on Vaccine Cyber Attacks 2020-11-13 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after three actors from Russia and North Korea continually attempt to disrupt the development of a COVID-19 vaccination throughrepeated cyber-attacks. "The future of war is no longer solely physical combat it will also be in cyberspace. We cannot mistake that these cyber-attacks are an act of aggression towards the United States and the greater health of our citizens and economy. These Russian and North Korean actors are attempting to steal American IP and delay vaccine development. The folks in the private sector are doing a great job exposing and combatting these malicious attacks, and our government must find better ways to leverage this kind private sector work and bring our cyber defenses into the future." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-talk-veteran Fort Report: Talk to a Veteran 2020-11-13 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy In December of 1944, it was thought that WWII may be beginning to near its end. Through a surprise offensive known as the Battle of the Bulge, the German army shattered the illusion. The 40-day engagement was the bloodiest single battle of the war for U.S. troops; over 19,000 Americans lost their lives in the bitter, winter cold. On the 75th anniversary of the battle I was asked by the Speaker of the House, along with a small congressional delegation, to honor our remaining veterans and participate in remembrance ceremonies in Bastogne, Belgium. A cold, misty rain blanketed the landscape at the battle site made famous by the Band of Brothers. I stood next to a very old veteran as we quietly peered into the remnants of a fox hole. He kept whispering through his tears, nineteen years old, nineteen years old..." Here's why I'm relating this story: -If you are starting to feel overwhelmed by our nation's struggles, talk to a veteran. -If you see our policy battles as impossible to solve, talk to a veteran. -If you want to reconnect with those things that bind us, talk to a veteran. We live in an age of fearful urgency. As social media continues to find its way deeper into the fabric of our lives, it attempts to convince us that every bit of information coming our way requires our immediate attention. For the first time in history, a constantly updated news cycle is at our fingertips. While it has always been the goal of the media to capture a larger share of audience attention, the tools needed to accomplish this task are much more pervasive in our personal lives. Every communication coming our way is vying for our direct attention in an over-saturated market of tweets, breaking news stories, and commentary. In this environment, fear can easily become ever-present in our local and national conversations driving us to places of anxiety, alienation, and mistrust of one another. I find that when I spend meaningful time around those who have served in our military, the noise fades, and a right perspective returns to my … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=AC28C876-E0D9-4CCD-876E-B35C17501521 Sasse Statement on DOJs Epstein Investigation 2020-11-12 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy "Americans ought to be enraged." Today, U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Oversight Subcommittee, issued the following statement regarding the completion of the Department of Justice's investigation into Jeffrey Epstein's sweetheart deal. The investigation merely concluded that U.S. Attorney Alexander Acosta exercised poor judgment." "Letting a well-connected billionaire get away with child rape and international sex trafficking isn't poor judgment' it is a disgusting failure. Americans ought to be enraged. Jeffrey Epstein should be rotting behind bars today, but the Justice Department failed Epstein's victims at every turn. The DOJ's crooked deal with Epstein effectively shut down investigations into his child sex trafficking ring and protected his co-conspirators in other states. Justice has not been served. The full report needs to be released to the public. OPR might have finished its report, but we have an obligation to make sure this never happens again." Background: Since 2018, Sasse has repeatedly pushed the DOJ toinvestigatethe sweetheart deal that Epstein received. In February 2019, at Sasse's insistence, the Department of Justiceopenedan investigation into its handling of Epstein. OnJanuary 15, 2019, during his confirmation hearing, William Barr, the President's nominee for Attorney General, publicly committed to making sure that the DOJ responded to Senator Sasse's questions into the Epstein case and that they would prioritize the prosecution of sex-trafficking. On August 10, the day of Epstein's death, Sasse wrote to Attorney General Barrdemandingthat heads must roll and asking transparency questions to make sure DOJ answers for the miscarriage of justice. On November 11, 2019, Sassedenouncedthe Bureau of Prisons' refusal to provide public answers about the events surrounding Jeffrey Epstein's death. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3989A0D1-87F1-4C72-98E7-662AB0CB9E7B Sasse Statement on Death of Hong Kongs Legislature 2020-11-11 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after pro-democracy Hong Kong lawmakers were disqualified from holding office shortly after Beijing passed a bill that allowed Hong Kong's government to unseat elected politicians deemed a threat to China's national security. "Chairman Xi's reign of terror in Hong Kong has now gutted the remnant of the city's elected democratic opposition. Xi cannot tolerate a political system in Hong Kong that is anything less than an unblemished rubber stamp for his despotic policies. Those continuing to fight for democracy in Hong Kong should know the free world stands with them." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=EF19037D-C996-4B8F-B294-66E958F5F717 Sasse Statement on Veterans Day 2020-11-11 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement in observance of Veterans Day. "The safety and freedom we enjoy are not guaranteed. Brave Americans fight day in and day out to protect and defend our country. These men and women, and their families, make great sacrifices so we live freely. Our service members and their families ought to be celebrated today and every day for their heroic work." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D150B792-4871-42E7-BAD9-479F7F21CAAB Sasse Statement on Vaccine and Cuomo 2020-11-09 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement regarding the good news that Pfizer announced a possible coronavirus vaccine and the bad news that New York Governor Andrew Cuomo immediately politicized it. What on earth is Governor Cuomo talking about? This is great news and everyone - Republicans and Democrats and apolitical folks - should all be jointly thrilled about the possibility of an effective vaccine. After this nasty virus has killed hundreds of thousands of Americans and put millions out of work, it is beyond disgusting that Governor Cuomo would use a glimmer of hope for another worn-out Trump is bad' talking point. When we get a vaccine, we're going to need all hands on deck distributing it as fast as possible - shamelessly politicizing this is dangerous and stupid." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/remembering-and-assisting-our-veterans Remembering and Assisting our Veterans 2020-11-06 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy After a contentious election, it is important we come back together and take stock of the unifying values and liberties which make our country great. While we have been endowed by our Creator with the freedom to self-govern, which we exercise through free and democratic elections, this freedom has endured because of the sacrifices of our veterans, as well as the men and women currently serving in our military who put their lives on the line so that we may enjoy these rights. Each year on November 11, the anniversary of the armistice ending World War I, we observe Veterans Day to commemorate our men and women who fought for us to have this freedom. It is up to us to show our veterans the respect and admiration they deserve, and to remember their legacy and give them the appreciation and the resources they need. This year is the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. With each passing year, fewer members of our greatest generation remain with us to be honored for their roles in defeating fascism and ending the Holocaust. Only 300,000 World War II veterans remain with us today. This sobering fact makes it all the more important to learn from them and hear their stories. On Veterans Day in 1985, President Reagan said, all we can ever do for our heroes is remember them and remember what they did. We should all try to heed these powerful words and their message. In September, I hosted a Virtual Veterans History Project Training for constituents interested in volunteering to interview and record veterans' stories for the Veterans History Project (VHP) of the Library of Congress. It is so critical to remember our veterans, take their lessons, and learn from their courage. I encourage all those interested in participating in the VHP to visit the Library of Congress' website at: https://www.loc.gov/vets/ In addition to remembering the deeds of our veterans, it is also important we continue providing support for those who need our help. Today, there are 150,000 veterans who live in Nebraska and are vital members of ou… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/small-business-community-roundtables Small Business & Community Roundtables 2020-11-04 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy Small businesses are staples of our communities and the backbone of rural America. However, small businesses have also taken the hardest hit from COVID's impact and we must continue doing all we can to help them as we continue to fight this disease. In order to hear from small businesses directly while providing the latest in innovative ideas, I will be hosting a series of Small Business & Community Roundtables on November 9, 10, 12, and 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST). Before the COVID-19 pandemic, our economy was at record highs, and businesses small and large were prospering. Now, due to unforeseen circumstances, our communities are faced with significant obstacles, but we know it will be our small businesses which bring us back. Efforts such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) created by the CARES Act have saved over 51 million jobs, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). While programs such as the PPP have been able to help many small businesses stay afloat during the pandemic, it is the knowledge and hard work of our employers and workforce which have made a huge difference in our economic comeback and our communities. In order to help small business owners further, the four panels will focus on issues I deal with daily in my work on the Ways and Means Committee health, creating opportunities for economic growth, and trade. Here is a list of the dates, times, topics, and special guests: Creating a Healthy Community Roundtable Monday, November 9 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST) Special Guests:Michelle Wineinger, Representative, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS); Leslie Marsh, CEO, Lexington Regional Health Center; Jim Ulrich, CEO, York General Health Care Services Growing a Small Business Roundtable Tuesday, November 10 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST) Special Guests:Dell Gines, Senior Community Development Advisor, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City-Omaha Branch; J… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-epa-reapproval-herbicide-dicamba Fortenberry Statement on EPA Reapproval of the Herbicide Dicamba 2020-11-02 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (LINCOLN, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) issued the following statement today after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reapproved use of the herbicide dicamba by America's ag producers. We have been working on a resolution to dicamba for farmers for many months now. I am pleased that the Environmental Protection Agency has reached a reasonable conclusion, Fortenberry said. Earlier this year, I worked with the EPA Administrator, the Secretary of Agriculture, and several bipartisan colleagues to ensure that ag producers who had purchased dicamba could continue using it through the end of July. This week, the EPA announced a five-year registration for use of the herbicide starting in 2021, Fortenberry added. I am pleased that farmers will now have certainty as they begin making their planting decisions for the coming year, Fortenberry said. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA). ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-house-and-senate-reintroduction-his-accelerating-access Fortenberry Statement on House and Senate Reintroduction of His Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act (ACT for ALS) 2020-11-02 2020 2020-11 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (WASHINGTON, DC)Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) offered the following statement upon the reintroduction of an updated version of ACT for ALS, Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act, in the United States House and Senate. The two new pieces of legislationH.R.8662 in the House and S.4867 in the Senatecreates new pathways for faster and broader access to therapies for those most in need, including those facing a fatal disease like ALS. This new legislation represents a monumental shift for those suffering from ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases.It breaks the paradigm of disease research and creates a new pathway to deliver promising treatments.With this new law, we can break through faster for those who have suffered so much, Fortenberry said. The revised ACT for ALS addresses several challenges associated with ALS therapeutic development. First, ALS clinical trials do not always employ expanded access programs that facilitate access to experimental treatments outside of the trial. This legislation tackles the financial barrier for therapies being tested from small biopharmaceutical companies by creating a grant program that funds access to investigational ALS treatments to patients not participating in the clinical trial. Additionally, the grant will fund a research project as part of providing expanded access to people living with ALS, adding to the understanding of how treatments impact the disease. The revised legislation also invests in neurodegenerative disease research through a new Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Rare Neurodegenerative Disease Grant Program. With this investment, Congress prioritizes making progress in the development of treatments and cures for ALS and other rare neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, ACT for ALS would establish an HHS Collaborative for Neurodegenerative Diseases jointly led by the FDA and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the first federal effort explicitly charged with the responsibility to speed the development and approval of therapies … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=1B0088B5-7697-4CA9-A74A-DF17C9B22846 Sasse Statement on American Hostage Rescue in Nigeria 2020-10-31 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after U.S. intelligence and military forces rescued an American citizen abducted last week in Niger. No U.S. military personnel were injured during the mission."This is the type of stuff that makes America's military a force for good around the world. The men and women who helped plan and execute this rescue mission are heroes, and we are grateful their work to free an American citizen." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/smith-s-bill-protecting-seniors-included-package-fighting-covid-19 Smiths Bill Protecting Seniors Included in Package Fighting COVID-19 2020-10-30 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after his bill, the Reducing Unnecessary Senior Hospitalization (RUSH) Act, was included in the Commitment to Defeat the Virus and Keep America Healthy Act (H.R. 14), a package of bipartisan provisions designed to aid Americans in addressing the impact of COVID-19 by promoting policies which incentivize innovation and supports healthy workplaces. The RUSH Act, introduced by Smith in March, brings much needed technological innovation to Medicare through expanded access to telehealth. The transfer of a skilled nursing facility resident to the emergency room has always been complicated and expensive, carrying serious risks to patients already dealing with complex health needs. The COVID pandemic dramatically increased this risk as a trip to the hospital now also carries a serious risk of COVID exposure and subsequent infection. This language pairs telehealth technologies with trained onsite providers in skilled nursing facilities to safely treat certain patients in place, such as those experiencing falls, delirium, infections, or adverse medication interaction, rather than transferring them to a hospital. In addition to reducing the risk of COVID exposure, treatment in place can provide for quicker diagnoses and treatment and avoids costly ambulance trips. During COVID, seniors have taken extra steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. Avoiding unnecessary trips and allowing them to be treated in place will help tremendously. I am grateful this critical language to protect our seniors has been included in this package. Smith is a senior member of the Committee on Ways and Means, which has jurisdiction over both the RUSH Act and H.R. 14. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-beer-and-axes Fort Report: Beer and Axes 2020-10-30 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Please sign up here to receive my email newsletter or periodic text updates.You may cancel or unsubscribe at any time. * marks required fields of data. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/SBCRoundtable2020 Smith to Hold Virtual Small Business and Community Roundtable Series 2020-10-29 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) will host aVirtual Small Business and Community Roundtable Series, with online sessions each morning on November 9, 10, 12, and 13. Those interested in attending must pre-register for each session individually at the links provided below. The Virtual Small Business and Community Roundtable Seriesprovides Third District constituents an opportunity to hear from Smith and his special guests discuss the latest in innovative small business ideas and policy and share your thoughts during the discussion opportunity. In addition to Smith, officials such as USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Ag. Services Ted McKinney, SBA District Director Leon Milobar, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City Senior Community Development Advisor Dell Gines, and a represntative of CMS - Kansas City will join in the discussion on the following dates. Creating a Healthy Community Roundtable Growing a Small Business Roundtable Tuesday, November 10 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST) Special Guests: Dell Gines, Senior Community Development Advsior, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, Janell Anderson-Ehrke, CEO of the GROW Nebraska Foundation, Andrew Vrbas, CEO of Pacha Soap, Kevin Griffith, CEO of Amplifi Capital Registration link:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AkYACu_oTZOOjxD92FZdkw Developing Your Local Economy and Workforce Roundtable Thursday, November 12 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST) Special Guests:Leon Milobar, Small Business Administration District Director, Starr Lehl, Development Director for the City of Scottsbluff, Oscar Gomez, Assistant City Administrator & Economic Development Director for South Sioux City Registration link:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_h-b_s38BQhSu8XBYQrYZzw Innovating Opportunity Through Trade Roundtable Friday, November 13 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (CST) / 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. (MST) Special Guests: USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Ag Services Ted M… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-and-senate-introduce-accelerating-access-critical-therapies-als-act-act House and Senate introduce Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act (ACT for ALS) 2020-10-29 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (WASHINGTON, DC)Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), Congressman Mike Quigley (D-IL), Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), and Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)introduced an updated version of ACT for ALS,Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act,in the United States House and Senate. The two new pieces of legislation,H.R.8662in the House andS.4867in the Senate, create new pathways for faster and broader access to therapies for those most in need, including those facing a fatal disease like ALS. "This new legislation represents a monumental shift for those suffering from ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases.It breaks the paradigm of disease research and creates a new pathway to deliver promising treatments.With this new law, we can break through faster for those who have suffered so much,said Congressman Jeff Fortenberry. "We must do all we can to support thetens of thousandsof Americansimpacted byALS, aterrible diseasewithout a cure. TheACTfor ALS will expand early treatment options and support the cutting-edge research needed to improve quality of life and find a cure. Weshouldtake steps to facilitate access to new therapies, drug treatments, and medical breakthroughsto aid Americans who sufferfromALS orotherforms of neurodegenerative disease,said Senator Chris Coons, co-chair of the Senate ALS Caucus. "For too long, ALS and diseases like it have gone under researched and under resourced at the federal level. That changes today. The new ACT for ALS bill is the product of intense engagement over many months and is our best opportunity in decades to disrupt the status quo, move the ball forward, and expedite treatment options for those living with terminal illnesses like ALS. I've been so proud to work alongside a diverse group of stakeholderspatients, advocates, scientists, researchers and doctors, both in and outside of government to produce a bold, bipartisan piece of legislation that offers new hope to those suffering from ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases with few treatments and no cures. I want to… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=577B8056-2241-405F-9700-46CA3EAA5CC8 Sasse Statement on DOJs Case Against CCP Thugs 2020-10-28 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement regarding eight individuals charged with conspiring to act as illegal agents to harass, stalk, and coerce certain residents of the United States to return to China."Here's what paranoid totalitarianism looks like: Chairman Xi is so terrified that Chinese citizens enjoy freedom here in the United States that he sends repatriation squads trying to coerce them back to China. The Chinese Communist Party's goons should be thrown behind bars. The Department of Justice is doing good work. Americans have to hold the line against Chinese aggression." