McCook Daily Gazette: Columns: U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith

We need a serious budget (02/10/12)
As a former chairman of the House Budget Committee once said, "If you can't budget, you can't govern." Budgeting is one of the most basic things people do. Families and businesses in Nebraska budget every day, figuring out what their needs are and how they are to be met...

Reformed Essential Air Service vital for rural Nebraska (02/03/12)
When talking to residents in the Third District, issues of access are often discussed: access to health care, veteran services, and, certainly, transportation. One important initiative which facilitates transportation access is the Essential Air Service (EAS). ...

It's about the future (01/30/12)
This past week President Obama delivered his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. Traditionally, this speech has been a chance for the President to outline his agenda for the coming year. After more than three years of economic hardship, this was the time to chart a new path forward to put our nation back on a sounder fiscal and economic footing...

Supreme Court must strike down entire health law (01/13/12)
President Obama's unpopular health care law is back in the news again, but not for the reasons its supporters would like. In the coming weeks, the Supreme Court will take a hard look at the law to decide whether it passes constitutional muster. The question at the heart of the legal challenge brought by 26 states, including Nebraska, as well as the National Federation of Independent Business is whether the federal government has the constitutional authority to force every American to buy and maintain health insurance -- the so-called individual mandate.. ...

New trade partnership will benefit Nebraska (12/30/11)
As we close the book on 2011, there is no question political brinksmanship prevented opportunities for America to move forward. There were, however, consequential, bipartisan accomplishments which will benefit the country. One area where Republicans and Democrats, Congress and the White House were all able to come together was advancing an aggressive trade agenda...

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday season (12/16/11)
As families and loved ones gather across the Third District over the coming days to celebrate Christmas, I want to extend my season's greetings to you and your family. During this time of year, our thoughts and prayers go out to the men and women, and certainly their families, who sacrifice so much to defend our freedoms...

Comprehensive tax reform key to rebuilding our economy (12/09/11)
The November jobs report, which showed nearly twice as many Americans dropped out of the labor force than found work, underscored the deep and systemic problems still affecting the economy. One of those areas is our outdated tax code. Over the years, it has grown too complicated and cumbersome, and it is fundamentally unfair. There are many drivers of our sluggish economy, but we never will recover the jobs lost during the recession unless we undertake comprehensive tax reform...

We must redouble our efforts to end Washington's unsustainable spending (11/23/11)
Over the past several weeks, Washington has had multiple opportunities to address the nation's massive spending problem. Instead, the only thing Congress was able to accomplish was prove again how broken Washington has become. Despite the setbacks, we must redouble our efforts to end the unsustainable spending going on in our nation's capital...

Much to be thankful for this season (11/18/11)
The holidays are a special time to reflect on the past year, to celebrate, and to give thanks for the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy as Americans. President Ronald Reagan reminded us of our blessings in his 1982 Proclamation on Thanksgiving Day: "I have always believed that this anointed land was set apart in an uncommon way, that a divine plan placed this great continent here between the oceans to be found by people from every corner of the Earth who had a special love of faith and freedom.". ...

Remembering our nation's heroes (11/11/11)
On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918, the guns in Europe fell silent and the War to End All Wars was over. And on that day every year thereafter, Americans have come together to remember the sacrifices made by the veterans who took up arms on their behalf to defend freedom...

Nebraska cannot wait on stalled jobs bill (11/04/11)
Last month's jobs report did not offer much to feel good about the state of the American economy. October marked the 33rd straight month of joblessness above eight percent, a post-World War II record and job growth slowed to a four month low. Unemployment remains at nine percent. ...

Obama jobs plan is more of the same (10/21/11)
For 32 consecutive months the national unemployment rate has been at or above 8 percent. Today, it stands at 9.1 percent. Nearly 14 million Americans continue to look for jobs as average family incomes are dropping and the poverty rate is rising. Maintaining the status quo is unacceptable...

