Opinion

ebraska by Paul Hammel What is it about Nebraskans and the slab of aluminum we bolt onto the back of our cars - the license plate? For some reason, we Cornhuskers get emotional over the design of the state’s plates. There are gripes aplenty.

d.C . Congress’ most basic responsibility is also one of its most important: funding the federal government.

d.C . by U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts Nebraska is the best place in the world to live. But for so many potential first-time homebuyers, the market has become out of reach. This year, the average age of a first-time homebuyer is 40 across the country. But in 2016, just a decade ago, the average first-time homebuyer was 31. Why is the age of an average homeowner increasing? That’s because buying a home has become less affordable. Red tape and regulations drive up the cost of housing. This makes it more difficult for first-time homebuyers.

On Monday, January 19, we paused as a nation to remember and honor the life and legacy of one of America’s most consequential civil rights leaders.

Four years of Biden brought us open borders, record inflation, and emboldened adversaries.

Throughout my tenure as Chair of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, one thing has always been evident: trade works best when it is built on relationships, trust, and time. Agreements are not simply ink on paper, but signals to workers, farmers, and businesses about how the United States is committed to showing up, year after year, as a reliable partner.

As a reporter, you cover all kinds of stories. Stories about natural disasters, murders, grandmas who collect cookie jars and good samaritans.

This week we began floor debate on bills carried over from last year that were presumed to be non-controversial as they came out of committee last year with no opposition. That being said, the first few drew healthy debate and attention from many who follow the work of the Legislature making this an appropriate time to give a quick refresher of how the Unicameral system works and how bills move through the system. Nebraska stands alone among the 50 states with its unicameral, or single- house, legislature. This unique structure replaces traditional twohouse checks and balances with multiple stages of review within one chamber.

From its creation by President James Monroe in 1823 until today, the Monroe Doctrine has been a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy. This policy asserts foreign interference in the Americas will be met with American resolve, shaping generations of diplomatic, military, and security decisions. From Cold War efforts to halt the expansion of communism to modern questions of sovereignty, the doctrine continues to frame America’s interactions with our neighbors, politically, economically, and on practical matters like border security.

The first time I walked into the State Capitol, I wondered “what is making all these people walk like Olympic racers down these halls?” I almost got run over by some walkers; the new guy needed to get out of the way. To be sure, the Capitol hallways extend in a square, making them ideal for a quick walk around the square for exercise or just to clear the brain.