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/investing-sound-infrastructure Investing in Sound Infrastructure 2020-10-27 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy October marks the middle of harvest season for crops like corn, soybeans, and sorghum here in Nebraska. This process, the culmination of many months of work, also highlights how we rely on infrastructure for irrigation, transportation, and bringing products to market. Infrastructure has a hand in just about everything we do, including making agriculture more efficient. By prioritizing rural infrastructure, we lay a foundation for national economic growth. While there is much work to be done, I am grateful for the improvements made to federal regulatory policy by the Trump administration. In many cases this meant taking a look at existing regulations, determining which ones are harmful, and fixing or eliminating them. The Waters of the United States (WOTUS) is a perfect example. This arbitrary, misguided Obama-era regulation gave the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) power over virtually all water flows even on private land. This regulation also directly contradicted the law; under the Clean Water Act non-navigable waters are regulated by the states. I led the effort in the House to fight WOTUS when it was forced on farmers, ranchers, and local communities by President Obama. I was grateful to see President Trump listen to ag producers and local officials when he reversed the WOTUS rule. However, there are still plenty more rules like WOTUS on the books which stand in the way of successful agriculture. In addition to simplifying regulations, we must continue to invest in sound projects to improve our aging infrastructure system. In Nebraska, we know too well the vulnerability of our levees, especially on the Missouri River. In the last ten years alone, two historic floods have caused unimaginable damage to surrounding areas. In the House-passed Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), I secured language to assist communities like Peru, Nebraska, which were deemed ineligible for federal aid due to Army Corps of Engineers regulations, and also establish a study program to improve flood prevention on the Missouri… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/rural-radio-fortenberry-visits-fiber-mill-stromsburg-and-speaks-its-role-growing-ag Rural Radio: Fortenberry Visits Fiber Mill in Stromsburg and Speaks to Its Role in Growing Ag Family 2020-10-27 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Rural Radio: Fortenberry Visits Fiber Mill in Stromsburg and Speaks to Its Role in Growing Ag Family 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=152D4E32-C350-43BF-AEB4-1320AD3AD2CE Sasse to Senate Democrats: You Lost This Vote. Dont Burn Down The Senate." 2020-10-26 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy "I don't want to cross Cocaine Mitch ... but the Senator most responsible for the fact that Amy Coney Barrett is going to be confirmed tonight... is Harry Reid." Video of the Senator's speech is availablehereor by clicking the image above. U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, spoke on the Senate floor this morning about Judge Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation and the upcoming fight over the Senate's filibuster. Excerpts below. On Judge Barrett: She is an unparalleled nominee and will be a dazzling originalist on the Supreme Court. None of the baseless allegations that have been leveled against Judge Barrett have swayed any votes. Democrats didn't lay a glove on Judge Barrett in her confirmation hearings and I think she ran circles around politicians who want to outsource lawmaking to unelected judges." On Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's scapegoating of Ranking Member Diane Feinstein: "The Minority Leader seems that he's decided to make Dianne Feinstein a scapegoat for the unforgivable sin of being unwilling to turn more of Judge Barrett's hearings into anotherMichael Avenatti clown show. And I think that's just a painful moment in this institution's history, and it speaks volumes about how low some people are willing to seek sink in response to outside activists who would like to see bare knuckle politics be the only thing that happens in the Senate." On repetitive and dishonest talking points about healthcare: "I've heard now I think four speeches in a row implying that when Judge Barrett becomes Justice Barrett later tonight, that obviously means the end of health care in America. The last speech actually included this phrase, A vote for Amy Barrett is a vote to end health care. The speech said A vote for Amy Coney Barrett is a vote to end health care. That isn't just preposterous, it is so destructive of the public good and of public trust... Please have the courage to come back next April, May and June and say you lied to the American people. You were just trying to … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=59ABB2C4-D3F6-4D69-AF53-9C0F2B61C1F7 Sasse Statement on Judge Barrett Confirmation 2020-10-26 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate confirmed Judge Amy Coney Barrett to be Associate Justice on the United States Supreme Court by a vote of 52-48."Despite the efforts of rabid partisans, Amy Coney Barrett is on the Supreme Court. Progressives tried to destroy her. Conspiracy theorists attacked her faith. Desperate politicians besmirched her character. Some hacks even launched disgusting assaults on her family. But Americans tuned out the nonsense and got to know this tremendously impressive nominee. Justice Barrett is a brilliant originalist who will shape the Supreme Court for generations. This is good news for every American because she rises above the partisan gamesmanship and applies the law faithfully with no hidden agenda. Her loyalty is to the Constitution, and her fearless independence will build confidence in the American system. Congratulations, Justice Barrett." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/norfolk-daily-news-fortenberry-and-norfolk-mayor-discuss-success-paycheck Norfolk Daily News: Fortenberry and Norfolk Mayor Discuss Success of Paycheck Protection Program 2020-10-26 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Rep. Jeff Fortenberry said he enjoyed being in Madison County on Friday to meet with small-business owners. One of the things he and business owners discussed was the Paycheck Protection Program, which is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. If certain criteria are met, including that the funds were necessary because of COVID-19, it is forgivable. Fortenberry's stops included downtown Norfolk and Madison. Fortenberry said he heard firsthand how businesses were successful through the PPP loan, bridging the gap during this dramatic time for small businesses. This program has been a lifesaver. With it, we did three things, 1. Protect our health care infrastructure. 2. Protect individuals and families and 3. Protect small businesses in the first relief package, he said. By working with small-business associations and the community banking infrastructure, Nebraska was positioned to become the leader per capita in these loans. The official estimate is that the program saved 300,000 jobs in Nebraska, he said. Norfolk Mayor Josh Moenning said he appreciates the leadership of Fortenberry. At the onset of the pandemic, main street was in crisis mode. Small businesses took the brunt of the hardship from the restrictions, I think, Moenning said. I want to thank and commend Congressman Fortenberry for his quick, decisive and collaborative leadership in regards to the PPP, he said. That was a lifeline to these small main street businesses. It needed to happen quickly and it did and the congressman was one of the first out of the gate to do the education piece on it. It was a big, complicated program, and those living in small businesses day-to-day didn't know where to turn. Within a week of some of the shutdowns, Fortenberry set up a virtual small-business listening session, Moenning said. It helped people to learn how they could take part in the program, he said. As evidence of how well it worked, Nebraska has the highest participation rate of the PPP in the … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=24103E58-85CE-4AAB-B824-6B6715B23E97 Sasse Statement on Barrett Cloture Vote 2020-10-25 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Judiciary Committee who urged President Trump to nominate Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court for the past three years, issued the following statement after the Senate voted today to end debate and bring Judge Barrett's confirmation to a final vote on Monday. "It's all over but the shouting. Democrats didn't lay a glove on Judge Barrett and, despite the ugly attacks on her faith and family, she's going to have a final up or down vote tomorrow. Amy Coney Barrett is beyond well-qualified for the Supreme Court she is one of the greatest legal minds in America. We've spent years getting to this point. Judge Barrett belongs on the Supreme Court, and she'll be there soon." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=99B04903-98CA-42DD-AE65-F632941DE1F0 Sasse Statement on Death of Dave Karnes 2020-10-25 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement after the death of former Nebraska Senator Dave Karnes. "This is heartbreaking news. Dave was a great man who tirelessly served Nebraskans. His work in Washington and here at home helped so many folks across our state. His selflessness and hard work made Nebraska proud. Melissa and I are praying for Dave's wife and daughters." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-passing-former-us-senator-nebraska-dave-karnes Fortenberry Statement on Passing of Former U.S. Senator from Nebraska,Dave Karnes 2020-10-25 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (LINCOLN, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) issued the following statement today upon learning of the passing of former United States Senator from Nebraska, Dave Karnes. "I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend, former U.S. Senator Dave Karnes. After his time in public office, Dave continued to serve Nebraska in so many positive and constructive ways. He was especially devoted to his beautiful family. May he rest in peace, Fortenberry said. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=2DCA4723-2D4F-45CC-8527-36B9305C6A46 Sasse Statement on Israel-Sudan Relationship 2020-10-23 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement praising the Trump Administration for the United States' role in the normalization of the relationship between Israel and Sudan."When America takes the lead on the global stage, good things happen. I'm glad the U.S. was able to help normalize relations between Sudan and Israel, and I hope that more agreements like this will follow. We should keep building on these diplomatic successes." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-hitting-mark Fort Report: Hitting the Mark 2020-10-23 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Please sign up here to receive my email newsletter or periodic text updates.You may cancel or unsubscribe at any time. * marks required fields of data. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=EEC202B2-0603-4F59-BB62-F03E38C53C94 Sasse: Confirm Judge Barrett Now 2020-10-22 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement after the committee voted to move Judge Barrett's nomination to the floor for a full vote."Judge Barrett ran circles around the Democrats' failed attempts to slander her character, faith, and family during these hearings. They don't like that Judge Barrett is going to do what judges are supposed to do rise above politics and refuse to legislate from the bench. The polls show that Americans clearly support her confirmation. It's time for Chuck Schumer to drop the shenanigans and get this done." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=541483E7-FA90-4DAA-ADA9-681A9E4EEA31 Sasse, Rubio, Colleagues Warn Against Court Packing 2020-10-21 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy Video of Sasse's remarks at the press conference is availablehereor by clicking on the image above Today, U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined his colleagues at a press conference to discuss their constitutional amendment limiting the size of the Supreme Court to nine justices. "At a time when you have declining public trust, the conversation that is being had among Democratic activist circles right now is about nuking two of three branches, Sasse said. This is about turning the Senate into just another House of Representatives. A simple majoritarian body that on 51-49, 49-51 swings every 24 months could try to remake more and more of American life. That is the opposite of the Founders' vision for what the Senate was for. The purpose of the Senate is to enable long debate, deliberation, and to allow passions to cool. So, the idea of nuking the Senate, ending its deliberative structure for the purposes of nuking the Supreme Court is a much bigger deal than is being publicly understood right now." Background: Sasse joined U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Shelley Moore-Capito (R-WV), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) in a press conference regarding their constitutionalamendment. Last summer, Sasse and otherscondemnedthreats to pack the Supreme Court. This month, Sassedescribedcourt packing as a suicide bombing that would destroy both the Senate and the Supreme Court. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/milford-times-fortenberry-visits-milford-high-school-seniors The Milford Times: Fortenberry Visits Milford High School Seniors 2020-10-21 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Milford Jr./Sr. High School principal Brandon Mowinkle waited in the school's hallway and stared out the front doors. At times his youngest son was by his side, at others he talked with congressional aides in the plexi-glass lined office space just outside of his office. He anticipated the arrival of Nebraska Congressman Jeff Fortenberry, who accepted an invitation to visit Mowinkle and paid a 35-minute visit. Fortenberry met with two seniors, Makena Stutzman and Abby Houk, to talk about their college plans before greeting seniors participating in Apply2College Day and then speaking to the senior class in the school's gymnasium. State Sen. Mark Kolterman joined in the visit and also addressed the senior class. Fortenberry encouraged the seniors to focus on what they want to do and also experiment with what may interest them. He talked about how he wanted to be veterinarian. I love animals, I was in 4-H, he said. I loved it. But that didn't mean that I should have been a veterinarian. Eventually, Fortenberry said he found the economic and policy-making pathway which led him to government. Fortenberry served on the Lincoln City Council before winning election to the U.S. House of Representatives as Nebraska's First District representative following long-time Congressman and Utica native Doug Bereuter's retirement in in 2004. Fortenberry is currently campaigning for a ninth term. Fortenberry told the gathered seniors about his responsibilities and how he works in Washington D.C. on their behalf. For an encouraging anecdote, Fortenberry shared a fable about how a farmer became locally famous in the combine for his straight rows through the fields. That farmer then guided his son on how to do the same. As the story went, the boy kept looking back to ensure the line was straight and, by doing so, caused wavy rows throughout the field. Fortenberry encouraged the senior class to focus on their future and not on the past. Before the senior class was dismissed, Fortenberry said what he has enjoyed most about being a Congre… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/plattsmouth-journal-fortenberry-visits-domestic-nutraceutical-producer-and-ppp Plattsmouth Journal: Fortenberry Visits Domestic Nutraceutical Producer and PPP Recipient Vireo Resources 2020-10-21 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy PLATTSMOUTH Vireo Resources employees had a chance to meet a member of Congress on Tuesday morning when a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives visited Plattsmouth. Incumbent Congressman Jeff Fortenberry spoke to approximately 20 people during a stop at the company's location on Wiles Road. Plattsmouth Mayor Paul