NU spokesperson says report raises important questions but ‘does not adequately reflect the complexity of university finances’

By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/zachwendling/">Zach Wendling</a><br><a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/03/17/lincoln-senators-clash-over-nebraska-school-retirement-bill-as-school-leaders-weigh-in/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;A new external analysis indicates the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the NU system are “financially healthy,” leaving some UNL faculty “scratching our heads” as to why administrators are again seeking to trim 1.8% from the budget.

UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/09/13/unl-proposes-27-5-million-devastating-cuts-six-program-areas-slated-for-elimination/">proposed</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://budgetprocess.unl.edu/proposed-budget-reductions/" target="_blank">$27.5 million in budget cuts</a>&nbsp;in mid-September. The total includes $21 million to eliminate a structural budget deficit that Bennett said had “compounded over time,” plus $6.5 million to “help safeguard against repetitive budget reduction cycles.”&nbsp;

Over the past five years, UNL has already weathered more than $75 million in combined cuts.

“We can’t take the budget justification on face value,” said Sarah Zuckerman, president of the UNL’s chapter of the American Association of University Professors, which sought the analysis.

However, an NU spokesperson responding to the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/University-of-Nebraska-Lincoln-Financial-Analysis-October-2025-Bonnie-Fox-Garrity-Final.pdf">financial analysis report</a>&nbsp;said while it raises important questions, “it does not adequately reflect the complexity of university finances.”

Zuckerman is one of many faculty continuing to push back on the necessity of the cuts, questioning the data used to identify a host of programs proposed for elimination or merger. Among the proposed eliminations are six academic areas, including the Department of Educational Administration where Zuckerman is an associate professor.

Every campus in NU’s system is paring back budgets, and regents are set to vote on chancellor recommendations at a Dec. 5 meeting. A UNL committee of faculty, staff and students had until last week to respond to Bennett’s recommendations and offer alternatives.

UNL has declined to release the committee report before Bennett finalizes his proposal, expected by early next month.

On Wednesday, Bonnie Fox Garrity, a financial analyst for the national AAUP and a business professor at D’Youville University in Buffalo, New York, shared her October analysis of UNL and the NU system requested by Zuckerman’s AAUP chapter. She’s done similar reports for other campuses, too.

Among Garrity’s findings are that of UNL’s proposed $27.5 million in cuts, trims to “instruction” account for 69% of the proposed reductions, yet the area is 20.2% of UNL’s total expenses.

The report found that there are fewer instructional employees at UNL since 2019, a decrease of 7.8% to mid-2024, and these employees’ salaries had risen by 4.5%. The increases were not adjusted for inflation. Meanwhile, the number of non-instructional employees at UNL — which includes top administrators —&nbsp;had grown by 7.6%. Salaries for that group of employees grew by 31.7%.

Over the past decade, Garrity said UNL’s total expenditures grew 39.1%, which accounts for a 97% increase in athletics, which is financially independent. There also was a 53.1% increase in administrative spending and 30.3% increase in instructional spending.

“Our approach is that the financial expenditure should be focused on the core mission of the institution, on the students, on the educational experience,” Garrity said.

Garrity, at a news conference Wednesday announcing the report, said she doesn’t see a “financial crisis” justifying the cuts.

“Even in the announcement of the cuts it was clear that a portion of the cuts were something like a proactive move,” Garrity said. “It is my thought that the cuts could be avoided.”

Zuckerman said she came to UNL nine years ago happy to be at a “real university” with resources and support. However, she said “year after year” those resources “disappeared,” with budget reductions in eight of her nine years.

The AAUP asked for a similar financial analysis in 2021, Zuckerman said, which also indicated UNL was in strong financial health. She and other faculty worry UNL’s actions will hurt the trajectory of UNL, diminish its educational offerings and hurt student opportunities.

“That analysis left us scratching our heads as to why there had been so many cuts,” Zuckerman said.

A UNL spokesperson directed the Nebraska Examiner to a spokesperson for the NU system, Cara Pesek, who said NU values the “essential” role of faculty and appreciates the engagement of Zuckerman’s AAUP and others around “shared governance.”

Pesek noted NU and its NU Foundation are financially strong in part because of “careful fiscal stewardship.” There are also many restricted or designated university funds that Pesek said can’t be used for academic salaries or instruction.

In the end, there is another challenge NU has faced for a decade: Lagging state support to the tune of over $200 million that hasn’t kept up with inflation. NU’s main “state-aided budget” consists of tax dollars and tuition. Pesek said this is “creating structural pressures that require careful ongoing management.”&nbsp;

The NU Board of Regents froze tuition rates during the COVID-19 pandemic but increased tuition in each of the past three academic years, including 5% before this fall semester began.

“These campus-led efforts are part of a long-term plan to achieve and maintain fiscal balance, protect the university’s core academic mission and ensure that Nebraska’s only public university remains strong for generations to come,” Pesek said in a statement. “We deeply value the role of shared governance in achieving these goals.”

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761826662987.png" alt="Bonnie Fox Garrity, a financial analyst with the national American Association of University Professors and a business professor with D’Youville University in Buffalo, New York, leads a news conference presenting a financial analysis she did in October 2025 into the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s budget. Oct. 29, 2025. (Courtesy of UNL AAUP chapter)" />
                        <figcaption>Bonnie Fox Garrity, a financial analyst with the national American Association of University Professors and a business professor with D’Youville University in Buffalo, New York, leads a news conference presenting a financial analysis she did in October 2025 into the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s budget. Oct. 29, 2025. (Courtesy of UNL AAUP chapter)</figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>NU spokesperson says report raises important questions but ‘does not adequately reflect the complexity of university finances’</h2><p>By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/zachwendling/">Zach Wendling</a><br><a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/03/17/lincoln-senators-clash-over-nebraska-school-retirement-bill-as-school-leaders-weigh-in/">Nebraska Examiner</a></p><p>LINCOLN —&nbsp;A new external analysis indicates the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the NU system are “financially healthy,” leaving some UNL faculty “scratching our heads” as to why administrators are again seeking to trim 1.8% from the budget.</p><p>UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/09/13/unl-proposes-27-5-million-devastating-cuts-six-program-areas-slated-for-elimination/">proposed</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://budgetprocess.unl.edu/proposed-budget-reductions/" target="_blank">$27.5 million in budget cuts</a>&nbsp;in mid-September. The total includes $21 million to eliminate a structural budget deficit that Bennett said had “compounded over time,” plus $6.5 million to “help safeguard against repetitive budget reduction cycles.”&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761826712319.png" alt="Faculty protest plans at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to trim $27.5 million from the campus budget, which includes the proposed elimination of six academic programs. Oct. 9, 2025. (Photo by Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
                        <figcaption>Faculty protest plans at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to trim $27.5 million from the campus budget, which includes the proposed elimination of six academic programs. Oct. 9, 2025. (Photo by Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Over the past five years, UNL has already weathered more than $75 million in combined cuts.</p><p>“We can’t take the budget justification on face value,” said Sarah Zuckerman, president of the UNL’s chapter of the American Association of University Professors, which sought the analysis.</p><p>However, an NU spokesperson responding to the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/University-of-Nebraska-Lincoln-Financial-Analysis-October-2025-Bonnie-Fox-Garrity-Final.pdf">financial analysis report</a>&nbsp;said while it raises important questions, “it does not adequately reflect the complexity of university finances.”</p><p>Zuckerman is one of many faculty continuing to push back on the necessity of the cuts, questioning the data used to identify a host of programs proposed for elimination or merger. Among the proposed eliminations are six academic areas, including the Department of Educational Administration where Zuckerman is an associate professor.</p><p>Every campus in NU’s system is paring back budgets, and regents are set to vote on chancellor recommendations at a Dec. 5 meeting. A UNL committee of faculty, staff and students had until last week to respond to Bennett’s recommendations and offer alternatives.</p><p>UNL has declined to release the committee report before Bennett finalizes his proposal, expected by early next month.</p><h2>Instruction 20.2% expenses, 69% cuts</h2><p>On Wednesday, Bonnie Fox Garrity, a financial analyst for the national AAUP and a business professor at D’Youville University in Buffalo, New York, shared her October analysis of UNL and the NU system requested by Zuckerman’s AAUP chapter. She’s done similar reports for other campuses, too.</p><p>Among Garrity’s findings are that of UNL’s proposed $27.5 million in cuts, trims to “instruction” account for 69% of the proposed reductions, yet the area is 20.2% of UNL’s total expenses.</p><p>The report found that there are fewer instructional employees at UNL since 2019, a decrease of 7.8% to mid-2024, and these employees’ salaries had risen by 4.5%. The increases were not adjusted for inflation. Meanwhile, the number of non-instructional employees at UNL — which includes top administrators —&nbsp;had grown by 7.6%. Salaries for that group of employees grew by 31.7%.</p><p>Over the past decade, Garrity said UNL’s total expenditures grew 39.1%, which accounts for a 97% increase in athletics, which is financially independent. There also was a 53.1% increase in administrative spending and 30.3% increase in instructional spending.</p><p>“Our approach is that the financial expenditure should be focused on the core mission of the institution, on the students, on the educational experience,” Garrity said.</p><p>Garrity, at a news conference Wednesday announcing the report, said she doesn’t see a “financial crisis” justifying the cuts.</p><p>“Even in the announcement of the cuts it was clear that a portion of the cuts were something like a proactive move,” Garrity said. “It is my thought that the cuts could be avoided.”</p><h2>‘Scratching our heads’</h2><p>Zuckerman said she came to UNL nine years ago happy to be at a “real university” with resources and support. However, she said “year after year” those resources “disappeared,” with budget reductions in eight of her nine years.</p><p>The AAUP asked for a similar financial analysis in 2021, Zuckerman said, which also indicated UNL was in strong financial health. She and other faculty worry UNL’s actions will hurt the trajectory of UNL, diminish its educational offerings and hurt student opportunities.</p><p>“That analysis left us scratching our heads as to why there had been so many cuts,” Zuckerman said.</p><h2>Value of ‘shared governance’</h2><p>A UNL spokesperson directed the Nebraska Examiner to a spokesperson for the NU system, Cara Pesek, who said NU values the “essential” role of faculty and appreciates the engagement of Zuckerman’s AAUP and others around “shared governance.”</p><p>Pesek noted NU and its NU Foundation are financially strong in part because of “careful fiscal stewardship.” There are also many restricted or designated university funds that Pesek said can’t be used for academic salaries or instruction.</p><p>In the end, there is another challenge NU has faced for a decade: Lagging state support to the tune of over $200 million that hasn’t kept up with inflation. NU’s main “state-aided budget” consists of tax dollars and tuition. Pesek said this is “creating structural pressures that require careful ongoing management.”&nbsp;</p><p>The NU Board of Regents froze tuition rates during the COVID-19 pandemic but increased tuition in each of the past three academic years, including 5% before this fall semester began.</p><p>“These campus-led efforts are part of a long-term plan to achieve and maintain fiscal balance, protect the university’s core academic mission and ensure that Nebraska’s only public university remains strong for generations to come,” Pesek said in a statement. “We deeply value the role of shared governance in achieving these goals.”</p>

