url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-further-award-of-more-than-215-million-for-rural-nebraska-healthcare/,Ricketts Celebrates Further Award of More than $215 Million for Rural Nebraska Healthcare,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"Omaha, NE — Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) celebrated the award of Rural Health Transformation Program grant money for rural healthcare in Nebraska. This funding comes from a program that was created by Congress earlier this year in the Working Families Tax Cut to strengthen rural healthcare. Senator Ricketts voted in support of the bill. “This is how you keep rural communities thriving,” said Ricketts. “The Rural Health Transformation Program was an important part of the Working Families Tax Cut that Senate Republicans passed earlier this year. This is an investment in the future of rural healthcare and in the future of Nebraska.” BACKGROUND: The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced awards to all 50 states under the Rural Health Transformation Program. The program, created by Congress earlier this year as part of the Working Families Tax Cut, committed $50 billion to invest in rural healthcare. 50% percent of this funding is split equally among the states, 50% percent is awarded after an application process. Nebraska was awarded an additional $218,529,075. As a part of CMS’ application guidelines, awarded money is to be used to help rural communities expand care reach, strengthen and sustain clinical workforce, modernize rural health infrastructure and technology, drive efficiency, empower community providers, and advance innovative care models.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=FFB95124-F789-4360-8B8E-249CA251CBF6,Fischer Leads Nebraska Delegation in Support of America’s First Transcontinental Railroad,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) led the entire Nebraska congressional delegation in a letter to the Surface Transportation Board, urging approval of the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern in order to create the nation’s first transcontinental railroad. In the letter, the lawmakers underscore the merger’s widespread support among labor unions and rail customers across key industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and energy. Due to Nebraska’s central location, the state serves as a vital freight-rail corridor and ranks among the top five in the nation for freight-rail employment. Since 1862, Union Pacific has been headquartered in Omaha and currently employs more than 5,000 individuals across the state, contributing millions of dollars to Nebraska’s economy each year. Full text of the letter is here and below. Dear Chairman Fuchs, Vice Chair Schultz, and Member Hedlund: We write in support of the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. We trust that, after a thorough review, the Board will approve this merger, bringing about the nation’s first transcontinental railroad. As the Board conducts its review, we believe the benefits associated with the new transcontinental railroad will demonstrate that this merger will enhance competition and provide value to the public. The reduced interchange delays will result in decreased transit times and increased service reliability. The new routes and expanded intermodal service also provide significant new opportunities for shippers. Furthermore, the limited overlap in existing networks of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern results in only a handful of shippers seeing service decreased from two freight rail carriers to one, and we trust Union Pacific will take the necessary action to ensure continued competition for their service. We are also encouraged by Union Pacific’s commitment to maintain gateway access and address associated gateway pricing. Notably, the proposed merger has received the early support of multiple labor unions, including SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD), the largest union in the country. Additionally, rail customers across key industries — including agriculture, manufacturing, and energy — have voiced their support, citing improved market access, greater operational flexibility, and faster, more reliable service. We support the merger of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern and look forward to the opportunities generated by our nation’s first truly transcontinental railroad. As you complete your review, we are confident you will find that the proposed merger serves the public interest and strengthens competition nationwide. Thank you all for your attention to this letter and for your service at the Surface Transportation Board. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-leads-nebraska-delegation-in-support-of-america-s-first-transcontinental-railroad",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=488FE2E7-2D9D-4F4C-BF68-4741A8396AF2,Fischer Celebrates Announcement of American Airlines Flights to Lincoln Airport,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, released the following statement after American Airlines announced they will expand its service to the Lincoln Airport: “I am pleased to see American Airlines announce new service at the Lincoln Airport, including year-round service to Dallas-Fort Worth and Chicago and seasonal service to Phoenix. This expansion underscores LNK as a driver of Nebraska’s economic growth and a vital transportation hub that connects Nebraskans to opportunity, commerce, and destinations nationwide.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-celebrates-announcement-of-american-airlines-flights-to-lincoln-airport",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=73823F73-6E45-447F-89D5-11B27A876485,Fischer Reintroduces Bill to Support Ag Haulers,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) reintroduced the Haulers of Agriculture and Livestock Safety (HAULS) Act to strengthen the transportation of America’s agricultural products. “Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers feed and fuel our world, but burdensome regulations make it harder for their goods to be transported. That’s why I’ve introduced the HAULS Act to ensure that Nebraska’s ag products reach consumers in a safe and timely manner,” Fischer said. The HAULS Act would: Eliminate the requirement that ag and livestock hours-of-service (HOS) exemptions only apply during state designated planting and harvesting seasons. Amend and clarify the definition of “agricultural commodities” based on feedback provided by agriculture and livestock organizations. Expands on Fischer provision signed into law by authorizing a 150 air-mile exemption from HOS requirements on the destination side of a haul for ag commodity haulers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-signing-of-defense-bill-into-law/,Ricketts Celebrates Signing of Defense Bill into Law,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) recognized President Trump’s signing of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) into law. The NDAA authorizes funding levels and authorities for the U.S. military. This ensures American forces have the tools they need to carry out their missions. “The United States must deter Communist China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea,” said Senator Ricketts. “By restoring peace through strength, this NDAA will help us deter our adversaries and keep Americans safe. The NDAA also delivers for Nebraska. It authorizes key funding to provide our servicemembers with the capabilities needed to keep Nebraskans safe. I appreciate Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Don Bacon’s leadership on the Armed Services Committees. Together, we’re ensuring our military has what it needs to defend us.” Nebraska-Specific Wins: Requires the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program to begin being fielded by Sept. 30, 2033; Authorizes $11 million to support the Nuclear Command, Control, Communications (NC3) Network Sensor Demonstration at Offutt Air Force Base; Authorizes $15 million to support the innovative NC3 Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub program, or REACH, at Offutt Air Force Base; Authorizes $40 million for the design of hangars and other facilities for the Survivable Airborne Operation Center (SAOC), which will replace the aging E-4B Nightwatch planes at Offutt Air Force Base; Codifies a requirement for deep cleaning of ICBM launch control centers every five years; Designates STRATCOM’s Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (JEMSO) office as the lead entity for coordinating testing and evaluation of joint employment of Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) technologies; Directs a report on the 557th Weather Wing’s cloud migration, AI readiness, and infrastructure modernization roadmap; Codifies the 557th Weather Wing’s authorities to provide meteorological and environmental services to the Intelligence Community; Requires CFIUS to report on real estate transactions of national security threats, which helps to target Communist China’s malign activities in the U.S. and near critical military sites across the nation. Wins in the NDAA: Authorizes $900.6 billion for national defense next year; Gives a 3.8% pay raise to our servicemembers; Authorizes over $4 billion in funding for modernizing our nuclear triad, including the Sentinel ICBM program; Includes the Ricketts-sponsored AUKUS Improvement Act, which streamlines defense industrial base collaboration and co-production between the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom; Includes the Ricketts-supported COUNTER Act, which combats Communist China’s attempts to strengthen its global reach through military expansion; Included in the NDAA joint explanatory statement are elements of Senator Ricketts’ THINK TWICE Act, including a requirement for a strategy and report on arms sales of the People’s Republic of China. Ricketts’AUKUS Improvement Act:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=459A0C31-BF64-49E9-98AA-88114C9E8FD4,"Fischer, Colleagues Request FCC Briefing on Universal Service Fund",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and U.S. Reps. Richard Hudson (R-NC9) and Doris Matsui (D-CA7), sent a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requesting a briefing to provide insight on the implementation of Congress’ universal service directives and help inform the Working Group’s leadership to modernize the Fund. Fischer, Luján, Hudson, and Matsui announced the reconstitution of the Universal Service Fund Working Group in June. Full text of the letter is here and below. Dear Chairman Carr, Commissioner Gomez, and Commissioner Trusty: The bicameral, bipartisan Universal Service Fund Working Group continues to consider next steps on modernizing, strengthening, and sustaining universal service. In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Federal Communications Commission v. Consumers’ Research decision that upheld the constitutionality of the Universal Service Fund (USF) this past summer, members of the Senate and the House of Representatives have been hard at work discussing how best to update the USF programs. It is more essential than ever that we stay aligned on ensuring that the enduring mission of universal service will be fulfilled in the 21st century. This fall, our USF Working Group fielded a new slate of comments from a variety of stakeholders on possible reforms to USF programs, and the Working Group is actively reviewing those recommendations. We take this responsibility seriously, recognizing the vital role that USF programs play in ensuring that households, schools, libraries, health care providers, and rural communities across the nation have access to essential communications services. As Congress weighs and debates options to reform the USF, the Commission has valuable insights on the implementation of Congress’ universal service directives. Given ongoing discussions about the Fund’s stability, contribution methodology, and long-term policy direction, it is important for our offices to receive updated information directly from Commission staff. Specifically, we request a staff-level briefing covering: The most recent program outlays and cost projections across each USF program; Assessment of the USF contribution factor and recent fluctuations; Rulemakings or reforms of USF programs under consideration by the Commission; and Any administrative challenges, program integrity concerns, or operational updates pertinent to congressional oversight of the Fund.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AC9D2FDC-4F04-4206-8992-EE865AC42A8A,To President’s Desk: Annual Defense Bill with Provisions Championed by Fischer for Nebraska,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"FY26 NDAA includes Fischer’s provisions to enhance strategic preparedness, support service members, and invest in U.S. Strategic Command at Offutt Air Force Base U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, released the following statement after the Senate passed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-coons-lead-resolution-in-support-of-japan-condemns-communist-chinas-bullying/,"Ricketts, Coons Lead Resolution in Support of Japan, Condemns Communist China’s Bullying",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Chris Coons (D-DE), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations East Asia Subcommittee, introduced a resolution to reaffirm the Trump Administration’s unwavering support for the U.S.-Japan alliance. The resolution was introduced in response to Communist China’s political, economic, and military pressure on Japan. Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) co-sponsored this resolution. “The United States will always stand strong with Japan,” said Ricketts. “Since 1951, our alliance has served as the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Communist China’s efforts to intimidate Japan — including economic coercion and the suggestion of beheading Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi — are unacceptable. We condemn Communist China’s aggression. America is united behind our ally.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-recaps-2025-a-year-of-delivering-wins-for-nebraskans/,"Ricketts Recaps 2025, A Year of Delivering Wins for Nebraskans",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted successes in 2025, delivering wins for Nebraskans with safer streets, more money in pockets, and excellent customer service. “I’m also proud of the legislative successes we achieved this year. We passed the Working Families Tax Cut, which delivered big wins for Nebraska families. This avoided a $2,400 tax increase on the average Nebraska family,” said Ricketts. “It expanded child tax credits and tax credits for dependent care. It incentivizes businesses to invest in childcare for their workers. It increased the standard deduction while letting donations be itemized. It includes the no tax on tips and no tax on overtime provisions. We made the Death Tax exemption permanent, so Nebraska farming and ranching families can pass their business to the next generation. The Working Families Tax Cut means 88% of seniors won’t have to pay income taxes on their Social Security benefits.” “[M]y team and I delivered excellent customer service to Nebraskans. We helped 883 Nebraskans navigate federal agencies. We cut through the red tape,” said Ricketts. “We helped Nebraskans save or recover $16.4 million this year. My constituent services team held 736 outreach events in Nebraska this year. This includes Mobile Office Hours in all 93 counties.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “Americans elected President Trump and Senate Republicans to get our country back on track. “That means safer streets, more money in your pocket, and excellent customer service. “I’m proud of the work we did this year. “We’re delivering for Nebraskans. “I continue to do what I did as Governor. “I travel the state, talk to people, and listen to their concerns. “This year, I held public events across the state. “This included townhall meetings in Central and Western Nebraska. “I hosted regular telephone townhalls to answer questions directly from Nebraskans. “I hosted a Federal Issues Forum at the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island. “EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso joined me at the Forum. “We discussed solutions to get America back on track. “I also released the “Ricketts Review” at the State Fair. “This report outlined my work to keep Americans safe, make government work, and deliver proven Nebraska solutions that are ready for America. “I released 52 weekly columns. “I did 100 exclusive interviews that were seen and heard across our state. “I will continue this outreach in 2026. “I’m also proud of the legislative successes we achieved this year. “We passed the Working Families Tax Cut, which delivered big wins for Nebraska families. “This avoided a $2,400 tax increase on the average Nebraska family. “It expanded child tax credits and tax credits for dependent care. “It incentivizes businesses to invest in childcare for their workers. “It increased the standard deduction while letting donations be itemized. “It includes the no tax on tips and no tax on overtime provisions. “We made the Death Tax exemption permanent, so Nebraska farming and ranching families can pass their business to the next generation “The Working Families Tax Cut means 88% of seniors won’t have to pay income taxes on their Social Security benefits. “We also created a $50 billion rural health care fund to strengthen health care in our rural communities. “The Working Families Tax Cut delivers for Nebraska families. “The Working Families Tax Cut provides funding to finish the border wall, hire more agents and more judges. “We passed the Laken Riley Act. “This was the strongest immigration enforcement law in decades. “It closed dangerous loopholes that allowed criminal illegal aliens to hurt Americans. “We passed the HALT Fentanyl Act. “The HALT Fentanyl Act permanently reclassifies fentanyl and its analogues as Schedule I substances. “It will lead to harsher sentences for fentanyl traffickers and fewer overdose deaths. “We worked to cut red tape and restore commonsense. “We passed the GENIUS Act to support financial innovation. “We passed $9 billion in spending cuts. “We passed 24 Congressional Review Act resolutions to overturn burdensome Biden regulations, including stopping Biden’s EV mandate. “This includes legislation I wrote with Rep. Mike Flood to overturn overreach from the Biden Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “At the same time, we overcame unprecedented Democrat obstruction and confirmed President Trump’s nominees. “We confirmed more than 400 civilian nominees this year. “We confirmed President Trump’s Cabinet at the fastest pace since 2001. “We had more days in session and took more votes than any Senate in at least 35 years. “Most Americans show up to work until the job gets done. “In Congresses past, that work ethic hasn’t existed. “Under Republican leadership, the Senate is back to workback to work. “In addition, my team and I delivered excellent customer service to Nebraskans. “We helped 883 Nebraskans navigate federal agencies. “We cut through the red tape. “We helped Nebraskans save or recover $16.4 million this year. “My constituent services team held 736 outreach events in Nebraska this year. “This includes Mobile Office Hours in all 93 counties. “We will continue providing great services to Nebraskans. “We delivered for Nebraskans. “My priorities remain the same. “I’m working with my team to ensure your voices are heard. “I’m working to address your concerns. “We are delivering for Nebraskans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6CBD661A-4312-4390-9B43-A31884E8235A,Fischer Leads Nebraska Delegation to Maximize Retention of State’s Broadband Infrastructure Funds,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) led the entire Nebraska congressional delegation in a letter to the National Telecommunications and Information Association (NTIA), urging the administration to allow states to retain Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program funds that are not already committed to broadband deployment in priority unserved or underserved areas, in compliance with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. In the letter, the lawmakers highlight the importance precision agriculture plays in farming and ranching operations and urge NTIA to clarify that precision agriculture connectivity constitutes an eligible use of remaining BEAD non-deployment funds. Full text of the letter is here and below. Dear Administrator Roth, On behalf of Nebraska communities that continue to lack reliable, high-speed broadband access, we write to urge NTIA to allow states to retain BEAD Program funds that are not already committed to broadband deployment in priority unserved or underserved areas, in compliance with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). The BIL authorizes the BEAD Program to fund broadband expansion across unserved and underserved areas, with a required prioritization of deployment to those areas and, as needed, connection of eligible community anchor institutions. The statutory allocation framework assumes that funds are first applied toward deployment, and only after those priorities are satisfied do remaining resources become available for alternative, “non-deployment” uses. Given this structure and the express purpose of BEAD as a historic investment to close the digital divide, we request clarification on how NTIA intends to ensure that non-deployment funds are reallocated appropriately to expand connectivity across the nation. In this context, we urge NTIA to clarify that precision agriculture connectivity constitutes an eligible use of remaining BEAD non-deployment funds. The BIL defines eligible locations and permissible activities in ways that encompass broadband needed for agricultural operations on farmland and ranchland. The statute directs funding toward areas lacking service “capable of supporting real-time, interactive applications” and emphasizes connectivity that enables “economic development” and “modern digital applications” (47 U.S.C. § 1702(a), (c)(4)). Precision agriculture operations – including field-level sensors, automated equipment guidance, telemetry, livestock monitoring, and real-time remote management – clearly fall within these parameters. They require reliable high-speed connectivity across the last acre, directly leveraging last mile deployment connections. This approach aligns closely with the objectives reflected in the LAST ACRE Act (S.1617; H.R. 3212), as introduced by Senator Fischer and inspired by Nebraska’s own Precision Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program. The federal legislation has received bipartisan, bicameral support in Congress, seeking to ensure that agricultural producers have robust connectivity not just at the farmstead, but across the acreage where modern, data-driven operations occur. While this legislation is separate from the BIL, its underlying rationale is wholly consistent with BEAD’s statutory purpose: to ensure that broadband infrastructure fosters economic competitiveness, technological adoption, and resilience, particularly in hard-to-reach rural economies. For these reasons, we respectfully request that NTIA: 1. Clarify whether states may direct unobligated BEAD funds toward connectivity that enables precision agriculture applications, including deployment extensions beyond residential structures to operational acreage; 2. Affirm that precision-ag connectivity falls within BIL-authorized activities supporting broadband adoption, economic development, and advanced digital applications; 3. Provide guidance for states on documenting and approving such uses, especially in areas where household-level broadband availability maps do not capture agricultural operational needs, and including where the challenge process in the LAST ACRE Act may provide a viable alternative; and 4. Outline the process by which any remaining BEAD funds should be applied or reallocated, consistent with BIL statutory requirements and Congressional intent.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=99D2C89A-72DC-4071-925A-DCA2E7C8F261,Fischer Leads Colleagues to Preserve States’ Ability to Use Broadband Infrastructure Funds as Congress Intended,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) sent a letter to Arielle Roth, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), urging the administration to preserve states’ ability to use their non-deployment Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program funds consistent with congressional intent and the bipartisan infrastructure law. Fischer’s letter also requests NTIA to provide a public accounting of unspent BEAD funds for each state, clarification of NTIA’s current interpretation of allowable “non-deployment” uses, and a timetable for revised guidance on non-deployment funds. U.S. Senators Luján (D-NM), Moran (R-KS), Cantwell (D-WA), Risch (R-ID), Rosen (D-NV), Crapo (R-ID), Shaheen (D-NH), Sullivan (R-AK), Markey (D-MA), Murkowski (R-AK), Baldwin (D-WI), Blunt Rochester (D-DE), and Klobuchar (D-MN) joined Fischer in sending the letter. The lawmakers write:“We write to request the agency’s attention to a major question emerging within the BEAD Program. Under the latest BEAD Notice of Funding Opportunity, many states likely will — or already do — have leftover BEAD allocations. Given the intent of Congress that these resources be used to expand broadband access nationwide, we respectfully seek clarity on how NTIA will ensure proper stewardship and redistribution of non-deployment funds to close the digital divide.” Full text of the letter is here and below. Dear Administrator Roth, We write to request the agency’s attention to a major question emerging within the BEAD Program. Under the latest BEAD Notice of Funding Opportunity, many states likely will — or already do — have leftover BEAD allocations. Given the intent of Congress that these resources be used to expand broadband access nationwide, we respectfully seek clarity on how NTIA will ensure proper stewardship and redistribution of non-deployment funds to close the digital divide. Under the statutory framework established by Section 60102 of the Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act (47 U.S.C. § 1702), BEAD funding was intended first and foremost to fund broadband expansion: deployment to unserved locations, then underserved areas and connection of eligible community anchor institutions, before consideration of a broader set of permissible “non-deployment” uses to facilitate goals of the program. Congress granted this authority, along with the authority to redistribute unallocated funding amongst eligible entities, to maximize broadband infrastructure expansion – and thereby boost the economic productivity that connectivity brings to every corner of our country. The current status of non-deployment funding, however, appears unsettled. While NTIA’s recent guidance stated that allowable non-deployment purposes were still under review, we were encouraged by your public comments on December 2, 2025, stating that the agency is “operating under the assumption that the states will get to use their BEAD savings,” though noting that “nothing has been finalized.” Given these considerations, we respectfully request that NTIA provide: 1. A public accounting of the unspent BEAD funds for each state, including amounts already committed to deployment projects and amounts remaining unallocated or reserved for non-deployment uses; 2. Clarification of NTIA’s current interpretation of allowable “non-deployment” uses in light of the June 2025 policy notice and consistent with authorized use of the funds under 47 U.S.C. § 1702 moving forward, and whether any previously approved non-deployment activities may remain eligible; and 3. A timetable for revised guidance on non-deployment funds, along with any criteria or conditions under which non-deployment programs will be permitted or prioritized. In responding, we strongly urge NTIA to preserve states’ ability to use their non-deployment BEAD funds consistent with congressional intent and the bipartisan infrastructure law. We look forward to your timely reply and to ensuring that every BEAD dollar is used to connect Americans for generations to come, as Congress intended. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-leads-colleagues-to-preserve-states-ability-to-use-broadband-infrastructure-funds-as-congress-intended",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=94710FA4-284B-4FD6-BE12-82C5833EE4C6,PHOTOS: Fischer Views OPD Helicopter Secured Through Senate Appropriations Committee Role,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, visited the Omaha Police Department’s hangar, located in Blair, last week to see firsthand the department’s upgraded air support,made possible by federal funding she secured in 2024. Click here to download photos of Fischer’s visit.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-committee-witness-speak-on-importance-of-nebraskas-sentinel-missile-program/,"VIDEO: Ricketts, Committee Witness Speak on Importance of Nebraska’s Sentinel Missile Program",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted the need to modernize America’s nuclear deterrent by supporting the new Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)program. Sentinel, which will be based partially in Nebraska, will replace the aging Minuteman III ICBMs. Ricketts questioned Marshall Billingslea, Senior Fellow at Hudson Institute and former Special Presidential Envoy for Arms Control at the State Department. They discussed the importance of deterring the strategic threat posed by Communist China and Russia. “How do you get the Russians and the Chinese, given that the Chinese want to get to [nuclear weapons] parity with us … to the table?” asked Ricketts. “[Would replacing] the Minuteman III with the Sentinel — which again is partially based in Nebraska — is that something we need to continue to pursue? And what’s the dangers if we delay the recapitalization of our nuclear forces?” “We have deferred modernization of our nuclear weapons to the point where we are now at grave risk,” responded Billingslea. “We have a just-in-time delivery approach to rapidly aging systems that we can’t allow to slip further. So, the cost overruns with Sentinel are worrying, but we can’t life extend the Minuteman III past a certain point. And it’s vital now that we get on with this.” Click here to watch more.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CB1D9F40-8C9E-4199-827F-0704807344E7,Fischer in Washington Times: Modernize the U.S. Nuclear Deterrent,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"In case you missed it: U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, penned an op-ed in theWashington Times emphasizing the urgent need for Congress to pass the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to modernize our nuclear deterrent. Read the op-ed here or below. At a time of rising global instability, Congress faces a defining choice: whether to remain complacent or strengthen and accelerate modernization of America’s nuclear deterrent. Our adversaries have been preparing, investing and testing all this while. As we near the end of the year, Congress’ top priority should be passing a National Defense Authorization Act that modernizes our deterrent. That is how we continue to ensure peace through strength. The world we live in today is the most dangerous since the end of World War II. China is accelerating its military buildup across the Indo-Pacific. Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine continues. North Korea has become increasingly provocative with its missile tests. Iran seeks to develop its own nuclear weapons. Together, these four regimes form an axis of aggression united in their desire to undermine American leadership and the free world. That reality makes modernizing our nuclear deterrent not a matter of choice but of survival. This year’s NDAA rises to this challenge, with key provisions that will ensure our deterrent remains credible, effective and relevant. My focus remains on swiftly delivering a strong, unified NDAA to the president’s desk before the end of the year. As chair of the Senate Armed Services strategic forces subcommittee, I worked to secure several critical measures in the Senate version of the NDAA. This includes upgrading the National Nuclear Security Administration’s aging infrastructure and refocusing the Nuclear Weapons Council to better oversee nuclear weapons and delivery systems. It requires the deployment of at least 400 intercontinental ballistic missiles across no fewer than 450 launch facilities — the bedrock of our deterrent. It authorizes more than $3.8 billion for the Sentinel ICBM program and requires a sustainment strategy for our aging Minuteman III ICBMs, which must remain capable for years to come. In addition to the land-based leg of our nuclear triad, this bill boosts the triad’s sea and air legs. It accelerates the nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile program, bolstering our long-neglected regional nuclear deterrence options. The NDAA directs the Air Force to submit a comprehensive bomber road map and lines up the schedule for when the new stealth bomber will be formally cleared to operate with the AGM-181 cruise missile. It also supports the new Survivable Air Operations Center aircraft, from which the president will be able to command, control and communicate with our nuclear forces under any circumstance. These investments send a clear message to our adversaries: America’s nuclear deterrent is ready and formidable. In the face of overwhelming force, they will continue to think twice and conclude: “Not today.” Critics may argue that nuclear modernization is costly, but the far greater cost would be failing to deter aggression and allowing hostile powers to gamble that American defenses are insufficient or unreliable. A strong nuclear deterrent is the ultimate insurance policy — the guarantee that no adversary can risk attacking the United States or its allies without catastrophic consequences. Beyond the technical details, this bill speaks to a larger truth. Our adversaries are working together to weaken America. We cannot afford to respond with hesitation or half measures. Nor can we afford to continue to delay the modernization of these capabilities. This year’s NDAA ensures that our forces remain second to none, that our nuclear deterrent can pace any threat, and that peace is preserved through strength. Congress must enact these provisions in the fiscal year 2026 NDAA. The stakes are too high for delay. At this critical moment, we owe it to the American people and to future generations to ensure that the arsenal of democracy remains ready, reliable and strong. Deb Fischer, a Republican, is the senior U.S. senator from Nebraska. She is a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chairs its subcommittee on strategic forces. She represents Offutt Air Force Base near Omaha, Nebraska, home to the U.S. Strategic Command, which integrates and coordinates the necessary command and control capability to provide support with the most accurate and timely information for the executive branch and other combatant commanders.