A pivotal moment for the economy (10/14/11)
After nearly five years of delay and political gamesmanship the trade agreements with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea finally passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bipartisan support. It was a pivotal moment for America's economy. With these agreements our economic and national security will be strengthened; and more opportunity will be created for our farmers, ranchers, manufacturers, and workers...

Rural post offices are critical to the 3rd District (10/07/11)
The U.S. Postal Service is an integral part of American life, especially in rural communities. In rural areas like the Third District, residents rely on the USPS for the delivery of prescription drugs, retail purchases, business mail, and cards from loved ones. In fact, you are likely reading this column in a newspaper delivered through the mail...

Standing up for the U.S.-Israel relationship (09/30/11)
Last week, during a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly, the Palestinian Authority (P.A.) began the process to be recognized as an independent "state." The P.A. submitted a now-pending request to the U.N. Security Council for consideration. If the proposition does not pass the Security Council, the Palestinian leadership then may attempt to bring its efforts to the floor of the U.N. General Assembly for an up or down vote by all members...

Helping you cut government red tape (09/19/11)
Much work remains to reduce spending, shrink the size of government, and get our economy moving again. It is an honor to partner with you to craft and support legislative initiatives, such as expanding international trade, eliminating burdensome regulations, and working to pass comprehensive tax reform, which will strengthen the Third District of Nebraska and restore opportunity for future generations. ...

An agenda for economic growth (09/09/11)
The solution to grow our economy lies in creating an environment where Americans see more opportunity through job creation, not through an expansion of government's reach. For more than two centuries, American workers and innovators have been the engine of an economy envied around the world because they had the ability to create, invent, hire, and expand without a looming uncertainty of the government's role in their business...

Regulatory reform on the horizon (09/01/11)
By law, the Executive Branch is required to annually document and make public the number of new regulatory actions it plans for the coming year. The Obama Administration recently posted information for 2011 online which revealed the regulatory onslaught is not being scaled back, but rather expanded...

Working toward comprehensive tax reform (08/26/11)
The U.S. economy grew a meager 1% from April-July 2011 as a result of weak consumer spending and stalled exports, highlighting the sluggishness of the recovery. This growth rate needs to be twice the amount or higher to create jobs and generate economic growth for full revitalization to occur. ...

The strain of high energy prices (08/19/11)
A recent Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll found 69% of respondents said they had been affected "a great deal" or "quite a bit" by the increase in gas prices this year. Average gas prices have recently fallen, but they remain 90 cents higher per gallon than a year ago. These higher costs continue to strain families, farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and seniors across the Third District of Nebraska...

Back to school in the 3rd District (08/12/11)
The month of August means it is time for students and teachers across the Third District to prepare for a new school year. Planning new lessons, meeting new classmates, and readjusting to the school schedule are just a few of the transitions which will be faced in the coming days. It is an exciting time of year. As the back-to-school season begins, I wanted to update you on the opportunities and services my office provides for students, teachers, and parents...

The time for a balanced budget is now (07/25/11)
From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson to Ben Franklin, balancing the budget united America's founders. Nearly 200 years later, in 1982, President Reagan declared his support for a balanced budget amendment, stating "only a constitutional amendment will do the job. ...

The big potential of small scale hydropower (07/08/11)
Hydropower is often thought to require massive dams and complex infrastructures to process millions of gallons of water to power entire cities. Small streams and irrigation canals are rarely considered resources to generate hydropower. In reality, the future of hydropower lies in these nontraditional sources...

International trade benefits Nebraska (06/20/11)
Opening markets around the world is critical to Nebraska's continued economic development. Trade creates opportunity for Nebraska farmers, ranchers, manufacturers, and small businesses to expand, generate jobs, invest in new technology, and continue growing our economy. For example, Nebraska exported more than $5.7 billion in merchandise to international markets in 2010, directly supported almost 20,000 jobs...