Faculty question need for $27.5 million in cuts after report finds UNL ‘financially healthy’

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761790245424.png" alt="Image from White House video" />
                        <figcaption>Image from White House video</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump on trade truce with China. <a href="https://t.co/MN2IMj0OWD">pic.twitter.com/MN2IMj0OWD</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1983892551850737782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">LETS GOOO!!! Soybeans! Sorghum! 🇺🇸🚜 BIG news out of President Trump’s historic meeting with President Xi!<br><br>More details coming soon. THANK YOU, MR. PRESIDENT!!! <a href="https://t.co/5hHpKbX70F">pic.twitter.com/5hHpKbX70F</a></p>&mdash; Secretary Brooke Rollins (@SecRollins) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRollins/status/1983836244263235996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> has arrived for his big meeting with President Xi in South Korea <a href="https://t.co/eIeCaGwjBz">pic.twitter.com/eIeCaGwjBz</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1983711359172034608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ca" dir="ltr">President Xi’s motorcade arrives <a href="https://t.co/AFnI2qI9zE">pic.twitter.com/AFnI2qI9zE</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1983715683444613541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;We&#39;re going to have a very successful meeting, I have no doubt.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> greets Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea. <a href="https://t.co/Wdr5HgzNhx">pic.twitter.com/Wdr5HgzNhx</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1983718490759688266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump and President Xi shake hands <a href="https://t.co/rGCGFDbWK5">pic.twitter.com/rGCGFDbWK5</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1983752956521365684?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping for the first time since 2019: &quot;It&#39;s a great honor... I think we&#39;re going to have a fantastic relationship for a long period of time — and it&#39;s an honor to have you with us.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ueW2gvMcCy">pic.twitter.com/ueW2gvMcCy</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1983720399910367276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> shakes hands with China&#39;s President Xi after their historic meeting in South Korea. <a href="https://t.co/O3DOxWIJ7d">pic.twitter.com/O3DOxWIJ7d</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1983745894693601644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥President Trump: Good news for Farmers after meeting with President Xi

By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/cami-koons/">Cami Koons</a>

U.S. soybean farmers and lawmakers said the Chinese purchase of several shiploads of U.S. soybeans indicated a positive step in trade negotiations between the two counties.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/china-buys-three-us-soybean-cargoes-ahead-trump-xi-meeting-sources-say-2025-10-29/" target="_blank">Reuters</a>&nbsp;reported Wednesday that COFCO, a Chinese state-owned food processing company, purchased about 180,000 metric tons of soybeans from the U.S.&nbsp;

The reported purchase, which Reuters attributed to “two trade sources” is the first purchase China has made since harvest season began on the latest U.S. soybean crop.

The country has also bought soybeans from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-expands-argentina-soybean-buying-20-cargoes-traders-say-2025-09-24/" target="_blank">Argentina</a>&nbsp;and continues to purchase from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brazil-soybeans-china-exports-40a785024e483ea9cd555fb3c7323e14" target="_blank">Brazil</a>, leaving soybean farmers and farm industry groups&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2025/10/02/iowa-soybean-president-urges-trade-deal-with-china-calls-trump-policies-a-bitter-pill-for-farmers/" target="_blank">concerned</a>&nbsp;they have lost a key international market.&nbsp;

The purchase comes toward the end of harvest season for many farmers, and also a day before President Donald Trump is slated to work out a trade deal with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The trade deal is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-china-trade-deal-asia-tour-continues-japan-sanae-takaichi/" target="_blank">expected</a>&nbsp;to include agreements on soybeans and other agricultural exports.&nbsp;

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins posted on&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecRollins/status/1983511209333690631" target="_blank">social media</a>&nbsp;Wednesday about the purchase and said it showed “strong dealmaking” on the part of the president and “a positive step forward for our farmers.”&nbsp;

“This purchase, coming directly ahead of the Trump-Xi talks, shows that America means business and that we will restore balance, give U.S. producers the opportunities they’ve earned, and send a message that when America leads in agriculture, the world listens,” Rollins wrote.&nbsp;

Rollins also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/shows/kudlow#" target="_blank">mentioned</a>&nbsp;the purchase while speaking on a Fox Business segment Wednesday.

The estimated 180,000-metric-ton purchase is a small percentage of the nearly 27 million metric tons of soybeans the U.S. exported to China in 2024, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fas.usda.gov/regions/china" target="_blank">data</a>.&nbsp;

U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley has also&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/grassley-hopes-for-a-solution-for-farmers-following-loss-of-chinese-market/" target="_blank">called for</a>&nbsp;a trade deal with China that will benefit farmers. Grassley said in a statement Wednesday he hopes for a “successful” meeting between Trump and Xi.

“China thinks it can move the needle at the last minute, but these small purchases are not nearly enough to address the serious threats facing the ag economy,” Grassley said. “While this may be a positive sign, it’s critical that the Chinese market more fully reopens to American soybean growers soon.”

Congressional delegates from Iowa and Wisconsin urged, in a letter this week, the president to&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2025/10/27/iowa-delegates-urge-administration-to-prioritize-trade-deal-for-soybean-farmers/" target="_blank">prioritize a soybean deal</a>&nbsp;in his talks with the Chinese leader.&nbsp;

U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn, R-Iowa, who led the letter, said Wednesday the purchase from China was a “an important first step and a clear signal of momentum” for Trump’s negotiations.&nbsp;

“I’ve led the charge for our farmers and rural communities: end China’s trade war, restore market access, and expand ag exports,” Nunn said in a statement. “President Trump has proven time and again he has the tools to deliver. I look forward to reviewing the deal.”

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Republican from Kansas, wrote on social media that the purchase was a “<a href="https://x.com/rogermarshallmd/status/1983530082800148666?s=12" target="_blank">big win</a>” for farmers.&nbsp;

Nebraska Republican U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer also&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/senatorfischer/status/1983545407389966844?s=46&amp;t=59TO4z1VG6CVW59Gr61ouQ" target="_blank">posted</a>&nbsp;on social media and said the deal showed “agricultural trade could ease tensions between Washington and Beijing, while also leveling the playing field and directly assisting hardworking American ag producers.”