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=19891441-18CC-4696-8DB5-E40E57A165F0,Fischer Votes for Health Care Freedom for Patients Act,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) voted in favor of the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, which will help lower the cost of health care and give patients the resources to control their own health care decisions. “Today I voted for the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act to lower costs by putting money directly into Americans’ pockets. Senate Democrats refused to join us, choosing to preserve a failed system that sends billions in taxpayer dollars to insurance companies, not the people. These expanded COVID-era Obamacare subsidies were meant for a pandemic that ended years ago; continuing them without reform is unacceptable. Federal support should go directly to families — not enrich insurance companies. My priority is giving Americans the freedom to choose the care that works best for them, and I urge Democrats to meet us at the table to get this done,” Fischer said. Health Care Freedom for Patients Act: Sends money to patients, not insurance companies; Lowers insurance premiums by funding cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments; Empowers Americans to choose the insurance plan that fits their needs by increasing access to low-cost catastrophic plans; and Prevents illegal immigrants from accessing Medicaid by requiring states to verify citizenship and immigration status before coverage.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-hassan-introduce-the-improving-measurements-for-loneliness-and-isolation-act/,"Ricketts, Hassan Introduce the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) introduced the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act, legislation that would create a federal working group to standardize how loneliness and social isolation are measured nationwide. “No Nebraskan should feel alone during the holidays, or any time of year,” said Senator Ricketts. “Families are more spread out. Digital connections can’t replace face-to-face relationships. This legislation will give us the tools to better understand loneliness and strengthen communities. Every Nebraskan and American should feel supported.” “Americans should have support as they face challenges such as loneliness and isolation, which can have devastating impacts on mental wellbeing,” said Senator Hassan. “This bill will help to bring uniformity to reporting measurements for loneliness and isolation so we can ensure that the federal government is best informed and individuals are able to get the support that they need.” BACKGROUND Americans of all ages are becoming more isolated and disconnected—posing increased threats to their mental and physical health. Over four decades of research has produced robust evidence that loneliness and isolation are associated with a significantly heightened risk for early death from all causes. Furthermore, the negative health outcomes associated with loneliness and isolation can contribute to preventable healthcare costs. To address this challenge, the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act calls on the Secretary of Health and Human Services to convene a working group of experts and stakeholders to provide recommendations for standardizing the measurements and definitions of loneliness and isolation—unifying private and public efforts to study, understand, and combat them. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Congressman Ami Bera (D-CA) led this legislation in the House of Representatives earlier this Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-highlights-efforts-to-address-loneliness-and-isolation-in-nebraska/,Ricketts Highlights Efforts to Address Loneliness and Isolation in Nebraska,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted his ongoing efforts to address loneliness and isolation ahead of introducing the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act this week. “No Nebraskan should feel alone this holiday season. Yet, about a third of Nebraskans report feeling lonely at some point throughout the year,” said Senator Ricketts. “As I travel the state, I hear stories of Nebraskans who feel like they’re losing connections to their communities. That’s why I am introducing the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act. We must recognize and address loneliness in America. “It’s time to address loneliness. Like any other policy issue, we need to know what to measure in order to tackle the problem and improve lives. We must invest resources to improve measurements to target social isolation,” continued Senator Ricketts. “Only then can we implement common-sense policy to address loneliness.” Watch the video here. This comes as reports show about a third of Nebraskans report feeling lonely at some point throughout the year and more than 40% of people over age 60 said they felt lonely. TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “Thank you all for joining this press call today. “The holidays are a special time in Nebraska. “We volunteer to serve our communities, families and friends spend more time together, but for too many Nebraskans, the holidays can be lonely. “Families are increasingly spread apart. I know that’s true for my family. “Digital connections are good, but it’s not the same thing as being there in person. “Nebraskans of all ages are becoming more isolated as a result. “No Nebraskans should feel alone this holiday season. “Yet, about a third of Nebraskans report feeling lonely at some point throughout the year. “As I travel the state, I hear stories of Nebraskans who feel like they’re losing connections to their communities. “That’s why I recently introduced the improving measurements for loneliness and isolation act. “We must recognize and address loneliness in America across Nebraska mental health care providers are hard at work to address the growing problem of loneliness. “Loneliness occurs in both our rural and urban communities. Seniors are more vulnerable. “The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and medicine reports loneliness and isolation in older adults are strongly associated with greater incidences of morbidity, that includes cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, a decreased quality of life and early death. “A report from February 2020 found that about a quarter of seniors were socially isolated. More than 40% of people over the age of 60 said they felt lonely. “The COVID pandemic exacerbated many of these problems one size fit all policies from the federal government didn’t help. “Loneliness does not just affect Nebraska seniors, however. “A study conducted by the University of Nebraska Lincoln found that 21% of young Nebraskans feel lonely to from some or to all the time. “Another 24% reported feeling lonely a little bit of the time. “These numbers are way too high. It’s time to address loneliness like any other policy issue, we need to know what measure, what to measure in order to tackle the problem and improve lives. “We must invest resources to improve measurements to target social isolation. “Only then can we implement common sense policy to address loneliness. “That’s why I will be introducing the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act. “It’s a bipartisan bill that I’m leading with Senator Maggie Hassan from New Hampshire. “Representative Mike Flood introduced the companion bill in the House. “This bill would establish a working group that standardizes the measurements of loneliness and isolation. “This will allow us, allow experts to target the root causes of loneliness. “Addressing these factors is essential for what for the well-being of Nebraska communities. “This holiday season, remember to reach out to those who might be isolated. “Encourage them to join your holiday festivities. “At our last Thanksgiving gathering, we had 89 people. “We invited people who didn’t have any other plans. “I encourage people to do the same. “Reach out to others and bring them with you as you volunteer with charities or churches or schools. “Nebraska nice is not just a phrase. “It’s defined by how Nebraskans lift up one another. “Federal mandates alone will not solve loneliness. “In fact, it’s just the opposite. “We can do a lot at the federal level, but at the end of the day, strong communities will help lift people out of loneliness and isolation. “Nebraska is what America is supposed to be. “Let’s lead by example and support every Nebraskan this season.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-releases-statement-on-health-care-votes/,Ricketts Releases Statement on Health Care Votes,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after voting for a healthcare proposal led by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Mike Crapo (R-ID): “From the beginning, Obamacare has been broken promise after broken promise. Nebraskans couldn’t keep their doctor. Premiums have more than tripled since 2013. Biden’s COVID bonuses fueled massive waste, fraud, and abuse. Despite the misguided “fixes”, healthcare costs continued to grow. The Democrats’ ‘plan’ of throwing more money at a broken system will only make these problems worse. “The Republican plan gives money to people, not insurance companies. It includes common-sense reforms to lower healthcare costs and combat waste, fraud, and abuse. It builds on the successes of the ‘Working Families Tax Cuts Act’, which expanded access to health savings accounts. These solutions allow people choice and will improve healthcare access and affordability for Nebraskans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=DDB8B859-FDEC-4FA0-B48E-BB89047E6484,Fischer Joins Colleagues in Calling for Repeal of Harmful Biden-Era Housing Regulation,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) sent a letter with her colleagues, led by Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO), to Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director William “Bill” Pulte calling for the repeal of a Biden-era guidance that would prohibit actual cash value (ACV) homeowners insurance policies for federally-backed mortgages. In 2024, at the direction of Biden’s FHFA, new policy from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae required replacement cost value (RCV) homeowners insurance coverage nationwide. This one-size-fits-all approach ignores the reality of America’s diverse housing market and would make homeownership more unaffordable, especially in rural communities where appraisals frequently fall below replacement cost. The letter began: “As Senators representing states with rural communities, we are particularly focused on ensuring the availability of effective and diverse options in the homeowners insurance market. Recent Enterprise Seller/Servicer requirements would impose a one-size-fits-all insurance standard that does not reflect our states’ markets. This is why we are respectfully urging you to fully rescind these requirements.” The letter stated: “As you know, Fannie Mae issued an update to Selling Guide B7-3-02, “Property Insurance Requirements for One-to Four-Unit Properties,” on February 7, 2024. There is parallel guidance from Freddie Mac issued in February, 2024 and May, 2024. Guidance from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae (the Enterprises), at FHFA’s direction in the last Biden administration, would formally prohibit Actual Cash Value (ACV) insurance policies for loans acquired or guaranteed by the Enterprises. This would mandate the most expensive Replacement Cost Value (RCV) coverage for Enterprise-eligible single-family mortgages nationwide. This generates significant challenges for the families we represent.” The letter continued: “RCV coverage pays the amount needed to repair or replace damaged property, with no deduction for depreciation-related factors. A roof with significant wear, for example, is treated as a new roof for the purposes of RCV insurance. But in our states, housing markets and would-be homebuyers are diverse, not uniform. Homes in our states have striking differences in age, value, weather exposure, and even appraised valuations that fall under or soar over reconstruction costs. For some of these homes and homeowners, ACV insurance is a far more appropriate coverage at a preferable cost point. Prohibiting ACV insurance then gives consumers fewer options, leaving them with higher premiums and insurance policies that may not fit what it insures; in turn this will drive many of our constituents out of the Enterprises’ eligible mortgage market entirely.” The letter concluded: “We believe consumers should have access to a range of insurance products that reflect their needs, circumstances, and local markets. By mandating only one product type nationwide, the Enterprises limit consumer choice, reduce competition, and impose higher costs on borrowers, particularly those in rural America. We understand that this is guidance that your administration inherited.” Read the full letter HERE. The letter was co-signed by: Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Katie Britt R-AL), John Cornyn (R-TX), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Jon Husted (R-OH), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Todd Young (R-IN), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), and Jim Banks (R-IN). This letter is supported by: National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC), American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), Independent Agents & Brokers of America, and the Farm Bureaus of multiple states. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-joins-colleagues-in-calling-for-repeal-of-harmful-biden-era-housing-regulation",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0951F293-ADCF-4631-8A3A-F22FC49A9D83,"ICYMI: Fischer Joins RFD-TV to Talk USDA Farm Aid, E15",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Highlights White House ag roundtable, important role year-round E15 plays in solidifying President Trump’s America First legacy in the ag & energy industry Click the image above to watch Fischer’s full interview Click here to download audio Click here to download video WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined RFD-TV to discuss the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s farm assistance package and President Trump’s continued efforts to support America’s ag producers. During the interview, Fischer highlighted the vital role her Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act will play in making year-round E15 a reality and establishing President Trump’s America First legacy amongst the ag industry. On Solidifying Trump’s America First Agenda for Ag Producers: Fischer: We always want to be positive about the economy. And I think as long as we can get year-round E15, have that available, that opens a huge market, and those trade deals, you know, that's what's important here. And the President realizes that. As I said, this is going to solidify his America First legacy among ag producers, to be able to get these markets open, to be able to get that year-round sale of E15. On Supporting America’s Ag Producers: Fischer: It's really welcome news for the farmers across the nation and in Nebraska too. We want to make sure that we can get the farm economy back on track. So, I was really fortunate to be at the roundtable yesterday. I applaud President Trump and thank Secretary Rollins for the great work that they have done in getting this farm assistance package done. It's $12 billion it's going to help with row crop assistance, about $11 billion will go to row crop assistance. That's really great news for our corn farmers and soybeans, sorghum and wheat. So, looking forward to being able to get that assistance there as a bridge, to be able to help them as we work to continue to open markets, to get year-round sale of E15, that is huge for corn farmers especially. It's another 2.5 billion bushels a year that would have a market. So, there's a lot that the President and Secretary Rollins and all of us are looking forward to making sure that America first legacy is going to be there for America's agriculture. On Producer Discussions at White House Ag Roundtable: Fischer: I think they're just very grateful that this assistance is going to be there for them. As you know, of course, ag producers face a lot of risks out there that we have no control over. Whether it's weather, whether it's markets, a lot of things beyond our control. So to be able to bridge that gap that exists many times, we need to see this assistance there. But again, I really want to stress that, you know, we're all very, very supportive of the President continuing to look for and make those good trade deals. We have to have markets. We have to have markets for our products. The world wants them, and we need to have the markets to provide them. I think we might be seeing some more news out of China. We'll see. I know the President's working hard there with President Xi to make sure that not just the agreements we have continue to be met, but also to look for some new as well.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E08378DB-39CA-43E8-9DE4-BE0FC8457518,"Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Back the Blue Act",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) joined Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and 34 Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Back the Blue Act, which would increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves. “Every day, our law enforcement officers step into danger to keep Nebraskans safe. Anyone who targets law enforcement should be brought to swift justice. That’s why I joined my Republican colleagues in introducing the Back the Blue Act, which holds criminals accountable and sends a clear message that we will not tolerate attacks on our brave men and women in blue,” Fischer said. BACKGROUND: Strengthens Laws to Protect Police Officers Creates a new federal crime for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to the death penalty and a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years if death results; the offender would otherwise face a minimum sentence of 10 years. Creates a new federal crime for assaulting a federally funded law enforcement officer with escalating penalties, including mandatory minimums, based on the extent of any injury and the use of a dangerous weapon. However, no prosecution can be commenced absent certification by the Attorney General that prosecution is appropriate. Creates a new federal crime for interstate flight from justice to avoid prosecution for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for this offense. Creates a Specific Aggravating Factor for Federal Death Penalty Prosecutions Clarifies that the murder or attempted murder of a law enforcement officer or first responder is a statutory aggravating factor for purposes of the federal death penalty. Limits Federal Habeas Relief for Murders of Law Enforcement Officers Imposes time limits and substantive limits on federal courts’ review of challenges to state-court convictions for crimes involving the murder of a public safety officer, when the public safety officer was engaged in the performance of official duties or on account of the performance of official duties. These changes are consistent with the fast-track procedures created in 1996, which are applied to federal death penalty cases. Limits Recovery of Certain Damages and Fees for Individuals Engaged in Felonies Limits the type of civil damages and attorney’s fees recoverable by a criminal as a result of purported injuries incurred during the commission of a felony or crime of violence. Expands Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights for Law Enforcement Officers Allows law enforcement officers, subject to limited regulation, to carry firearms into federal facilities and other jurisdictions where such possession is otherwise prohibited. This legislation’s endorsements include the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Sergeants Benevolent Association of the NYPD (SBA), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), and the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=EF92ABBC-3169-4E5E-9F52-0FE4C0A60CB0,"ICYMI: Fischer Highlights Nuclear Deterrence, Missile Defense at Reagan National Defense Forum",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Fischer also joinedFox News Sunday to discuss national security challenges Over the weekend, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, participated in the 12th annual Reagan National Defense Forum (RNDF), one of the nation’s premier gatherings of national security leaders. As Chair of the Senate Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee, Fischer served as a featured speaker on the panel “Defending the Homeland: Establishing Superiority in Space and Missile Defense.” Fischer detailed her work to strengthen our missile defense capabilities and support Golden Dome for America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=238B3B21-3BC9-4CA5-83EB-26F46980A97A,"Fischer Attends White House Ag Roundtable, Releases Statement on USDA Farm Aid Announcement",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, issued the following statement afterattending today’s White House agriculture roundtable where President Trump announced the U.S Department of Agriculture’s farm assistance package: “Today’s farm assistance package is welcome news as we work to get the farm economy back on track. I applaud President Trump and Secretary Rollins for stepping up to ensure that America’s ag producers have the support they need to feed and fuel our world. I look forward to continuing to partner with the administration to expand trade opportunities that will create strong markets for Nebraska’s ag products.” Fischer’s colleagues, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Sen. John Boozman (R-AR), and Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Sen. John Hoeven (R-ND), were also in attendance at the roundtable. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-attends-white-house-ag-roundtable-releases-statement-on-usda-farm-aid-announcement",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-releases-statement-on-agricultural-relief-announcement/,Ricketts Releases Statement on Agricultural Relief Announcement,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement in support of the Trump Administration’s $12 billion relief package for American farmers: “Agriculture is the heart and soul of Nebraska. When agriculture does well, Nebraska does well. This relief provides temporary economic assistance while President Trump continues opening new markets for agricultural products. I encourage Nebraska farmers to work with USDA and their local Farm Service Agency office to ensure their eligibility for the program.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-coons-introduce-safe-chips-act/,"Ricketts, Coons Introduce SAFE Chips Act",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Chris Coons (D-DE), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations East Asia subcommittee, led six senators in introducing the Secure and Feasible Exports (SAFE) of Chips Act of 2025. The bill codifies into law the Trump Administration’s current limits on which advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) chips are allowed to be sold to Communist China. “The United States leads the AI race with Communist China due in large part to our dominance of global compute power,” said Senator Ricketts. “At the core of compute are advanced AI chips. The best AI chips are made by American companies. Denying Beijing access to these AI chips is essential to our national security. Codifying President Trump’s current AI chip limitations on Communist China secures this goal. It will allow U.S. chip companies to continue to rapidly innovate and widen our compute lead exponentially.” “The rest of the 21st Century will be determined by who wins the AI race, and whether this technology is built on American values of free thought and free markets or the values of the Chinese Communist Party,” said Senator Coons. “As China races to close our lead in AI, we cannot give them the technological keys to our future through advanced semiconductor chips. This bipartisan bill will protect America’s advantage in computing power so that the world’s most next generation AI models are built at home by American companies, and the world’s infrastructure is built on the American tech stack.” “It’s crucial that we protect American AI innovation from Communist China to win the AI race,” said Senator Cotton. “Our bill will codify current administration policy and keep our most advanced technology out of the hands of America’s adversaries.” “Permitting the sale of advanced chips to Beijing and other adversaries would be tantamount to surrendering a vital U.S. advantage in a global competition for leadership in artificial intelligence — a competition central to our prosperity and national security interests,” said Senator Shaheen. “This bipartisan bill sends a strong signal from Congress that the United States, in coordination with our closest allies and partners, must ensure that the defining technologies of the twenty-first century are led by democratic partners and not authoritarian regimes.” “If America is going to maintain our strategic competitiveness and security, we need to enforce guardrails to ensure that our adversaries cannot obtain advanced technologies like high-performance chips only to use them against us,” said Senator Kim. “Congress must step up to bolster America’s export control regime which is a critical tool in protecting our national security and technological edge.” The SAFE Chips Act of 2025would: Direct the Secretary of Commerce to deny export license applications for advanced chips to foreign adversary countries for a period not less than 30 months; After 30 months, the Executive Branch has discretion to update technical parameters as it sees fit; Define Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Russia, Iran, and the People’s Republic of China, including Hong Kong and Macau, as Foreign Adversary Countries; Define advanced integrated circuits as any chips more powerful than those currently licensed for export to foreign adversary countries; And direct the Department of Commerce to publish any proposed updates in the Federal Register that have been approved by a majority vote of the End-User Review Committee and to brief Congress 30 days before any proposed changes. Bill text can be found here. Co-sponsors include Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dave McCormick (R-PA), and Andy Kim (D-NJ). BACKGROUND The United States is in a zero-sum competition with Communist China for global AI leadership. AI is a general-purpose technology that will drive the next industrial and military revolution. Our national security requires that we prevent American technology — especially semiconductors and AI — from supporting Communist China’s military modernization. U.S. economic security requires that the U.S. win the race to deploy our full AI tech stack around the world. Communist China views AI as both an economic engine and a core element of its military modernization. Dictator Xi Jinping aims to become the global AI leader by 2030 through state planning, investment, and its Military-Civil Fusion strategy. However, Communist China is unable to produce the quality and quantity of AI chips it needs to compete. They rely on smuggling or legal exports of advanced chips from the U.S. Since the first Trump administration, the United States has imposed significant export controls on Communist China’s semiconductor industry. The purpose of this policy is to maximize U.S. leadership in the computing capabilities that drive AI advances. Denying licenses for advanced semiconductors deprives foreign adversaries of access to computing resources that directly undermine U.S. economic prosperity and national security. This bill will keep the United States as the leader in the AI race.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-gallego-introduce-halos-act-to-strengthen-startups/,"Ricketts, Gallego Introduce HALOS Act to Strengthen Startups",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced the Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act. The HALOS Act will make it easier for entrepreneurs to connect with investors and grow their businesses. These events encourage innovation. By supporting these events, investors will be better equipped to discover promising startups and entrepreneurs will be able to connect with a broader ecosystem. “Startups drive American innovation,” said Ricketts. “Entrepreneurs in the Silicon Prairie and across the country shouldn’t be stifled by red tape when trying to share their ideas with investors. The HALOS Act cuts through unnecessary bureaucracy so that promising companies can attract the capital they need to grow, create good paying jobs, and help maintain America’s technological edge.” “Entrepreneurs often attend demo days to share their ideas and attract investors, but confusing and outdated rules make it hard to do that without worrying about violating securities laws,” said Gallego. “By cutting unnecessary red tape and clarifying the rules around demo days, we can make it easier for Arizona entrepreneurs grow their businesses, create jobs, and build a more diverse mix of small businesses and founders across our state.” “NVCA strongly supports the bipartisan HALOS Act, which removes unnecessary regulatory barriers that can complicate participation in Demo Days and hinder early engagement between entrepreneurs and investors,” said Bobby Franklin, National Venture Capital Association President & CEO. “By clarifying that startups can discuss their products and business plans at these important events without triggering general solicitation concerns, the HALOS Act will help expedite capital access opportunities and strengthen the broader startup ecosystem in every corner of our country. We urge lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to advance this measure that will help promote American innovation.” The HALOS Act would: Clarify SEC rules to ensure that showcasing of products and ideas at “demo days,” pitch competitions, and community economic development events are not treated as “general solicitation” under federal securities law so long as: The startup does not advertise investment terms; The event sponsor does not offer investment advice, negotiate terms, or receive compensation for connecting issuers and investors.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-highlights-successful-efforts-to-secure-border-protect-nebraskans/,"Ricketts Highlights Successful Efforts to Secure Border, Protect Nebraskans",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted successes in securing the border and keeping Nebraskans safe. “A nation is only as secure as its borders. Joe Biden’s open border policies created a national security, humanitarian, and drug catastrophe,” said Ricketts. “President Trump won re-election promising to secure the border. This year, that’s exactly what we’ve delivered: a secure border. President Trump and Senate Republicans are keeping Americans safe.” “For six straight months, U.S. Border Patrol released zero illegal aliens into our country. It’s the first time in modern history that has happened,” continued Ricketts. “Average daily border encounters are 95% lower than under Biden in 2024. This fiscal year, we’ve seen fewer illegal border encounters than ever before. That’s fantastic progress. Biden said he needed Congress to act. Turns out, we just needed a new President.” Watch the video here. Ricketts made the comments as Eswin Mejia, Sarah Root’s killer, faced justice for his crimes. On Monday, Mejia pled no contest on one count of motor vehicle homicide – DUI. He also pled guilty for one count of failure to appear in court. TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “A nation is only as secure as its borders. “Joe Biden’s open border policies created a national security, humanitarian, and drug catastrophe. “President Trump won re-election promising to secure the border. “This year, that’s exactly what we’ve delivered: a secure border. “President Trump and Senate Republicans are keeping Americans safe. “Under President Biden, there were 10 and a half million illegal border encounters. “Every state was a border state. “Over 250 people on the FBI’s terrorist watch list crossed into America. “Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18–45. “76,000 pounds of fentanyl flowed across the open border. “76,000 pounds of fentanyl is over 10 billion lethal doses. “That’s enough to kill every American 30 times over. “President Biden’s failed border policies exacerbated the fentanyl crisis in this country. “Biden’s open border policies had deadly consequences across the country. “Nebraska was no exception. “They stole the young life of Nebraskan Taryn Lee Griffith. “This summer, authorities arrested two members of the violent MS-13 gang in Omaha. “In August, five people were arrested in Omaha for sex trafficking and human trafficking, visa fraud, and money laundering. “They trafficked minors and illegal immigrants across hotels and salons that they owned. “All five are here in the country illegally. “This is what happens when you have an open border. “The American people voted to close Joe Biden’s open borders. “They want our laws enforced. “That’s what President Trump is doing. “For six straight months, U.S. Border Patrol released zero illegal aliens into our country. “It’s the first time in modern history that has happened. “Average daily border encounters are 95% lower than under Biden in 2024. “This fiscal year, we’ve seen fewer illegal border encounters than ever before. “That’s fantastic progress. “Biden said he needed Congress to act. “Turns out, we just needed a new President. “In the Senate, we’re doing our part to secure our border. “We passed the One Big Beautiful Bill. “The OBBB makes a generational investment to help finish the border wall, upgrade border technology, and hire more Border Patrol agents. “It will help deliver more immigration judges and prosecutors. “This will help crack down on drug cartels at the border. “We passed the Laken Riley Act into law. “Laken Riley was just 22 years old when her life was taken by an illegal immigrant. “This bipartisan bill ensures that criminal illegal aliens will be detained and deported. “It protects American lives. “The Laken Riley Act also includes Sarah’s Law. “In 2016, just hours after graduating college, Sarah Root was killed. “She was killed by an illegal alien drunk driver. “Due to a loophole in federal law, her killer posted bail, was released from jail, and fled the country. “Sarah’s Law requires ICE to detain aliens criminally charged with killing or seriously injuring another person. “It closes the loophole that allowed Sarah’s killer to avoid accountability for nine years. “We took action to stop the flow of illegal drugs. “We passed the HALT Fentanyl Act. “The bill permanently classified fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. “It will lead to harsher sentences for fentanyl traffickers. “I also introduced legislation to fight against next-generation drugs like Nitazene. “Nitazenes are synthetic opioids that often are deadlier than fentanyl. “My bill would help prevent Nitazenes from becoming the next drug crisis. “The American people voted to close Joe Biden’s open borders and restore order. “I’m working with President Trump and my Senate colleagues to deliver on this priority. “Under our Republican majority, order is being restored. “The continued safety and security of Nebraska is my top priority. “I will keep fighting to keep our communities safe.