Congressman Adrian Smith Addresses Local Concerns at Keystone Business Center

McCOOK Neb. - Congressman Adrian Smith recently engaged with community members at the Keystone Business Center, discussing a range of critical issues affecting Nebraska and the nation. The conversation spanned from agricultural policies to fiscal responsibility and federal spending.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on agriculture, with Congressman Smith highlighting his long-standing support for E15 ethanol. He noted the growing bipartisan support for year-round E15 sales, emphasizing its importance to the industry. He also addressed the potential of biofuels in sustainable aviation fuel, recognizing its relevance to Nebraska's agricultural sector.

Fiscal policy was another key topic, with Congressman Smith expressing concerns about the national debt, which he stated is "$38 trillion." He emphasized the need to balance tax policies with budget considerations, noting the ongoing work to make certain provisions of the 2017 tax cuts permanent. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining the U.S. dollar's status as the world currency, stressing the potential instability that could arise from defaulting on the national debt or government shutdowns.

Healthcare and education were also addressed. Congressman Smith discussed the challenges of Medicaid provider taxes and the potential for innovative healthcare solutions, such as allowing pharmacists to administer Medicare services. On education, he expressed concerns about federal bureaucracy and advocated for more local control. "If we could take those resources, channel those to the local level...we can see a better outcome," he stated.

The Congressman also addressed the Postal Service, discussing concerns about mail security and efficiency, and expressed his concerns about tariffs, but his appreciation for trade engagement.

The discussion also touched on housing affordability, the impact of remote work on rural areas, and the challenges of balancing federal spending with local needs. Congressman Smith reiterated his commitment to addressing these issues and working towards solutions that benefit Nebraska and the country.