The American Soybean Association did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://x.com/ohiosoybean/status/1983549232272306640?s=12" target="_blank">Ohio Soybean Association</a>&nbsp;President Rusty Goebel said on the social media platform X that farmers were “encouraged” by the “positive trade news” and said the association looks forward to additional deals and purchases.&nbsp;

A representative from the Iowa Soybean Association declined to comment and said news of the purchase had not been “adequately substantiated.”&nbsp;

COFCO, the Chinese company that reportedly purchased the soybeans, did not respond to a request for comment or confirmation.

This story was originally produced by&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2025/10/29/reports-china-buys-several-shiploads-of-u-s-soybeans-ahead-of-trump-trade-meeting/" target="_blank">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Nebraska Examiner, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761787157829.png" alt="China reportedly purchased several shiploads of U.S. soybeans ahead of a meeting between the countries’ leaders. (Photo courtesy of USDA)" />
                        <figcaption>China reportedly purchased several shiploads of U.S. soybeans ahead of a meeting between the countries’ leaders. (Photo courtesy of USDA)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/cami-koons/">Cami Koons</a></p><p>U.S. soybean farmers and lawmakers said the Chinese purchase of several shiploads of U.S. soybeans indicated a positive step in trade negotiations between the two counties.&nbsp;</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A big win for our farmers and a sign that fair trade is possible when you have leaders like President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRollins?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRollins</a> fighting for America’s farmers 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/7My9NIFA0j">https://t.co/7My9NIFA0j</a></p>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1983530082800148666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p><a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/china-buys-three-us-soybean-cargoes-ahead-trump-xi-meeting-sources-say-2025-10-29/" target="_blank">Reuters</a>&nbsp;reported Wednesday that COFCO, a Chinese state-owned food processing company, purchased about 180,000 metric tons of soybeans from the U.S.&nbsp;</p><p>The reported purchase, which Reuters attributed to “two trade sources” is the first purchase China has made since harvest season began on the latest U.S. soybean crop.</p><p>The country has also bought soybeans from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-expands-argentina-soybean-buying-20-cargoes-traders-say-2025-09-24/" target="_blank">Argentina</a>&nbsp;and continues to purchase from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brazil-soybeans-china-exports-40a785024e483ea9cd555fb3c7323e14" target="_blank">Brazil</a>, leaving soybean farmers and farm industry groups&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2025/10/02/iowa-soybean-president-urges-trade-deal-with-china-calls-trump-policies-a-bitter-pill-for-farmers/" target="_blank">concerned</a>&nbsp;they have lost a key international market.&nbsp;</p><p>The purchase comes toward the end of harvest season for many farmers, and also a day before President Donald Trump is slated to work out a trade deal with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The trade deal is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-china-trade-deal-asia-tour-continues-japan-sanae-takaichi/" target="_blank">expected</a>&nbsp;to include agreements on soybeans and other agricultural exports.&nbsp;</p><p>U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins posted on&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecRollins/status/1983511209333690631" target="_blank">social media</a>&nbsp;Wednesday about the purchase and said it showed “strong dealmaking” on the part of the president and “a positive step forward for our farmers.”&nbsp;</p><p>“This purchase, coming directly ahead of the Trump-Xi talks, shows that America means business and that we will restore balance, give U.S. producers the opportunities they’ve earned, and send a message that when America leads in agriculture, the world listens,” Rollins wrote.&nbsp;</p><p>Rollins also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/shows/kudlow#" target="_blank">mentioned</a>&nbsp;the purchase while speaking on a Fox Business segment Wednesday.</p><p>The estimated 180,000-metric-ton purchase is a small percentage of the nearly 27 million metric tons of soybeans the U.S. exported to China in 2024, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fas.usda.gov/regions/china" target="_blank">data</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley has also&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/grassley-hopes-for-a-solution-for-farmers-following-loss-of-chinese-market/" target="_blank">called for</a>&nbsp;a trade deal with China that will benefit farmers. Grassley said in a statement Wednesday he hopes for a “successful” meeting between Trump and Xi.</p><p>“China thinks it can move the needle at the last minute, but these small purchases are not nearly enough to address the serious threats facing the ag economy,” Grassley said. “While this may be a positive sign, it’s critical that the Chinese market more fully reopens to American soybean growers soon.”</p><p>Congressional delegates from Iowa and Wisconsin urged, in a letter this week, the president to&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2025/10/27/iowa-delegates-urge-administration-to-prioritize-trade-deal-for-soybean-farmers/" target="_blank">prioritize a soybean deal</a>&nbsp;in his talks with the Chinese leader.&nbsp;</p><p>U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn, R-Iowa, who led the letter, said Wednesday the purchase from China was a “an important first step and a clear signal of momentum” for Trump’s negotiations.&nbsp;</p><p>“I’ve led the charge for our farmers and rural communities: end China’s trade war, restore market access, and expand ag exports,” Nunn said in a statement. “President Trump has proven time and again he has the tools to deliver. I look forward to reviewing the deal.”</p><p>U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Republican from Kansas, wrote on social media that the purchase was a “<a href="https://x.com/rogermarshallmd/status/1983530082800148666?s=12" target="_blank">big win</a>” for farmers.&nbsp;</p><p>Nebraska Republican U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer also&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/senatorfischer/status/1983545407389966844?s=46&amp;t=59TO4z1VG6CVW59Gr61ouQ" target="_blank">posted</a>&nbsp;on social media and said the deal showed “agricultural trade could ease tensions between Washington and Beijing, while also leveling the playing field and directly assisting hardworking American ag producers.”</p><p>The American Soybean Association did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://x.com/ohiosoybean/status/1983549232272306640?s=12" target="_blank">Ohio Soybean Association</a>&nbsp;President Rusty Goebel said on the social media platform X that farmers were “encouraged” by the “positive trade news” and said the association looks forward to additional deals and purchases.&nbsp;</p><p>A representative from the Iowa Soybean Association declined to comment and said news of the purchase had not been “adequately substantiated.”&nbsp;</p><p>COFCO, the Chinese company that reportedly purchased the soybeans, did not respond to a request for comment or confirmation.</p><p>This story was originally produced by&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2025/10/29/reports-china-buys-several-shiploads-of-u-s-soybeans-ahead-of-trump-trade-meeting/" target="_blank">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Nebraska Examiner, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.</p>

Reports: China buys several shiploads of U.S. soybeans ahead of Trump trade meeting

Earlier Wednesday, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on yet another narco-trafficking vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) in the Eastern Pacific, according to a social media report from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

This vessel, like all the others, was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics. Four male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel—and killed—during the strike, which was conducted in international waters. No U.S. forces were harmed in this strike.

The Western Hemisphere is no longer a safe haven for narco-terrorists bringing drugs to our shores to poison Americans. The Department of War will continue to hunt them down and eliminate them wherever they operate.

<p>Earlier Wednesday, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on yet another narco-trafficking vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) in the Eastern Pacific, according to a social media report from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Earlier today, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on yet another narco-trafficking vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) in the Eastern Pacific. <br><br>This vessel, like all the others, was known by our… <a href="https://t.co/mBOLA5RYQe">pic.twitter.com/mBOLA5RYQe</a></p>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1983676996220588093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>This vessel, like all the others, was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics. Four male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel—and killed—during the strike, which was conducted in international waters. No U.S. forces were harmed in this strike.</p><p>The Western Hemisphere is no longer a safe haven for narco-terrorists bringing drugs to our shores to poison Americans. The Department of War will continue to hunt them down and eliminate them wherever they operate.</p>

🎥US military kills 4 in new strike on drug-running boat

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Trump on a third term: &quot;I would love to do it. I have the best numbers ever. Am I not ruling it out? You&#39;ll have to tell me.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/8tsuvIOeVf">pic.twitter.com/8tsuvIOeVf</a></p>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1982783779597959567?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpeakerJohnson</a> on Trump running for a third term: &quot;I think the president knows - and he and I have talked about - the constrictions of the Constitution...I don&#39;t see a way to amend the Constitution, because it takes about 10 years to do that...I don&#39;t see the path for that.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/EvnliWcJbZ">pic.twitter.com/EvnliWcJbZ</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1983193264422351309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥What President Trump now says about running for a third term

NORTH OF MCCOOK, Neb.&nbsp; — The federal detention facility on federal land north of McCook, Nebraska, formerly the Work Ethic Camp, is moving forward under a contract with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, but an exact opening date has not been set.

