Dear Friend,

It’s hard to believe that another year has almost come and gone. Nebraskans have a lot on their minds as they head into the holiday season. From juggling family obligations to busy jobs and hectic schedules, it can be challenging to take time, reflect, and give thanks.

This time of year, we hold in our hearts those who have served, and are currently serving, in the Armed Forces. It is because of their sacrifice that we enjoy living in the greatest country on Earth. To that end, I am proud to team-up with the American Red Cross for this year’s Holiday Mail for Heroes Campaign. This initiative is a simple way for Nebraskans to send holiday greetings to members of the military, their families, and our veterans. You can find out more information about how to participate by clicking here. 

As you prepare the turkey, set the table, and visit with family, I hope you will reflect on your own blessings as a citizen of this great country and our beautiful state. 

From my family to yours, I wish you all a happy Thanksgiving.

A Special Thanksgiving Message

United with Paris

This month, the world witnessed horrific terror and the very real threat Islamic terrorism poses to free and open societies. The attacks in Paris remind us of the dangers on our doorstep. I join all Nebraskans in expressing our deep sorrow and solidarity with the people of France as they grieve and persevere through this tragedy.

In the days following this attack, I joined my colleagues on the Senate Armed Services Committee, where we received the latest intelligence on these threats. I will continue to pressure the administration to put forth a clear and comprehensive strategy to destroy ISIL. The safety of our nation and our citizens will remain my most important priority.

Making Progress on a Long-Term Highway Bill

Earlier this month, I was appointed to the conference committee for a long-term highway bill. It is an honor to join my colleagues on this committee, which is focused on rectifying the differences between the Senate and House versions of the legislation. 

During our first meeting of this bipartisan, bicameral conference, I brought key Nebraska concerns to the table and stressed the importance of a long-term solution for our nation’s transportation infrastructure. After years of delay, we are now very close to a solution that would update and maintain America’s infrastructure for years to come.

Taking a Stand Against Federal Overreach

This month, I voted for two legislative proposals that would stop the administration’s “waters of the United States” rule, commonly referred to as WOTUS. This rule would empower the federal government to regulate any body of water – from farm ditches to prairie potholes and everything in between. The first bill was a measure, known as the Federal Water Quality Protection Act, that I cosponsored with Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming. It would direct the administration to withdraw the rule and issue a revised proposal. I also voted for a joint resolution to block the implementation of WOTUS altogether. 

I will continue to hold the administration accountable and ensure the citizens of Nebraska, not bureaucrats in Washington, remain in control of our water resources.

Creating Jobs and Strengthening the American Workforce

The American labor force has a skills gap problem. Nearly eight million workers are unemployed while more than five million jobs are waiting for workers with relevant skills. This month, I joined Senators Cory Booker of New Jersey and Tim Scott of South Carolina as a cosponsor of S. 574 – the Leveraging and Energizing America’s Apprenticeship Programs (LEAP) Act. This bill would help match individuals with job opportunities by offering tax credits to businesses for each new apprentice they hire. With this common-sense proposal, we can strengthen our workforce and provide businesses with more incentives to succeed and grow.