Lambert and Vireo executives Deeannah Seymour and Mark Faulkner greeted Fortenberry and joined him at a speaking podium in the main warehouse of the business. Fortenberry praised Seymour, Faulkner and Vireo employees for their contributions to the Cass County economy. The Tennessee-based company broke ground on a three-story building south of the existing structure in August. The expansion project will eventually create between 200 and 300 new jobs at the health products store. You're a good business, Fortenberry said. You provide economic opportunities for people. Fortenberry is running for re-election as the representative of Nebraska's 1st Congressional District. He currently serves on the House Appropriations Committee and two subcommittees. These include the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Subcommittee, and the State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Subcommittee. Fortenberry has been the local representative since 2005. He is running against challenger Kate Bolz for the seat in Congress this year. Fortenberry told the audience that one of his primary concerns was the increasing production of pharmaceutical items outside the United States. Many companies are now manufacturing drugs and medications in countries such as China and India. The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted the drug supply chain from those locations and has caused shortages in the United States. We've all learned just how dependent we have become on China for medicines, Fortenberry said. I'd be a lot more comfortable if I saw Made in America' on every bottle sold on the shelves. Fortenberry also spoke about the Paycheck Protection Program (P… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/in-the-news/wjag-fortenberry-how-paycheck-protection-program-saved-over-300000-jobs-nebraska WJAG: Fortenberry on How the Paycheck Protection Program Saved Over 300,000 Jobs in Nebraska 2020-10-21 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy WJAG: Fortenberry on How the Paycheck Protection Program Saved Over 300,000 Jobs in Nebraska 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0BA47857-178C-4867-8124-18B602CBC7D6 Sasse Statement on Chinese Communist Partys Influence on American Colleges 2020-10-20 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Education released a report regarding foreign funding in higher education and enforcement of Section 117 of the Higher Ed Act of 1965."The Chinese Communist Party is targeting America's colleges. Our colleges -- institutions built to promote the very kind of free thought that the communists in Beijing so desperately fear -- ought to be more transparent with their foreign contracts and comply with existing law. Universities need to be more engaged and realize that the CCP intentionally blurs the line between public and private to expand power and influence." Background: The Department of Education recently launched investigations into 12 schools who had reportedly failed to fully disclose foreign contracts. Some of these schools reportedly entered into contracts with Huawei, a known tech spy arm of the Chinese Communist Party. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=387DEEB4-277A-4150-A381-4328E41FF436 Sasse Statement on Sweden Huawei Ban 2020-10-20 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after Sweden banned Huawei and ZTE from gaining access to their 5G network."Make no mistake: Huawei is simply the CCP's surveillance puppet disguised as a private' company. There is nothing private' about Huawei. They lie, steal information, and report only to Chairman Xi. Sweden made the right call today and our relationship will be made stronger for it." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8EAA6B83-EAF4-40E1-8568-559A50BBF259 Sasse Statement on Political Vandalism; Harvest Bee 2020-10-20 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse released the following statement as Nebraskans are preparing to help Jonathan Rempel of Henderson finish harvesting his crops. Last week, a suspicious early morning fire destroyed multiple pieces of farm equipment, including a combine that had two flags supporting President Donald Trump. The investigation is ongoing."As Americans, we should be able to say this clearly: acts of violence or vandalism towards political opponents are abhorrent. We're rooting for the Rempel family, and Nebraskans are going to show the country what America is really all about. Friends, family, and neighbors are going to come together and help the Rempel family finish the harvest." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=B93E4FFB-8A4F-491B-88A3-3127209E5FE7 Sasse Statement on Lefts Failed Attempt to Smear Judge Barrett 2020-10-20 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement regarding polling from Gallup and the New York Times this morning that shows a majority of Americans both support Judge Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation to the Supreme Court and reject court packing."Today's polling makes it clear that Sheldon Whitehouse's conspiracy theory charts and Mazie Hirono's baffling cross examination failed to bork Judge Barrett. The American people tuned out the nonsense and saw Judge Barrett's intelligence and humility. The left's apocalyptic rhetoric and court packing schemes are wildly out of touch." Background: The week before Judge Barrett's confirmation hearing, Senator Sasse a longtime advocate for Judge Barrett predicted that the left's apocalyptic rhetoric will seem extra nutty when Americans hear from Judge Barrett at her confirmation hearings." Today,polling from Gallupshows that a majority of Americans including a majority of Independents want to see Judge Barrett on the Supreme Court. Today,polling from The New York Timesshows 58% of Americans including 65% of independents oppose court packing. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=332C0F26-A1AB-4954-A123-7ED9D9D77A8F Sasse Statement on Brazil Trade Agreement 2020-10-19 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a staunch advocate for trade, issued the following statement after the USTR announced a trade agreement with Brazil. "More trade is always a win-win for the Nebraskans who work tirelessly to feed the world. Common ground agreements like this will only open doors for future negotiations that help our state expand trade access. That means more money in American's pockets and greater access for the products hard-working Nebraskans produce. This is good news." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/protecting-medicare-open-enrollment-begins Protecting Medicare as Open Enrollment Begins 2020-10-19 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy There are two approaches to meet the health care needs of Americans. The first way is a command economy approach, such as the Medicare for All effort, which uses mandates to force patients, providers, and insurers to take action demonstrated under Obamacare to worsen access and drive up costs. The second way is to use the marketplace to drive down costs and improve consumer access like we used in constructing Medicare Part D to improve prescription access for seniors. An important part of this process is Medicare Open Enrollment, which runs from October 15 through December 7. The most important feature driving cost savings in Part D is the annual requirement for insurers to rebid plans, negotiate prices, and demonstrate to Medicare beneficiaries the value their plans offer. Because of this requirement, every year seniors have an opportunity to choose the Medicare Part D plan that best meets their needs at the best price. By visiting Medicare.gov, you can view your current enrollment, sort through your options, and select a plan which best suits you. If you would rather speak to an expert directly, you can call1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). In addition, the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) provides free, accurate, and objective information on your plan of choice. You can reach Nebraska SHIIP at 1-800-234-7119 or https://www.doi.nebraska.gov/shiip. Medicare Open Enrollment, which gives seniors the opportunity to make changes to their Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, may have extra importance this year. We know that seniors are at a higher risk for contracting COVID-19 and experiencing severe symptoms than the rest of the population. The pandemic has demonstrated the necessity of a strong Medicare program and the need for options for our seniors as they plan for their health care. Seniors rely on Medicare, and it is our job in Congress to see to it that Medicare is working correctly. Efforts like Medicare for All would change Medicare as we know it and ruin its very purpose. Through… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/fort-report/fort-report-milford-and-beyond Fort Report: Milford and Beyond 2020-10-16 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy Please sign up here to receive my email newsletter or periodic text updates.You may cancel or unsubscribe at any time. * marks required fields of data. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=32E4445E-7490-4713-AA28-71BF3804DDB2 Sasse: Joe Biden Playing With Fire 2020-10-15 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement after Joe Biden again refused to reject packing the Supreme Court. "Vice President Biden is playing with fire while the radical left threatens to pour gasoline on both the Senate and the Supreme Court. Court-packing would burn down two branches of government by killing the Senate's filibuster and turning the Supreme Court into an unelected super-legislature. This garbage is constitutional arson." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-passing-wwii-historian-major-timothy-kilvert-jones-who Fortenberry Statement on Passing of WWII Historian Major Timothy Kilvert-Jones, Who Helped Inspire Effort to Create Higgins Boat Monument in Normandy, France 2020-10-14 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (LINCOLN, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) issued the following statement today upon learning of the passing of British Army Major Timothy Kilvert-Jones, who helped inspire the effort to create a Higgins Boat memorial on Utah Beach in Normandy, France. I am very sad to learn that WWII military historian and British Army Major Timothy Kilvert-Jones has died in Normandy, France.As the citizens of Columbus may remember, Major Kilvert-Jones came to Nebraska and met with our veterans, and upon seeing the Higgins Boat Memorial, had an insightful question: what about another one for France? Fortenberry said. "Major Kilvert-Jones had extensive knowledge of the key role the Higgins Boat played in the D-Day invasion.The Higgins boat was named after its inventor, Columbus native Andrew Jackson Higgins, Fortenberry added. "Major Kilvert-Jones and I stayed in frequent touch over the years. He was extremely grateful to the community of Columbus for their hard work in making the new memorial in France happen. He told me that the Higgins Boat Monument has transformed the experience for visitors to Normandy, Fortenberry said. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture and Member of the House ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0467DABE-1372-4EA1-A364-E624E43957A0 Barrett Gives Originalism Master Class 2020-10-13 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy Video of the exchange is availablehereor by clicking the image above. U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, asked Judge Barrett, a former law professor at the University of Notre Dame, to give a plainspoken explanation of her originalist judicial philosophy, the nature of law, and the role of the courts. Full text of the exchange is available below. Senator Ben Sasse:Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Judge, welcome back. I mean this as good news, but it might not feel like it. After me, you're half done for today. I'm eleventh of twenty-two. Mr. Chairman, before I begin my questioning, I'd like to ask unanimous consent to admit into the record a letter from Allen Guelzo, the historian at Princeton, who has written a letter to the Committee in response to some of Senator Harris' claims about the history of Supreme Court vacancies going back to the Civil War. Senator Graham: Without objection. Sasse: Thank you.Judge, you have said that the meaning of law doesn't change with time, andyou've said that's very important. Can you unpack for us why it's so important that the meaning of a law doesn't change with time? Judge Amy Coney Barrett:Sure, because the law stays the same until it is lawfully changed. And if we're talking about a law that has been enacted by the people's representatives or gone through the process of Constitutional Amendment or Constitutional ratification, it must go through the lawfully prescribed process before it's changed. So, Article V in the context of the Constitution, or bicameralism and presentment in the context of statutes, and it's not up to judges to short-circuit that process by updating the law. That's your job. Sasse:But laws clearly are written in a context and then the things, the circumstances to which those laws have applied would change. Does the Fourth Amendment have nothing to say about cell phones? Unreasonable search and seizure was obviously not written ata time when they imagined mobile technological devices that addicted our kids. Does the Fourth Am… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=22317D05-7DAB-4326-A4AD-A10FF6C905DA Sasse Statement on Northam/Whitmer Kidnapping Attempts 2020-10-13 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, released the following statement after an FBI Agent testified in court that the alleged conspirators charged in the plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also plotted to kidnap Virginia Governor Ralph Northam."This stuff is pure lunacy. In America, violence against a political opponents should be soundly rejected. We win policy debates through persuasion and by loving our neighbors, not by threats. The American system is being infiltrated by an ugly politics that is unhealthy for our nation." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://fortenberry.house.gov/news/press-releases/fortenberry-statement-dedication-davis-global-center-university-nebraska-medical Fortenberry Statement on Dedication of the Davis Global Center at the University of Nebraska Medical Center 2020-10-13 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Jeff Fortenberry F000449 fortenberry.house.gov     legacy (LINCOLN, NE) Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) issued the following statement today after attending the virtual dedication ceremony of the Dr. Edwin G. and Dorothy Balbach Davis Global Center at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska. The University of Nebraska Medical Center is now the nation's, and soon a global, leader in infectious disease and many other categories of disease research and education. That happens because there is a vision and a team of committed leadersstate, federal and localwho pull together to overcome obstacles to keep our national health security sound. Fortenberry said. Through their sacrificial giving, Nebraska's charitable community has again empowered those of us entrusted with the extraordinary position of leadership in government to do things that are smart, visionary, and fiscally sound. Thanks to this remarkable public-private collaboration, the Davis Global Center will keep the University of Nebraska Medical Center at the leading edge of health care treatment, teaching, training, and research, Fortenberry added. "The impressive new Davis Global Center will house the iEXCEL Program, a transformative model for health education that incorporates advanced simulation and visualization technologies to improve patient care. It will also house the Global Center for Health Security, which I helped fund the through the Appropriations process in Washington. It is a key component of