The contract, published on Oct. 17, outlines the facility’s conversion for use by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and is managed by the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. The agreement provides for a base monthly payment of approximately $2.4 million.

Gov. Jim Pillen said in a press release on Oct. 23 that the facility underwent a final walk‑through by ICE inspectors and was approved for use, adding that “final security upgrades will continue … Given the many tasks that had to be completed, including the transfer of remaining inmates, building modifications, training of staff and other components, we have made significant progress.”

However, in a subsequent news report on Oct. 28, Pillen confirmed, “It’s gonna be imminent, and as soon as we get the definitive date, we’ll let everybody know.”

On Oct. 27, Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng ruled that the state may continue preparations but allowed a lawsuit challenging the facility. The plaintiffs argue that the conversion is inappropriate, while the state maintains that the contract is lawful and benefits taxpayers.&nbsp;

"The&nbsp; agreement we have with DHS is good for Nebraska's taxpayers," said Pillen in a Press Release dated October 27. "And it ensures we are doing all that we can to keep criminal, illegal aliens off our streets."

The facility remains outside McCook city limits, on federal land, and city officials emphasize that the site is not owned or operated by the City of McCook. Contractors report that major renovations, including installation of security fencing, are underway and staffing and training continue, with officials saying a firm opening date will be set soon.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761707263987.jpeg" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>NORTH OF MCCOOK, Neb.&nbsp; — The federal detention facility on federal land north of McCook, Nebraska, formerly the Work Ethic Camp, is moving forward under a contract with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, but an exact opening date has not been set.</p><p>The contract, published on Oct. 17, outlines the facility’s conversion for use by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and is managed by the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. The agreement provides for a base monthly payment of approximately $2.4 million.</p><p>Gov. Jim Pillen said in a press release on Oct. 23 that the facility underwent a final walk‑through by ICE inspectors and was approved for use, adding that “final security upgrades will continue … Given the many tasks that had to be completed, including the transfer of remaining inmates, building modifications, training of staff and other components, we have made significant progress.”</p><p>However, in a subsequent news report on Oct. 28, Pillen confirmed, “It’s gonna be imminent, and as soon as we get the definitive date, we’ll let everybody know.”</p><p>On Oct. 27, Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng ruled that the state may continue preparations but allowed a lawsuit challenging the facility. The plaintiffs argue that the conversion is inappropriate, while the state maintains that the contract is lawful and benefits taxpayers.&nbsp;</p><p>"The&nbsp; agreement we have with DHS is good for Nebraska's taxpayers," said Pillen in a Press Release dated October 27. "And it ensures we are doing all that we can to keep criminal, illegal aliens off our streets."</p><p>The facility remains outside McCook city limits, on federal land, and city officials emphasize that the site is not owned or operated by the City of McCook. Contractors report that major renovations, including installation of security fencing, are underway and staffing and training continue, with officials saying a firm opening date will be set soon.</p>

ICE Detention Site North of McCook "Imminent"; Official Opening Date Pending

&nbsp;The Federal Reserve cut its key interest rate Wednesday. It is the for a second rate cut this year.

<p>&nbsp;The Federal Reserve cut its key interest rate Wednesday. It is the for a second rate cut this year.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Fed Chair Powell: &quot;In support of our goals and in light of the balance of risks to employment and inflation, today the Federal Open Market Committee decided to lower our policy interest rate by a quarter percentage point.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FOMC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FOMC</a> <a href="https://t.co/XNoWKSZcGJ">pic.twitter.com/XNoWKSZcGJ</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1983610921101467853?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Good news for borrowers despite federal gov't shutdown 

Two-day event featured expert panels and keynote speakers

LINCOLN, Neb. — The 18th Annual&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Wind &amp; Solar Conference concluded this week at the Marriott Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln, marking another milestone in the state’s growing clean-energy conversation. More than 300 participants — including state leaders, utilities, developers, policymakers, professional services providers, ag producers, and educators — came together to explore how&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;can meet its unprecedented need for additional electric generation that includes as much home-grown renewable energy as possible.

“This conference continues to show that&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;has the wind, sun, land, and people to continue to grow our state’s renewable energy development,” said John Hansen, Conference Chair and President of&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Farmers Union. “Each year, the collaboration among stakeholders grows stronger as we look for ways to meet new demand through innovation and partnership. While renewable energy development faces some speed bumps, it will still be an important part of our energy portfolio moving forward because it is still the lowest cost and fastest to build.”

The two-day event, held October 21–22, featured expert panels and keynote speakers from across the state and nation. Topics included battery energy storage, policy and legislative updates, investor strategy in the post-reconciliation environment, rural economic development, and water management for renewable projects.

The conference also recognized long-time Planning Committee members Kurt Stradley (LES) and David Rich (NPPD) for their many years of service and leadership in advancing&nbsp;Nebraska’s renewable energy initiatives.

Sponsors representing all sectors of the industry — including NextEra Energy Resources, Sandhills Energy, Invenergy, ISI Solar, Mission Clean Energy, Olsson, HDR, and many others — helped make the 2025 event a success. The exhibit hall featured more than two dozen organizations showcasing technologies, financing solutions, and educational programs that support&nbsp;Nebraska’s clean-energy future.

The&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Wind &amp; Solar Conference Planning Committee extends its appreciation to all the speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees who contributed to this year’s success.

Chairman Hansen concluded, “A show of hands told us a few of our participants have attended all 18 of our annual conferences, many have participated in most of the conferences, and a sizeable number were new participants, which is a positive sign for the future. Participant feedback noted that our conference furnished high-quality information, was affordable, ‘Nebraska&nbsp;Nice’, and unique. It was also noted that our annual conference is now one of the longest serving renewable energy conferences in the nation.”

Save the Date: The 19th Annual&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Wind &amp; Solar Conference will be held October 20–21, 2026, at the Marriott Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.NebraskaWSC.com&amp;c=E,1,6hxrpZXBupVbluXCsezb5hY4Ba_j5usR3xAOspVTg5Yq3ZniZsiT9pQQf2dbkYEIPnKx3X1eypnwH45owUwJ2bTIxtiAlY-iTxWy0-wM9Q,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">www.NebraskaWSC.com</a>

<h2>Two-day event featured expert panels and keynote speakers</h2><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761756083388.jpeg" alt="More than 300 participants — including state leaders, utilities, developers, policymakers, professional services providers, ag producers, and educators — came together to explore how&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;can meet its unprecedented need for additional electric generation that includes as much home-grown renewable energy as possible.&nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption>More than 300 participants — including state leaders, utilities, developers, policymakers, professional services providers, ag producers, and educators — came together to explore how&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;can meet its unprecedented need for additional electric generation that includes as much home-grown renewable energy as possible.&nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>LINCOLN, Neb. — The 18th Annual&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Wind &amp; Solar Conference concluded this week at the Marriott Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln, marking another milestone in the state’s growing clean-energy conversation. More than 300 participants — including state leaders, utilities, developers, policymakers, professional services providers, ag producers, and educators — came together to explore how&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;can meet its unprecedented need for additional electric generation that includes as much home-grown renewable energy as possible.</p><p>“This conference continues to show that&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;has the wind, sun, land, and people to continue to grow our state’s renewable energy development,” said John Hansen, Conference Chair and President of&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Farmers Union. “Each year, the collaboration among stakeholders grows stronger as we look for ways to meet new demand through innovation and partnership. While renewable energy development faces some speed bumps, it will still be an important part of our energy portfolio moving forward because it is still the lowest cost and fastest to build.”</p><p>The two-day event, held October 21–22, featured expert panels and keynote speakers from across the state and nation. Topics included battery energy storage, policy and legislative updates, investor strategy in the post-reconciliation environment, rural economic development, and water management for renewable projects.</p><p>Highlights included:</p><ul>
                        <li>Keynote Luncheon: JC Sandberg, Chief Advocacy Officer of the American Clean Power Association, discussed “Pragmatism in the States: Building for the Future in Our Communities.”</li><li>Utility CEO Luncheon Featured Tom Kent (NPPD), Javier Fernandez (OPPD), and Emeka Anyanwu (LES), sharing how public power utilities are preparing for&nbsp;Nebraska’s load growth and transmission needs.</li><li>Policy &amp; Legislative Update: State Senators Brandt, Dungan, Quick, and Clouse addressed the policy landscape for renewable generation as well as challenges and opportunities.</li><li>Technology &amp; Innovation Sessions: Experts from Olsson, ISI Solar, and GenPro Energy Development showcased advancements in distributed solar, drone-based operations, and community power acceleration.</li>
                    </ul><p>The conference also recognized long-time Planning Committee members Kurt Stradley (LES) and David Rich (NPPD) for their many years of service and leadership in advancing&nbsp;Nebraska’s renewable energy initiatives.</p><p>Sponsors representing all sectors of the industry — including NextEra Energy Resources, Sandhills Energy, Invenergy, ISI Solar, Mission Clean Energy, Olsson, HDR, and many others — helped make the 2025 event a success. The exhibit hall featured more than two dozen organizations showcasing technologies, financing solutions, and educational programs that support&nbsp;Nebraska’s clean-energy future.</p><p>The&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Wind &amp; Solar Conference Planning Committee extends its appreciation to all the speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees who contributed to this year’s success.</p><p>Chairman Hansen concluded, “A show of hands told us a few of our participants have attended all 18 of our annual conferences, many have participated in most of the conferences, and a sizeable number were new participants, which is a positive sign for the future. Participant feedback noted that our conference furnished high-quality information, was affordable, ‘Nebraska&nbsp;Nice’, and unique. It was also noted that our annual conference is now one of the longest serving renewable energy conferences in the nation.”</p><p>Save the Date: The 19th Annual&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Wind &amp; Solar Conference will be held October 20–21, 2026, at the Marriott Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln.</p><p>For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.NebraskaWSC.com&amp;c=E,1,6hxrpZXBupVbluXCsezb5hY4Ba_j5usR3xAOspVTg5Yq3ZniZsiT9pQQf2dbkYEIPnKx3X1eypnwH45owUwJ2bTIxtiAlY-iTxWy0-wM9Q,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">www.NebraskaWSC.com</a></p>