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-chairs-subcommittee-hearing-on-american-ai-leadership-countering-communist-china/,"Ricketts Chairs Subcommittee Hearing on American AI Leadership, Countering Communist China",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Chairman Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led a hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, The Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. The subcommittee hearing highlighted the need to counter Communist China’s challenge to American AI leadership. “Artificial Intelligence will revolutionize daily life and its military uses will shape the global balance of power,” Chairman Ricketts said. “Unlike the moon landing, the finish line in the AI race is far less clear for the U.S.—it may be achieving Artificial General Intelligence, human-level or greater machine cognition. Communist China, by contrast, is focused on rapidly diffusing AI across industry, manufacturing, robotics, and smart cities.” “What’s at stake is simple: a U.S.-led future that benefits the free world, or a China-led AI order that reshapes the global system in line with their authoritarian values,” Ricketts said. “The risk could not be higher. This race will be won by whoever attracts the best talent, wields the best chips, and trains the best algorithms.” Ricketts announced his intent to introduce the SAFE Chips Act that would ensure the U.S. maintains its lead in AI development. “America’s early lead rests in large part on our dominance of global compute power. At the core of compute are advanced AI chips, the best of which are made by American companies,” Ricketts said. “Denying Beijing access to these chips is therefore essential. President Trump had the foresight in his first administration to restrict specialized semiconductor manufacturing equipment from being sold to Communist China. Without cutting-edge tools, Chinese fabs produce AI chips that are inferior to ours. Today, our top chips are roughly five times more powerful than theirs, and we manufacture them at 10 times the annual scale.” “Further controls by the Trump and Biden administrations on advanced AI chips have forced Chinese AI companies to smuggle U.S. chips to keep up,” Ricketts continued. “If we sustain these limits while U.S. firms innovate and diffuse our technology globally, our compute lead will widen exponentially. That’s why Senator Coons and I plan to introduce the SAFE Chips Act. This legislation would put in statute the Trump administration’s current red lines on what AI chips are allowed to be sold to Communist China.” Watch the Video HERE. Ricketts’ comments were made in a hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, The Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy: Countering China’s Challenge to American AI Leadership. Witnesses in the hearing included Mr. Gregory C. Allen, Senior Adviser to the Wadhwani AI Center at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS); Mr. Tarun Chhabra, Distinguished Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institution and Head of National Security Policy at Anthropic; Dr. Chris Miller, Professor, the Fletcher School, Tufts University and Non-Resident Senior Fellow, American Enterprise Institute; and Dr. James Mulvenon, Chief Intelligence Officer, Pamir Consulting, LLC. TRANSCRIPT “Almost 70 years ago, Sputnik launched the greatest technological competition in US history. “The space race with the Soviet Union, which transformed global science and reshaped the Cold War. “Today, we face a similar contest, this time with Communist China and even higher stakes. “Artificial Intelligence will revolutionize daily life and its military uses will shape the global balance of power. “Beijing is racing to fuse civilian AI with its military to seize the next revolution in military affairs. “However, unlike the moon landing, the finish line in the AI race is far less clear for the US—it may be achieving Artificial General Intelligence, human-level or greater machine cognition. “Communist China, by contrast, is focused on rapidly diffusing AI across industry, manufacturing, robotics, and smart cities. “These diverging visions were made clear this summer when both the US and Communist China released new AI strategies. “The Trump administration’s AI Action Plan centers on openness, markets, and liberal norms: cutting red tape, building data centers and other AI infrastructure, exporting our full AI technology stack—including hardware, models, software, applications, and standards—to allies and partners, countering Beijing in international forums, and enforcing export controls. “Beijing’s AI Plus strategy champions state control, sovereignty, and sustained high-level diplomacy to shape the global environment. “What’s at stake is simple: a US-led future that benefits the free world, or a China-led AI order that reshapes the global system in line with their authoritarian values. “The risk could not be higher. “This race will be won by whoever attracts the best talent, wields the best chips, and trains the best algorithms. “America’s early lead rests in large part on our dominance of global compute power. “At the core of compute are advanced AI chips, the best of which are made by American companies. “Denying Beijing access to these chips is therefore essential. “President Trump had the foresight in his first administration to restrict specialized semiconductor manufacturing equipment from being sold to Communist China. “Without cutting-edge tools, Chinese fabs produce AI chips that are inferior to ours. “Today, our top chips are roughly five times more powerful than theirs, and we manufacture them at 10 times the annual scale. “Further controls by the Trump and Biden administrations on advanced AI chips have forced Chinese AI companies to smuggle US chips to keep up. “If we sustain these limits while US firms innovate and diffuse our technology globally, our compute lead will widen exponentially. “That’s why Senator Coons and I plan to introduce the SAFE Chips Act. “This legislation would put in statute the Trump administration’s current red lines on what AI chips are allowed to be sold to Communist China for 30 months to preserve our edge. “Xi Jinping has made clear he has no intention of remaining reliant on American technology. “The CCP’s recent Fourth Plenum doubled down on the goal of technological self-reliance. “The US and our allies, including the Netherlands, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea, control nearly every critical node of the supply chain, which is the most complex in human history. “This is a structural advantage that Beijing cannot easily overcome. “Together, we must collectively enforce semiconductor export controls and close loopholes so Xi Jinping’s strategy fails. “To win the AI race, we must also confront our vulnerabilities. “Computing alone is not enough, and Communist China has advantages elsewhere. “AI data centers require massive energy. “Communist China generates twice the electricity we do and is rapidly expanding capacity while our grid ages. “China leads in domestic AI adoption and is exporting its tech globally, while US adoption lags. “It produces 27 million more STEM graduates per decade than the US, even as we face an AI talent shortage. “Communist China now leads in open AI models, accelerating diffusion of its technology, standards and influence. “It also dominates critical minerals and rare earth elements, which are the lifeblood of AI tech and hardware. “Communist China completely controls the sector with near monopolies in magnets, cobalt, and lithium. “Communist China’s recent restrictions on global exports show how it can use that leverage to dominate the world and what leverage that creates for it. “President Trump’s recent critical minerals deal with Australia and other allies is a good first step, but far more is needed. “Some argue these advantages mean that Communist China will inevitably win the AI race. “They said the same thing during the space race. “They misunderstand Americans’ resolve and ingenuity. “They were wrong then, and they are wrong again this time. “But success will require the right policies and sustained investment.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3A159D1A-8CC7-484D-8541-B019C213835F,"Fischer Holds Senate Commerce Subcommittee Hearing, Urges Congress to Protect America’s Communications Networks",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Hearing witness highlights need to defend America’s telecommunications networks by enacting Fischer’sFACT Act Click the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer’s questioning Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=98E0445F-28DC-4DB4-B773-A1FCFBB7E63D,Fischer Outlines Urgent Need to Fortify America’s Communications Networks,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Fischer chairs Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media Click the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer’s opening statement Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=02572A02-ACCE-4E66-9E02-60824DE7B831,Fischer Applauds USDA Placement of Natural Resource Conservation Service Regional Hub in Lincoln,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Lincoln to be one of four locations across the nation, serving 11 states including Nebraska WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) applauded the announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Central Regional Hub will now be located in Lincoln, Nebraska. “Good news: the USDA’s NRCS Central Regional Hub will now be located in Lincoln. This marks an important step in bringing decision-makers closer to the people they serve. I was proud to push for this placement and look forward to working with the administration to ensure our ag producers and landowners have the tools they need to drive real results for rural Nebraska and America,” Fischer said. “This modernization puts leadership where it belongs — in the field, side-by-side with the producers we serve. We are streamlining operations, improving accountability, and ensuring that every NRCS employee has the tools, support, and leadership they need to deliver conservation results that matter. This is about putting farmers first, cutting bureaucracy, and delivering better outcomes for rural America,” Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service Aubrey J.D. Bettencourt said. The Central Region includes the following states: Nebraska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas Background: The USDA’s NRCS launched the Office of the Assistant Chiefs (OAC) – a realignment designed to modernize regional leadership, strengthen accountability, and put decision-makers closer to the producers and partners NRCS serves. This structure ensures every region has a dedicated leader focused on driving program delivery, strengthening coordination with State Conservationists, and expanding producer access to the tools and resources they need. By placing regional leadership closer to the field, NRCS is reinforcing its commitment to responsive service, communication, and support for farmers, ranchers, and private landowners.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-praises-usda-decision-to-locate-nrcs-central-regional-hub-in-lincoln/,Ricketts Praises USDA Decision to Locate NRCS Central Regional Hub in Lincoln,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"OMAHA, NE – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) praised the announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Central Regional Hub will be located in Lincoln, Nebraska: “Decision-makers should be as close as possible to the people they serve. Locating this regional hub in Lincoln recognizes the expertise, innovation, and stewardship Nebraskans demonstrate every day. This modernization will improve accountability and efficiency. Thank you, President Trump and Secretary Rollins, for putting Nebraska farmers first.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=8628249F-799A-4AF1-848B-66F67BD68D9B,Fischer Blasts Tyson Foods’ Decision to Close Beef Processing Plant in Lexington,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after Tyson Foods announced it will close the beef processing plant located in Lexington: “I am extremely disappointed by this news from Tyson today. As the single largest employer in Lexington, Tyson’s announcement will have a devastating impact on a truly wonderful community, the region, and our state. Nebraskans are nothing if not resilient, and Lexington has a robust workforce. I hope their skill and experience will be sought after by other employers. “Nebraska is the beef state, and we know better than anyone the highs and lows of the cattle market. It’s no secret that just a few years ago, packers like Tyson were making windfall profits while the rest of the industry was continuously in the red. “As we head into the holiday season, I call on Tyson to do everything in its power to take care of the families affected by this short-sighted decision.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/11/fischer-blasts-tyson-foods-decision-to-close-beef-processing-plant-in-lexington",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-showcases-successful-efforts-to-cut-red-tape-get-results-for-nebraskans/,"Ricketts Showcases Successful Efforts to Cut Red Tape, Get Results for Nebraskans",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted his successes in cutting red tape and helping Nebraskans navigate the federal bureaucracy. “My team and I have helped over 2,200 Nebraskans access federal services,” said Ricketts. “We’ve also helped constituents save or recover nearly $12 million from the federal government. We’re continuing the fight to protect taxpayer dollars. We’re ensuring federal agencies serve citizens. From streamlining government to cutting taxes, I’ll keep working to make government work better.” Ricketts shared the story of Dayspring Academy in Manley. “Jen and Shelly worked hard to open a new daycare in Manley. They applied for a grant through the Department of Health and Human Services to open their new facility,” said Ricketts. “But red tape and regulations made it difficult for Dayspring Academy to receive the funding. Jen and Shelly exchanged nearly 90 emails with the Department of Health and Human Services. Not one explained why the grant wasn’t going through. They were approaching a critical deadline. That’s when they reached out to my office. My staff called the agency. We cut through the red tape, identified the issue, and helped them get their grant money. We made sure that Dayspring Academy could open their doors. Now, families in Southeast Nebraska have access to high-quality childcare closer to home. That’s not just a win for Dayspring. It’s a win for every Nebraskan who deserves accessible childcare.” Ricketts also shared the story of Off Broadway Apartments in Broken Bow. “Paul serves his community as the President of the Board of the Off Broadway Apartments. Off Broadway is a senior living community in Central Nebraska,” concluded Ricketts. “COVID requirements made it difficult for Paul to pay his staff. The IRS implemented an Employee Retention Credit to help small businesses like Paul’s. However, bureaucratic red tape made it difficult for him to receive the credits. After waiting for a response from the IRS and not hearing from them, Paul reached out to our constituent caseworker in Kearney. My team was able to contact the IRS and ensure that Off Broadway received proper tax credits. Without these credits, Off Broadway would have been forced to close.” TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “When I was Governor, we focused on providing great services to Nebraskans. “The federal government should do the same. “In the Senate, my team and I are helping Nebraskans navigate the federal bureaucracy. “My team is specially trained in assisting constituents with their concerns. “I’m proud of our work to cut red tape and deliver wins for Nebraskans. “Rural Nebraskans have struggled to find accessible daycare. “Jen and Shelly worked hard to open a new daycare in Manley. “They applied for a grant through the Department of Health and Human Services to open their new facility. “But red tape and regulations made it difficult for Dayspring Academy to receive the funding. “Jen and Shelly exchanged nearly 90 emails with the Department of Health and Human Services. “Not one explained why the grant wasn’t going through. “They were approaching a critical deadline. “That’s when they reached out to my office. “My staff called the agency. “We cut through the red tape, identified the issue, and helped them get their grant money. “We made sure that Dayspring Academy could open their doors. “Now, families in Southeast Nebraska have access to high-quality childcare closer to home. “That’s not just a win for Dayspring. It’s a win for every Nebraskan who deserves accessible childcare. “Many other Nebraskans reach out to my office for help navigating the federal bureaucracy. “Paul serves his community as the President of the Board of the Off Broadway Apartments. “Off Broadway is a senior living community in Central Nebraska. “Their services are critical to Kearney and Broken Bow. “COVID requirements made it difficult for Paul to pay his staff. “The IRS implemented an Employee Retention Credit to help small businesses like Paul’s. “However, bureaucratic red tape made it difficult for him to receive the credits. “After waiting for a response from the IRS and not hearing from them, Paul reached out to our constituent caseworker in Kearney. “My team was able to contact the IRS and ensure that Off Broadway received proper tax credits. “Without these credits, Off Broadway would have been forced to close. “Nebraskans always advocate for their community. “That’s why I always advocate for Nebraskans. “These are just two examples of how my team and I help Nebraskans navigate the federal bureaucracy. “My team and I have helped over 2,200 Nebraskans access federal services. “We’ve also helped constituents save or recover nearly $12 million from the federal government. “We’re continuing the fight to protect taxpayer dollars. “We’re ensuring federal agencies serve citizens. “From streamlining government to cutting taxes, I’ll keep working to make government work better. “My offices are open in Scottsbluff, Kearney, Lincoln, Omaha, and Washington, D.C. “We can also answer questions about services, eligibility, or benefits. “This includes questions about Veterans Affairs, Medicare, or the Internal Revenue Service. “We’re going to continue delivering excellent customer service for our constituents. “Nebraskans deserve nothing less.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-supports-taiwans-defense-capabilities-energy-resilience/,"Ricketts Supports Taiwan’s Defense Capabilities, Energy Resilience",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted his bipartisan Providing Our Regional Companions Upgraded Protection in Nefarious Environments (PORCUPINE) Act. The PORCUPINE Act would put Taiwan in the NATO-plus category, reducing obstacles for Taiwan to obtain necessary weapons and deter Communist China. “Over the past several years, Taiwan has made real sacrifices to improve its self-defense,” said Ricketts. “But even as Taiwan steps up, the United States is failing to deliver key capabilities on the timeline deterrence requires. Bureaucratic backlogs and sluggish notifications are creating vulnerabilities we cannot afford. These delays don’t just hurt the timelines — they weaken Taiwan’s political will and ultimately increase the risk to U.S. forces and what they would face if deterrence fails. That’s exactly why I introduced the PORCUPINE Act with Senator Coons. It would put Taiwan in the NATO-plus category to cut notification times and raise thresholds.” Senator Ricketts also discussed the Taiwan Energy and Anti-Embargo Act, which aims to resolve Taiwan’s glaring energy insecurities in the face of Communist Chinese aggression. “Taiwan’s energy security is one of its biggest liabilities,” said Ricketts. “An energy squeeze doesn’t require a blockade or even a shot fired. Targeted coercion alone could trigger a crisis long before military action even happens. That’s why strengthening Taiwan’s resilience is central to deterrence. Senator Coons and I introduced the Taiwan Energy Security and Anti-Embargo Act to help counter this. This common-sense legislation would expand U.S. LNG exports to Taiwan to support its energy infrastructure and ensure adequate flows of energy shipments to Taiwan in a contingency.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0BEEAB0E-99A2-43F9-A223-EA51460C6601,Fischer Statement on Dept. of Transportation Effort to Advance Safety Standards for All Drivers,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Calls on Congress to pass her She DRIVES Act to make NHTSA’s updated crash testing standards permanent Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, released the following statement after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)announcedits new advanced female crash test dummy: “I’ve been pushing for years to update crash testing standards, which do not account for all of America’s drivers – particularly women. It’s why I’ve been a steady champion of myShe DRIVES Act to enhance passenger vehicle safety. “I want to thank Secretary Duffy and the Department of Transportation for taking this step. Now it’s time to pass my legislation to ensure future National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations do not slow or deprioritize these important efforts. “It's far past time to make these testing standards permanent, which will help save thousands of lives and make America’s roads safer for all drivers. I'm ready to finish the job."" Fischer’s work: In 2024, Fischer introduced theShe DRIVES Act, to modernize vehicle safety tests by requiring the use of the most advanced testing devices available—including a female crash test dummy. In January,during Secretary Sean Duffy’s confirmation hearing to be Secretary of Transportation,Fischer highlighted herShe DRIVES Act and pressed Secretary Duffy to ensure that NHTSA works in a timely manner to update crash testing standards.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=842BFC11-751C-4FA1-A38B-A9B8EBE2F029,"Fischer, Smith Introduce Bill to Ensure Tribal Voices are Prioritized in Federal Nutrition Decisions",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Bill strengthens USDA response to low-income, elderly food assistance programs if disruptions occur Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced the Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act. This bipartisan legislation will ensure the federal government does not make decisions about the nutrition assistance programs Tribes rely on without their input. In 2024, a contracting decision made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) left many Tribes — including the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska — with delayed, incomplete, and expired food deliveries. This resulted in significant food shortages for several months. The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act would prevent future food shortages by requiring the USDA to incorporate Tribal input in contracting decisions. It would also strengthen the USDA’s emergency response during disruptions and encourage meaningful Tribal consultation on nutrition programs at the state level. “I’m pleased to introduce this bill to ensure that those who rely on food assistance programs in Tribal communities — including the elderly and low-income — are not impacted by federal government missteps. The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act ensures that Tribal voices are at the table from the start and strengthens USDA’s response if disruptions occur,” Fischer said. “Tribal governments understand what works best for their communities, and they should have control over how they feed their members. Our bill makes an important fix that allows Tribes to get food assistance to those who need it most and provides the tools to prevent any future disruptions in the food supply chain,” Smith said. “Last year’s FDPIR supply chain disruptions had a profound impact on something most of us take for granted — the ability to put food on the dinner table. The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act of 2025 would help ensure food security for FDPIR participants during supply chain disruptions. The Winnebago Tribe appreciates Senator Fischer’s leadership in addressing this issue and we look forward to working together to advance the legislation,” said Winnebago Chairman Coly Brown. “The Native Farm Bill Coalition commends Senator Fisher and Senator Smith for introducing theIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act. As we have witnessed in recent years, FDPIR warehouse disruptions have devastating and lasting impacts in Indian Country, where one in four Tribal citizens experience food insecurity, but this bill is an important step to ensure USDA has the authority it needs to utilize federal resources to resolve disruptions to the Food Disruption Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and provide immediate relief, including payments to Tribes to purchase food when USDA cannot due to government shutdowns, warehouse vendors, or other supply chain disruptions,” said Native Farm Bill Coalition co-chairs Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Chairman Cole Miller and CEO of the Intertribal Agriculture Council Kari Jo Lawrence. BACKGROUND: The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act would: Require USDA to include Tribal representatives in reviewing and awarding contracts under the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). FDPIR provides income-eligible households with food on Indian reservations. Many households participate in FDPIR as an alternative to SNAP. Direct USDA to designate an emergency contractor within 45 days of any supply chain disruption under FDPIR or Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). CSFP is targeted at low-income elderly persons 60 years or older and distributes both food and administrative funds to participating states and Tribes. Allow USDA to provide direct payments to Tribes to purchase food themselves during an FDPIR disruption. Encourage states to conduct Tribal consultation before amending CSFP State Plans. Direct USDA to support this work through cooperative agreements or technical assistance. Click here to read the text of the bill. Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced theIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act. This bipartisan legislation will ensure the federal government does not make decisions about the nutrition assistance programs Tribes rely on without their input. In 2024, a contracting decision made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) left many Tribes — including the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska — with delayed, incomplete, and expired food deliveries. This resulted in significant food shortages for several months. TheIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act would prevent future food shortages by requiring the USDA to incorporate Tribal input in contracting decisions. It would also strengthen the USDA’s emergency response during disruptions and encourage meaningful Tribal consultation on nutrition programs at the state level. “I’m pleased to introduce this bill to ensure that those who rely on food assistance programs in Tribal communities — including the elderly and low-income — are not impacted by federal government missteps. TheIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Actensures that Tribal voices are at the table from the start and strengthens USDA’s response if disruptions occur,”Fischer said. “Tribal governments understand what works best for their communities, and they should have control over how they feed their members. Our bill makes an important fix that allows Tribes to get food assistance to those who need it most and provides the tools to prevent any future disruptions in the food supply chain,”Smith said. “Last year’s FDPIR supply chain disruptions had a profound impact on something most of us take for granted — the ability to put food on the dinner table. TheIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act of 2025 would help ensure food security for FDPIR participants during supply chain disruptions. The Winnebago Tribe appreciates Senator Fischer’s leadership in addressing this issue and we look forward to working together to advance the legislation,”said Winnebago Chairman Coly Brown. “The Native Farm Bill Coalition commends Senator Fisher and Senator Smith for introducing theIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act.As we have witnessed in recent years, FDPIR warehouse disruptions have devastating and lasting impacts in Indian Country, where one in four Tribal citizens experience food insecurity, but this bill is an important step to ensure USDA has the authority it needs to utilize federal resources to resolve disruptions to the Food Disruption Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and provide immediate relief, including payments to Tribes to purchase food when USDA cannot due to government shutdowns, warehouse vendors, or other supply chain disruptions,”said Native Farm Bill Coalition co-chairs Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Chairman Cole Miller and CEO of the Intertribal Agriculture Council Kari Jo Lawrence. BACKGROUND: TheIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act would: Require USDA to include Tribal representatives in reviewing and awarding contracts under the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). FDPIR provides income-eligible households with food on Indian reservations. Many households participate in FDPIR as an alternative to SNAP. Direct USDA to designate an emergency contractor within 45 days of any supply chain disruption under FDPIR or Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). CSFP is targeted at low-income elderly persons 60 years or older and distributes both food and administrative funds to participating states and Tribes. Allow USDA to provide direct payments to Tribes to purchase food themselves during an FDPIR disruption. Encourage states to conduct Tribal consultation before amending CSFP State Plans. Direct USDA to support this work through cooperative agreements or technical assistance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-package-to-support-servicemembers-veterans/,"Ricketts Introduces Package to Support Servicemembers, Veterans",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a package of bills to support servicemembers and veterans. He introduced the Medical Integrity in Necessary Diagnostics (MIND) for Our Veterans Act of 2025 with Elissa Slotkin (D-MI). The bipartisan bill ensures that servicemembers receive effective, evidence-based mental health screenings prior to separation from active duty. Ricketts also introduced the Service Members Tax Relief Act of 2025. The bill would fully exempt active duty and reserve military compensation from federal income taxes. “Our servicemembers and veterans sacrifice for the country. We owe them more than we can ever repay,” said Ricketts. “That’s why I’m working to ensure these brave women and men keep all the benefits they earn during military service. We also need to make sure that servicemembers are set up for success when they transition back to civilian life. These bills strengthen our support for Nebraska servicemembers, veterans, and their families.” “Far too many veterans moving from active duty to civilian status slip through the cracks, said Senator Slotkin. “Having served alongside our military, I know that our veterans deserve nothing less than the highest medical standards when it comes to their mental health. The MIND Our Veterans Act is about making sure every servicemember gets the mental health care they’ve earned from day one of civilian life.” “These bills are in keeping with my commitment to America First principles and advances President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda by alleviating the burdens on our service members in some small measure,” said Congressman Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ-8), the House lead of the Service Members Tax Relief Act. “Our service members face high operational demands and cost-of-living pressures that outpace pay tables. So, anything we can cost-effectively do to ease those pressures, should be done. These bills are fiscally conservative in that they offer relief through the tax code instead of new spending. It is a win-win; the exemption instantly improves take-home pay, while helping with recruitment and retention, which in turn keeps our war fighters strong.” TheMIND Our Veterans Actwould: Mandate that the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) use only validated, evidence-based tools for screening PTSD, alcohol misuse, and violence risk during the separation process; Ensures that a drug-use assessment is considered a core part of mental health screening, recognizing the critical connection between substance use and mental health challenges; Directs Joint Executive Committee of the DoD and VA to oversee validation, implementation, and reporting on all screenings; Requires DoD to fully implement the improved Separation Health Assessment within 120 days, creating urgency and accountability. This bill is endorsed by the American Legion. Bill text can be found here. The Service Members Tax Relief Act would: Amend the Internal Revenue Code to exclude all military compensation from gross income for federal tax purposes; Apply to both active duty and reserve members of the Uniformed Services of the United States; Maintain that retirement pay and pensions remain taxable under current law to preserve the distinction between active service compensation and post-service retirement benefits; Ensures that these changes take effect for income earned after the date of enactment. Background MIND Our Veterans Act Every year, thousands of servicemembers transition from active duty into veteran status. This transition can bring significant challenges, especially when it comes to mental health. Research consistently shows that recently separated servicemembers face heightened risks of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance misuse, depression, and even suicide. Currently, the Separation Health Assessment (SHA) lacks a standardized, validated mental health and drug-use screening. This jeopardizes early identification and intervention for servicemembers in crisis, leaving the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to address problems after they have escalated. Service Member Tax Relief Act Servicemembers’ basic pay is fully taxable, along with most forms of special duty pay and bonuses. While certain allowances like housing (BAH), subsistence (BAS), and combat zone pay are excluded, these exemptions only partially ease tax burdens. While some states already exempt portions of military income, the federal tax system continues to treat active duty and reserve military salaries as taxable income. This legislation would recognize the extraordinary service of America’s men and women in uniform by ensuring they keep more of what they earn. This bill would support readiness, recruitment, and retention while honoring the sacrifices servicemembers make every day to defend the United States. Companion legislation was introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ-8).