This week was filled with hearings, votes, introduction of legislation, and meetings with constituent advocacy groups. 

On Monday, I hosted a tele-townhall for the people of Nebraska’s Second Congressional district to discuss the latest issues in Congress and around the world. During the tele-townhall, I addressed several key topics including the recently passed reconciliation bill that the extended tax cuts, the recissions package, updates on the Ukraine war, immigration reform, my priorities for the remainder of my term, and much more. Our tele-townhall had over 7,200 participants in addition to 414 audio streaming participants. You can listen to the entire tele-townhall here.

Before the tele-townhall, I was honored to have served as Speaker Pro Tempore of the House, a humbling reminder of our democracy's enduring traditions and the sacred duty we share in serving the American people.

On Tuesday, I joined the TransAtlantic Policy Network's panel on threats facing the West. The growing alliance between Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran demands our attention. The NDAA passed by the House Armed Services Committee with bipartisan support strengthens US-European cooperation and reinforces our commitment to NATO allies.

We recognized Coast Guard Petty Officer Scott Ruskan for saving 165 people during the Texas floods. During the ceremony, he said, “I’m just a dude and anyone would have done the same if given the opportunity.” We salute Scott Ruskan.

It was great to catch up with Nebraskans for the Arts to discuss the vital role of arts & culture in our communities. Supporting these programs ensures Nebraska's creative spirit continues to thrive and enrich lives across our state.

During Wednesday's House Agriculture Committee hearing, I addressed how California's Proposition 12 will raise pork costs by 20% at the grocery store. California doesn't have the right to dictate to Nebraska farmers. Congress has authority over interstate commerce and we must fix this. You can listen to my full remarks here.

Before flying back to Omaha, I joined Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), and Anti-Defamation League (ADL) CEO and National Director Jonathan Greenblatt to announce bipartisan legislation — the Stopping Terrorists Online Presence and Holding Accountable Tech Entities (STOP HATE) Act — to combat terrorists and disinformation on social media. Everybody in our country is entitled to respect and not to be the object of hate and scorn. We want to be in a country that makes clear that antisemitism or any kind of racism is repugnant, unacceptable, not allowed in an online space, and that we have zero tolerance for it. We need to work with our social media companies to clean this up because what is going on is wrong. We need to hold these companies accountable and work with them to take it off the airwaves. Learn more about our legislation here.

Planning a trip to Washington, D.C.? Join your fellow Nebraskans for this time-honored tradition every Wednesday when Congress is in session. This week's Nebraska Breakfast was extra special as we celebrated our hardworking summer interns who help keep our offices running smoothly. As an intern back in 1984, I know firsthand the valuable experience and opportunities that come with serving in these roles. RSVP and learn more here.

You can keep up to date with me on a weekly basis via my X, Instagram, and Facebook accounts! Take a peek and follow me! Also, feel free to share this newsletter and encourage your friends to sign up at https://bacon.house.gov/contact/subscribe.htm. 

As always, I appreciate the honor to serve the 2nd District of Nebraska. Have a concern or question? Visit our website at https://bacon.house.gov/contact/.