By U.S. Senator Deb Fischer
As I packed my bags in Washington for our month-long state work period and some much-needed time back in the Good Life, I reflected on the progress we’re making for Nebraskans. Since Congress passed and the president signed the One Big Beautiful Bill, I’ve highlighted the law’s major wins for Nebraska’s agricultural sector, our safety and security, and working families. Now, I’m looking forward to spending the month of August meeting with those who will see the impacts of this legislation, including farmers, law enforcement, and parents.
This new law lays a strong foundation to cultivate economic growth in our state. But I’m also looking to what’s next. I believe that Nebraska can play a major role in rebuilding our nation’s manufacturing base, growing the next phase of the bioeconomy, boosting trade, AI, and financial innovation. I’m committed to using my senior position in the U.S. Senate to realize Nebraska’s growth potential. I’ve already started by directing millions of dollars in federal funding back home to support infrastructure upgrades, public safety measures, and agricultural research for our producers.
We can build on this momentum by putting economic development at the forefront of federal, state, and local policy efforts – we must move in the same direction across every level of government. There’s no single lever to pull. Growth takes alignment, shared priorities, and constant collaboration. I’d like to detail a few examples of how I think Nebraska can lead.
First, we must play to our strengths. Nebraska’s military assets are a huge strategic advantage. But we can’t stop at missions. We should be asking: how can we build the ecosystem around them? How do we bring in more defense-related businesses, strengthen our industrial base, and capture the jobs and innovation that follow? That’s the kind of long-term thinking we need.
Second, we need to create more places where people want to live and work. This part starts at the community level: strong schools, affordable housing, access to healthcare, and quality of life. If we get those right, it becomes much easier to attract talent and investment.
Then, we have to stay competitive and think strategically. At the state level, we must ensure our workforce is prepared and that we’re doing everything we can to keep the cost of doing business low. That means streamlining regulations, making licensing more flexible — especially for military families — and rethinking incentives to meet today’s challenges.
Finally, we should make smart investments from the federal side. At Offutt Air Force Base, for example, federal investments are keeping us competitive for future missions. Off base, it’s infrastructure — roads, water systems, broadband, airports — that underpins long-term growth.
At the end of the day, it’s about clarity and coordination. If we can stay aligned on where we’re going and what each level of government can contribute, I’m confident Nebraska will continue to punch above our weight. With these combined efforts, we will show the rest of the nation and the world what makes the ‘Good Life’ so great.
Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.