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1323C477-D50A-4B9A-9758-62E934E8F6FD,"Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to End Financial Burdens of Wildfires Started by the Federal Government",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced the Responsible Wildland Fire Recovery Act, legislation to boost federal wildfire recovery efforts. The legislation would allow the Secretary of Agriculture to waive all cost share requirements for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs as a result of wildfires started by controlled burns and other land management activities conducted by the USDA. Current law does not fully cover remediation costs in cases where the government is responsible for a wildfire ignition. “If a prescribed burn, started by the federal government, escapes containment, Nebraskans shouldn’t be left to foot the bill for recovery. Our bipartisan Responsible Wildland Fire Recovery Act will protect Nebraskans from being impacted by the federal government if prescribed burns are mismanaged and destructive to private property,” said Fischer. “Well-intentioned federal controlled burns and land management activities can be critical tools for preventing devastating wildfires, however, if they unexpectedly escape containment, they can devastate communities. Many New Mexicans know this devastation personally after living through the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire. While I passed legislation to rebuild communities in the aftermath of Hermit’s Peak, the federal government currently bears no responsibility to fully cover costs for remediation and recovery. That’s why I’m introducing bipartisan legislation that allows the Secretary of Agriculture to remove costs share requirements and ensure communities across the country are not left to fend for themselves during their recovery,” said Luján. ""Federal controlled burns are one of our most effective tools for protecting Wyoming communities from catastrophic wildfires. While these prescribed fires rarely escape containment, when they do, they can damage the very areas they're designed to protect. The Responsible Wildland Fire Recovery Act gives the Secretary of Agriculture the authority to compensate affected residents and repair any damage from when controlled burns exceed their boundaries—while maintaining our commitment to proven wildfire prevention strategies,” said Lummis. BACKGROUND: This bill will allow the Secretary of Agriculture to waive all cost share requirements for the remediation of damage deemed to be to be a result of management activities conducted by the Secretary on National Forest System land. This waiver will only apply to cash cost shares, not in-kind contributions, and may only be applied at the Secretary’s discretion. With this added authority, the Secretary will be able to expedite much needed infrastructural repairs in communities devasted by wildfires that are out of their control. Click here to read the text of the bill. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/11/fischer-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-end-financial-burdens-of-wildfires-started-by-the-federal-government",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CA6ACA3C-DCE1-409B-BFCA-B934A1BCA222,Fischer in Scottsbluff Star-Herald: Western Nebraska’s role in upholding our national security,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"In case you missed it: U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, penned an op-ed in the Scottsbluff Star-Herald highlighting the essential role Western Nebraska plays in strengthening our national security and maintaining a robust nuclear deterrent. Read the op-ed here or below: When Nebraskans think about our state’s role in national defense, Omaha usually comes to mind. Offutt Air Force Base and U.S. Strategic Command are vital to America’s military readiness, and they deserve that recognition. But another part of our state plays just as critical a role. In the Panhandle of Nebraska sit roughly 82 of the 450 Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) that make up the backbone of our nation’s nuclear deterrent. These missiles are housed underground in secure silos, monitored 24 hours a day by teams of missileers working in fortified launch control centers. While the rest of the country goes about daily life, these men and women stand watch every hour of every day — quietly helping keep America safe. This mission doesn’t happen in isolation. It is supported by Nebraska families who make a home in these communities and by small businesses that supply and sustain the base. The people of western Nebraska are vital partners in this mission. You carry a significant weight of global security on your shoulders. The Minuteman III system was built during the Cold War. It’s served us well, but it’s time for modernization so we can meet the emerging threats of the future. That’s why the Air Force is transitioning to the new Sentinel missile — and why in the U.S. Senate, I worked to ensure the program stays on track. Now that the federal government has reopened, Congress’ next priority should be passing the National Defense Authorization Act. This year’s bill authorizes more than $4 billion for the Sentinel program, requires at least 400 deployed ICBMs spread across no fewer than 450 sites, and sets a firm deadline of 2033 for completion. I fought to ensure these provisions made it into the Senate’s version of the bill and will continue to fight to include them in the final bill passed by both chambers of Congress. These steps aren’t about building toward conflict — they’re about making sure conflict never happens. Our ICBMs don’t sit unused for decades — they are used every single day to deter our adversaries. A strong, modern deterrent sends a clear message: no adversary can risk attacking the United States or our allies without facing devastating consequences. That peace of mind is made possible, in large part, by the work happening in western Nebraska. So to the people of the Panhandle: thank you. Your contributions are essential to our nation’s safety. I will continue fighting on the Senate Armed Services Committee to make sure you have the resources, recognition, and support you deserve to continue this vital mission. Because when Nebraska stands ready, America stands strong. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/11/fischer-in-scottsbluff-star-herald-western-nebraska-s-role-in-upholding-our-national-security",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-releases-videos-showcasing-successful-efforts-to-cut-red-tape-get-results-for-nebraskans/,"Ricketts Releases Videos Showcasing Successful Efforts to Cut Red Tape, Get Results for Nebraskans",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released two videos showcasing his team’s successful efforts to cut red tape and get results for Nebraskans navigating the federal bureaucracy. “When the federal bureaucracy fails Nebraskans, my team and I are here to help,” said Senator Ricketts. “I’m proud of our work to cut red tape and deliver wins for Nebraskans. We’re committed to providing excellent customer service.” The first video features Jen and Shelly from Manley. Jen and Shelly worked hard to open a daycare to meet a growing need for childcare. They applied for a federal grant through the Department of Health and Human Services. They exchanged 88 emails but continued to wait. Team Ricketts was able to cut through the red tape. Jen and Shelly got their grant in time to open their doors. Now, families in Southeast Nebraska have access to high-quality childcare closer to home. Click HERE to watch Jen and Shelly’s story. The second video features Paul in Broken Bow. Paul is the President of the Board of Off Broadway Apartments, a senior living community. COVID requirements made it difficult for Paul to pay his staff. Bureaucratic red tape made it difficult for Paul to receive the Employee Retention Credit. Without it, he would be forced to close. Team Ricketts contacted the IRS and ensured that Off Broadway received the proper tax credits. Click HERE to watch Paul’s story.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-supports-bill-to-release-the-epstein-files/,Ricketts Supports Bill to Release the Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released a statement after supporting passage of a bill to compel the Justice Department to release the Epstein files: “Jeffrey Epstein committed disgusting, illegal acts. I’ve long pushed for transparency and the release of the Epstein files. That’s why I supported passage tonight. I appreciate Leader Thune for passing it through the Senate as quickly as possible.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-praises-trump-administrations-wotus-update-this-is-what-reining-in-overregulation-looks-like/,Ricketts Praises Trump Administration’s WOTUS Update: “This is What Reining in Overregulation Looks Like”,2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, praised the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rule to modify the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. The proposed rule aligns with the Supreme Court’s 2023 Sackett v. EPA decision, which struck down the Biden administration’s WOTUS definition. Ricketts said the following: “This is what reining in overregulation looks like. The Obama and Biden administrations tried to illegally increase the EPA’s authority. The Trump administration is following the law. This action will deliver clarity and predictability for Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and small business owners. I applaud President Trump and Administrator Zeldin for delivering on the promise they made to end regulatory overreach.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-25-colleagues-applaud-trump-admins-exclusion-of-unrwa-from-gaza-peace-process/,"Ricketts, 25 Colleagues Applaud Trump Admin’s Exclusion of UNRWA from Gaza Peace Process",2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, led 25 colleagues in applauding President Trump and Secretary Rubio for excluding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from the Gaza peace process, citing UNRWA’s ties to Hamas. “As discussions on Gaza’s future continue, we must avoid repeating the mistakes that empowered the terror group to take hold in the first place,” the lawmakers wrote. “For decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has operated in Gaza, yet extensive reporting, investigations, and intelligence assessments documented systemic infiltration of the agency by Hamas and other U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations.” “In response to these alarming findings, the United States rightfully suspended funding to UNRWA and Israel barred the agency from operating on its territory,” the lawmakers continued. ”These steps were necessary because UNRWA has shown it cannot maintain neutrality or operate without being co-opted by terrorists. During your recent visit to Israel, you reaffirmed UNRWA’s ties to terrorism, describing the agency as ‘a subsidiary of Hamas’ and making clear that it ‘is not going to play any role’ in the delivery of aid to Gaza. Reinstating UNRWA would only recreate the very conditions that allowed Hamas to entrench itself and exert control in Gaza.” “We strongly urge the administration to ensure that UNRWA play no role in any efforts to stabilize, govern, and rebuild Gaza,” the lawmakers concluded. “Instead, we encourage the United States to work with vetted international partners, trusted regional actors, and nongovernmental organizations that are demonstrably free of terrorist influence and committed to transparency, accountability, and peace.” Additional signers included Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Ted Budd (R-NC), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Cornyn (R-TX), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Tim Scott (R-SC), Susan Collins (R-ME), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Boozman (R-AR), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ted Cruz (R-TX), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Mike Lee (R-UT), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Katie Britt (R-AL), and John Hoeven (R-ND). Full text of the letter can be found here and below: Dear Secretary Rubio, We write in support of the Trump administration’s efforts to advance lasting stability in Gaza and enduring security for Israel. President Trump’s leadership has been instrumental in negotiating and maintaining the ceasefire agreement and in securing the ongoing release of hostages. It is vital to continue applying maximum pressure on Hamas to release the remaining hostages still held in Gaza. We also commend the administration’s continued commitment to ensuring that Hamas is fully disarmed and can never rule again in the territory. As discussions on Gaza’s future continue, we must avoid repeating the mistakes that empowered the terror group to take hold in the first place. For decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has operated in Gaza, yet extensive reporting, investigations, and intelligence assessments documented systemic infiltration of the agency by Hamas and other U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations. At least twelve UNRWA employees took part in the Hamas-led October 7 attacks, and roughly ten percent of UNRWA’s Gaza staff have ties to terrorist groups, with many more having close relatives involved in these organizations. Since October 7, Hamas has repeatedly stolen the agency’s aid and supplies, weapons have been found in its schools, tunnel infrastructure has been uncovered in or near its facilities, and its buildings were even used to hold hostages. Long before the war, UNRWA’s curriculum was already known to radicalize Palestinian youth by promoting antisemitism and glorifying terrorism. In response to these alarming findings, the United States rightfully suspended funding to UNRWA and Israel barred the agency from operating on its territory. These steps were necessary because UNRWA has shown it cannot maintain neutrality or operate without being co-opted by terrorists. During your recent visit to Israel, you reaffirmed UNRWA’s ties to terrorism, describing the agency as “a subsidiary of Hamas” and making clear that it “is not going to play any role” in the delivery of aid to Gaza. Reinstating UNRWA would only recreate the very conditions that allowed Hamas to entrench itself and exert control in Gaza. We strongly urge the administration to ensure that UNRWA play no role in any efforts to stabilize, govern, and rebuild Gaza. Instead, we encourage the United States to work with vetted international partners, trusted regional actors, and nongovernmental organizations that are demonstrably free of terrorist influence and committed to transparency, accountability, and peace.We appreciate your leadership and stand prepared to work with the Trump administration to support Gaza reconstruction efforts and ensure lasting security for Israel.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=04E4CA4E-07FF-44F8-8A33-204D326FEA15,Fischer Votes For Funding Package to Reopen Government,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Package includes key funding provisions for Nebraska secured by Fischer WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) voted for a funding package that would reopen the federal government and allocate $72 million for community projects she secured for Nebraska. The legislative package – which passed the Senate by a vote of 60-40 – includes the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Act; Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Related Agencies Appropriations Act; and the Legislative Branch and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. It also continues current funding levels for the remaining federal agencies through January 30, 2026. “After voting 16 times to reopen the federal government, I am encouraged that Senate Democrats have finally come to the table. This package delivers results I secured for Nebraska – including crucial funding that will benefit the Omaha VA and over $54 million for mission critical programs at Offutt Air Force Base. It also directs an additional $16 million for UNL’s ARS center, which follows a total investment of over $56 million I’ve helped secure over the last five fiscal years. While this legislation is an important step forward, we still need the House to take up and pass this package swiftly so we can reopen the government and get back to work for the American people,” Fischer said. Provisions advanced by Fischer in theMilCon-VA Appropriations Actto support our veterans: Secures nearly $1.4 billion for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)’s major construction account that will provide future funding for the Omaha VA hospital project; Directs the VA to purchase essential medical devices, such as needles, syringes, and blood collection products from U.S. manufacturers or allied trading partners. Also, directs the VA to submit a report on ways to reduce dependency on Chinese medical devices while safeguarding against shortages; and Directs the VA to report on the success of the External Provider Scheduling (EPS) program while identifying barriers to increased implementation and creating recommendations on how to increase community provider participation. Funding advanced by Fischer in theMilCon-VA Appropriations Actto support next generation of ‘doomsday’ planes, critical investments at Offutt Air Force Base: $42.3 million to plan and design the new Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) at Offutt; $6 million to plan and design a Consolidated Training Complex/Professional Development Center at Offutt; and $6 million to plan and design a new dormitory at Offutt. Funding advanced by Fischer in the Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: $16 million for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facility at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s (UNL) Innovation Campus; and $1.5 million for the National Drought Mitigation Center at UNL. Provisions advanced by Fischer in the Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: Prioritizing ARS research for the beef industry at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Nebraska; and Requiring the USDA to streamline contracting and procurement services for livestock research facilities to help USMARC with cost overruns on facility improvements.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-calls-for-quick-passage-of-bipartisan-solution-to-end-government-shutdown-give-americans-relief/,Ricketts Calls for Quick Passage of Bipartisan Solution to End Government Shutdown: “Give Americans Relief”,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) called for expedited passage of the bipartisan solution to end the government shutdown. “Last night, eight Democrats finally joined Republicans to begin re-opening government,” said Senator Ricketts. “This bipartisan package is important for Nebraska. It extends critical farm bill authorities and supports agricultural research at the University of Nebraska. It also delivers funding to support critical missions at Offutt Air Force Base. We should pass this bill quickly and give Americans relief.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-highlights-nebraska-wins-in-bipartisan-solution-ending-government-shutdown/,Ricketts Highlights Nebraska Wins in Bipartisan Solution Ending Government Shutdown,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted the Nebraska wins in the bipartisan package to end the government shutdown. “This bipartisan package delivers for Nebraska,” said Senator Ricketts. “It extends critical farm bill authorities and supports agricultural research at the University of Nebraska. It helps fight against the New World Screwworm. It also delivers funding to support critical missions at Offutt Air Force Base. The House should pass this package quickly so Americans can get relief.” Wins in the Bipartisan Package to End the Government Shutdown:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-after-voting-for-bipartisan-solution-to-end-schumer-shutdown/,Ricketts Issues Statement After Voting for Bipartisan Solution to End Schumer Shutdown,2025-11-09,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"“Republicans have been consistent. We’ve offered a bipartisan funding resolution that Democrats have previously voted to pass four times over the last 19 months. After 40 days of delays, disruptions, and missed paychecks, Democrats finally appear to vote with Republicans to reopen government. I urge my colleagues to pass this bipartisan solution without delay.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-condemns-schumers-unserious-demands-shares-letters-from-nebraska-air-traffic-controllers-are-the-democrats-deaf/,"Ricketts Condemns Schumer’s Unserious Demands, Shares Letters from Nebraska Air Traffic Controllers: “Are the Democrats Deaf?”",2025-11-08,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, in a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) condemned Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and the Democrats for making unserious demands in exchange for reopening the federal government. “But why I’m here today is to talk about people. Not leverage. Not power. People. Air traffic controllers,” said Ricketts. “These are letters that I have received from air traffic controllers. Handwritten letters that are talking about what they are going through right now because of the minority leader’s shutdown.” Ricketts read letters from air traffic controllers in Nebraska who are suffering due to the Schumer Shutdown. The air traffic controllers described they are being forced to decide between paying their mortgage or car loan and putting food on their table for their families. “Are the Democrats deaf? Do they not hear from the people that they are putting in these situations? This is their shutdown,” said Ricketts. “We have patriots here who are suffering. Why don’t they show some of the courage that these people are and stand up to their far-left wing and vote for this bill so that least the people who are working can get paid? Is that so much to ask?” “A Democrat staffer was earlier quoted as saying, ‘we’re going to do this until planes start falling from the sky.’ Well, folks, we already heard that the FAA is going to cut back 10% this week on the number of flights because of safety concerns,” concluded Ricketts. “But it’s the people that are the air traffic controllers and our law enforcement and everybody else who is working in a federal job that is not getting paid are paying the price for the Minority Leader’s shutdown.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “Earlier today, we heard about an offer from the Minority Leader. “It shows just how unserious he and the Democrats are. “That offer is full of horse hockey. “It has things in it that Republicans cannot accept, and he knows it. “And my colleague from Michigan, a Democrat from Michigan, was just talking about power, because this is what it’s about. “He mentioned power. “A number of other folks have talked about leverage. “They need to have this shutdown for leverage. “Number of Democrats have said this. “But why I’m here today is to talk about people. “Not leverage. “Not power. “People. “Air traffic controllers. “These are letters that I have received from air traffic controllers. “Handwritten letters that are talking about what they are going through right now because of the minority leader’s shutdown. “Let me just read you some of these. “My wife suffers from a chronic autoimmune disease that without her medication would cripple her. “Our monthly co pay for her specialty medication is $2,800 a month. “We have less than two weeks before her next round of medication is due. “Our situation is not sustainable, even with pulling money from our savings. “That’s from one of our aircraft controllers in Nebraska. “Here’s another one. “Each shutdown gets harder than the last. “The mental stress of the unknown gets harder each time with my growing family and medical bills for my family, it gets harder every time. “Both my children have neurological disorders that require constant monitoring and medical care. I take pride in my job and the service we provide here at Omaha approach control. “As a patriot and a veteran, I take my federal oath seriously. “I will always continue to do my job and keep the sky safe and expeditious. “Or here’s another one. “Myself and my family, to include my three-year-old daughter, are struggling to make ends meet. “I now have to decide between putting food on the table, paying my mortgage, paying my car note and many other things I need to survive. “Are the Democrats deaf? “Do they not hear from the people that they are putting in these situations? “This is their shutdown. “This is their Biden budget. “They’re not voting for it, they voted for this four times over last 19 months and now they won’t because they’re far left wing tells them not to! “We have patriots here who are suffering. “Why don’t they show some of the courage that these people are and stand up to their far-left wing and vote for this bill so that least the people who are working can get paid? “Is that so much to ask? “That we pay the people we’re actually trying to keep the skies safe? “A Democrat staffer was earlier quoted as saying, ‘we’re going to do this until planes start falling from the sky.’ “Well, folks, we already heard that the FAA is going to cut back 10% this week on the number of flights because of safety concerns. “But it’s the people that are the air traffic controllers and our law enforcement and everybody else who is working in a federal job that is not getting paid are paying the price for the Minority Leader’s shutdown.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-gillibrand-introduce-bill-to-improve-flood-protection-infrastructure-resiliency-2/,"Ricketts, Gillibrand Introduce Bill to Improve Flood Protection & Infrastructure Resiliency",2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced the Flood Protection and Infrastructure Resilience Act. The bill would elevate long-term flood resilience as a priority for the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program. It would grant the Secretary of Agriculture discretionary authority to provide an increased federal cost share for EWP grants. It would also elevate flood protection as a priority in the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). Ricketts is a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “After big floods, federal red tape often slows recovery and delays rebuilding,” said Senator Ricketts. “These restrictions also make it difficult to modernize the infrastructure that keeps our communities safe. This bipartisan bill will improve flood protection and infrastructure resiliency. It will help communities rebuild stronger, preventing future damage.” “As the climate crisis worsens and devastating floods become increasingly common, we must be better prepared and equipped to respond,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our bipartisan legislation will strengthen USDA’s ability to help communities recover and rebuild. I will keep fighting to get this across the finish line to protect New Yorkers and improve resiliency across the country.” Bill text can be found here. The bill has the support of American Flood Coalition Action. BACKGROUND The Flood Protection and Infrastructure Resilience Act would: Improve EWP’s level of protection above existing water levels at the time of the disaster to not only help communities recover from flood disasters, but also make critical watershed improvements that would reduce repeated damage during future disasters. Grant the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary discretionary authority to provide a variable federal cost share of up to 90% in the Watershed Rehabilitation Program, which provides technical and financial assistance for planning, design, and implementation of projects to rehabilitate aging watershed dams. Amend the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program to formally add flood prevention, mitigation, and resiliency to RCPP’s statutory purpose, and enable the program to better assist agricultural producers, communities, and nongovernmental stakeholders in implementing regional and watershed-scale flood solutions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-after-kazakhstan-joins-abraham-accords/,Ricketts Issues Statement After Kazakhstan Joins Abraham Accords,2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after the announcement that Kazakhstan will join the Abraham Accords: “President Trump’s historic Abraham Accords were the crowning foreign policy achievement of his first term. Building on its success demonstrates this administration’s unwavering commitment to promoting enhanced cooperation between Israel and the Arab and Muslim world. I applaud Kazakhstan for making this important decision and hope other countries will follow suit.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-cotton-colleagues-applaud-president-trump-on-historic-success-of-asia-trip/,"Ricketts, Cotton, Colleagues Applaud President Trump on “Historic Success” of Asia Trip",2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, The Pacific, & International Cybersecurity Policy, and Tom Cotton (R-AR), the Chairman of the Intelligence Committee, led six colleagues in applauding President Donald Trump’s successful trip to Asia last week. The lawmakers thanked President Trump for achieving trade deals that will benefit American farmers, workers, businesses, and innovators while protecting national security. “Thankfully, we have a President that puts America first and protects our greatest assets,” the lawmakers wrote. “Your leadership has ushered America into a Golden Era of relations with our allies and partners in the region and delivered outstanding results for the American people once again. The agreements that you secured mark a major milestone in ensuring that American farmers, workers, businesses, and innovators reap the benefits of fair and reciprocal trade.” The lawmakers also applauded President Trump for securing concessions from Communist China without compromising American leadership in key technologies. “We understand the delicate balance you struck during the negotiations was not easy,” The lawmakers continued. “Your determination while engaging with Dictator Xi Jinping secured results on fentanyl, agricultural purchases, and critical minerals where others could not. Unlike your predecessors, who may have wavered and given away our greatest leverage, you managed to extract real concessions from Communist China while preserving American dominance. We applaud your foresight and wisdom in continuing to withhold America’s most advanced semiconductors from Communist China, including NVIDIA’s Blackwell.” “As you have said, America is the country that started the AI race, and this decision will help ensure America wins that race,” the lawmakers concluded. “Thank you again, Mr. President, for your unwavering dedication to putting America first and your unique ability to achieve outcomes that strengthen our economy, safeguard our technology, and reaffirm U.S. leadership on the global stage.” Additional signers included Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS), Jim Banks (R-IN), John Cornyn (R-TX), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC). Full text of the letter can be found here and below: Dear President Trump, We write to congratulate you on your historic success advancing American prosperity and security on your recent trip to Asia. Thankfully, we have a President that puts America first and protects our greatest assets. Your leadership has ushered America into a Golden Era of relations with our allies and partners in the region and delivered outstanding results for the American people once again. The agreements that you secured mark a major milestone in ensuring that American farmers, workers, businesses, and innovators reap the benefits of fair and reciprocal trade. For instance, your successful negotiations with Japan and South Korea will bring nearly one trillion dollars of investment into America’s economy. And you have brought peace to yet another longstanding conflict, this time between Thailand and Cambodia. Finally, as you have rightly recognized in the past, Communist China is a dangerous and formidable adversary that has waged economic warfare on American farmers and manufacturers. Additionally, decades of mismanagement by previous administrations have led to entanglement with a regime whose actions have put our national security at risk. We understand the delicate balance you struck during the negotiations was not easy. Your determination while engaging with Dictator Xi Jinping secured results on fentanyl, agricultural purchases, and critical minerals where others could not. Unlike your predecessors, who may have wavered and given away our greatest leverage, you managed to extract real concessions from Communist China while preserving American dominance. We applaud your foresight and wisdom in continuing to withhold America’s most advanced semiconductors from Communist China, which includes NVIDIA’s Blackwell. As you have said, America is the country that started the AI race, and this decision will help ensure America wins that race. Thank you again, Mr. President, for your unwavering dedication to putting America first and your unique ability to achieve outcomes that strengthen our economy, safeguard our technology, and reaffirm U.S. leadership on the global stage.