18th Annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference Wrap-Up

By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/cindygonzalez/">Cindy Gonzalez</a><br><a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/03/17/lincoln-senators-clash-over-nebraska-school-retirement-bill-as-school-leaders-weigh-in/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Public grocery benefits will pause starting Wednesday for roughly 150,000 low-income recipients across Nebraska due to the federal government shutdown, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services announced.

DHHS issued a statement late Tuesday saying the pause of&nbsp;<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP.aspx" target="_blank">Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program&nbsp;</a>(SNAP) benefits on Oct. 29 comes at the direction of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Steve Corsi, DHHS CEO, said his agency has a plan in place to begin working with the USDA to process payments and get benefits to recipients as soon as possible when the government shutdown ends.

Current SNAP recipients can continue to use any remaining benefits on their grocery cards. Unspent SNAP funds remain accessible for nine months from the date of last use.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, in the DHHS statement, lashed out at congressional Democrats, who have sought to extend health insurance subsidies as part of negotiations to reopen the government.&nbsp;

“This federal shutdown is completely avoidable, but Senate Democrats continue to refuse to pass a clean funding extension,” he said, blaming “political games” for the SNAP cutoff.

Angie Lauritsen, state director for Nebraska For Us, turned up the heat on Republicans.

“Now, more than 150,000 Nebraskans on SNAP will have an even harder time paying for their groceries as Republicans in Congress have decided cutting off access to food is more important than lowering health care costs,”&nbsp; she said.&nbsp;

Nebraska’s all-GOP federal delegation voted previously for SNAP changes that will&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/10/20/afghan-refugee-and-father-of-10-braces-for-hunger-pains-as-big-beautiful-bill-sets-in/">squeeze out some Nebraskans</a>, she noted, which put pressure on food pantries and organizations filling gaps. Congressional Republicans have argued they were trying to make the programs more accountable.

During the pause, DHHS staff members still are available to accept and process program applications, recertifications and changes, the agency said.

DHHS encouraged Nebraskans who need help to contact 211, a statewide resource and referral hotline. It also encouraged Nebraskans to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://uwm211.org/nebraska-programs" target="_blank">https://uwm211.org/nebraska-programs</a>, where individuals can connect with food, housing, financial assistance and other support services.

“During this difficult time for some Nebraskans, 211 is prepared and ready to help residents in need of services,” Matt Wallen, CEO of the United Way of the Midlands, said in a statement.&nbsp;

DHHS said it is coordinating with food banks, nonprofit partners and community organizations across Nebraska, and offered contacts for resources:

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689674819900.png" alt="Image USDA" />
                        <figcaption>Image USDA</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/cindygonzalez/">Cindy Gonzalez</a><br><a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/03/17/lincoln-senators-clash-over-nebraska-school-retirement-bill-as-school-leaders-weigh-in/">Nebraska Examiner</a></p><p>LINCOLN — Public grocery benefits will pause starting Wednesday for roughly 150,000 low-income recipients across Nebraska due to the federal government shutdown, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services announced.</p><p>DHHS issued a statement late Tuesday saying the pause of&nbsp;<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/SNAP.aspx" target="_blank">Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program&nbsp;</a>(SNAP) benefits on Oct. 29 comes at the direction of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.</p><p>Steve Corsi, DHHS CEO, said his agency has a plan in place to begin working with the USDA to process payments and get benefits to recipients as soon as possible when the government shutdown ends.</p><p>Current SNAP recipients can continue to use any remaining benefits on their grocery cards. Unspent SNAP funds remain accessible for nine months from the date of last use.</p><p>Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, in the DHHS statement, lashed out at congressional Democrats, who have sought to extend health insurance subsidies as part of negotiations to reopen the government.&nbsp;</p><p>“This federal shutdown is completely avoidable, but Senate Democrats continue to refuse to pass a clean funding extension,” he said, blaming “political games” for the SNAP cutoff.</p><p>Angie Lauritsen, state director for Nebraska For Us, turned up the heat on Republicans.</p><p>“Now, more than 150,000 Nebraskans on SNAP will have an even harder time paying for their groceries as Republicans in Congress have decided cutting off access to food is more important than lowering health care costs,”&nbsp; she said.&nbsp;</p><p>Nebraska’s all-GOP federal delegation voted previously for SNAP changes that will&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/10/20/afghan-refugee-and-father-of-10-braces-for-hunger-pains-as-big-beautiful-bill-sets-in/">squeeze out some Nebraskans</a>, she noted, which put pressure on food pantries and organizations filling gaps. Congressional Republicans have argued they were trying to make the programs more accountable.</p><p>During the pause, DHHS staff members still are available to accept and process program applications, recertifications and changes, the agency said.</p><p>DHHS encouraged Nebraskans who need help to contact 211, a statewide resource and referral hotline. It also encouraged Nebraskans to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://uwm211.org/nebraska-programs" target="_blank">https://uwm211.org/nebraska-programs</a>, where individuals can connect with food, housing, financial assistance and other support services.</p><p>“During this difficult time for some Nebraskans, 211 is prepared and ready to help residents in need of services,” Matt Wallen, CEO of the United Way of the Midlands, said in a statement.&nbsp;</p><p>DHHS said it is coordinating with food banks, nonprofit partners and community organizations across Nebraska, and offered contacts for resources:</p><ul>
                        <li><b>Food Bank for the Heartland:</b>&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjprrYr-2FsLGbDdQBNM5ZVX79sGjfQrv-2FzWaLo8ONF47EYbLf5IyCQnMARDcQwMycQqrSI18aDCgadpAyxPPhur6Es-3D8eKg_KcqCxNa05K5oDg3JLT1-2BJ7gzHl3toFs2LWgEpeKNAIwVAQCJvCzc7bIgaLn6INSdgDnaJLnz6QN3wBhz5IcdZyQqV75Zs-2BfRmmy-2Bj-2Fxc2rvNsROdwLs7wljjov2iOG-2FEpBlW-2F8ktJfsEqjuHYZTcKUMS0NZWLFv5NQ4-2FuLFxtGLjWQFv02RmRrxibeDmDJHGM9j6hn2FoCp-2FakzHWlF1gs-2FE2oIGtq5cW2Ciw8Wai-2BYei-2FLFjlKKi-2B-2BwDam-2FxFScJv1mYw6tuW-2FwjNlC5eBWZXaerjohIZRZNT96yeVs1Gv-2BsYOCiAP-2FvqklaWVBIYA6l0g1cAKFHqV-2FSD3geP076qPM6Yv6SBQDtX2qp9JgwtGhMiWcZAOJRya8dUoDbZyMcyxMrOqeGh-2BHDC-2FdLJ1hQA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://foodbankheartland.org/food-resources/find-food/</a></li><li><b>Food Bank of Lincoln:</b>&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjprySiF5bM9z27v5-2Ftez8aDhBM6-2BoPCy-2FMJAI28r-2F0kSSuEj2Aal-2BW-2BE1vM-2Fl-2BcZaGQ-3D-3DkHDQ_KcqCxNa05K5oDg3JLT1-2BJ7gzHl3toFs2LWgEpeKNAIwVAQCJvCzc7bIgaLn6INSdgDnaJLnz6QN3wBhz5IcdZyQqV75Zs-2BfRmmy-2Bj-2Fxc2rvNsROdwLs7wljjov2iOG-2FEpBlW-2F8ktJfsEqjuHYZTcKUMS0NZWLFv5NQ4-2FuLFxtGLjWQFv02RmRrxibeDmDJHGM9j6hn2FoCp-2FakzHWlF1gs-2FE2oIGtq5cW2Ciw8Wai-2Bavi8SKnmfp-2BtOrpqOSNYTnFEaF4YBU4UgEfOLZdTIsHfaQa3xlOKHHAZ-2BcNC7TuBsnMezLcEGnfjnnCrwvrcOZysCRSdIHob9mWXX3UFlb5PmA7UF2MZ5RBs506XJDykIi8aeTcAP-2Fj1sFun31aF8tDG7b-2F9VlPMLqgonQUxOGxA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://www.lincolnfoodbank.org/get-food/food-finder/</a></li><li><b>Catholic Charities:</b>&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpusGAK4D3-2BWJ5nsfXt-2F10yrp3qv5cj9AN7vL-2BNulPHLi2QHk_KcqCxNa05K5oDg3JLT1-2BJ7gzHl3toFs2LWgEpeKNAIwVAQCJvCzc7bIgaLn6INSdgDnaJLnz6QN3wBhz5IcdZyQqV75Zs-2BfRmmy-2Bj-2Fxc2rvNsROdwLs7wljjov2iOG-2FEpBlW-2F8ktJfsEqjuHYZTcKUMS0NZWLFv5NQ4-2FuLFxtGLjWQFv02RmRrxibeDmDJHGM9j6hn2FoCp-2FakzHWlF1gs-2FE2oIGtq5cW2Ciw8Wai-2BbB0P8YNCWLJrmVCbi8BlREnE4m9iz145ZzOvRrwlD4ugaRmM6PolEbTXjH-2FV6-2FX9b5Qu3r0CrfbXQd-2BLRIp2fhHsE2hCpQiOKMFpDW-2BDmeZw8Q-2F7uKyHghhPcVktEHYwIGRq1C9AaZhf0YsA7U69HQa5dmTVp1Evnaqk7lnpg34w-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org</a></li><li><b>MyLNK Resource Finder:</b>&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpsQl4txOChW5xgSwfdmXGQU-3D0xTD_KcqCxNa05K5oDg3JLT1-2BJ7gzHl3toFs2LWgEpeKNAIwVAQCJvCzc7bIgaLn6INSdgDnaJLnz6QN3wBhz5IcdZyQqV75Zs-2BfRmmy-2Bj-2Fxc2rvNsROdwLs7wljjov2iOG-2FEpBlW-2F8ktJfsEqjuHYZTcKUMS0NZWLFv5NQ4-2FuLFxtGLjWQFv02RmRrxibeDmDJHGM9j6hn2FoCp-2FakzHWlF1gs-2FE2oIGtq5cW2Ciw8Wai-2BZZmDTbIMbyDwfPynWdPjhgdVKUSrYZPVgyJMVztN-2FUeheB2APwzB5XuLHHSVxyO906BlkEt2nhcryai5RNIcKT1pnfVMB8zXSvOixkj6t32L08sEHd8KehIiPUHjVGiRzhc3DTiuoVn9p3CFsAVfFcGFt-2BUt9Orw6tFa4OVaLMsg-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://mylnk.app/home</a>&nbsp;</li>
                    </ul>