The need to address our debt (06/07/11)
On June 2, 2011 Moody's Investors Services, a credit rating agency for government entities, issued a serious warning about the government's credit standing. Moody's cautioned its next rating for the U.S. will "depend on the outcome of the negotiations on deficit reduction. A credible agreement on substantial deficit reduction would support a continued stable outlook; lack of such an agreement could prompt Moody's to change its outlook to negative."...

Always remember (05/30/11)
Recently, the Arcadia High School Band from Valley County performed a number of patriotic songs at the National World War II Memorial in Washington, DC. As the band closed with The Star-Spangled Banner a World War II veteran who was visiting the monument for the very first time rose from his seat and saluted the flag. This moving scene was a vivid reminder of the battles waged and the sacrifices made which allow us to enjoy freedom today...

An unsustainable path (05/23/11)
Each year the Medicare and Social Security Trustees release annual reports conducted by nonpartisan actuaries at the Social Security Administration and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The reports estimate future financial obligations and revenues of the programs, including the value of each program's trust fund...

Preserving our Second Amendment right (04/29/11)
Nebraskans have long held rights granted by the Constitution close to our hearts -- especially the Second Amendment right to bear arms. In total, an estimated 90 million Americans own more than 200 million guns. Many are used for sport and hunting, others are collectors' items, and still more are used for self-defense and security...

Moving forward (04/25/11)
With the government funded for the rest of the fiscal year, Congress can focus on solving the other problems which daily impact Nebraska families, workers and businesses. While progress has been made in many areas, there is much work left to do. The price of gas continues to rise; onerous regulations hamper businesses; and government spending needs additional cuts. ...

The critical need for fundamental tax reform (04/04/11)
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- With Tax Day approaching on April 18, the pain our burdensome, complicated tax system inflicts on Nebraska families, workers, and job creators will surface once again. A survey recently conducted by Rasmussen Reports found only 9 percent of Americans think the U.S. tax system is the best in the world. This truth is well-grounded in reality...

Strengthening our relationship with Israel (03/25/11)
The uprisings in Egypt, Tunisia, and throughout the Middle East, have drastically changed the future political landscape of the region. However, as this volatile period is navigated, it is imperative we work to ensure United States foreign policy interests are protected, particularly our relationship with Israel and its security in the region...

The Committee on Ways & Means and You (02/28/11)
With its roots dating back to 1789, the Committee on Ways and Means is the oldest committee in the U.S. House of Representatives, and in fact, most of its jurisdiction is derived directly from our Constitution. It is an honor to have the opportunity to sit on a committee with such a rich history and great tradition. However, at the same time, it is humbling because this assignment enables me to serve Nebraskans on critical issues facing our families, farms, businesses, and ranches...

The fallacy of President Obama's budget (02/21/11)
The White House spent last week describing President Obama's budget as historic. Unfortunately, his proposal was neither inspiring nor compelling, and as a result, it was met with bipartisan opposition. Members of both parties share concerns the President's budget lacks the long-term vision to confront the serious fiscal and economic challenges we face and agree this proposal spends too much, taxes too much, and borrows too much...

Following Reagan's lead on regulation (02/14/11)
This month we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birthday of President Ronald Reagan. We not only celebrate his life, but also, and more importantly, the legacy he left to America and the world. Throughout his life, whether as an actor, spokesperson, governor, or President, he passionately pursued his vision for America, which was rooted in freedom, opportunity, and prosperity...

Farmers and ranchers: America's first conservationists (02/07/11)
Farmers and ranchers remain our nation's first conservationists. Nebraska's farmers and ranchers recognize the responsibility of good stewardship toward their land. However, they understand conservation not only applies to protecting their land, but to the animals in their care. ...

From time to time (01/28/11)
"He (the President) shall from time to time give to Congress Information of the State of the Union and recommend to their Consideration such Measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient." -- Article II, Sec. 3, U.S. Constitution. Recently, President Barack Obama fulfilled his duty as outlined by the Constitution and presented his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress...