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-we-need-five-more-democrat-votes-to-reopen-the-government-restore-essential-services/,"Ricketts: We Need Five More Democrat Votes to Reopen the Government, Restore Essential Services",2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) emphasized his efforts to end the Schumer Shutdown. It is now the longest government shutdown in history. Ricketts made the comments during his regular conference call with Nebraska media. Watch the video here. “This is day 36 of the Schumer shutdown. It’s the longest government shutdown in history, and we’re seeing the impacts all across the country,” said Ricketts. “But even in Nebraska, a friend of mine last week called me to tell me about a restaurant in Bellevue, where it’s normally packed with airmen. Because of the government shutdown, airmen and the civilian employees are being very reticent to come in to be able to talk or to eat, because they want to make sure they’re managing their dollars appropriately. This is the cost of Schumer shutdown.” “We’re continuing to govern – even if the Democrats aren’t,” said Ricketts. “I’ve voted fourteen times for a clean, bipartisan Continuing Resolution. I voted for the bipartisan Shutdown Fairness Act to pay our on-duty federal workers. I voted for a bipartisan appropriations bill to pay our military servicemembers. I voted to confirm 117 of President Trump’s nominees. I will continue doing everything I can to reopen the government and restore essential services for Nebraskans.” “We just need five more Democrats to stand up to their far-left base and vote to reopen government,”said Ricketts. “We need five more Democrats to say we care more about people than political leverage. We need five more Democrats to join three Democrats who are already with us. That’s all we need to reopen government. The sooner, the better.” TRANSCRIPT: “This is day 36 of the Schumer shutdown. “It’s the longest government shutdown in history, and we’re seeing the impacts all across the country. “But even in Nebraska, a friend of mine last week called me to tell me about a restaurant in Bellevue, where it’s normally packed with airmen. “Because of the government shutdown, airmen and the civilian employees are being very reticent to come in to be able to talk or to eat, because they want to make sure they’re managing their dollars appropriately. “This is the cost of Schumer shutdown. “It’s impacting businesses in Bellevue, Nebraska. “But it’s also the air traffic controllers, the federal law enforcement officers, border patrol and TSA agents, U.S. attorneys and Capitol police officers who are working without getting paid. “It’s the federal courts that are in limited operations. “It’s the SNAP benefits that are only being partially issued. “Head Start grants that are not going out, hurting low-income students. “Small business loans are also not going out. “Rural Development programs that support housing, utilities, and infrastructure projects are on hold. “Grants to local law enforcement to fight fentanyl and protect our communities are disrupted. “Aircraft inspections are delayed. “Veterans transition assistance is disrupted. “National Guard trainings are delayed. “I could go on and on. “Telehealth and at-home care, community health centers, payments for ambulances, hospital-at-home services all disrupted. “These are all the consequences of the Schumer Shutdown. “To be clear, Republicans cannot open government by ourselves. “We need eight Democrats to vote to reopen government right now. “We have three. “We need five more. “Yet for too many of my Democrat colleagues in the Senate, these consequences are just leverage. “Yet for too many of my Democrat colleagues in the Senate, these consequences are just ‘leverage.’ “Democrat Martin Heinrich of New Mexico said that our bipartisan bill to reopen the government: ‘gives the president more leverage.’ “Why is it leverage for the President to have a working government? “I think that benefits everyone. “Democrat Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island said this shutdown is ‘the only lever we have.’ “Democrat Ruben Gallego of Arizona said: ‘I’d just go back and shut it down again’ if he didn’t get what he wanted. “And, of course, socialist Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont said: ‘you reopen the government, we lose our leverage.’ “To Democrats, the Schumer Shutdown is about political leverage, not the American people. “It’s past time Democrats ended their partisan game. “We’re continuing to govern, even if Democrats aren’t. “I voted 14 times for a clean, bipartisan continuing resolution. “I voted for the bipartisan shutdown Fairness Act to pay our on duty federal workers. “I voted for a bipartisan appropriations bill to pay our military service members. “I voted to confirm 117 of President Trump’s nominees during the shutdown. “I will continue doing everything I can to reopen government and restore essential services for Nebraskans. “We just need five more Democrats to stand up to their far left base and vote to reopen government. “We need five more Democrats to say we care more about people than political leverage. “We need five more Democrats to join three Democrats who are already with us. “That’s all we need to reopen government. “The sooner, the better. “While Democrats claim they are holding out to negotiate on the Biden Obamacare COVID Boosters, Bonuses, whatever you want to call them, we need to reopen government first. “And then we can have those negotiations. “That’s what’s right. “We need to reopen government. “That’s what Nebraskans deserve.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=ED0B60E6-6355-4958-A013-F42DECE61643,Fischer Presses for Continued Funding of Essential Air Service Program,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Department of Transportation nominees confirm commitment to funding Essential Air Service (EAS); Fischer urges Alliance Municipal Airport’s EAS petition be swiftly considered Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, questioned Department of Transportation nominees Ryan McCormack and Daniel Edwards about their commitment to protecting rural air service. During the hearing, Fischer underscored the importance of the Essential Air Service (EAS) program to Nebraska’s small communities and rural America as a whole. Fischer also urged Edwards and McCormack to ensure that rural areas are not disadvantaged by future EAS reductions and encouraged them to reconsider Alliance Municipal Airport’s EAS order with the Department of Transportation in a timely fashion. Click the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer’s questioning Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-after-passing-of-former-vice-president-dick-cheney/,Ricketts Issues Statement After Passing of Former Vice President Dick Cheney,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after the passing of former Vice President Dick Cheney: “Today, America honors Dick Cheney’s life of service. Born in Lincoln, NE and a son of Wyoming, Vice President Cheney represented his state and country with commitment and courage. He served at nearly every level of government, from congressional and White House aide all the way to Vice President. I pray for Lynne and his family as they mourn the loss of Vice President Cheney.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-following-resignation-of-nebraska-state-treasurer-appointment-of-new-treasurer/,"Ricketts Issues Statement Following Resignation of Nebraska State Treasurer, Appointment of New Treasurer",2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement following the resignation of Nebraska Treasurer Tom Briese and Governor Jim Pillen’s appointment of Joey Spellerberg as the new Treasurer: “In the Nebraska Legislature, Tom Briese focused on delivering property tax relief. As Treasurer, he delivered an improved state spending website and promoted financial literacy. I appreciate his service to Nebraskans. I wish Tom and his wife Joan the best in his retirement and congratulate Joey Spellerberg on his appointment.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-committee-advancement-of-bipartisan-bills-to-fuel-innovation-boost-american-energy-production/,"Ricketts Celebrates Committee Advancement of Bipartisan Bills to Fuel Innovation, Boost American Energy Production",2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, voted to advance a package of bipartisan bills to fuel innovation and boost American energy production. Bills advanced yesterday include the Nuclear REFUEL Act, the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, the Legacy Mine Cleanup Act, the Save Our Seas 2.0 Marine Debris Infrastructure Programs Reauthorization Act, and the Great Lakes Fishery Research Reauthorization Act. “Despite the Schumer Shutdown, we’re continuing to deliver for the American people,” said Senator Ricketts. “This package of bipartisan bills will fuel innovation, boost American nuclear energy, and improve our recycling infrastructure.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-following-trumps-successful-asia-trip-trade-negotiations-with-xi-jinping/,"Ricketts Issues Statement Following Trump’s Successful Asia Trip, Trade Negotiations with Xi Jinping",2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement following President Trump’s trip to Asia: “Throughout his Asia trip, President Trump has secured great trade deals for America. Despite the president’s deal with Communist China, we must continue to diversify our trading partners. We shouldn’t be dependent on selling soybeans to Communist China. We also shouldn’t rely on importing their critical minerals and pharmaceuticals. We must continue to diversify our markets, secure our supply chains, and protect our technology to end our reliance on Communist China. I am committed to working with the administration on these priorities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-mccormick-schmitt-introduce-the-nitazene-sanctions-act/,"Ricketts, McCormick, Schmitt Introduce the Nitazene Sanctions Act",2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), alongside Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Eric Schmitt (R-MO), introduced the Nitazene Sanctions Act. Nitazenes are a dangerous class of synthetic opioids that often exceed the potency of fentanyl. The opioids, most of which originate in Communist China, are so strong that even trace amounts can trigger a fatal overdose. The Nitazene Sanctions Act would expand sanctions on persons and entities in Communist China to include those that support the manufacturing of nitazenes. This legislation would also require a strategy to combat the flow of nitazenes from Communist China. “Nitazenes could become the next fentanyl crisis if not stopped,” said Ricketts. “It’s already killed thousands of Europeans, and it’s quickly making its way to our shores. The Nitazene Sanctions Act will unleash sweeping sanctions against those in Communist China who are helping to poison and kill Americans.” “If we’re going to prevent nitazenes from becoming the next fentanyl, we need coordination within the federal government and sanctions to crack down on the production and trafficking of this deadly narcotic,” said McCormick. “I’m grateful to Senator Ricketts for his leadership and commitment to keeping our communities safe.” “Nitazenes are powerful synthetic opioids which overwhelmingly originate from Communist China,” said Schmitt. “The Nitazene Sanctions Act will combat this deadly drug by unleashing devastating sanctions against any entity in Communist China that is manufacturing this deadly drug to poison and kill American citizens.” The Nitazene Sanctions Act would: Require a report from the Secretary of State and the Attorney General on the role of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and financial institutions that support the production of nitazene precursors; Require a plan from the Secretary of State and the Attorney General to work with the PRC to reduce the production of nitazene precursors; Require a strategy to work with European allies and partners to combat the flow of nitazene precursors; And amend the Fentanyl sanctions to include 2-benzylbenzimidazole opioids, which will allow the President to designate any entity of the PRC that the President determines produces, manufactures, distributes, sells, or knowingly finances the production of nitazene precursors. BACKGROUND: Unlike opium, Nitazene and synthetic opioids can be produced anywhere in the world using precursor chemicals that are often uncontrolled and widely available. Chemical manufacturers in Communist China can easily synthesize nitazene precursors. The Drug Enforcement Administration has warned that Mexican cartels could use their existing relations with suppliers based in Communist China to funnel nitazenes into the United States.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-republicans-are-continuing-the-business-of-governing-even-if-the-democrats-arent/,Ricketts: Republicans Are “Continuing the Business of Governing — Even If The Democrats Aren’t”,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) expressed his commitment to continue delivering for Nebraskans, despite the Schumer Shutdown. Ricketts made the comments during his regular conference call with Nebraska media. Watch the video here. “While on-duty people work without pay, Republicans keep voting on the only bipartisan solution to the shutdown,”said Ricketts. “This is the same bipartisan bill Chuck Schumer supported four times over the last nineteen months. But Chuck Schumer wants to keep playing his partisan game. My staff and I come to work every day. We’re continuing the business of governing — even if the Democrats aren’t.” “Chuck Schumer says that “every day gets better” for Democrats during the shutdown. It’s not getting better for Nebraskans or Americans,” said Ricketts. “Despite this, Senate Republicans and I are continuing the work of government. We’re passing important bills like the NDAA and the Road to Housing Act. We’re confirming President Trump’s nominees. I’m continuing my work to deter Communist China. I will keep delivering for Nebraskans.” TRANSCRIPT: “We’re beginning week five of the Schumer Shutdown. “Today is the 29th day. “As of last week, this is now the longest full government shutdown. “While on-duty people work without pay, Republicans keep voting on the only bipartisan solution to the shutdown. “We have voted on a resolution to reopen the government over a dozen times now. “This is the same bipartisan bill Chuck Schumer supported four times over the last nineteen months. “But Chuck Schumer wants to keep playing his partisan game. “My staff and I come to work every day. “We’re continuing the business of governing — even if the Democrats aren’t. “Capitol Police also come in every day. “So do our federal law enforcement officers, U.S. Attorneys, TSA agents, and air traffic controllers. “But Chuck Schumer doesn’t want to pay on-duty federal workers. “Democrats made police and support staff work overtime—all night, without a paycheck—so they could try to break a filibuster record. “The American Federation of Government Employees is calling for Democrats to join Republicans in voting to end the Schumer Shutdown. “Last week, Republicans introduced a bill that would pay these on-duty workers during the shutdown. “Only three Democrats voted for it. “The Democrats offered their own bill, but they added a partisan poison pill preventing President Trump from increasing government efficiency. “They did this to make sure Republicans wouldn’t vote for it. “The Republican bill was clean. “The Democrats’ bill was not. “Our offer was serious. Theirs was not. “Despite the Schumer Shutdown, my Republican colleagues and I continue to deliver for the American people. “Earlier this month, the Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act. “This NDAA will support our airmen at Offutt Air Force Base and strengthen Nebraska’s Sentinel missile program. “We passed the historic ROAD to Housing Act. “This will make it easier for Nebraskans to buy homes. “The ROAD to Housing Act will help rural Nebraskans. “It includes my Streamlining Rural Housing Act, which cuts red tape for building homes in rural Nebraska. “Last week, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee also advanced three of my bills to deter Communist China and keep Americans safe. “That includes the THINK TWICE Act, the PORCUPINE Act, and the AUKUS Improvement Act. “All of these bills are bipartisan. “These bills strengthen our alliances with Australia and the U.K. “They strengthen Taiwan to deter Communist China’s aggression. “Together, they make it easier for our partners and allies to purchase American-made military equipment such as submarines. “The Senate also continues to confirm President Trump’s judicial and executive branch nominees. “We have confirmed 112 since the Schumer Shutdown began. “Just because Chuck Schumer doesn’t want to reopen the government, doesn’t mean the government shouldn’t be serving the American people. “Senate Republicans and President Trump are doing everything we can to reopen the government. “The President found ways to pay military servicemembers. “The USDA is reopening the Farm Service Agency. “This means critical services for farm loan processing can resume for the end of harvest. “Chuck Schumer says that “every day gets better” for Democrats during the shutdown. “It’s not getting better for Nebraskans or Americans. “Despite this, Senate Republicans and I are continuing the work of government. “We’re passing important bills like the NDAA and the Road to Housing Act. “We’re confirming President Trump’s nominees. “I’m continuing my work to deter Communist China. “I will keep delivering for Nebraskans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-schiff-lead-substance-use-misuse-prevention-month-resolution/,"Ricketts, Schiff Lead Substance Use & Misuse Prevention Month Resolution",2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced a resolution to designate October 2025 as Substance Use & Misuse Prevention Month in America. Ricketts is a long-time champion for programs that combat the drug addiction and overdose epidemic in the United States. “Drug overdoses are killing Americans,” said Ricketts. “Substance use among adolescents is associated with continued substance use and misuse in adulthood. In 2024, an estimated 48,000,000 people in the United States aged 12 and older had a substance use disorder. This bipartisan resolution calls attention to the crisis and the need to support critical prevention programs.” “Substance use and misuse affect millions of Americans each year, from every community and of all ages,” said Schiff. “I am proud to join Senator Ricketts in supporting crucial prevention programs to combat the drug addiction and overdose epidemic in our country.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-commends-omaha-police-condemns-bidens-soft-on-crime-policies/,"Ricketts Commends Omaha Police, Condemns Biden’s Soft-on-Crime Policies",2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) commended Omaha police following the publication of charging documents related to an October 3 shooting in Omaha. An Omaha man, whose 20-year prison sentence was commuted by President Joe Biden, was charged for the shooting. Ricketts issued the following statement: “In 2018, Khyre Holbert was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for drug and firearm offenses. During his last days in office, President Joe Biden let him out after serving less than half his time. Earlier this month, Khyre Holbert shot someone in the Old Market. This should never have happened. Soft on crime policies make Nebraskans less safe. I commend Omaha Police and federal law enforcement for bringing this violent criminal to justice.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1D371A5D-437D-47E5-8988-8C703A66C39F,Passed by the Senate: Fischer’s Bill to Strengthen U.S. Telecommunications Against Foreign Adversaries,2025-10-27,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"The U.S. Senatepassed Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-Neb.)Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency (FACT) Actto help strengthen America’s telecommunications against foreign adversaries. “With the Senate passage of myFACT Act, we marka crucial step in the mission to secure America’s tech and telecommunication markets from foreign adversaries. We cannot allow adversarial regimes like communist China and Russia to infiltrate our communication networks and undermine our people and country, which is why I introduced and shepherded this bill through the Senate. I’m grateful for the bipartisan support of my colleagues, and I look forward to getting this bill to the President’s desk to be signed into law,”Fischer said. Background on theFACT Act: TheFACT Act would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to publicly identify entities that hold FCC licenses, authorizations, or other grants of authority that are owned, wholly or partially, by foreign adversarial governments. This includes the governments of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Until now, there has been no mandated public disclosure of companies linked to foreign adversaries operating within U.S. technology and telecommunication markets. Although the FCC is prohibited from granting licenses or authorizations deemed a national security threat, some entities with ties to adversarial foreign governments continue to hold certain approvals. As a result, more transparency is necessary. Click here to read the text of the bill. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/10/passed-by-the-senate-fischer-s-bill-to-strengthen-u-s-telecommunications-against-foreign-adversaries",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=288A5086-392F-4F35-B7D9-B7CB5EA4086E,ICYMI: Fischer Joins Mornings with Maria,2025-10-27,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Click the image above to watch Senator Fischer’s interview. Click here to download video. Click here to download audio.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-committee-advancement-of-his-bills-to-deter-communist-china-keep-americans-safe/,"Ricketts Celebrates Committee Advancement of His Bills to Deter Communist China, Keep Americans Safe",2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, The Pacific, & International Cybersecurity Policy, celebrated the advancement of a bipartisan package of legislation he authored to deter Communist China and keep Americans safe. The Ricketts bills advanced yesterday include the THINK TWICE Act, the PORCUPINE Act, and the AUKUS Improvement Act. The Foreign Relations Committee also advanced Ricketts legislation recognizing the 74th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty between the U.S. and the Philippines. All advanced by voice vote. “Communist China’s malign aggression threatens our security and the security of our allies and partners,” said Senator Ricketts. “By combatting Chinese arms sales, supporting Taiwan’s self-defense, and strengthening military cooperation between the U.S., Australia, and the United Kingdom,these bills will help keep Americans safe. They will help deter continued aggression from Communist China. I’m grateful to my colleagues for joining me to advance them to the Senate floor.” Additional bills that help counter Communist China’s aggression that passed out of Committee today with Ricketts’ support include the Deter PRC Aggression Against Taiwan Act, the Strengthening U.S. Leadership at the IDB Act, the SCAM Act, the Critical Minerals Partnership Act, the STOP Russia and China Act, the U.S. Taiwan Partnership in the Americas Act, the Taiwan International Solidarity Act, the China Exchange Rate Transparency Act, and a resolution condemning Communist China for engaging in transnational repression. The bills now head to the Senate floor. The THINK TWICE Act, as amended, would: Require the Director of National Intelligence, in coordination with the Secretaries of State and Defense, to assess arms sales facilitated by entities in Communist China. The report requires inclusion of: The specific Chinese weapons systems, technical aspects, and capabilities of those weapons; The Chinese weapons that present the greatest security risks regarding the potential to collect intelligence on or compromise U.S. platforms; The countries mostly likely to procure Chinese weapons systems; The weapons systems in development in Communist China that could be on the global market in the next 5 years; The factors that incentivize countries to procure Chinese weapons; The Chinese entities that have violated UN security council resolutions regarding the sales of arms to Iran and North Korea; the Chinese weapons systems purchased by foreign countries for the ultimate use of non-state actors; And Communist China’s strategy regarding arms sales. Require the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, to develop a strategy to dissuade purchases of new weapons systems and defense equipment from the PRC. The strategy would include: An information campaign to warn countries interested in procuring weapons systems and defense equipment originating from Communist China about risks, the inability to integrate such weapons with U.S. weapons, and the potential limitation of future security cooperation with U.S. if such weapons are acquired; A description of actions the U.S. and American defense firms can take to make U.S. weapons systems more attractive to prospective buyers of Chinese-origin weapons; An analysis of whether sanctions or economic restrictions targeting potential buyers could be used as an effective deterrent; And a plan to combat Chinese disinformation campaigns targeting the performance of Western weapons. The PORCUPINE Act, as amended, would: Elevate Taiwan in the NATO-plus category for seven years for shorter formal Congressional notification times and higher weapons value thresholds. Requires the Secretary of State to assess the feasibility of establishing an expedited decision-making process for blanket third party transfers of defense articles and services from NATO member countries, Japan, Australia, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand or Israel to Taiwan, including transfers and re-transfers of U.S. origin grant, FMS, and DCS end-items not covered by an exemption under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. The AUKUS Improvement Act would:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-after-chuck-schumer-democrats-block-shutdown-fairness-act/,"Ricketts Issues Statement After Chuck Schumer, Democrats Block Shutdown Fairness Act",2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and 43 Senate Democrats voted against the Shutdown Fairness Act: “Because of the Schumer Shutdown, federal law enforcement officers, U.S. Attorneys, TSA agents, air traffic controllers, and Border Patrol agents are working without pay. The Shutdown Fairness Act would have ensured they are paid for this critical work. This fair, simple, and common sense solution should have passed unanimously. All but three Democrats blocked it. I’ll continue fighting to end the Schumer Shutdown and support our federal workers who are keeping us safe.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-republicans-are-working-to-end-the-schumer-shutdown-pay-on-duty-federal-officers/,"VIDEO: Ricketts: Republicans Are Working to End the Schumer Shutdown, Pay On-Duty Federal Officers",2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) expressed his support for the Shutdown Fairness Act. The common-sense legislation would pay federal law enforcement officers, military servicemembers, and other on-duty federal officers until the Schumer Shutdown ends. Ricketts made the comments during his regular conference call with Nebraska media. Watch the video here. “Our law enforcement officers work hard to prevent crime and protect families. They face danger, act fast, and serve with courage,”said Ricketts. “But because of the Schumer Shutdown, federal officers, U.S. Attorneys, TSA agents, and Border Patrol agents are all working without pay. These federal officers and their families shouldn’t have to pay the price for Chuck Schumer’s political games. Their paychecks shouldn’t be held hostage by Chuck Schumer. I continue to work with my Republican colleagues to end the Schumer Shutdown and support our law enforcement officers.” “Republicans are working to ensure our law enforcement and all federal workers on duty don’t continue to go unpaid,” said Ricketts. “Tomorrow, we will be voting on the Shutdown Fairness Act. This solution makes sure that the people who are showing up for work every day get paid. This includes air traffic controllers, military servicemembers, federal officers, U.S. Attorneys, TSA agents, and Border Patrol agents. The Shutdown Fairness Act is simple. It’s common sense. And it needs to pass.” TRANSCRIPT: “Recently, Nebraska State Police seized 130 pounds of meth outside of Omaha. “Multiple times this year, Nebraska officers have arrested criminal members of the violent MS-13 gang. “In August, U.S. Attorney for Nebraska Lesley Woods announced the arrest of five individuals for sex and human trafficking, visa fraud, and money laundering. “These individuals trafficked minors and illegal immigrants across hotels and salons that they owned. “All five are present in the country illegally. “Earlier this month, an Omaha Police officer was shot in the head while arresting a suspect at a gas station. “We continue to pray for his complete recovery. “Our law enforcement officers work hard to prevent crime and protect families. “They face danger, act fast, and serve with courage. “But because of the Schumer Shutdown, federal officers, U.S. Attorneys, TSA agents, and Border Patrol agents are all working without pay. “These federal officers and their families shouldn’t have to pay the price for Chuck Schumer’s political games. “Their paychecks shouldn’t be held hostage by Chuck Schumer. “I continue to work with my Republican colleagues to end the Schumer Shutdown and support our law enforcement officers. “I’ve voted nearly a dozen times to reopen the government with a clean continuing resolution. “Chuck Schumer and the Democrats continue to block it. “That hurts our heroic law enforcement officers. “Republicans are working to ensure our law enforcement and all federal workers on duty don’t continue to go unpaid. “Tomorrow, we will be voting on the Shutdown Fairness Act. “This solution makes sure that the people who are showing up for work every day get paid. “This includes air traffic controllers, military servicemembers, federal officers, U.S. Attorneys, TSA agents, and Border Patrol agents. “The Shutdown Fairness Act is simple. It’s common sense. And it needs to pass. “We’re giving Chuck Schumer and the Democrats another chance to vote to support the women and men who take drugs off our streets. “Another chance to support the ones who fight against the scourge of human and sex trafficking. “Another chance to support all the federal workers who keep us safe. “I’m going to stand up for our law enforcement officers. I urge Chuck Schumer to do the same.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-instead-of-importing-more-foreign-beef-lets-work-on-market-based-solutions/,"Ricketts: Instead of Importing More Foreign Beef, Let’s Work on “Market-Based Solutions”",2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement urging the Trump administration to prioritize market-based solutions supporting Nebraska beef instead of importing more foreign beef: “This administration’s efforts to encourage Americans to consume more beef and expand grazing on federal lands are welcome. This helps Nebraska. We should be working on market-based solutions. Moving to import more Argentine beef at this time will set farmers and ranchers back. I urge the administration to reconsider its plans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=311C520E-0888-48D6-823D-6924B3553747,Fischer Legislation to Expedite Producers’ Access to Federal Disaster Relief Passes Agriculture Committee,2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-Neb.) legislation, the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act, was approved by the Senate Agriculture Committee. If signed into law, the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act would reform the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) to offer producers impacted by disasters the option to receive an increased, up-front cost-share. The bill would also adjust eligibility for relief to include any wildfire caused or spread due to natural causes, as well as wildfires caused by the federal government. A provision was added this Congress that would extend the timeframe for eligible participants to use the rehabilitative funds, allowing more time for work to be completed. “When disaster strikes, the last thing Nebraskans need is more bureaucratic red tape. Unfortunately, that is the case with the ECP’s current distribution system. By streamlining the recovery process, my bill will ensure that our ag producers have access to the resources they need. I’m grateful the Senate Agriculture Committee approved this important legislation, and I look forward to getting it to the president’s desk to be signed into law,” Fischer said. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/10/fischer-legislation-to-expedite-producers-access-to-federal-disaster-relief-passes-agriculture-committee",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-supporting-nebraska-beef/,Ricketts Issues Statement Supporting Nebraska Beef,2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement urging the administration to support the sale of Nebraska beef: “I’ve been in contact with members of the Trump administration including Ambassador Greer, Secretary Bessent, and Secretary Rollins. I also spoke to President Trump at the White House today with a number of my colleagues. Nebraska ranchers are making money for the first time in years. We must continue to stand with them while we look for ways to lower grocery prices. Our focus should be on market-based solutions. I have advocated to administration officials to invest in more mitigation efforts to be able to normalize trade with our long-time partner Mexico. The New World Screwworm has disrupted beef trade with Mexico this year. We should continue working to address this issue to help stabilize beef prices and normalize trade.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=99C3F2C9-FCBE-4173-AB9A-0FE24D9469B4,Fischer Urges Trump Admin. to Prioritize America’s Ranchers,2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement urging President Trump to prioritize America’s ranchers over importing foreign beef: “Since hearing the president’s comments suggesting the U.S. would buy beef from Argentina, I’ve been in touch with his administration and my colleagues to seek clarity and express my deep concerns. I’ve also been sounding the alarm on the bleak state of our ag economy and the negative impacts facing Nebraska’s ag industry—the economic driver of our state. Bottom line: if the goal is addressing beef prices at the grocery store, this isn’t the way. Right now, government intervention in the beef market will hurt our cattle ranchers. The U.S. has safe, reliable beef, and it is the one bright spot in our struggling ag economy. Nebraska’s ranchers cannot afford to have the rug pulled out from under them when they’re just getting ahead or simply breaking even. I strongly encourage the Trump administration to focus on trade deals that benefit our ag producers—not imports that will do more harm than good.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/10/fischer-urges-trump-admin-to-prioritize-america-s-ranchers",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-despite-the-schumer-shutdown-senate-republicans-are-continuing-to-work-for-americans/,"VIDEO: Ricketts: Despite the Schumer Shutdown, Senate Republicans are Continuing to Work for Americans",2025-10-16,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) slammed Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for admitting that the Schumer Shutdown is political. Ricketts made the comments during his regular conference call with Nebraska media. Watch the video here. “We are into the third week of the Schumer Shutdown,”said Ricketts. “It’s shameful that Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats are holding government funding hostage for political gain. This is a Schumer Shutdown.” “Chuck Schumer himself said this shutdown is for his political benefit,” said Ricketts. “Recently, Chuck Schumer told journalists that, during the shutdown: ‘Every day gets better for us.’ Better for who? Certainly not for those Nebraskans who are missing their paychecks. Certainly not for Nebraskans whose services are delayed and disrupted. Certainly not the American people.” Ricketts emphasized that, despite the Schumer shutdown, Senate Republicans continue to work for the American people. “Last week, we confirmed 107 qualified nominees, including Lesley Woods, our U.S. Attorney for Nebraska,” said Ricketts. “We stopped 3 burdensome Biden-era regulations restricting land use. These regulations would have prevented us from using our resources to lower costs for Nebraskans. We also passed a National Defense Authorization Act.” “We are ensuring our military has the tools it needs to deter adversaries like Communist China and keep Americans safe,” said Ricketts. “Finally, we passed the Road to Housing Act, landmark legislation that puts America on a path to make home ownership a possibility for all Americans. This includes my Rural Housing Service Reform Act, which offers loans, grants, and rental assistance to rural communities. While Chuck Schumer wants to keep the government closed, Senate Republicans are continuing to do the work of governing this country.” TRANSCRIPT: “We are into the third week of the Schumer Shutdown. “It’s shameful that Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats are holding government funding hostage for political gain. “This is a Schumer Shutdown. “Don’t take my word for it. “Chuck Schumer himself said this shutdown is for his political benefit. “Recently, Chuck Schumer told journalists that, during the shutdown: ‘Every day gets better for us.’ “Better for who? “Certainly not for those Nebraskans who are missing their paychecks. “Certainly not for Nebraskans whose services are delayed or disrupted. “Certainly not the American people. “Senate Republicans don’t think this is ‘better’ for Americans who are worried about the uncertainty a shutdown causes. “We have supported and are supporting the only bipartisan solution to this Schumer Shutdown. “That’s passing a clean continuing resolution. “Passing a ‘Clean CR’ is what Senate Republicans and three Senate Democrats are supporting. “We’ve voted for it eight times this month. “Democrats have supported these exact same spending levels four times in the past eighteen months. “But not this time. “This time, they are supporting a Schumer Shutdown. “Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats are the only ones insisting that the federal government stays closed because it is “better” for them. “The Clean CR is already a bipartisan compromise. “It is a bipartisan funding deal struck during the Biden administration. “We agreed to it as Senate Republicans when we were in the minority. “Clean means there are no partisan additions. “There are no partisan policies or changes. “It simply keeps the government funded at the same level as before. “That gives Congress time to continue the normal process of passing appropriations bills. “Despite Chuck Schumer shutting down government, Senate Republicans are continuing to work for the American people. “Last week, we confirmed 107 qualified nominees, including Lesley Woods, our U.S. Attorney for Nebraska. “We stopped 3 burdensome Biden-era regulations restricting land use. “These regulations would have prevented us from using our resources to lower costs for Nebraskans. “We also passed a National Defense Authorization Act. “This legislative package funds the Defense Department, Department of Energy, and other critical national security programs. “It authorizes $924.7 billion for national defense next year. “It gives a 3.8% pay raise to our servicemembers. “It includes my AUKUS Improvement Act, which will strengthen military cooperation between the U.S., Australia, and the United Kingdom. “This will help deter Communist China. “It includes an important review of U.S.-China science and technology agreements. “It also includes a provision, modeled after a bill by Senator Fischer, designed to enable local communities to support defense healthcare facility development – like we did with the Omaha Ambulatory Care Center. “Plus, it contains funding for programs at Offutt Air Force Base and Nebraska-based Sentinel nuclear missiles. “We are ensuring our military has the tools it needs to deter adversaries like Communist China and keep Americans safe. “Finally, we passed the Road to Housing Act, landmark legislation that puts America on a path to make home ownership a possibility for all Americans.” “This includes my Rural Housing Service Reform Act, which offers loans, grants, and rental assistance to rural communities. “While Chuck Schumer wants to keep the government closed, Senate Republicans are continuing to do the work of governing this country. “When Americans face a problem, we work together to find a solution. “Refusing to pay bills, furloughing workers, and withholding pay from federal law enforcement make the challenge worse. “Chuck Schumer doesn’t want to debate. “He is not working toward a solution. “He is not acting like a leader. “He’s being a hypocrite. “But Chuck Schumer doesn’t care, because it’s ‘better’ for him.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=4ECDD338-62F2-4D70-95BB-C21451B1D2D8,"Fischer on Senate Floor: Americans are Hurting, Democrats Must Join Republicans in Reopening Government",2025-10-15,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, during a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) urged her Democratic colleagues to join Republicans and vote for a clean funding resolution to reopen the federal government. Click the image above to watch a video of Fischer’s remarks. Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-ricketts-tours-st-francis-memorial-hospital-in-west-point/,ICYMI: Ricketts Tours Franciscan Healthcare in West Point,2025-10-14,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WEST POINT, NE – This weekend, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) toured Franciscan Healthcare, a 25-bed critical access hospital in West Point. Ricketts emphasized the importance of rural hospitals in communities like West Point. “Franciscan Healthcare is a pillar of the West Point community, caring for babies, seniors, and everyone in between,” Ricketts said. “These critical facilities are why we created the new rural healthcare fund in the One Big Beautiful Bill. It will provide $50 billion for medical care in rural communities over the next five years. This will provide at least $100 million annually for Nebraska hospitals like Franciscan Healthcare. I’ll keep fighting to improve healthcare access, quality, and outcomes across Nebraska.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-on-release-of-living-hostages-in-middle-east/,Ricketts Issues Statement on Release of Living Hostages in Middle East,2025-10-13,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after twenty living hostages were released from Gaza: “This is a great first step towards peace. Families can be reunited once again,” said Ricketts. “The remaining bodies of the deceased hostages must be returned immediately as well. Once this happens, and Gaza becomes a deradicalized terror-free zone that no longer poses a threat to Israel, peace can truly begin.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-supports-defense-bill-with-major-nebraska-wins/,Ricketts Supports Defense Bill With Major Nebraska Wins,2025-10-10,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) recognized passing the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA authorizes funding levels and authorities for the U.S. military. This ensures American forces have the training, equipment, and resources they need to carry out their missions.. “Communist China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea all need to be deterred,” said Senator Ricketts. “By restoring American strength, this NDAA will help us deter our adversaries and keep Americans safe. I appreciate Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Don Bacon’s leadership on the Armed Services Committees. Together, we’re ensuring our military has what it needs to defend us.” Wins in the NDAA: Authorizes $924.7 billion for national defense next year; Gives a 3.8% pay raise to our servicemembers; Authorizes over $4 billion in funding for modernizing our nuclear triad, including the Sentinel ICBM program; Includes the Ricketts-sponsored AUKUS Improvement Act, which streamlines defense industrial base collaboration and co-production between the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom; Includes a Ricketts-authored provision requiring a security review of the U.S.-China Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement (STA); Includes a Ricketts-supported provision directing the U.S. Department of Defense to assess the feasibility of a program, modeled after Senator Fischer’s CHIP In for Veterans Act, enabling local communities to contribute to DoD healthcare facility development; Includes the Ricketts-supported COUNTER Act, which combats Communist China’s attempts to strengthen its global reach through military expansion; Nebraska-Specific Wins: Extends experimentation and prototyping authority to all combatant commands, including U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM); Requires the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program to begin being fielded by Sept. 30, 2033; Authorizes an additional $19 million in funding for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), which identifies the remains of fallen servicemembers. One of two DPAA labs is located at Offutt Air Force Base; Authorizes $15 million to support the Nuclear Command, Control, Communications (NC3) Network Sensor Demonstration at Offutt Air Force Base; Authorizes $15 million to support the innovative NC3 Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub program, or REACH, at Offutt Air Force Base; Authorizes funding for the Survivable Airborne Operation Center (SAOC) to replace the aging E-4B “Doomsday plane,” as well as funding for the design of hangars and other facilities for SAOC at Offutt Air Force Base; Codifies a requirement for deep cleaning of ICBM launch control centers every five years; Designates STRATCOM’s Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (JEMSO) office as the lead entity for coordinating testing and evaluation of joint employment of Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) technologies; Directs a report on the 557th Weather Wing’s cloud migration, AI readiness, and infrastructure modernization roadmap; Codifies the 557th Weather Wing’s authorities to provide meteorological and environmental services to the Intelligence Community; Requires CFIUS to report on real estate transactions of national security threats. This helps to target Communist China’s malign activities in the U.S. and near critical military sites across the nation; Ricketts’ AUKUS Improvement Act:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5AD87695-A67C-415F-AF68-975BA619C048,Fischer Statement on Senate Confirming Lesley Woods Murphy to Serve as U.S. Attorney for Nebraska,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate confirmed Lesley Woods Murphy to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska: “Congratulations to Lesley Woods Murphy on her confirmation by the Senate to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska. I am confident that Lesley will excel in this role, which is why I strongly recommended that President Trump nominate her for this position. I look forward to seeing Lesley work efficiently and effectively – as she has done throughout her career – to keep our families and communities safe.” After Fischer recommended Lesley Woods Murphy to be nominated for this position, President Donald Trump nominated Lesley Woods Murphy to serve as U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska in May of 2025.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AC3FDE9F-106B-43A0-9700-94CD62142154,"ICYMI: Fischer Joins Newsmax to Discuss Schumer Shutdown, FBI Targeting Republican Senators, Middle East Peace Deal",2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Click the image above to watch Senator Fischer’s interview. Click here to download video. Click here to download audio. Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) joined National Report on Newsmax to discuss the Biden-era FBI targeting Republican senators, Democrats prioritizing political theater over reopening the federal government, and the peace deal between Israel and Hamas announced by the Trump administration. On Biden-era FBI Targeting Republican Senators: “Well, it really was unbelievable, and my thanks to Senator Grassley for sticking with this and bringing it forward. I mean, you talk about federalization and weaponization of our law enforcement – that weaponization took place in the last administration. “A lot of conservatives complained about it, but nothing ever happened. And Senator Grassley now is digging into this. It's a violation of our liberty, it's a violation of our privacy, and I'm looking forward to continuing to find out what happened and really to hold those who were responsible for this accountable.” On Democrats Prioritizing Political Theater Over Reopening Government: “This is the Schumer shutdown. I was looking through my press clips earlier this morning, and I saw one where Senator Schumer said, ‘Every day gets better for us.’ “If that's how the Democrats think that, that it gets better, that our military is not paid, that it gets better when we're looking at people who are worried about being furloughed, who are worried about getting their paychecks, that just shows their arrogance. That just shows that they view this as politics and nothing but political theater. “What we want to do is open the government … we [Republicans] have a clean CR and we're just saying … open the government and then we can take up those appropriations bills, which have already been negotiated in the Appropriations Committee. Leader Thune has eight of them on the floor. We've passed three of those and that's transparency. That's accountability that the American people deserve in how we prioritize programs here in Washington and how we are spending taxpayer money. “But the Democrats, like I said, I was appalled that he would make a statement like that, that every day gets better for us as Democrats … They think it's a good day. Hey, get a clue. This is not a good day. Open up the government.” On Middle East Peace Deal with Israel and Hamas: “Well, it's wonderful news and deep thanks to President Trump for being focused on this and making a commitment to see it through. Senator Fetterman has been very strong in his support for Israel during these horrible times when they are fighting Hamas, the terrorist group. When they are trying to get their people back that are still alive. I think he does speak for many of us, and I commend him on his comments. It is good news ... And we hope that Hamas follows through, and that we do see peace in the region.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=FCAF68ED-C647-4298-9B62-F41925155A5B,Fischer Praises Senate Passage of the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"FY26 NDAA includes Fischer’s provisions to protect defense spectrum, support service members, and invest in U.S. Strategic Command at Offutt Air Force Base U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, released the following statement after the Senate passed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Right now, our adversaries are sharing weapons, resources, and a common goal: to weaken the United States and dismantle our influence around the globe. I’m proud that this year’s National Defense Authorization Act meets this moment by investing in deterrence and our brave men and women in uniform. “I successfully fought to secure important provisions to boost our nuclear deterrence, protect defense spectrum, strengthen our missile defense systems, and improve responses to mass casualty events. I’m also pleased to have delivered critical investments for Nebraska. Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha plays a crucial role in defending our nation, which is why I used my role as a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee to secure wins for U.S. Strategic Command, the 557th Weather Wing, and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency—all located at Offutt. “The first duty of Congress is to defend the nation. With the passage of this bill, Congress is doing its part to equip our troops with the tools and resources they need to carry out their mission.” Click here to see key provisions secured by Fischer in the FY 2026 NDAA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-statement-on-middle-east-peace-deal/,Ricketts Statement on Middle East Peace Deal,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a senior member of the Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement after President Donald J. Trump announced that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace deal. “President Trump ran on restoring peace at home and abroad. As of tonight, the Middle East is approaching peace,” said Senator Ricketts. “Now, Hamas must release all the hostages without delay. It’s been two long years these hostages have been held inhumanely by terrorists. It’s past time they came home. It’s equally important that the remains of those hostages that were killed in Gaza, including two Israeli-Americans, Itay Chen and Omer Neutra, are returned to their families.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-on-the-schumer-shutdown-senate-democrats-want-to-hold-rural-nebraskans-healthcare-hostage/,VIDEO: Ricketts on the Schumer Shutdown: “Senate Democrats Want to Hold Rural Nebraskans’ Healthcare Hostage.”,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) slammed Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for shutting down the federal government to score political points and appease his radical left base. Ricketts made the comments during his regular conference call with Nebraska media. Watch the video here. “For the 8th day, the government is shutdown,” Ricketts said. “Government services have diminished or stopped. Senate Democrats want to hold rural Nebraskans’ healthcare hostage. Important programs like telehealth have lapsed. This is what a Schumer Shutdown looks like.” “Schumer and his Senate Minority say their ‘fight’ is about healthcare. That’s not the case. This is about partisan games,” said Ricketts. “Democrats claim to be fighting for healthcare. The reality is that their policies would harm it. Because of this shutdown, veterans’ services are impacted. Telehealth programs that rural and elderly Nebraskans rely on have lapsed. Hospital-at-home and home-based medicine programs have ended. Women and children can’t apply for WIC. Without a funding solution, WIC will soon run out of money. Those are the costs of this Schumer Shutdown.” TRANSCRIPT: “For the 8th day, the government is shutdown. “Government services have diminished or stopped. “Senate Democrats want to hold rural Nebraskans’ healthcare hostage. “Important programs like telehealth have lapsed. “This is what a Schumer Shutdown looks like. “The Schumer Shutdown doesn’t have to continue any longer. “Republicans are ready to pass a clean Continuing Resolution. “That means government spending continues at current levels. “The same spending levels President Biden signed into law. “That is the Republican position. “It is also a bipartisan position. “So far, three Senate Democrats have joined us in voting for it. “Extending current, bipartisan spending levels would secure more time to complete the regular appropriations process. “This isn’t new. “Senate Democrats passed Continuing Resolutions 13 times during the Biden administration. “Nearly 100% of Democrats voted for these specific spending levels four times in the last 18 months. “That includes Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who voted yes—all four times. “Folks, this is hypocrisy. “Schumer and the Democrats are holding government services hostage. “They’re playing political games with people’s lives. “This is a Schumer Shutdown. “It needs to end now. “Schumer used to say that holding funding bills hostage was wrong. “In 2013, he said: ‘What if I persuaded my caucus to say: “’‘I’m going to shut the government down. “‘I’m going to not pay our bills unless I get my way.? “’It’s a politics of idiocy, of confrontation, of paralysis.’ “By shutting down the government, Schumer and the Democrats are engaged in the very policy that Schumer previously described as idiocy. “Schumer and his Senate Minority say their “fight” is about healthcare. “That’s not the case. “This is about partisan games. “Democrats are demanding radical, far-left policies that will hurt Nebraskans’ healthcare and raise costs. “They’re demanding over $1 trillion of partisan spending in exchange for keeping the government open for four weeks. “They’re demanding free healthcare for illegal aliens. “They’re demanding that we eliminate the $50 billion Rural Healthcare fund that will directly support healthcare for Nebraskans. “They also want to restore a burdensome staffing rule that would force the closing of rural nursing homes in Nebraska. “Democrats claim to be fighting for healthcare. “The reality is that their policies would harm it. “Because of this shutdown, veterans’ services are impacted. “Telehealth programs that rural and elderly Nebraskans rely on have lapsed. “Hospital-at-home and home-based medicine programs have ended. “Women and children can’t apply for WIC. “Without a funding solution, WIC will soon run out of money. “Those are the costs of this Schumer Shutdown. “Services will continue to be impacted until more sensible Democrats reverse course and re-open the government. “If Chuck Schumer really wanted to improve healthcare for Americans, he would keep the government open. “He wouldn’t delay healthcare and increase wait times for veterans, families, or rural communities. “He wouldn’t cut funding that supports care in rural Nebraska. “As the Schumer Shutdown continues, services are going to be harder to access. “Schumer and the Democrats need to end their hypocrisy. “They need to stop harming rural healthcare. “They need to open the government.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-denounces-communist-chinas-actions-in-indo-pacific-illegal-coercive-aggressive-and-deceptive/,"Ricketts Denounces Communist China’s Actions in Indo-Pacific: “Illegal, Coercive, Aggressive, and Deceptive”",2025-10-08,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, The Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy, denounced Communist China’s Illegal, Coercive, Aggressive, and Deceptive (ICAD) actions in the Indo-Pacific. “Today’s hearing is on an egregious and continuing problem: Communist China’s illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions, also known as ICAD, in the Indo-Pacific,” said Senator Ricketts. “You’ll first notice the deliberate use of ICAD, coined by our Filipino friends, rather than ‘grey zone.’ This isn’t just semantics. ’Grey zone’ allows Communist China to muddy the waters with regard to its intention and its involvement. It’s trying to hide what it’s trying to do and ‘grey zone’ allows them to be able to do that. ICAD dispels this ambiguity and allows for more appropriate responses. It’s time to call out Beijing’s behavior for what it actually is. It’s illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive.” Ricketts praised America’s allies and partners in the region for “bravely confronting Beijing’s ICAD behavior.” Ricketts also called on Congress to do more to combat Communist China and deter future conflicts. “The United States must do more to even the scales and strengthen their resilience. Ranking Member Coons and I are working together to do just that,” closed Senator Ricketts. “We introduced the Taiwan Energy Security and Anti-Embargo Act, which would facilitate increased American LNG exports to Taiwan; encourage cooperation with Taiwan on nuclear energy use; and ensure commerce with Taiwan continues in a contingency. We also introduced the PORCUPINE Act, which would make it easier to quickly send arms that are critical for Taiwan to respond to and deter some of Communist China’s ICAD activities. And finally, we recently introduced a resolution honoring the 74th anniversary of the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty to ensure Communist China knows that the United States will continue to stand by our ally. But more needs to be done.” Watch the video here Hearing witnesses included: Mr. Craig Singleton, China Program Senior Director and Senior Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies Mr. Raymond Powell, Executive Director, SeaLight Foundation Dr. Ely Ratner, Principal, The Marathon Initiative TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “Today’s hearing is on an egregious and continuing problem: Communist China’s illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions, also known as ICAD, in the Indo-Pacific. “You’ll first notice the deliberate use of ICAD, coined by our Filipino friends, rather than “grey zone.” “This isn’t just semantics. “’Grey zone’ allows Communist China to muddy the waters with regard to its intention and its involvement. “It’s trying to hide what it’s trying to do and ‘grey zone’ allows them to be able to do that. “ICAD dispels this ambiguity and allows for more appropriate responses. “It’s time to call out Beijing’s behavior for what it actually is. It’s illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive. “In April, as Senator Coons mentioned, he and I, and Senator Budd, saw Beijing’s firsthand ICAD conduct on full display on a CODEL that we took to the Philippines and Taiwan. “On a P-8 overflight of the West Philippine Sea, we witnessed firsthand the sheer scope of Chinese illegal violations of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. “Communist China utilizes the full spectrum of ICAD measures to try to turn the West Philippine Sea into a Chinese lake within Beijing’s illegitimate and illegal Nine-Dash Line and undermining the Philippine people’s will to resist. “Xi Jinping has referred to this as the ‘smokeless battlefield’ that will allow Communist China to win without fighting. “Thanks to the tireless work of the Philippines, this hostility has been publicly documented, making it impossible for Communist China to deny, or for the world to ignore. “However, despite the reputational costs, Communist China’s dangerous aggression continues. “In August, we saw two Chinese vessels collide as they belligerently tried to ram a Philippine Coast Guard ship near the Scarborough Shoal. “While this was a reckless and embarrassing event for Xi Jinping, it could have been much worse, particularly if there was a fatal collision with the Filipino vessel. “This could have triggered our mutual defense treaty with the Philippines and started a war. “Rather than appreciating the severe risks of its aggression, Communist China has instead doubled-down. “In addition to continuing to ram ships and shoot water cannons, Communist China has resorted to political lawfare, recently declaring Scarborough reef as a nature reserve. “Let’s be clear – this is in the Philippines EEZ, not Communist China’s! “In Taiwan, the story isn’t any better, as my colleague just highlighted. “Taiwan continues to endure disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, blockades of Taiwanese food exports, undersea cable cutting, violations of its airspace and Exclusive Economic Zone, and increasingly larger military exercises simulating quarantines, blockades, and invasion. “Under President Lai, Taiwan has taken critical steps to strengthen its resilience to Communist China’s ICAD behavior, including increasing national-level planning and conducting civil defense exercises. “But Taiwan still remains particularly vulnerable to coercion. “This was evident in a tabletop exercise that Senator Coons and I held with Mr. Singleton earlier this year simulating a Chinese pressure campaign targeting Taiwan’s energy. “While Taiwanese and U.S.defense planners are right to prepare for a PLA invasion, a more immediate risk might be that Communist China will use ICAD tactics to destroy Taiwan’s ability to push back. “If we are to successfully neutralize Chinese ICAD tactics targeting Taiwan, it is clear that more needs to be done to bolster Taiwan’s whole-of-society resilience, military preparedness, and level of international support. “Concerningly, Beijing’s ICAD playbook is not confined to the West Philippine Sea or Taiwan Strait, but is now being used throughout the region. “In February, Chinese warships sailed through the Tasman Sea and circumvented Australia’s coastline for more than three weeks. “They staged unprecedented live-fire drills in a show of force meant to intimidate and stress test Australia’s ability to respond. “Communist China is also increasingly militarizing the Yellow Sea, installing dual-purpose platforms in disputed territory with South Korea. “Similarly, Beijing has stepped up construction of drilling rigs and other platforms along the median line with Japan in the East China Sea, while it conducts a record number of Coast Guard patrols around the Senkaku Islands. “So why does all of this matter? “To steal from Mr. Powell – as Sun Tzu said: ‘Supreme excellence consists of breaking the enemy’s resistance without fighting.’ “This is right out of Sun Tzu’s playbook to be able to win. “The greatest general never fights a battle, but defeats his enemy beforehand. “Ultimately, Communist China would rather act as a python, slowing squeezing countries’ will to resist rather than acting as a cobra and striking quickly. “Communist China’s ICAD tactics are central to this effort, or at the very least, they could provoke a kinetic response and give Beijing a pretext for ‘self-defensive’ military action. “The good news is that we have allies and partners who are bravely confronting Beijing’s ICAD behavior. “But they are currently out-matched. “The United States must do more to even the scales and strengthen their resilience. “Ranking Member Coons and I are working together to do just that. “We introduced the Taiwan Energy Security and Anti-Embargo Act, which would facilitate increased American LNG exports to Taiwan; encourage cooperation with Taiwan on nuclear energy use; and ensure commerce with Taiwan continues in a contingency. “We also introduced the PORCUPINE Act, which would make it easier to quickly send arms that are critical for Taiwan to respond to and deter some of Communist China’s ICAD activities. “And finally, we recently introduced a resolution honoring the 74th anniversary of the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty to ensure Communist China knows that the United States will continue to stand by our ally. “But more needs to be done. “And I look forward to hearing from our witnesses to understand the evolution of Communist China’s use of ICAD tactics, and what the U.S., and, specifically, Congress, can do to combat them.