Nebraska stops public food aid benefits as government shutdown continues

Washington D.C. - Today in Washington, the Senate again failed to advance a stopgap funding bill meant to reopen the federal government. For the 13th time, the measure fell short—ensuring the shutdown continues.

In a vote that needed 60 to pass, the Senate voted 54-45-1, keeping the government shutdown.

The legislation would have extended government funding and kept agencies operating until November 21. It had already passed the House and been sent to the Senate, but Democrats blocked it today, continuing their strategy even as the impacts of the shutdown become more acute.

The shutdown began on October 1, 2025, and with today being Day 28, it has now become the second-longest government shutdown in U.S. history — surpassing the 21-day impasse of December 1995 to January 1996. The record remains the 35-day shutdown from December 2018 to January 2019.

With each day that passes, the effects are mounting: thousands of federal employees are working without pay or are furloughed; vital services face interruptions; and major deadlines loom, including the looming cutoff of food assistance benefits for millions and the open enrollment window for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act.

On the Senate floor, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) implored Democrats to provide the extra votes needed and pass the bill immediately, calling it the straightforward way to restore funding and avoid further damage.

On the other side, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and other Democratic lawmakers held firm, arguing the proposed bill lacked commitments on key issues such as healthcare subsidies, housing support and other domestic programs — areas they say cannot be ignored if government funding is to be restored responsibly.

Interestingly, though the shutdown drags on and public frustration is rising, recent polling shows somewhat resilient approval for key Republican figures. A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that President Donald Trump’s approval rating ticked up to 42 percent, up two points since earlier in the month, even as Americans place more blame on Republican lawmakers than Democrats for the shutdown. Meanwhile, another poll shows 37 percent of registered voters approve of how Republicans in Congress are doing their job — the highest level that party has reached in recent years.

As of now, no new roadmap has been announced. Republicans have indicated they may pursue narrower “carve-out” bills to pay certain federal workers or continue programs such as SNAP, but they maintain that the full-scale reopening remains the better option.

Meanwhile, Americans — especially federal employees and those relying on government assistance — are bracing for further uncertainty. With major program deadlines, funding cliffs and ripple effects across states.

&nbsp;<b>Sources</b>:
Reuters, CBS News, Bloomberg Government, Fox News, ABC News, New York Post, Time Magazine&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p><i>By Allison Peck</i></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761676473780.png" alt="(Chart Courtesy USA Today)" />
                        <figcaption>(Chart Courtesy USA Today)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Washington D.C. - Today in Washington, the Senate again failed to advance a stopgap funding bill meant to reopen the federal government. For the 13th time, the measure fell short—ensuring the shutdown continues.</p><p>In a vote that needed 60 to pass, the Senate voted 54-45-1, keeping the government shutdown.</p><p>The legislation would have extended government funding and kept agencies operating until November 21. It had already passed the House and been sent to the Senate, but Democrats blocked it today, continuing their strategy even as the impacts of the shutdown become more acute.</p><p>The shutdown began on October 1, 2025, and with today being Day 28, it has now become the second-longest government shutdown in U.S. history — surpassing the 21-day impasse of December 1995 to January 1996. The record remains the 35-day shutdown from December 2018 to January 2019.</p><p>With each day that passes, the effects are mounting: thousands of federal employees are working without pay or are furloughed; vital services face interruptions; and major deadlines loom, including the looming cutoff of food assistance benefits for millions and the open enrollment window for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act.</p><p>On the Senate floor, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) implored Democrats to provide the extra votes needed and pass the bill immediately, calling it the straightforward way to restore funding and avoid further damage.</p><p>On the other side, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and other Democratic lawmakers held firm, arguing the proposed bill lacked commitments on key issues such as healthcare subsidies, housing support and other domestic programs — areas they say cannot be ignored if government funding is to be restored responsibly.</p><p>Interestingly, though the shutdown drags on and public frustration is rising, recent polling shows somewhat resilient approval for key Republican figures. A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that President Donald Trump’s approval rating ticked up to 42 percent, up two points since earlier in the month, even as Americans place more blame on Republican lawmakers than Democrats for the shutdown. Meanwhile, another poll shows 37 percent of registered voters approve of how Republicans in Congress are doing their job — the highest level that party has reached in recent years.</p><p>As of now, no new roadmap has been announced. Republicans have indicated they may pursue narrower “carve-out” bills to pay certain federal workers or continue programs such as SNAP, but they maintain that the full-scale reopening remains the better option.</p><p>Meanwhile, Americans — especially federal employees and those relying on government assistance — are bracing for further uncertainty. With major program deadlines, funding cliffs and ripple effects across states.</p><p>&nbsp;<b>Sources</b>:
Reuters, CBS News, Bloomberg Government, Fox News, ABC News, New York Post, Time Magazine&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

Senate Blocks Government-Reopening Bill for 13th Time, Shutdown Deepens & Polling Climbs

<b>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a><br></b><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas farm leaders are pushing Congress to get back to work and solve problems facing the agriculture industry, pointing out that a closed government doesn’t mean U.S. lawmakers can’t be in session.

