Opinion

Nebraska is cattle country. We used to be known as “The Beef State” – a nickname I always liked.

WashingtOn d.C . As the farm economy continues to struggle – exacerbated by the ongoing government shutdown – Nebraska’s agricultural producers are feeling the strain.

LB665, introduced in January of last year, was a bill intended to initiate a crucial discussion on both data security and food sovereignty in Nebraska agriculture, particularly related to the use of EID technology. This conversation continued during last week’s October 31 Agriculture Committee Hearing on my LR153, a study aimed at helping policymakers and producers understand the risks associated with electronic identification (EID) technology concerning data privacy, cyber vulnerabilities, and foreign interference.

American farmers and ranchers work hard to provide the world with high-quality, nutritious, and affordable food options, all while dealing with many challenges outside of their control. Agricultural markets are inherently volatile, and the high-risk nature of the agriculture industry means producers are particularly exposed. Recent headlines are a reminder of why American producers need as much certainty as we can provide.

There’s an old saying about government – “what is said isn’t so, it’s what is so isn’t said.” So that means that someone – maybe a state auditor, maybe a whistleblower, but often a news reporter – needs to dig in and find out what is really happening with our tax dollars. That ’ s why it was so disgusting to read recently about our Secretary of War’s crackdown on access by reporters to the Pentagon.

Our law enforcement officers work hard to prevent crime and protect families. They face danger, act fast, and serve with courage. I continue to work with my Republican colleagues to end the Schumer Shutdown and support our law enforcement officers.

As we approach one month since Senate Democrats shut down the federal government, Senate Republicans continue to fight to end the stalemate and reopen the government for the American people. Meanwhile, Democrats have voted more than a dozen times to keep it closed. For four weeks, I’ve written about this ongoing shutdown. While I would much rather share updates on the progress we’re making for Nebraskans on Capitol Hill, I cannot ignore this unprecedented impasse created by the Democratic Party.

Nebraska, the Beef State, stands as a colossal pillar in the global agricultural landscape, with the beef industry providing the very backbone of our state’s economy. More than just a commodity, beef production in Nebraska is a testament to generations of hard work, innovation, and commitment to quality.

WashingtOn d.C . We are into the third week of the Schumer Shutdown.

W It is now nearly one month since the House passed its clean continuing resolution to keep open the federal government. On September 19, House Republicans did our job.