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1494E900-2C79-462B-B0DF-215BEEBE7ED2,"Fischer, Wicker in The Wall Street Journal: Pacific Allies Need U.S. Support",2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"In case you missed it: U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, penned an op-ed in The Wall Street Journal recounting their recent travels to the Indo-Pacific, including meetings held with leaders in Taiwan, the Philippines, and Palau. Read the op-ed here or below. We set out across the Indo-Pacific in August to assess U.S. military readiness and consult with allies. In the Philippines, Palau and Taiwan, we found partners determined to resist Chinese coercion and willing to share the burden. In Taiwan we spoke with President Lai Ching-tse and senior officials. They understand the gravity of the threat and are responding with urgency to meet it. Mr. Lai has committed to increasing defense spending and mobilizing the public behind a resilience plan. In Manila, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has placed restoring the alliance with the U.S. at the center of his foreign policy and deepened cooperation with Japan, Australia and Taiwan. With a fleet that dwarfs the Philippine navy, China has tried to use its muscle to dominate the South China Sea. Manila has stood firm. In Palau, China is working to undermine the government of President Surangel Whipps Jr. by exporting criminal elements and applying economic pressure. Palau is allied with the U.S., and Mr. Whipps refuses to switch diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to Beijing. Our allies are resolute and determined to resist China, and the U.S. is indispensable to that mission. Our military presence in Guam, Palau, Hawaii and the Philippines forms the kind of logistics chain that wins wars. Tougher infrastructure, backup communication cables and stockpiled supplies are crucial to victory. Over the past few years, we have worked closely with Adm. Samuel Paparo, who commands U.S. forces in the Pacific. We have sought to understand his requirements and cut through the bureaucracy that has for years prevented key investments in the Western Pacific. The defense investments in this year’s reconciliation law are designed to deliver capabilities relevant to the China fight, focusing on space capabilities, logistics systems, and low-cost weapons. The legislation expands munitions lines and will lead to more than a dozen new weapons production lines. The new law also strengthens our ability to operate from Guam and accelerates construction projects in Palau and at the Filipino military bases from which U.S. forces operate. These investments are complemented by historic new funding for strategic economic competition with China, including the creation of an Economic Defense Unit and supercharging the Office of Strategic Capital. A strategy based on peace through strength is the best approach for deterring China, Russia and Iran—the axis of aggression. It requires sustained defense spending that equals 5% of gross domestic product. Some have said this is too costly—but we can’t afford an underresourced military. We don’t get to pick the threats we face, only how to respond. The axis requires a comprehensive strategy that accounts for the contributions of our partners and is backed by the resources necessary to execute it. Mr. Wicker, a Mississippi Republican, is chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Ms. Fischer, a Republican, is a U.S. senator from Nebraska.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=73008523-8D56-4514-95CA-6B822A09A5D6,Fischer Statement on Second Anniversary of October 7 Attack,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement on the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack on Israel: “As we mark two years since Hamas’ cold-blooded attack on Israel, we honor the memory of those brutally murdered on October 7, 2023, including the hostages killed by this terrorist group. We continue to pray for the safe return of all those still in captivity. I stand firmly with Israel against Hamas’ heinous disregard for human life. Lasting peace demands the return of every hostage, the end of this devastating war, and the complete defeat of Hamas.” Today, Fischer also cosponsored a resolution condemning the October 7th attack and supporting the outcome that ensures the survival of Israel, the complete denial of Hamas’ ability to reconstitute in the region, and the release of all remaining hostages from the Gaza Strip—including two United States citizens. Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/10/fischer-statement-on-second-anniversary-of-october-7-attack",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=7C39861E-AEB6-4B7F-9D7B-4FF68D7B22FA,"Fischer on Senate Floor: Ag Producers Urgently Need Lasting, Long-term Solutions",2025-10-06,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, during a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) addressed the economic crisis facing ag producers in Nebraska and across America, emphasizing that time is running out to produce strong, positive results for farmers and ranchers. Fischer also highlighted that, in addition to assistance for farmers and securing strong trade deals, Congress must work to build new markets through the year-round, nationwide sale of E15. This would be made possible by Fischer’s Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which has strong bipartisan support. Click the image above to watch a video of Fischer’s remarks. Click here to download audio Click here to download video Following is a transcript of Fischer’s remarks as prepared for delivery: M. President, For all ag producers, the word “tariff” makes us nervous. But earlier this year, I took a step back to look at the bigger economic picture. I became one of the first members of Congress to support the administration’s effort to level the playing field on trade. I’ve said many times that the administration deserves time to secure strong trade deals that benefit Americans. However, the reality is this: farmers are targeted by other countries like China. I’ve seen it firsthand back home in Nebraska. Producers of corn, soybeans, and other top commodities are under crushing pressure. Rising input costs and uncertainty have driven farm finances to levels reminiscent of the 1980s crisis, which bankrupted thousands and hollowed out rural communities. Since 2020, seed costs have jumped 18%. Fuel and oil are up 32%. Fertilizer has spiked 37%. And interest expenses have surged an alarming 73%. Our soybean producers are projected to lose about $100 an acre this year. On top of that, storage costs for soybeans and corn have risen steeply. For everyone, this is crippling — and it’s happening during one of the largest harvests in memory. M. President, time is running out. We need to turn this around. We need a strong, positive action. Ensuring our farmers can weather tough economic times must be a national priority. It’s clear farm aid is needed at this time. Congress has taken some steps toward this goal. We passed $10 billion in farm aid last December and included a major boost for producers in July’s reconciliation law. However, that money won’t reach farmers until next fall. Producers need relief now. But here’s the challenge: we also need lasting, long-term solutions that help provide stability and real opportunity for ag producers. That’s why one of the fastest ways we can deliver results is by unlocking year-round access to E15 — a clean, American-made biofuel. Permanent nationwide access would increase corn demand by 2.5 billion bushels a year. It would lower gas prices for families. And it would drive new revenue into rural communities. President Trump’s Day 1 order to promote E15 through his National Energy Emergency Declaration was a strong start, but temporary fixes won’t cut it. That’s why I reintroduced my Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act earlier this year. When I first introduced this bill nearly a decade ago, it felt like an uphill climb. Today, momentum is finally on our side. We have strong bipartisan support. We have new industry partners, including members of the oil and refining sector at the table. This is a key piece of Republicans’ plan to lower energy costs, to strengthen American production, and to give consumers more choices at the pump. Trade is the other half of the equation. Former President Biden’s lack of a clear trade agenda left America with a $49 billion trade deficit, undercutting farmers in Nebraska and across the country. President Trump: you can help reverse that deficit by holding China accountable and ensuring American-grown soybeans have access to global markets — a lifeline for farmers facing losses this harvest season. President Trump has already made progress on this trade front. Take beef: Australia has sold nearly $29 billion worth of beef to U.S. consumers, while American ranchers have been locked out of their market. Now we need the same kind of breakthrough for soybeans, corn, and every other American crop. At the end of the day, farmers and ranchers want programs that work and markets to sell their products. M. President – simply put, they just want a fair shot. By securing strong trade deals and building new markets through year-round E15, we can revitalize the farm economy, bolster U.S. energy security, and ensure America’s producers can keep feeding and fueling this nation for generations to come. Thank you, M. President. I yield the floor.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-slams-schumer-democrats-shutdown-hypocrisy-on-the-senate-floor/,"Ricketts Slams Schumer, Democrats’ Shutdown Hypocrisy on the Senate Floor",2025-10-02,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On the second day of the government shutdown, during a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) called out the hypocrisy of Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and the Democrats in voting to shut down the federal government. “The government is shut down today, and responsibility lies squarely on the Minority Leader and the Democrats,” said Senator Ricketts. “In fact, you could call it his shutdown. Republicans have offered a clean continuing resolution that would keep government open to allow us to continue working on the appropriations process. And my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have called foul.” “The Minority Leader himself voted for this very continuing resolution four times in a row before this case,” said Senator Ricketts. “Hypocrisy! They are putting these unreasonable radical left demands in front of us instead of keeping government open.” Ricketts called on Senate Democrats to vote to end the Schumer Shutdown. “The Democrats should do what they have done 13 times in the Biden administration. Vote for a continuing resolution,” closed Senator Ricketts. “Help us continue our work on appropriations, because that’s the way the system is supposed to work. We’ve already passed three bipartisan appropriation bills. The Appropriations Committee has more bipartisan bills ready to work on. This could all be over if the Democrats will simply vote for a continuing resolution that they have already voted yes on four times over the last 18 months and 13 times during the Biden administration. If the American public is looking for answers, they have to look no further than the Democrats to find out who is responsible for this.” Watch the video here. TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: “The government is shut down today, and responsibility lies squarely on the Minority Leader and the Democrats. “In fact, you could call it his shutdown. “Republicans have offered a clean continuing resolution that would keep government open to allow us to continue working on the appropriations process. “And my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have called foul. “Somehow, this is unfair. “That we ought to have a negotiation. “In fact, they are demanding more than a trillion dollars in new spending to be able to keep government open for just seven weeks. “They want money for illegal immigrants to get health care. “They want more subsidies for the pandemic era insurance. “They want to end the Rural Health Care Fund that Republicans put in place for our rural hospitals. “They demand all of this saying the clean continuing resolution that we’ve offered is not sufficient. “Hypocrisy! “This is hypocrisy. “13 times in the Biden administration, Democrats voted for a continuing resolution. “Four times they have voted for this exact level of spending, this budget, four times in the last 18 months. “In fact, I’ve got a chart here that shows the percentage of Democrat senators who supported these continuing resolutions. “And you can see the numbers are almost 100% all the way across. “And when it’s not 100% it’s 98%. “The Minority Leader himself voted for this very continuing resolution four times in a row before this case. “Hypocrisy! “They are putting these unreasonable radical left demands in front of us instead of keeping government open. “Let me share with you a quote from our minority leader. “In 2013, he said, “What if I persuaded my caucus to say I’m not going to pay our bills unless I get my way? It’s a politics of idiocy, of confrontation, of paralysis.” “Further, the Minority Leader said in January 2024, “Passing the CR, of course, will prevent a harmful and unnecessary government shutdown. No reasonable member on either side, Democrat or Republican, wants a government shutdown. Both sides recognize that a government shutdown would mean crushing delays to veterans programs, delays to nutrition programs for women, infants and children, delayed benefits for our military and so much more.” “Now, as I mentioned, the Democrats have said this is about health care, but let me read you a quote from the junior Senator from Connecticut. “He said, when talking about health care, that “there is a time and a place to debate health care, but not when the funding of the federal government and all the lives that are impacted by it hang in the balance.” “The hypocrisy of the minority leader and the Democrats is breathtaking. It’s stunning. “During the Biden administration, they were happy to pass continuing resolutions, happy to, and in fact, when given the very same continuing resolution, they voted yes on four times in a row. “Now they say no for partisan political reasons driven by their radical left wing. “And again, they say they want to make this about health care. How disingenuous. “First of all, let’s examine the COVID subsidies that they want. “First of all, they’re the COVID subsidies. “These are pandemic subsidies meant for a pandemic. “Folks, news flash, the pandemic has been over for four years. “The Democrats were the ones who set the expiration date on it, and the Democrats, if they were so concerned about this, had all of last year to bring it up and address it and extend it once again. “If they had chosen to, they chose not to. “All of a sudden, crying about these subsidies now just smacks of hypocrisy. “And as I just read you the junior senator from Connecticut’s remark, when it suited them before they didn’t want to talk about health care when they were talking about continuing resolutions and government shutdowns. “Folks, this shutdown does mean that folks in my home state of Nebraska could see services diminished. “It could mean that, for example, Social Security offices may be understaffed. “Social Security checks are going to go out, but services may be diminished. “Women and children will not be able to enroll in the WIC program. “The person who’s supposed to help with IRS questions is not available. “National Parks may be closed. “All these services may be degraded, and all because the Democrats are holding the American public and Nebraskans in my state hostage for their radical left demands. “The Democrats should do what they have done 13 times in the Biden administration. “Vote for a continuing resolution. “Help us continue our work on appropriations, because that’s the way the system is supposed to work. “We’ve already passed three bipartisan appropriation bills. “The Appropriations Committee has more bipartisan bills ready to work on. “This could all be over if the Democrats will simply vote for a continuing resolution that they have already voted yes on four times over the last 18 months and 13 times during the Biden administration. “If the American public is looking for answers, they have to look no further than the Democrats to find out who is responsible for this. “Republicans have offered this continuing resolution and have voted for it. “And in fact, three Democrats have voted for the continuing resolution, including an independent who caucuses with the Democrats. “So we will continue to do our part by voting for this continuing resolution and continuing to put it up to give the Democrats a chance to get government back open so we can continue the people’s business and work on these appropriation bills, which is what we are supposed to be doing. “Thank you, Mr. President. I yield back my time.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-on-the-schumer-shutdown-the-hypocrisy-from-schumer-and-the-democrats-isbreathtaking/,VIDEO: Ricketts on the Schumer Shutdown: “The Hypocrisy from Schumer and the Democrats is Breathtaking.”,2025-10-02,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) slammed Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for shutting down the federal government to score political points and appease his radical left base. Ricketts made the comments during his regular conference call with Nebraska media. Watch the video here. “This is a Schumer Shutdown,”Ricketts said. “Nebraskans’ services will be limited under this Schumer Shutdown. Chuck Schumer and the Democrats are directly responsible for creating this.” “I’m fighting to end this Schumer Shutdown and responsibly fund the government,” continued Ricketts. Republicans offered Chuck Schumer and Democrats a clean extension of the current bipartisan spending deal. Democrats voted it down. They are hypocrites.” “The hypocrisy of Schumer and the Democrats is breathtaking,” said Ricketts. “Chuck Schumer demanded $1 trillion of partisan spending in exchange for keeping the government open for seven weeks. He demanded free healthcare for illegal aliens. He demanded that we eliminate the $50 billion Rural Healthcare fund that Nebraskans will rely on. He also wants to restore a burdensome staffing rule that would force the closing of rural nursing homes in Nebraska. Chuck Schumer’s demands aren’t reasonable. These radical policies will hurt Nebraskans.” TRANSCRIPT: Senator Ricketts: The federal government is currently shut down. “This is a Schumer shutdown. “Nebraskan’s services will be limited under the Schumer shutdown. “Chuck Schumer and the Democrats are directly responsible for creating this. “I’m fighting to end this Schumer shutdown and responsibly fund the government. “Republicans offered Chuck Schumer and the Democrats a clean extension of the current bipartisan spending deal. “Democrats voted it down. “They are hypocrites. “They voted for 13 continuing resolutions under Joe Biden that includes voting for this very budget. “In fact, these are the same funding levels they voted for four times in the last 18 months. “Chuck Schumer voted for it all four times. “Yes, Chuck Schumer voted for these spending levels four times in a row. “But now, to appease the far-left activists, he’s chosen to shut down. “What a hypocrite. “It’s the height of hypocrisy. “Here’s what Chuck Schumer specifically said about these shutdowns. “Back in 2013 Chuck Schumer said in an interview: “’What if I persuaded my caucus to say I’m going to shut down the government. “’I’m not going to pay our bills unless I get my way. “’It’s the politics of idiocy, of confrontation, of paralysis.’ “In January 2024 he said: “’Passing the CR, of course, will avert a harmful and unnecessary government shutdown. “’No reasonable member on either side, Democrat or Republican, wants a government shutdown. “’Both sides recognized that a government shutdown would mean crushing delays to veterans programs, delays to nutrition programs for Women, Infants and Children, delayed benefits for our military and so much more.’ “Here’s what Schumer also said in January 2024: “’Avoiding a shutdown is very good news for the country, for our veterans, for parents and children, for farmers and small businesses, all of whom would have felt the sting had the government shut down.’ “Schumer said: “’If the government shuts down, it will be the average American who suffers most. “‘A government shutdown means seniors who rely on Social Security will be thrown in chaos. “‘Veterans could see regional VA offices shut down and support services put on hold. “‘Some of our military service members could be forced to work without pay.’ “Now here’s what Connecticut Democrat Chris Murphy said in 2013 talking about the need for a funding bill that avoids partisan debates on health care. ‘There is a time and a place to debate health care, but not when the funding of the federal government and all the lives impacted by it hang in the balance.’ “The hypocrisy of Schumer and the Democrats is breathtaking. “Now Schumer is holding the federal government and hard-working Nebraskans hostage. “Chuck Schumer demanded a trillion dollars, $1 trillion of partisan spending in exchange for keeping the government open for just seven weeks. “He demanded free health care for illegal aliens. “He demanded that we eliminate the $50 billion Rural Health Care Fund that Nebraskans will rely on. “He also wants to restore the burdensome staffing level rule that would force the closing of rural nursing homes in Nebraska. “Chuck Schumer’s demands aren’t reasonable. “These are radical policies that will hurt Nebraskans. “Meanwhile, my Republican colleagues and I are working to responsibly fund the government. “We continue to advocate for a clean continuing resolution. “This extension would give the Congress more time to work through the regular appropriations process. “We passed three bipartisan appropriations bills before the August state work period. “The Appropriations Committee has more bipartisan appropriation bills ready for consideration. “Senate Republicans want to pass appropriation bills through the regular process. “A clean continuing resolution means extending the current bipartisan spending deal. “Passing a clean CR is what we as Republicans are fighting to do. “It was also a position of three Senate Democrats, John Fetterman, Catherine Cortez Masto and independent Angus King, who caucuses with the Democrats, all voted for a clean CR last night. “Instead of being reasonable, pro shutdown Democrats are playing political games. “This is harming all hard-working Nebraskans. “When the federal government runs out of funding, service levels decline. “Some programs stop. “For example, women and children cannot enroll in the WIC program. “While Social Security checks will continue to go out, Social Security’s customer service could be disrupted. “Veterans and their families could face delays in accessing benefits. “National Parks might close. “The Taxpayer Advocate will be unavailable to help with IRS questions. “My Republican colleagues and I will continue working to pass a clean funding bill. “That way, essential services will be protected. “We will continue working through to complete the regular appropriations process and responsibly fund government. “I am fighting to support Nebraska seniors, service members, veterans, workers, families and everyone who interacts with the federal government. “They deserve a government that works. “Schumer must end this Schumer shutdown.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-announces-postponement-of-mobile-office-hours-due-to-government-shutdown/,Ricketts Announces Postponement of Mobile Office Hours Due to Government Shutdown,2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his constituent casework staff will be postponing Mobile Office Hours due to the government shutdown. Mobile Office Hours will be postponed throughout the duration of the shutdown. When the government re-opens, Ricketts’ staff will announce new times for Mobile Office Hours across the state. While Mobile Office Hours are paused, Senator Ricketts’ offices in Scottsbluff, Kearney, Lincoln, Omaha, and Washington D.C. will remain open to serve constituents.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-my-office-is-open-available-to-help-nebraskans-navigate-the-schumer-shutdown/,"Ricketts: My Office is Open, Available to Help Nebraskans Navigate the Schumer Shutdown",2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement amid the Schumer Shutdown: “My offices across the state remain open. My team remains available to help Nebraskans. I will keep fighting to end this Schumer Shutdown and restore essential services,” said Ricketts. “Republicans offered Chuck Schumer and Democrats a clean extension of the current bipartisan spending deal. Democrats voted it down. I’m fighting to end this Schumer Shutdown and responsibly fund the government.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F740721A-E1D3-4D0F-9C63-DA2D4A7AD322,Fischer Votes to Keep Government Open,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after voting in favor of keeping the federal government open: “Today, I voted for a clean funding resolution that keeps the government open so Congress can continue working on our full-year funding bills. The Democrats, instead, voted for a $1 trillion increase in new spending and to eliminate the $50 billion Rural Hospital Stabilization Fund. Let me be clear: Americans deserve a transparent and accountable process as we fund government – not a Schumer shutdown filled with political theater. As we work toward a solution, my staff and I will continue to work for Nebraska, and my offices will remain open for the duration of a government shutdown.” Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/9/fischer-votes-to-keep-government-open",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-ahead-of-government-funding-expiration/,Ricketts Issues Statement Ahead of Government Funding Expiration,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement as Senate Democrats threaten to shutdown the federal government at midnight tonight: “The Democrats just voted to shutdown government. They voted against a clean continuing resolution (CR) that would have funded government for seven weeks. Previously, they had voted for this exact budget. In fact, Democrats voted for a clean CR 13 times under Joe Biden. This Schumer Shutdown is the height of hypocrisy. Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats know this. Yet they continue to hold the nation hostage. Senate Republicans will continue working to responsibly fund the government. This is a Schumer Shutdown.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6A9ADE3D-3E65-4D0B-A856-6BB3A83D130B,ICYMI from Fischer in Lincoln Journal Star: Finding Bipartisan Child Care Solutions for Nebraska Families,2025-09-29,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"In case you missed it: U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) penned an op-ed in the Lincoln Journal Star on her bipartisan Child Care Modernization Act and how it will help provide quality, affordable child care to America’s working families. Read Fischer’s op-ed here or below. In Nebraska, we take pride in rolling up our sleeves, working hard, and taking care of our families. But for too many parents, one question looms large: Who will watch the kids, and how can we possibly afford it? I heard this firsthand across the state during the August work period. In Brown County, I toured the Ainsworth Child Development Center, a nonprofit that opened their doors in March 2024. In Chadron, I met with the Northwest Community Action Partnership, which runs early childhood education programs that serve Box Butte, Cherry, Dawes, and Sheridan counties. Last year, I celebrated the launch of the Knowledge Network for Early Childhood Education Workforce (KNEW) project at the University of Nebraska at Kearney after securing $2 million in federal funding to boost recruitment and retention of rural early childhood educators. I also celebrated the ribbon cutting of the Bansal Family Home for Head Start in Lincoln, which expanded access to high quality care for infants, toddlers, and families in Lancaster County. These visits underscored a deep truth: when parents have reliable care, families thrive, employers have a steady workforce, and communities grow stronger. For towns across Nebraska, access to quality child care can mean the difference between families putting down roots or moving elsewhere. But child care is no longer just a family issue. It’s a workforce issue, an economic issue, and a community issue. More than 40% of American families can’t access affordable child care. In Nebraska, costs can consume more than 10% of a family’s income. That’s unsustainable for parents trying to get ahead. Providers are struggling, too. Child care workers in Nebraska earn about $29,000 a year — far below the state’s average salary of $63,800. Providers often operate on razor-thin margins, especially in rural areas. Families can’t afford to pay more, but providers can’t survive on what they earn now. That’s why I’m leading a bipartisan group to introduce the Child Care Modernization Act, a commonsense plan to update the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). This program, the backbone of federal child care assistance for over 30 years, hasn’t been updated in over a decade. My bill would strengthen it in three key ways. First, it would strengthen child care services. States would transition to cost estimation models to ensure reimbursement rates reflect the real cost of care, including staff salaries, training, and compliance. That means providers would be fairly compensated, helping to retain quality workers and expand supply. Second, it would increase the child care supply. By creating a new grant program within the CCDBG, funds could go directly to providers to open new facilities or expand existing ones. This is especially important here in Nebraska, where child care deserts — places with little to no available providers — stretch across rural counties. Third, it would improve state plans to better support families and communities. The bill emphasizes parental choice and flexibility. That means funding can support center-based programs, faith-based programs, home-based care, or in-home care — because every community has unique needs. The bill also calls for greater support of in-home providers, who make up nearly 40% of child care in rural America. These small businesses need technical assistance to navigate regulations and access shared services like provider networks. By making sure rural providers have the tools they need, we can expand care options for families from Omaha to Scottsbluff. For parents, the impact of CCDBG is already clear. A Nebraska family receiving a subsidy pays about $61 to $73 per month out of pocket. Without it, parents in Adams County pay an average of $900 per month for center-based infant care, and in Lancaster County costs top $1,100 monthly. Expanding and improving this program means more families can breathe easier, knowing child care won’t break the bank. The status quo is failing. Parents are stressed. Providers are stretched. Nebraska’s workforce is held back when parents who want to pursue their careers are forced to stay home because child care is too expensive or unavailable. The CCDBG has been a lifeline for low-income working parents for decades. Now it’s time to reauthorize and strengthen it with reforms that reflect the reality families and providers face today. This isn’t a partisan issue. Child care affects Democrats and Republicans, urban and rural families alike. For Nebraska communities, the Child Care Modernization Act represents hope that parents can keep working, providers can keep their doors open, and children can get the quality care they deserve.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=42CCF6DA-05B0-4069-A487-DB3B5638FB35,What They Are Saying: Support for Fischer’s Child Care Modernization Act,2025-09-22,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"A wide range of organizations and groups have endorsed Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-NE) Child Care Modernization Act. Last week, Fischer introduced the bipartisan bill alongside Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Susan Collins (R-ME), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO). NBC reported first on Fischer’s legislation here. The Child Care Modernization Act will reauthorize, for the first time in over a decade, the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) to help provide quality, affordable child care to America’s working families. What they are saying: “Access to affordable, reliable child care is one of the biggest challenges facing working families. The Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) is a vital part of facing that challenge head on. We’re grateful to Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Susan Collins (R-ME) for their bipartisan leadership in introducing the Child Care Modernization Act of 2025. This legislation offers an important opportunity to strengthen and sustain CCDBG while also addressing child care needs in real time. This will help serve more families both now and in the future,” said First Five Years Fund Executive Director Sarah Rittling. ""Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to support the Child Care Modernization Act and thanks Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) for their leadership updating the Child Care and Development Block Grant, the primary federal program that helps working families afford child care. With the national annual price of child care at an average of $13,128, we know that child care is out of reach for many families across the country. The Child Care Modernization Act recognizes that we must do more to make child care more affordable and more available, and alongside strong investments in our child care system it would move us forward towards that goal,” said Child Care Aware of America CEO Susan Gale Perry. “BPC Action is proud to endorse the Child Care Modernization Act, which reauthorizes and modernizes the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). CCDBG has long been a bipartisan program that delivers for families, and this legislation strengthens that legacy by helping parents better access affordable, high-quality care while supporting the workforce that provides it. Child care is essential economic infrastructure for working families, and we commend Sens. Fischer (R-NE), Gillibrand (D-NY), Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Collins (R-ME) for their bipartisan leadership in advancing solutions that strengthen children, families, and the economy,” said President of Bipartisan Policy Center Action Michele Stockwell. “This bipartisan bill comprehensively addresses foundational challenges in child care, with common sense policies and solutions that are informed by the real-world experiences of those who provide early care and education throughout the United States,” said Buffett Early Childhood Institute at the University of Nebraska. “School-aged care provided in afterschool programs is a lifeline for working families. 