“I’m up here in Republic County and there’s a lot of activity going around harvest,” said Nick Levendofsky, executive director of the Kansas Farmers Union. “And then, of course, wheat drilling and all that, too, and getting ready to move cattle off of pastures. The work doesn’t stop for farmers. We don’t pause, we don’t shut down. We have to keep going.”

Levendofsky, speaking earlier this month in a virtual press conference arranged by Kansas Congresswoman Sharice Davids, echoed comments from Kansas agriculture secretary Mike Beam to get Congress back to work.

“It’s time to get back to work on and really address some things, particularly some things that really don’t cost money — it’s just public policy that we need to address,” Beam said on the same call.

Levendofsky said the farm bill was allowed to expire, and even though some agricultural issues were addressed in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, much is left to do.

“I’ve talked with farmers in our organization, farmers in my area, and farmers all across the state, and they’re very frustrated with what’s going on right now,” he said.

As farmers are grappling with increased input expenses, tariffs and weather, Davids said she was “p***ed” about President Donald Trump’s expressed intentions to import more Argentinian beef.

“I think we need to be doing everything we can to support American ranchers and producers and farmers and not importing in stuff that we’re growing here,” she said.

Matthew Steele, CEO and executive director of the Kansas Cattlemen’s Association, listens to news every day with a strong dose of caution and “trying to read through the lines.” As an engineer with a compliance background, he’s always looking deeper, he said.

“You’ve got to always be thinking about this is the black and white, what does all the gray around it mean?” he said in a call with the Kansas Reflector.

For instance, outcry about the potential of Mexico reopening its U.S. border to import feeder cattle doesn’t have as big of an impact as people might expect, Steele said.

About 1 million head a year come in from Mexico, out of 83 million head produced in the U.S., he said.

“It’s not that big of a number,” Steele said. “They’re still anywhere from three to eight or nine months from being ready for harvest anyway. Where the impact comes is those aren’t prime animals that are coming up. It’s not like they’re bringing in certified Angus roasts and steaks. It’s lower quality we grind up and serve as hamburgers.”

Still, the market took that news and went “crazy,” he said. Live cattle contracts fell Monday, dropping about $7 on Monday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marketwatch.com/investing/future/lc00?gaa_at=eafs&amp;gaa_n=AWEtsqe5Xw6SQAaUNwGs9A2aB5ASjPdCoXZgWQjhkC7P1xNSJF4pjUBVwcdsSUxoQ54%3D&amp;gaa_ts=6900dd4b&amp;gaa_sig=Lbzoo0bAhVTAV00lcfxF6snutG3jmoxhqzu_x9PHRP9kDvieAxABx0qDmPz3uZmoJfgkA4qY-GOI_WMvS5ytDA%3D%3D" target="_blank">according to Marketwatch</a>.

Steele said his organization is telling farmers to call their representatives to share stories and help them understand how the system works. Although organizations like Kansas Cattlemen’s are advocating, it means more coming from the people who are doing the work, he said.

Adam Phelon, a Kansas Soybean Association board member who farms with his family near Garnett, joined Davids’ call to share his frustration with the shutdown and what a challenge it can be throughout rural communities with a “snowball effect” that hits many areas.

Phelon said farmers need consistency and certainty to make plans, and they don’t have that right now. He also pointed to families that need support from programs like Women, Infants and Children payments and a friend in the Navy who is stationed in Germany and wasn’t able to make their house payment that was due in October.

“The difficult thing is that even when the government does get back up and running, we’re going to be so far behind,” Phelon said. “We applaud the Congress for getting the renewable fuel standards up to where they should be, but those should be implemented at the beginning of November, and because of this government shutdown, it may be pushed back into the following year.”

Although Davids said the Farm Service Agency announced last week it would resume partial operations, that wasn’t enough to help Kansas farmers.

“This is just a Band-Aid on a larger problem of a government shutdown, and our farmers, ranchers, producers are hurting,” Davids said. “They haven’t received some of their farm subsidies or loans. Conservation projects are stalled, like one that’s near Baldwin City, Kansas, they can’t move forward because no one is in the office to simply process the paperwork. Without crop or market reports, producers are being forced to make major financial decisions in the dark. These programs are truly a lifeline for rural America.”

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761674362747.png" alt=" Kansas ranchers are concerned about statements out of Washington, D.C., about importing more beef from Mexico and Argentina and how that affects market prices. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
                        <figcaption> Kansas ranchers are concerned about statements out of Washington, D.C., about importing more beef from Mexico and Argentina and how that affects market prices. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a><br></b><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a></p><p>TOPEKA — Kansas farm leaders are pushing Congress to get back to work and solve problems facing the agriculture industry, pointing out that a closed government doesn’t mean U.S. lawmakers can’t be in session.</p><p>“I’m up here in Republic County and there’s a lot of activity going around harvest,” said Nick Levendofsky, executive director of the Kansas Farmers Union. “And then, of course, wheat drilling and all that, too, and getting ready to move cattle off of pastures. The work doesn’t stop for farmers. We don’t pause, we don’t shut down. We have to keep going.”</p><p>Levendofsky, speaking earlier this month in a virtual press conference arranged by Kansas Congresswoman Sharice Davids, echoed comments from Kansas agriculture secretary Mike Beam to get Congress back to work.</p><p>“It’s time to get back to work on and really address some things, particularly some things that really don’t cost money — it’s just public policy that we need to address,” Beam said on the same call.</p><p>Levendofsky said the farm bill was allowed to expire, and even though some agricultural issues were addressed in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, much is left to do.</p><p>“I’ve talked with farmers in our organization, farmers in my area, and farmers all across the state, and they’re very frustrated with what’s going on right now,” he said.</p><p>As farmers are grappling with increased input expenses, tariffs and weather, Davids said she was “p***ed” about President Donald Trump’s expressed intentions to import more Argentinian beef.</p><p>“I think we need to be doing everything we can to support American ranchers and producers and farmers and not importing in stuff that we’re growing here,” she said.</p><p>Matthew Steele, CEO and executive director of the Kansas Cattlemen’s Association, listens to news every day with a strong dose of caution and “trying to read through the lines.” As an engineer with a compliance background, he’s always looking deeper, he said.</p><p>“You’ve got to always be thinking about this is the black and white, what does all the gray around it mean?” he said in a call with the Kansas Reflector.</p><p>For instance, outcry about the potential of Mexico reopening its U.S. border to import feeder cattle doesn’t have as big of an impact as people might expect, Steele said.</p><p>About 1 million head a year come in from Mexico, out of 83 million head produced in the U.S., he said.</p><p>“It’s not that big of a number,” Steele said. “They’re still anywhere from three to eight or nine months from being ready for harvest anyway. Where the impact comes is those aren’t prime animals that are coming up. It’s not like they’re bringing in certified Angus roasts and steaks. It’s lower quality we grind up and serve as hamburgers.”</p><p>Still, the market took that news and went “crazy,” he said. Live cattle contracts fell Monday, dropping about $7 on Monday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marketwatch.com/investing/future/lc00?gaa_at=eafs&amp;gaa_n=AWEtsqe5Xw6SQAaUNwGs9A2aB5ASjPdCoXZgWQjhkC7P1xNSJF4pjUBVwcdsSUxoQ54%3D&amp;gaa_ts=6900dd4b&amp;gaa_sig=Lbzoo0bAhVTAV00lcfxF6snutG3jmoxhqzu_x9PHRP9kDvieAxABx0qDmPz3uZmoJfgkA4qY-GOI_WMvS5ytDA%3D%3D" target="_blank">according to Marketwatch</a>.</p><p>Steele said his organization is telling farmers to call their representatives to share stories and help them understand how the system works. Although organizations like Kansas Cattlemen’s are advocating, it means more coming from the people who are doing the work, he said.</p><p>Adam Phelon, a Kansas Soybean Association board member who farms with his family near Garnett, joined Davids’ call to share his frustration with the shutdown and what a challenge it can be throughout rural communities with a “snowball effect” that hits many areas.</p><p>Phelon said farmers need consistency and certainty to make plans, and they don’t have that right now. He also pointed to families that need support from programs like Women, Infants and Children payments and a friend in the Navy who is stationed in Germany and wasn’t able to make their house payment that was due in October.</p><p>“The difficult thing is that even when the government does get back up and running, we’re going to be so far behind,” Phelon said. “We applaud the Congress for getting the renewable fuel standards up to where they should be, but those should be implemented at the beginning of November, and because of this government shutdown, it may be pushed back into the following year.”</p><p>Although Davids said the Farm Service Agency announced last week it would resume partial operations, that wasn’t enough to help Kansas farmers.</p><p>“This is just a Band-Aid on a larger problem of a government shutdown, and our farmers, ranchers, producers are hurting,” Davids said. “They haven’t received some of their farm subsidies or loans. Conservation projects are stalled, like one that’s near Baldwin City, Kansas, they can’t move forward because no one is in the office to simply process the paperwork. Without crop or market reports, producers are being forced to make major financial decisions in the dark. These programs are truly a lifeline for rural America.”</p>

We don’t shut down’: Kansas ag leaders tell Congress to get back to work

On Monday at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out three lethal kinetic strikes on four vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations (DTO) trafficking narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, according to a statement from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

"The four vessels were known by our intelligence apparatus, transiting along known narco-trafficking routes, and carrying narcotics."<br>

Eight male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessels during the first strike. Four male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the second strike. Three male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the third strike. A total of 14 narco-terrorists were killed during the three strikes, with one survivor. All strikes were in international waters with no U.S. forces harmed.

