Weekly Column

**Click here to download the audio recording of this week’s column**

During this month’s state work period, I was glad to be back in Nebraska. I spent the week visiting local residents in many communities, including Blair, South Sioux City, Norfolk, Columbus, Stromsburg, Seward, Arlington, and Fremont. It’s always a pleasure to catch up with Nebraskans. Your thoughts, concerns, and input continue to guide my work in the U.S. Senate. 

While on the road, I hosted a number of community coffee events. These informal gatherings at local venues are great opportunities for folks to visit with me in person and ask questions. At each of these events, it was clear that Nebraskans are engaged and informed on the important issues of today. I was pleased to have the opportunity to discuss many of their concerns and provide updates on my work in the Senate. 

A common theme at many of these community coffees was overregulation from the federal government. From the “waters of the United States” rule to President Obama’s Clean Power Plan, misguided federal mandates are threatening the economic security of Nebraska families. I am fighting these burdensome rules in the Senate, and the judicial branch is also taking action. 

In several of my conversations, many Nebraskans voiced their concerns about the current vacancy on the Supreme Court following the death of Justice Antonin Scalia. Our nation was saddened by the sudden loss of such a brilliant legal mind and selfless servant of the law. It is crucial for Nebraskans and all Americans to have a voice in the selection of the next person to serve a lifetime appointment on the Supreme Court, and there is precedent to do so. Therefore, I believe this position should not be filled until the election of a new president. 

As I continued to make my way across eastern Nebraska, I was delighted to stop by Arlington High School. There, I met with the senior class in the school gymnasium, where they asked great questions on a variety of issues. The students inquired about U.S. efforts to stop North Korea’s growing aggression, gave anecdotes about Nebraskans struggling under ObamaCare, and asked questions regarding what steps are needed to cut back on wasteful government spending. We also discussed the upcoming presidential election, with many of these students excited to cast their votes for the first time in November. The students at Arlington are very bright, and they show that tomorrow’s leaders are prepared to lead our country. I hope they will stay engaged, take a stand, and continue to serve their communities. 

The time I spend with Nebraskans deepens my sense of pride in our state and its people. As the year goes on, I will host many more community coffees and listening sessions throughout the state. Once these sessions are announced, details will be posted on my website, Facebook and Twitter pages, and in your local papers. I also have great staff in Nebraska and Washington, D.C., who stand ready to assist you at any time. It is truly an honor to serve you in the U.S. Senate, and I hope you will continue to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. 

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week. 

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