8 in 10 parents report that afterschool programs give them peace of mind and help them keep their jobs. This bipartisan legislation will help increase access to affordable, high quality afterschool and summer programs at a time when programs are out of reach for too many parents,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant. “The Early Care and Education Consortium (ECEC) commends Senators Fischer and Gillibrand for the bipartisan introduction of this vital legislation to modernize and reauthorize the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). CCDBG reauthorization is long overdue, and essential updates are needed to ensure the program meets the needs of today’s families. This bill aims to strengthen CCDBG by expanding access to high-quality, affordable care for working families, providing greater flexibility to states to connect more families to care, ensuring providers are reimbursed for the true cost of care, which includes better wages and benefits for educators, and addressing child care deserts. ECEC appreciates Senators Fischer and Gillibrand’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that American families can go to work knowing their child is in a safe and nurturing environment,” said Early Care and Education Consortium Executive Director Radha Mohan. “Executives Partnering to Invest in Children (EPIC) supports the Child Care Modernization Actbecause it strengthens our national workforce, supports economic opportunity, and ensures our country stays globally competitive. This bill takes important steps to provide additional flexibility to states as they seek to address critical child care supply challenges in communities across America while giving working parents choice in how they select care for their children while they participate in the workforce,” said Executives Partnering to Invest in Children President & CEO Nicole M. Riehl. “Independent restaurants and bars are powered by working families, and too many of them struggle to find the affordable, reliable child care they need to stay in the workforce. For small businesses with razor-thin margins, this isn’t just a family issue, it’s an economic one. The Child Care Modernization Act will give parents in our industry the support they need to keep showing up for their teams and their communities. We are grateful to Senators Fischer, Gillibrand, Collins, and Hickenlooper for leading this bipartisan effort to make child care more accessible and sustainable for America’s families,” said Independent Restaurant Coalition Executive Director Erika Polmar. “KinderCare proudly supports the Child Care Modernization Act and applauds Senators Fischer and Gillibrand for their bipartisan leadership. As the cost of raising a family continues to rise, modernizing the nation’s primary child care access and affordability program is both timely and essential. This legislation will strengthen support for families and ensure more children have access to the high-quality care they need to thrive,” said KinderCare Learning Companies Vice President of Government Affairs Patrick Murray. ""Facilities are an essential program feature often omitted from the discussions about increasing access to affordable, quality care. This legislation is particularly impactful because it incorporates resources for states to address facilities obstacles that inhibit the ability child care operators to provide affordable, quality care. Many child care providers lack the ability to address facilities needs because razor-thin operating margins, unpredictable operating streams, and lack of consistent and effective capital subsidies make it difficult to access to mainstream financial products. This bill will make it possible to better serve children, families, child care professionals and local communities,” said Child Care and Early Learning LISC National Program Director Bevin Parker-Cerkez. “The Low Income Investment Fund applauds Senators Gillibrand (D-NY) and Fischer (R-NE) for their bipartisan leadership in addressing the needs of families, child care providers, and communities through the Child Care Modernization Act. By recognizing the critical importance of federal investment in child care facilities, this legislation will help modernize infrastructure, strengthen quality, and ensure the health and safety of our nation’s children while helping expand our workforce,” said Low Income Investment Fund CEO Dan Nissenbaum. “For decades, America has treated child care like a personal problem instead of what it really is, an economic imperative. That’s why it matters that Senators Fischer and Gillibrand are reaching across the aisle with the Child Care Modernization Act. Families everywhere are drowning in child care costs, and businesses are losing talent because parents can’t find or afford care. No parent should have to choose between feeding their babies and funding their daycare. This bill takes a critical step by funding the supply of child care we desperately need. This is what real pro-family policy looks like,” said Moms First CEO & Founder Reshma Saujani. “Counties are essential partners in the nation’s child care system and responsible for administering the Child Care Development Block Grant in eight states. The Child Care Modernization Act will help improve families’ access to affordable, high-quality child care by making much needed updates to CCDBG and expanding the supply and capacity of providers. Counties thank Senators Fischer and Gillibrand for their bipartisan leadership and urge swift passage of this legislation,” said NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase. “As we recognize foundational business functions like accounting, software, and internet services as essential to success, we must also recognize child care as a critical business support. We commend Senator Fischer for prioritizing solutions that lower child care costs for working families. A bold, nationwide investment in child care is not only a matter of supporting families, but a priority for keeping the strength, resilience, and long-term vibrancy of the women-owned business economy,” said National Association of Women Business Owners CEO Jen Earle. “As an organization committed to the infrastructure of child care, NCFN applauds the inclusion of child care facilities funding in the Child Care Modernization Act. Investments in both the workforce and physical infrastructure are critical to building supply of child care that meets the needs of families and builds strong communities,” said NCFN Executive Committee. “Affordable, reliable child care is vital to helping every child get a strong start and ensuring parents can stay in the workforce. The Child Care Modernization Act will strengthen the Child Care and Development Block Grant by capping costs for families, expanding access to quality options, and giving states flexibility to build a diverse system of providers. This legislation is especially important for rural communities, where families too often face limited choices. Save the Children applauds Senators Fischer, Gillibrand, Collins, and Hickenlooper for championing this effort to modernize and expand access to child care nationwide,” said Save the Children Head of Policy Allison Dembeck. “The National Child Care Association is pleased to endorse the Child Care Modernization Act. It is exciting to see another bipartisan bill introduced to support child care. Thank you Senators Fischer, Gillibrand, Collins, and Hickenlooper for working together to propose a viable solution to this essential matter,” said Director of the National Child Care Association Cindy Lehnhoff. ""Child care is a vital economic development infrastructure. Modernizing child care goes beyond facilities. It's about empowering the workforce, improving quality, and making early learning accessible to every family. When parents can work confidently, knowing their little ones are in the best care, it helps employers recruit and retain top talent. It allows families to fully engage in their work and guarantees children are ready for kindergarten and academic success. This is how we build a stronger future for our country — one where families are supported, employers thrive, and the next generation has the foundation to reach their absolute potential,” said TOOTRis Founder & CEO Alessandra Lezama. “Child care programs are critical to fostering the healthy development of children and supporting America’s economic engine. As a leading provider of early childhood and school-age care, and an employer in more than 10,000 communities nationwide, the YMCA supports the bipartisan Child Care Modernization Act, which seeks enhancements to CCDBG that will benefit families, providers and communities,” said YMCA of the USA President & CEO Suzanne McCormick. ""The Child Care Modernization Act, if funded sufficiently, offers a meaningful opportunity to improve the Child Care and Development Block Grant. Because the bill would invest in the early childhood education workforce, improve how educators are paid, and build the supply of quality child care, NAEYC endorses this legislation, and is particularly appreciative of the bipartisan leadership of Senators Fischer, Gillibrand, Collins, and Hickenlooper to call for the funding necessary to implement it. We look forward to working with these offices and other leaders in Congress to continue to increase support and investment for policies that improve access to a quality child care system that works for children, families, educators, and our economy,” said National Association of the Education of Young Children Chief Policy & Professional Advancement Officer Daniel Hains.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=BD6463B3-0948-49D3-A068-84237564F757,Fischer Applauds $41 Million Grant to Lincoln Airport,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) today applauded the Department of Transportation’s announcement that the Lincoln Airport will receive a $41 million grant through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). This funding will support the final phase and reconstruction of Runway 18/36 at the airport. Due to the significant length of Runway 18/36, the Department of Defense uses the runway for unique military missions, which are primarily carried out by the Nebraska National Guard to support both state and national defense activities. “I’m pleased that, after much steady advocacy, the Lincoln Airport will receive the funds necessary to complete the refurbishment of one of its runways that plays a crucial role in the operations of our Nebraska National Guard and other national security missions. This has been many years in the making, and I look forward to seeing this project come to a final completion,” Fischer said. Fischer’s advocacy for the Lincoln Airport: Fischer has long championed the Lincoln Airport runway rebuild project. Recently, Fischer met with Bryan Bedford, President Trump’s FAA Administrator, to advocate for the Lincoln Airport’s runway refurbishment. In 2022, Fischer announced a commitment from the National Guard Bureau to use available funding to cover a portion of the cost to fully rebuild the runway. Fischer also secured language in the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act to highlight the important role installations like the Lincoln Air National Guard Base at the Lincoln Airport play in supporting STRATCOM missions, including nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) missions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-statement-on-democrats-vote-against-funding-the-government/,Ricketts Statement on Democrats’ Vote Against Funding the Government,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after voting to keep the government open until November 21: “Republicans offered Chuck Schumer a clean extension of the current bipartisan spending deal. A clean extension would allow us the time to complete the regular appropriations process. Instead of good faith negotiations and ensuring American servicemembers are paid, Schumer demanded over $1 trillion of partisan spending. He demanded the elimination of the $50 billion Rural Hospital Stabilization Fund. He also demanded the addition of a burdensome staffing rule that would close rural nursing homes. Chuck Schumer is recklessly threatening to shut down the government unless Nebraska taxpayers foot the bill for his partisan projects.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=517D4236-C0FE-47BB-B5CE-A85DE07A651D,ICYMI: Fischer Joins The Hugh Hewitt Show,2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Click the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer’s interview. Click here to download audio. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) joined The Hugh Hewitt Show to discuss the Senate’s nominations rule change, the importance of passing the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), and the continued effort to fund the government and pass individual appropriations bills. On the Nominations Blockade: Fischer: “You know, we're going to be taking those votes soon. We'll get it done this week. It's really ridiculous what the Democrats are doing. Some numbers that are out there: President Obama in his first 100 days, he had 292 nominees confirmed by voice vote. President Trump, he's had 135 nominees confirmed, but do you know how many by voice vote? Zero. That's going to change this week.” On Passing the NDAA: Fischer: “Everyone knows this is the main responsibility of a federal government is to provide for our common defense. We've passed this bill for over 60 years. We had a strong vote out of committee, only one no vote by Elizabeth Warren, so it came out strong out of the committee. And now we have Chuck Schumer who, through all indications that I've seen so far, I doubt that he's going to get on it, but we'll see. John Thune, Leader Thune, is doing a good job; he's pressing Schumer. But you know the Democrats … they need to press their own leader. They need to talk to Senator Schumer and tell him to do his job. We need to get on that bill and provide for our men and women in the military. Give them the resources that they need.” On Providing Support for U.S. Nuclear Deterrence: Fischer: “I think they’re vital [B-21 Bombers] for deterrence and the safety of this country. We were able to see as a people in this country how important they are. You know, General Cotton, who is the Combatant Commander at STRATCOM, he has emphasized that he thinks we need 200 of the B-21s in order to be able to maintain the strength of this country, the strength of our deterrence. We don't want to have to use them, but we want to be able to have what we need to protect this country. So, I am a strong supporter, … Hugh, of our nuclear deterrent, of the triad, to make sure that we have what we need for our homeland, to protect it, but also as an umbrella for our allies. On Funding the Government and Passing Individual Appropriations Bills: Fischer: “You know, we're watching the House now working on a CR, short term CR, to get over here to the Senate, and we have already seen no indication that we're going to have any kind of [bipartisan] support and bipartisan work on not just passing the CR, but also to move ahead then on appropriations bills. I don't know why the Democrats put up with him [Chuck Schumer] as a Leader. You know, he didn't have one appropriations bill on the floor last year. And in committee, we passed out 11 of the 12 bills. “And Hugh, I can tell you, in our leadership discussions, John Thune promised that he would take up on the floor the Senate appropriations bills if we got them out of committee. We've already passed three on the Floor: MILCON VA, Ag, and Leg Branch. And we have five more out of committee … And John Thune is a man of his word, and he's going to do it. You know, Chuck Schumer would talk about stuff, but he, to be blunt, he never had, I guess the wherewithal or the courage or the pressure from his members to put the appropriations bills on the floor. Let's be transparent. Let's be accountable to our voters and justify the votes that we take.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F263E0DD-533B-4FBE-9182-9B42D98E7D38,ICYMI From NBC News: Bipartisan Senate Group Releases Bill to Help Increase Affordable Child Care,2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"In case you missed it: NBC News reported on U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-NE) legislation she introduced this week, the Child Care Modernization Act. Fischer’s bill will reauthorize and improve the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) to help provide quality, affordable child care to America’s working families. Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Susan Collins (R-ME), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) joined Fischer in introducing the bipartisan legislation. Read the NBC story here or below. Amid intense polarization, alleviating the rising cost of child care for millions of American families is an area Republicans and Democrats in Washington believe they can find common ground. A bipartisan group of senators is unveiling a new bill Wednesday, shared first with NBC News, that would expand a key grant program for child care that hasn’t been touched in more than a decade. “This is something that we need to work on together,” Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., said in an interview in the Capitol. “We can’t just have one party or another try to take control, try to push something that won’t work in other parts of the nation.” Fischer joined forces with Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., and Susan Collins, R-Maine, to update the Child Care and Development Block Grant to strengthen child care services and help increase the supply of providers at a time when costs are significantly growing for parents. More than 40% of families in the U.S. can’t access affordable child care, according to a recent report from the Economic Policy Institute, which also shows that child care for just one infant costs more than rent in 17 states. It’s why the bill would give states the opportunity to help families above the current income eligibility (85% of the state’s average income) through a waiver process. And, critically, the legislation provides funding for states to help address significant provider shortages nationwide, as more and more working parents are finding it difficult to locate quality child care. By modernizing the grant, states will have greater flexibility in reimbursing child care workers for providing quality care to families that are eligible, its authors say. It would also provide support for in-home child care providers, who make up nearly 40% of formal care for babies and children up to 4 years old in rural areas. The assistance would include technical assistance for developing shared services, like provider networks, according to Fischer’s office. Fischer said she hears from families in Nebraska constantly, and the same is true for her colleagues around the country and across the aisle. “There is a lot of stress in families when you’re trying to balance everything: taking care of your children, being able to advance your career — and, a lot of times, that stress has consequences for families,” she told NBC News. “So we’re trying to say, yes, you can keep working, providing for your family, and still be able to have good quality child care and make a decision that fits your family needs,” she added. With the new bill, states would consult parents, providers and employers to develop child care plans, particularly in areas where there are currently child care deserts and a high percentage of children with disabilities. The bill has the support of the First Five Years Fund, an advocacy organization working to build bipartisan support for affordable and high-quality early learning and child care. “This issue touches families in every single congressional district, and that’s why it is one of the few that hasn’t been politicized,” Sarah Rittling, the group’s executive director, told NBC News. “Access to affordable, reliable child care is one of the biggest challenges facing working families.” Rittling also highlighted significant new spending on child care previously passed by Republicans and signed into law by President Donald Trump as part of the “big, beautiful bill” — which also made unpopular cuts to Medicaid and other programs. That child care provision, which infuses $16 billion into multiple federal credit programs for working parents not touched in decades, was backed by Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., and Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., (who voted against the overall package, with all Democrats). It was the biggest investment in child care in years, and Rittling said this new effort by Fischer and her colleagues to expand the block grant and make additional reforms to the industry is proof that the issue of access to affordable child care has momentum. “Because of the support, it’s starting a conversation about where we go from here and what we are doing at the federal government. We know there is broad support, lawmakers constantly hear about it back home. It’s an issue in desperate need of solution,” Rittling added.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-colleagues-applaud-e3-snapback-sanctions-on-iran-encourage-maintaining-pressure/,"Ricketts, Colleagues Applaud E3 Snapback Sanctions on Iran, Encourage Maintaining Pressure",2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined 49 Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to Jean-Noël Barrot, the French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs; Johann Wadephul, German Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Yvette Cooper, British Secretary of State. The letter thanked them for initiating snapback sanctions on Iran and encouraged them to maintain pressure until Iran permanently dismantles its nuclear program. The letter was led by Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch (R-ID). “While we back diplomatic efforts to restore Iran’s compliance with its International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) commitments, the international community should not allow hollow gestures and threats from Tehran to stop the snapback process,” the lawmakers wrote. “The regime has abused diplomatic processes for years to avoid penalties. Sanctions relief should only be negotiated after the snapback is fully implemented. The regime must fully and verifiably dismantle its nuclear program, restore full IAEA access, terminate its support for international terror proxies, and end its ballistic missile program — at a minimum.” “In light of the soon-returning international sanctions, we need joint interdiction efforts to prevent Iranian proliferation and acquisition of military, missile, and nuclear goods, technologies, and components,” The lawmakers continued. “In line with returning UN obligations, we hope you will help us fully shutter Iran’s banking sector abroad, including by closing all branches in Europe.” “More pressure is necessary to ultimately bring Iran back to meaningful and serious diplomatic engagement on the full spectrum of its malign activities,” the lawmakers concluded. Additional signers included Senate Republican Leader John Thune (R-SD), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Tim Scott (R-SC), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Barrasso (R-WY), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Curtis (R-UT), John Cornyn (R-TX), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Jerry Moran (R-KS), John Boozman (R-AR), John Hoeven (R-ND), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Shelley Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Todd Young (R-IN), John Kennedy (R-LA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK.), Ted Budd (R-NC), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Katie Britt (R-AL), Jim Banks (R-IN), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Jim Justice (R-WV), Jon Husted (R-OH), and Ashley Moody (R-FL). Full text of the letter can be found here and below: Dear Minister Barrot, Minister Wadephul, and Secretary Cooper: We write to applaud the United Kingdom, France, and Germany for initiating the snapback process to return international sanctions on Iran at the United Nations Security Council. This action was necessary in light of the Iranian regime’s persistent acts of nuclear extortion. We commend your leadership and support the successful reimposition of international sanctions and restrictions targeting the Iranian arms industry, its nuclear and missile programs, and its terror and proliferation activities. While we back diplomatic efforts to restore Iran’s compliance with its International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) commitments, the international community should not allow hollow gestures and cynical threats from Tehran to stop the snapback process. The regime has abused diplomatic processes for years to avoid penalties. Sanctions relief should only be negotiated after snapback is fully implemented. The regime must fully and verifiably dismantle its nuclear program, restore full IAEA access, terminate its support for international terror proxies, and end its ballistic missile program — at a minimum. Iran’s provocative nuclear threats, its reckless attacks with ballistic missile, and its wanton aggression through support for terrorism threaten the entire international community. Once snapback is completed, we look forward to working with you to ensure all UN members states and private actors abide by their renewed obligations and hold Iran accountable. We understand your governments’ hope that diplomacy would eventually succeed in ending Iran’s nuclear program, but after decades of the regime’s intransigence, its repeated deceptions, and now its open support for Putin’s war against Ukraine, we will count on your governments to lead the charge and advance a passionate enforcement of sanctions against Iran – whether at the European Union, in your respective capitals, or in foreign capitals. We also remain deeply concerned by the funding mechanism of Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile program: its oil sales — particularly to China — and smuggling operations via third countries. We appreciate the cooperation your governments have already shown in curbing these sales. In light of the soon-returning international sanctions, we need joint interdiction efforts to prevent Iranian proliferation and acquisition of military, missile, and nuclear goods, technologies, and components. In line with returning UN obligations, we hope you will help us fully shutter Iran’s banking sector abroad, including by closing all branches in Europe. Closing off the regime’s financial pathways will curb the regime’s aggression. More pressure is necessary to ultimately bring Iran back to meaningful and serious diplomatic engagement on the full spectrum of its malign activities.Thank you again for your leadership at this pivotal moment. We look forward to continued cooperation to ensure the full reimposition of sanctions on Iran and to achieve our shared objective: a permanent dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear program, the elimination of its uranium enrichment capability, the termination of its support for international terror proxies, and the end of its ballistic missile program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-coons-resolution-celebrates-the-74thanniversary-of-our-mutual-defense-treaty-with-the-philippines/,"Ricketts, Coons Resolution Celebrates the 74th Anniversary of Our Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines",2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Chris Coons (D-DE), the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, The Pacific, & International Cybersecurity Policy, announced a resolution celebrating the 74th anniversary of the signing of the mutual defense treaty (MDT) between the United States and Philippines. The resolution reaffirms the United States’ commitment to the defense of the Philippines under the MDT. “I have seen firsthand Communist China’s illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions against the Philippines,” said SenatorRicketts. “Last month, a China Coast Guard vessel recklessly collided with a PLAN destroyer. Last week, Communist China made a sham declaration of a ‘national nature reserve’ at Scarborough Reef. These are just two recent examples of Communist China’s malign behavior. It’s clear Communist China knows no limits to imposing its illegitimate, territorial claims. This resolution is a reminder to all that the United States will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our Filipino allies. We will continue to honor the mutual security commitments that have anchored our alliance for 74 years.” “For nearly three-quarters of a century, the Philippines has been a steadfast ally and one of our staunchest partners in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, ” said Senator Coons. “When Senator Ricketts and I traveled there earlier this year, we saw not only China’s growing aggression, but also a nation excited to strengthen our partnership. The Philippines has a million new workers a year ready to help us create the kind of defenses, manufacturing, and resilient supply chains that will make both our countries stronger. It has never been more urgent that we support each other and expand our security and economic relationship.” The resolution: Celebrates the 74th anniversary of the signing of the Mutual Defense Treaty between the United States and the Philippines and the longstanding alliance between our two nations; Appreciates the trust of the Philippine people in the bilateral alliance, and their support for increased defense cooperation and U.S. military presence in the Philippines; Acknowledges the determination of the Philippine people and their armed forces to resist PRC coercion; Condemns the PRC’s unprovoked aggression and political lawfare in the South China Sea to enforce its unlawful territorial and sovereignty claims; Rejects the People’s Republic of China’s coercive and destabilizing plans to establish a so-called “national nature reserve” at Scarborough Reef; Reaffirms that Article IV of the Mutual Defense Treaty extends to armed attacks on the Armed Forces, public vessels, or aircraft of the Philippines, including the Philippine Coast Guard, anywhere in the South China Sea; Considers PRC aggression in the Philippines’ internationally-recognized exclusive economic zone to be a direct assault on its sovereignty and territorial integrity; Urges the President to continue to take appropriate and necessary actions in response to escalatory PRC behavior to restore deterrence and help the Philippines defend itself; Supports the unwavering commitment of the United States to deepening security cooperation with the Philippines, including advancing its defense modernization and enhancing interoperability through military exercises, training, joint patrols, and increased information sharing; Supports other nations growing their political and security partnerships with the Philippines; Commits to advance cooperation among the United States, the Philippines, Japan, and Australia; Reaffirms the U.S. commitment to the right to freedom of navigation and overflight, respecting maritime rights under international law, and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. Co-sponsors of the resolution include U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Rick Scott (R-FL), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Michael Bennet (D-CO).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-discusses-2019-floods-water-management-with-army-corps-of-engineers/,"Ricketts Discusses 2019 Floods, Water Management with Army Corps of Engineers",2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, discussed the Army Corps of Engineers’ need to prioritize river management practices that protect lives and support industries that depend on the river for commerce. “When I was Governor in 2019, Nebraska and the Midwest experienced a devastating flood that affected many of our rivers and the Missouri River in particular,” said Ricketts. “Four people lost their lives. Farmers lost $400 million in corn and soybeans. Ranchers lost $400 million in cattle. Federal authorities estimate the damage to Nebraska alone cost $2.6 billion. I worked closely with the Corps to push for action.” “At that time, the relationship with the Corps was rocky,” said Ricketts. “Too often, Nebraskans’ concerns were met with only explanations of why something couldn’t be done… At times, I saw the Corps as more of an obstacle than a partner, and one that failed to put people first in its decision-making. Today is a new opportunity though, with Secretary Telle and Lieutenant General Graham leading the change.” Ricketts also discussed the Corps’ delays in realigning their mission priorities. He criticized a 2004 amendment to the Corps’ flood control water management practices that raised environmental compliance to the same level of importance as the protection of human life and property. “The $3 million dollar 3-year Planning Assistance Study has now taken more than 5 years and has cost more than $10 million,” said Ricketts. “This is a similar refrain to what we’ve heard from other people: projects taking longer and costing more. Still, it hasn’t changed the way the Corps conducts business. The study has yet to be finalized but it’s not clear there’s going to be any concrete, actionable steps in this plan for improvement.” “The roots of the problem go back to 2004, when an amendment to the 1979 Manual reversed the Corps’ historical flood control water management practices,” said Ricketts. “That shift fundamentally scrambled the Corps’ priorities for basin management. The amendment made environmental compliance equally as important as the protection of human life and property through flood mitigation. The Corps must refocus its management of the river on the agencies’ core values which is water management for the benefit of those who rely on it for commerce. And protecting people.” Click here to watch the video. The Committee on Environment and Public Works hearing was entitled Oversight of the US Army Corps of Engineers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z