The time to repeal and replace is now (01/21/11)
Often when you're traveling in the wrong direction, the most prudent action is to stop and change directions. In direct opposition to the wishes of the American people, last year Congress passed into law the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Despite promises to the contrary, the simple truth is this 2,800-page monstrosity is restraining our economic recovery and destroying jobs by burdening entrepreneurs and employers with tax increases, government mandates, and costly regulations...

Access to representatives an absolute necessity (01/14/11)
Serving Nebraska's Third Congressional District is the highest honor I could ever experience. Beyond representing Nebraskans on legislative matters, a significant part of my job is helping improve the federal government's accessibility and responsiveness when addressing the needs of Third District residents...

Starting the 112th Congress off right (01/11/11)
It happens every two year. Another session of Congress is sworn-in. Sometimes the majority party retains control. Sometimes, like this year, the previous minority party wins enough seats to retake the majority. When the 112th Congress convened recently, it was accompanied by a unique event. ...

New Year's Reolution: Protecting your identity (01/03/11)
This time of year, New Year's resolutions are a common topic of conversation. People dedicate themselves to losing weight, watching less television, and finally reading those books which have been piling up. To add to the list, one resolution we should all make a priority is taking steps to protect our identity from cyber-thieves...

Christmas greetings (12/27/10)
I want to take this week's column to wish all Nebraskans a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. During this time of year our thoughts and prayers go out to the men and women -- and their families -- who risk their lives to defend our freedoms. In his radio address to the nation on Christmas Eve 1983, President Ronald Reagan spoke eloquently about the sacrifices our men and women in uniform have made for our country. I have included portions of his speech below...

'Tis the season to fight higher energy prices (12/17/10)
American families are preparing for the holiday season, and doing so by paying the highest fuel prices in two years. Nationwide, gas prices are a hair's breadth from $3.00 a gallon and they are clocking in at $2.99 in Nebraska. This is up from $1.81 when President Obama took office...

Fighting tax increases during the lame duck session (12/03/10)
WASHINGTON -- Americans sent an unmistakable message last month: Washington needs to cut spending and steward taxpayer dollars in a fiscally responsible manner. For far too long -- and under both Republican and Democrat watches -- our nation's finances have been mismanaged and ruled by out-of-control spending...

Remembering to give thanks this holiday season (11/24/10)
The holidays are a wonderful time to reflect on the past year, to celebrate, and to give thanks for the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy. This past week, many of us joined families and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving. President Ronald Reagan once commented, "Perhaps no custom reveals our character as a Nation so clearly as our celebration of Thanksgiving Day."...

Waiting is the hardest part (11/19/10)
As the old saying reads "waiting is the hardest part." Waiting also can be costly, especially when it comes to trade agreements which could boost our economy just when it is struggling to get back on its feet. Unfortunately, since 2007 our nation's agriculture producers have been waiting for action on a number of trade agreements which could strengthen our economy. ...

Honoring our nation's veterans (11/12/10)
Just a few days ago, our nation joined together to celebrate and honor the brave men and women who have defended -- and are still defending -- our nation from those who would stamp out freedom and democracy. In small towns and large cities, Americans of every political stripe and of all ages attended parades, heard speeches, and personally thanked veterans for their dedication to our country...

The value of research and development (11/10/10)
Throughout our nation's history innovators and entrepreneurs have played an integral role in creating American jobs, increasing productivity, and moving our economy forward. They have done so by pursuing new ideas and technologies. As a member of the House Science and Technology Committee, I have seen just how valuable research and development can be to our nation, and I'm committed to helping the private sector realize its full potential in exploring new frontiers...

Answering seniors' health care questions (11/01/10)
During the contentious debate surrounding the health care bill, Nancy Pelosi famously said, "We have to pass the bill so you can find out what is in it." Now that it is passed, however, there seems to be more confusion than ever. Even Andy Griffith is getting into the debate, starring in a round of Medicare television advertisements as part of a nationwide, taxpayer-funded campaign...