our nation's bio-preparedness for high-impact diseases like COVID-19, Fortenberry said. Fortenberry Speech at Dedication of Davis Global Center at University of Nebraska Medical Center:https://youtu.be/nVCTFDK3u9A Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) is the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture and Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=069844F3-9F33-4C7B-805C-5B4A593CA09D Sasse Remarks on Civics, Jackwagons, and Judges 2020-10-12 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy Day One of Barrett Confirmation Hearings Begin Video of Senator Sasse's comments is availablehereor by clicking the image above. On the first day of the Senate Judiciary Committee's confirmation hearing for Judge Amy Coney Barrett, U.S. Senator Ben Sasse spoke on the distinction between civics and politics, the importance of religious liberty, and the distinction between originalist judges and activist judges. Senator Sasse's full remarks are found below. I think it would be very useful for us to pause and remind ourselves and do some of our civic duty to eighth graders to help them realize what a President runs for, what a Senator runs for, and on the other hand why Judge Barrett is sitting before us today and what the job is that you're being evaluated for. So, if we can back up and do a little bit of eighth grade civics I think it would benefit us and benefit the watching country - and especially watching eighth grade civics classes. So, I'd like to distinguish first between civics and politics because there was a time - the Chairman said at the beginning of this hearing - there was a time when people that would be as different as Ruth Bader Ginsburg - and she was a heroic woman - that's absolutely true, and Antonin Scalia, another brilliant mind and your mentor. People that different could both go through the Senate and get confirmation votes of 95 or 98 votes. And the Chairman said at the beginning of the hearing he doesn't know what happened between then and now. I think some of what happened between then and now is we decided to forget what civics are and allow politics to swallow everything. So, if I can start I'd like to just remind us of the distinction between civics and politics. Civics is the stuff we're all supposed to agree on regardless of our policy view differences. Civics is another way we talk about the rules of the road. Civics 101 is the stuff like Congress writes laws, the executive branch enforces laws, courts apply them. None of that stuff should be different if you're a Rep… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0987416E-60C2-4918-BDBF-A71183D6ECAA Sasse Calls Court Packing Suicide Bombing of Two Branches of Government" 2020-10-11 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy Watch the full interviewhere. Today, Senator Sasse, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Chris Wallace to discuss the upcoming hearings for Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett, and condemn the Democrat's threat the blow up the filibuster and pack the Supreme Court. "And it isn't just one branch of government. What they're really talking about is the suicide bombing of two branches of government. What they're talking about is blowing up the deliberative structure of the United States Senate by abolishing the filibuster and making it possible to turn the Senate into just another House of Representatives where every two years, by a 51-49 or 49-51 majority, major portions of American life change. And they're going about doing that to pack the Supreme Court." "The reason I think that Amy Barrett is a rock star and should be on the court is because she is very clear about her jurisprudence. She's an originalist and she is a textualist, which means when she puts on her black robe in the morning, she knows what it is to be a judge, and that is to cloak your personal preferences. Our judges don't wear red or blue jerseys, they don't advocate for policy positions and we shouldn't be having either Democrats or Republicans on the committee trying to figure out how can they divine the future of how they'll rule on particular cases." Rushed transcript is available below: WALLACE: Joining me now, another member of the committee, Republican Senator Ben Sasse.Senator, let's start where I left off with Senator Coons. What do you make of Joe Biden's refusal to answer the question, if elected, will you change the number of justices on the Court? And do you think he can continue to hold out to that non-answer for the next three weeks? SASSE: Well, Chris, first of all, thanks for coming to Nebraska, glad to have you. It's grotesque that Vice President Biden won't answer that really basic question. And it isn't just one branch of government, what they're really talking about or refusing to talk about, is the s… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.sasse.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4DC39CB5-3674-4BAD-96B2-83DD1DCB452A Sasse Statement on Religious Liberty Win 2020-10-10 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Ben Sasse S001197 www.sasse.senate.gov     legacy U.S. Senator Ben Sasse issued the following statement after a federal judge ruled that the District of Columbia acted unlawfully by restricting worship services but not public protests during the coronavirus pandemic. This is a win for the First Amendment. There are five freedoms in the First Amendment religion, speech, press, assembly, and protest and the government doesn't get to pick and choose. Bureaucrats can't say we like your protest, but we don't like your worship service.' This decision is good news for all Americans." 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/newsroom/columns/slashing-red-tape Slashing Red Tape 2020-10-09 2020 2020-10 Republican Senate NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov     legacy In 2016, the last year of the Obama administration, 3,853 federal regulations were issued. While some regulations, such as those explaining how the executive branch will implement new laws or setting how much Medicare pays medical providers each year, are necessary, many merely pile new bureaucracy onto old in an effort to micromanage our nation from Washington. Fortunately, Congress has a mechanism to provide expedited consideration of disapproving of overreaching regulations, and in 2017 we passed and President Trump signed into law 14 bills repealing many of the most egregious overreaches of the outgoing Obama administration. The Trump Administration has also rolled back many of these regulations, such as Waters of the United States, or WOTUS, which we could not repeal legislatively because the resolutions were vetoed by President Obama. Before the Trump administration, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce found federal regulations cost our economy almost $2 trillion annually, and one of the key factors helping our economy boom prior to the pandemic was the reversal of these regulations. If we are going to return to an economy of record strength as we defeat this disease, we should continue finding ways to roll back regulations which create more problems than solutions. Because the burden of regulations became so clear under President Obama, in 2014, I created a program called Regulation Rewind to work toward addressing the problem. This issue was clear to President Trump as well, and when he first took office he directed his administration to find ways to roll back two burdensome regulations for every new regulation created. He has delivered on that promise, and since 2019, he has gone above and beyond, cutting nearly eight regulations for every significant one. An expanded and restored infrastructure will also spur our economy. However, instead of just throwing money at the problem, we should be looking for ways to streamline the cumbersome approval procedures to save money and speed up the process. Burdensome regul… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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