Another trillion dollar deficit (10/25/10)
It's plain and simple - you deserve fiscal responsibility from your government. Unfortunately, Washington has failed to live up to this basic tenet. Instead, through inaction and complacency of both political parties, Americans have been saddled with ever increasing federal spending, endless bailouts, and economic uncertainty...

Lame duck dangers (10/15/10)
When a football game goes into overtime or a baseball game goes into extra innings, fans are usually on the edge of their seats with excitement. Unfortunately, when Congress goes into extra innings it usually means bad things for American taxpayers...

Pushing back on the EPA's Overreach (10/08/10)
Over the last two years, the EPA has proposed burdensome new air and water regulations on everything from irrigation canals to methane from cows. We all know too well how these actions could negatively impact our nation's rural and agricultural economies...

Stop-gap measures poor substitute for action (10/01/10)
In a time when no spending bill, government takeover, or bailout is too big or too costly for this Congress, it may seem odd for the Democrat Leadership in Washington to leave town without even setting a budget. Yet this is exactly what has happened...

Stemming the tide of illegal immigration (09/24/10)
The controversy surrounding our nation's immigration system is just one more example of states and cities taking matters into their own hands due to enforcement failures by the federal government. As a member of the Immigration Reform Caucus, I am committed to promoting legal and safe immigration by discouraging illegal entry. We can do this through border security and removing incentives to break our laws and enter our country...

Jobs and tax increases (09/20/10)
Waking up looking forward to college bowl games is a tradition on New Year's Day. But this year, those small businesses struggling to create jobs may wake up to find themselves dealing with a $3.8 trillion headache instead of watching football. Unless Congress acts, a $3.8 trillion tax hike is set to take effect on January 1, 2011. What does this mean for you? The average Nebraska family will see their federal income taxes skyrocket from $3,461 to $5,090 -- an increase of $1,600...

The health care law's job-killing tax mandate (09/13/10)
Our nation's farmers, ranchers, and small businesses could have a pile of paperwork in their near future, thanks to -- of all things -- the government takeover of health care. The new health care law signed by President Obama requires farmers, ranchers, and small businesses to file a Form 1099 with the Internal Revenue Service for every vendor or contractor from which they purchase $600 or more in goods or services in a calendar year...

This Labor Day, let's focus on jobs (09/03/10)
As our nation celebrates Labor Day -- a day we honor the American worker -- many will rightly focus on our nation's high unemployment rate and what steps Congress can take to create an environment which help small businesses create jobs, instead of placing more rules and regulations on employers...

Back to school youth leadership opportunities (08/30/10)
As we enter into the fall, students across Nebraska are returning to classes, catching up with friends, and meeting new classmates. A new school year is always exciting, and I've been honored to meet with students of all ages and share their excitement. After every meeting, I've come away impressed with the quality of Nebraska's youth, and I am committed to helping them make the most of opportunities to expand their horizons...

One stimulus bill after another (08/13/10)
As I've traveled the Third District, I've had the chance to meet with hundreds of Nebraskans. They are concerned about our economy and the ever increasing intrusion by the government into our lives. They are frustrated Congress continues to pass one stimulus bill after another without actually improving our economy...

Small hydropower has big potential (08/09/10)
When most people think of hydropower, they think of huge dams and millions of gallons of water powering entire cities. Very rarely does anyone think of a small stream or an irrigation ditch. But this is exactly where the future of hydropower lies...

What roads, planes and trains mean to Nebraska (08/01/10)
Western Nebraska is defined by wide open spaces. But the open vistas which we treasure also can create logistical nightmares for transportation of goods and services, to say nothing for the everyday traveler. Access to highways, railways, and airways is vital to our commerce and our way of life...

Misguided financial reform hurts economy (07/23/10)
On July 21 what many hoped would be a bipartisan effort to reform Wall Street and ensure our economy avoids another fiscal meltdown ended on a partisan note. As a result, the financial regulatory reform bill President Obama signed into law will cost jobs, hurt our economy, and was passed with very little Republican support...

Preserving our veterans' stories (07/11/10)
Recently our nation celebrated Independence Day -- marking 234 years since our Founding Fathers declared our freedom from Great Britain. In parades and celebrations, we saluted the courage, resolve, and commitment to our country by those who wore our nation's uniform and those who continue to serve in our military forces -- as well as their families and loved ones...

Independence Day (06/25/10)
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed..." -- Declaration of Independence...

Summertime energy blues (06/18/10)
As we move into summer and higher energy prices hit Nebraska families, small businesses, farmers, and ranchers it is becoming increasingly clear we need a real, comprehensive energy plan. The onset of the summer travel season traditionally means an increase in the demand for fuel as families take to the road for vacations. ...

Beginning work on the next farm bill (06/11/10)
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Our nation faces unprecedented economic challenges, and rural communities are not immune. From environmental policies like the Clean Water Act, to economic policies such as languishing trade agreements, the Death Tax, and our skyrocketing federal debt, farmers and ranchers have concerns...

Entrepreneurship strengthens Nebraska (06/04/10)
Our national debt just surged past the staggering amount of $13 trillion. That's $13,000,000,000,000. Our country is now on a path to borrow an average of $1 trillion each year for the next decade, which is more than was borrowed from 1776 to 2000 combined. Just as our economy is beginning to turn around, Washington, D.C., is forcing more and more spending, leading to our ever-skyrocketing national debt...

Honoring their service, remembering their sacrifice (05/28/10)
This is the time of year to reflect, appreciate, and honor those who have served in our Armed Forces. Memorial Day gives us a chance to remember those men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice defending the freedoms we hold so dear and to thank those who risk everything in service to our country...

Export 2010 (05/21/10)
As our economy struggles to right its course, we should be exploring every avenue to boost businesses and create jobs. The global trade market is one area which represents a tremendous opportunity for Nebraska's small and medium-sized businesses. It is fitting we are in the midst of celebrating World Trade Month, which honors and celebrates the nearly 300,000 American businesses which support millions of American jobs. ...

Health care's cost to business (05/17/10)
Small businesses are -- quite literally -- the lifeblood of our economy. They represent 99 percent of American businesses and employ millions of workers. Our economy's recovery depends a great deal on healthy small businesses and a friendly fiscal climate. Unfortunately, a storm is brewing for our nation's small businesses...

The budget process cannot be ignored (05/07/10)
At its most fundamental level, the duty of Congress is to steward the government's revenue. Lately, all it's been doing is spending it. To shoulder this responsibility appropriately, annually Congress drafts a budget, establishing a fiscal blueprint for government to follow on spending decisions...

Access as guaranteed by the Second Amendment (04/30/10)
Nebraskans have long held our rights close to our hearts -- especially our Second Amendment right to bear arms. The Second Amendment guarantees an individual the right to keep and bear arms; however, for too long this right has been denied to some Americans simply because of where they live...

Stargazing, Nebraska style (04/23/10)
On Tuesday, April 20, NASA's space shuttle Discovery and her crew of seven astronauts ended their 15-day, 6 million-mile roundtrip to the International Space Station with a picture perfect landing at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida...

Energy infrastructure and rural America (04/16/10)
One of the most difficult challenges facing our nation's future is providing clean, affordable, and reliable energy. This growing need requires not only sources of energy, but also an infrastructure which can deal with this demand. Rural states like Nebraska require an infrastructure which allows us to tap into resources such as wind and hydropower, can efficiently deliver the energy, and can transport energy created within our borders to other areas of the country...

Tax day cometh (04/12/10)
April brings spring showers, but it also brings a date a little less pleasant -- tax day. For those who procrastinate, the next few days will be worrisome. For those who filed their taxes early, the refund may be in the mail, but that doesn't mean your concerns are over...

Trade agreements must see the light of day (04/01/10)
With all the talk of jobs and stimulus bills coming out of Washington D.C., I have remained surprised an important part of our economy seems to have reached a frustrating stalemate. International sales are a boon to our economy. As the leader of the free world, the U.S. also is one of the largest trading nations, supporting millions of American jobs...

Health Care: Where do we go from here? (03/26/10)
Health Care: Where do we go from here? We all know the story of Hansel and Gretel -- the two children who discover a house made of candy and other goodies only to find out it is a deception by a wicked witch and the truth is much more dangerous. In many ways the recently passed health care bill resembles the house made of candy. It too has unfortunate realities waiting to be discovered...

Proud to oppose the government takeover of health care (03/22/10)
As the old adage goes, "Nothing good ever happens after midnight." It wasn't quite midnight when the House of Representatives voted to pass a government takeover of health care; it was closer to 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, but the 219 to 212 vote was not good news for our country...

Nebraska celebrates Ag Day (03/12/10)
The first day of Spring can't come fast enough for those of us still dealing with the cold weather which has plagued our state for much of the winter. But as we approach March 20, we can look forward to better weather while at the same time celebrating a Nebraska treasure...

The future of fuel (03/05/10)
The future of our nation's fuel supply just might come in a tiny package. Microscopic, in fact. Algae -- the green pond scum which has frustrated gardeners for generations -- are being considered by many as a promising fuel source to meet our country's energy needs...

The stimulus: One year later (02/26/10)
The Stimulus: One Year Later A little more than a year ago, on February 17, 2009, President Obama signed into law the so-called "stimulus" act. The $862 billion stimulus bill was supposed to create 3.5 million jobs by the end of 2010. In reality, my concerns it wouldn't work regretfully held true, and since it passed in February 2009, 3.3 million Americans have been put out of work...

The EPA and flawed science (02/22/10)
Like you, I'm concerned our nation relies on foreign sources of energy. The longer we continue to depend on other countries for the energy which drives our economy, the greater the likelihood of again facing sky-high prices. This is why I am working to develop oil and natural gas exploration here in the United States as well as expand research into renewable biofuels...

3,800,000,000,000 (02/05/10)
On Monday, February 1, President Barack Obama submitted his budget proposal for the coming fiscal year. This is the first step in the budgetary process, though the evolution will continue on for several more weeks as Congress proposes its own version...

The state of our union (01/29/10)
Last week President Barack Obama delivered his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. Traditionally this speech has been a chance for the President to outline his agenda for the coming year. Instead, President Obama wasted an opportunity to embrace a new approach for our Nation by defending a legislative agenda much of America has already rejected...

The way ahead on health care (01/22/10)
WASHINGTON -- On Tuesday, Jan. 19, America saw an upset of astounding proportions. Scott Brown's election victory in the Massachusetts Senate race changed the political landscape in many ways -- most notably the future of the proposed government takeover of health care...

Our highest priority? (01/18/10)
Just a few weeks ago, the terrorist plot to bring down Northwest Airlines Flight 253 was thwarted by a combination of luck and vigilance on the part of everyday citizens. This incident aboard an international flight from Amsterdam to Detroit on Christmas Day combined with the assassination of seven CIA officers in Afghanistan by a double-agent just before the New Year are stark reminders the war on terror continues...

Peace in the Middle East (01/11/10)
Recently I was honored to accompany several of my colleagues on a bipartisan mission into the heart of the Middle East. During our time in Egypt, Israel, and Turkey, we were offered not only a chance to promote a deeper understanding of the region but also to learn about the complex security issues facing this area of the world...

America in the Red (01/04/10)
Thousands of Americans are struggling with debt, forced to make tough budget decisions in order to stay within their means. The federal government also is facing massive debt problems, but unlike families across Nebraska and the nation, it is refusing to take the tough steps necessary to put our nation's fiscal house in order...

Christmas greetings (12/18/09)
I want to take this week's column to wish all Nebraskans a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. During this time of year, our thoughts go out to the men and women in harm's way who defend our freedoms and the freedoms of people they have never met...

Killing the death tax (12/11/09)
It is said the only things certain in life are death and taxes. Somehow the federal government has managed to combine both. The estate tax -- commonly referred to as the "death tax" -- is a tax on assets transferred following an individual's passing. This tax is a drag on our economy because it taxes capital, the fuel of economic growth...

Bringing increased transparency to government (12/04/09)
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis once said, "Sunlight is the best disinfectant." For too long the federal government has gone about its business in secret. Congress has added special-interest provisions to bills behind closed doors, spent millions with no regard to fiscal reality, and purposely passed bills no one had the chance to read...

Reasons to be thankful beyond the holiday season (11/25/09)
As we reflect on our Thanksgiving weekend and begin preparations for the upcoming Christmas season, I hope we take the time to recognize the true meaning of the holidays we are celebrating and reflect on how precious it is to have the freedom to celebrate with family and friends...

The Internet and rural America (11/20/09)
Through my work with the Science and Technology Committee as well as the Agriculture Committee, I have had the opportunity to examine issues concerning new communication technology and the impact the Internet can have on our communities. Unfortunately, many rural states like Nebraska have seen a "brain drain" in recent years as our younger generation leaves for other areas of the United States. As the depletion occurs, we lose our most vital economic assets to more populated areas...

Serving our nation's veterans (11/13/09)
Last week, our nation took time to thank, honor, and remember the men and women who sacrificed -- and continue to sacrifice -- for our great nation. In parades and services, we saluted the courage, resolve, and love of country exemplified by those who wore and wear our nation's uniform, as well as their families and loved ones. We celebrated their service -- from those who served in World War II and Korea, to those who defend freedom around the world today...

A tale of two plans (11/09/09)
On Saturday November 7, 2009, the House of Representatives engaged in a historic debate over two distinct health care proposals. Those hours were the end result of months of town hall meetings, congressional hearings, and conversations with constituents...

Trade agreements are needed (10/30/09)
Our country's economy is -- thankfully -- beginning to show modest signs of recovery, but there are still challenges. Our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew for the first time in three quarters, yet the jobless rate remains disturbingly high. Just as has happened in every other economic recovery, American farmers and businesses will be the driver of economic growth. ...

Health care, small business and you (10/23/09)
In the very near future, Congress will debate in earnest a health care bill which will have major impacts on nearly every industry throughout our economy, especially our nation's small businesses. Small businesses today represent 99 percent of all businesses in our country and provide a source of income for roughly half of the U.S. workforce. They have created more than 70 percent of the American jobs and are -- quite frankly -- the lifeblood of our economy...

'Czards' need to be held accountable (10/19/09)
Presidents always have surrounded themselves with advisors and counselors. Beginning with President George Washington, these individuals play an important role in public and foreign policy. To date, the Obama Administration has appointed more than 30 new advisors to oversee various industries and governmental functions. ...

72 hours is not too long to read the bill (10/09/09)
Congress has the responsibility to craft reasonable legislation which serves the American public. Many of the issues Congress deals with on a regular basis are simply too important to be rushed. Unfortunately, Members of Congress are too often asked to make decisions on bills which can have more pages than major novels with only a few hours to actually read them...

The need for missile defense (10/02/09)
It is an unfortunate reality: the world is a dangerous place. There are terrorist organizations and even entire countries which are enemies of freedom. It is our responsibility to provide an appropriate and timely defense against those who threaten our security, especially those who would use ballistic missile technology against America or our allies...

Rural America needs veterinarians (09/25/09)
Those of us who enjoy living in small, rural communities know well the many benefits. Neighbors know each other, they help out during harvest or calving season, and they are always there to lend a hand. Of course, there are challenges, among them access to air service, specialized medical care, and roads funding. ...

U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith
Washington Report

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