Regarding the survivor, USSOUTHCOM immediately initiated Search and Rescue (SAR) standard protocols; Mexican SAR authorities accepted the case and assumed responsibility for coordinating the rescue.

The Department has spent over two decades defending other homelands. Now, we’re defending our own. These narco-terrorists have killed more Americans than Al-Qaeda, and they will be treated the same. We will track them, we will network them, and then, we will hunt and kill them.

<p>On Monday at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out three lethal kinetic strikes on four vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations (DTO) trafficking narcotics in the Eastern Pacific, according to a statement from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yesterday, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out three lethal kinetic strikes on four vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations (DTO) trafficking narcotics in the Eastern Pacific.<br><br>The four vessels were known by our intelligence… <a href="https://t.co/UhoFlZ3jPG">pic.twitter.com/UhoFlZ3jPG</a></p>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1983164355999883548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>"The four vessels were known by our intelligence apparatus, transiting along known narco-trafficking routes, and carrying narcotics."<br></p><p>Eight male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessels during the first strike. Four male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the second strike. Three male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the third strike. A total of 14 narco-terrorists were killed during the three strikes, with one survivor. All strikes were in international waters with no U.S. forces harmed.</p><p>Regarding the survivor, USSOUTHCOM immediately initiated Search and Rescue (SAR) standard protocols; Mexican SAR authorities accepted the case and assumed responsibility for coordinating the rescue.</p><p>The Department has spent over two decades defending other homelands. Now, we’re defending our own. These narco-terrorists have killed more Americans than Al-Qaeda, and they will be treated the same. We will track them, we will network them, and then, we will hunt and kill them.</p>

🎥US military kills 14 in 3 more strikes on drug-running boats 

MARS HILL, Maine — A woman accused of carrying out a multi-state bank fraud scheme targeting several western Nebraska banks has been arrested in Maine, according to law enforcement officials in both states.

Authorities say the woman, whose name has not yet been released pending formal charges, was taken into custody in Mars Hill, Maine, following a coordinated investigation involving the Maine State Police, Alliance Police Department, Phelps County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI.

Investigators say the woman is believed to have used fake identification cards to access accounts that were not her own at banks across western Nebraska.
According to the Alliance Police Department, she allegedly withdrew nearly $30,000 in cash from multiple locations, including:

Surveillance images and transaction records reportedly showed the same woman making unauthorized withdrawals at branches across the region.

Police in Maine issued a public appeal last week after the woman was caught on camera conducting similar fraudulent transactions at banks in Bangor and Mars Hill, driving what authorities described as a silver or gray Jeep Cherokee.
The Maine State Police said multiple public tips helped investigators identify and locate the suspect, leading to her arrest late last week.

Alliance Police confirmed the woman in custody is the same person connected to the Nebraska fraud cases.

“This arrest is the result of strong cooperation between law enforcement in multiple states and members of the public who provided valuable information,” the department said in a statement.

Before the arrest, Nebraska police released detailed surveillance photos, noting that the suspect appeared to have a noticeable gap or missing tooth in the upper row of her teeth and often wore dark clothing when approaching tellers.
Investigators say she used high-quality fake IDs to pose as legitimate account holders, allowing her to withdraw large sums quickly before banks detected the fraud.

Authorities believe the woman may have traveled through several states committing similar crimes. The FBI is now assisting both Nebraska and Maine officials in reviewing potential related incidents.
Police have not yet released details on when the suspect will be extradited to Nebraska or what additional charges may be filed.

Law enforcement officials are asking anyone who may have had interactions with the woman or noticed suspicious bank activity to contact police:

Authorities also advise residents to monitor their bank accounts for unauthorized withdrawals and report any concerns immediately.

<b>Sources</b>: Alliance Police Department, News Channel Nebraska, WAGM

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761657000689.png" alt="Nebraska bank fraud suspect arrested in Maine, speculated to be involved in several state bank fraud cases.&nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption>Nebraska bank fraud suspect arrested in Maine, speculated to be involved in several state bank fraud cases.&nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><i>By Allison Peck</i></p><p>MARS HILL, Maine — A woman accused of carrying out a multi-state bank fraud scheme targeting several western Nebraska banks has been arrested in Maine, according to law enforcement officials in both states.</p><p>Authorities say the woman, whose name has not yet been released pending formal charges, was taken into custody in Mars Hill, Maine, following a coordinated investigation involving the Maine State Police, Alliance Police Department, Phelps County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI.</p><h2>Fraud Scheme Spanned Two States</h2><p>Investigators say the woman is believed to have used fake identification cards to access accounts that were not her own at banks across western Nebraska.
According to the Alliance Police Department, she allegedly withdrew nearly $30,000 in cash from multiple locations, including:</p><ul>
                        <li>Security First Bank in Rushville
</li><li>First Interstate Bank in Alliance
</li><li>Platte Valley Bank in Bridgeport
</li>
                    </ul><p>Surveillance images and transaction records reportedly showed the same woman making unauthorized withdrawals at branches across the region.</p><h2>Public Tip Leads to Arrest</h2><p>Police in Maine issued a public appeal last week after the woman was caught on camera conducting similar fraudulent transactions at banks in Bangor and Mars Hill, driving what authorities described as a silver or gray Jeep Cherokee.
The Maine State Police said multiple public tips helped investigators identify and locate the suspect, leading to her arrest late last week.</p><p>Alliance Police confirmed the woman in custody is the same person connected to the Nebraska fraud cases.</p><p>“This arrest is the result of strong cooperation between law enforcement in multiple states and members of the public who provided valuable information,” the department said in a statement.</p><h2>Distinctive Description</h2><p>Before the arrest, Nebraska police released detailed surveillance photos, noting that the suspect appeared to have a noticeable gap or missing tooth in the upper row of her teeth and often wore dark clothing when approaching tellers.
Investigators say she used high-quality fake IDs to pose as legitimate account holders, allowing her to withdraw large sums quickly before banks detected the fraud.</p><h2>Investigation Continues</h2><p>Authorities believe the woman may have traveled through several states committing similar crimes. The FBI is now assisting both Nebraska and Maine officials in reviewing potential related incidents.
Police have not yet released details on when the suspect will be extradited to Nebraska or what additional charges may be filed.</p><h2>Public Urged to Remain Vigilant</h2><p>Law enforcement officials are asking anyone who may have had interactions with the woman or noticed suspicious bank activity to contact police:</p><ul>
                        <li>Alliance Police Department: (308) 762-4955
</li><li>Maine State Police, Cpl. Ted Martin: (207) 532-5400
</li>
                    </ul><p>Authorities also advise residents to monitor their bank accounts for unauthorized withdrawals and report any concerns immediately.</p><p><b>Sources</b>: Alliance Police Department, News Channel Nebraska, WAGM</p>

Woman Arrested in Maine Linked to $30,000 Nebraska Bank Fraud Scheme

Holdrege, Neb. - A Holdrege teacher and her boyfriend were arrested last week after a high school student reported a string of inappropriate encounters that prompted a police investigation, authorities said. Elizabeth “Jamie” Love, 36, and Jarid “Jack” Krause, 43, were booked on felony sex-trafficking charges; Love also faces an additional count alleging sexual grooming by a school employee.&nbsp;

According to an affidavit described by investigators, the probe began after the student — who has worked with Love in a school setting since middle school — told law enforcement she had received messages, in-person attention and out-of-school contact from Love that moved beyond a professional relationship. The report says the student felt uncomfortable after an August phone call in which Krause allegedly expressed sexual interest, and Love allegedly told the student she “would be willing to share” him.&nbsp;

Investigators say a separate October incident escalated the alarm: the student told police Love picked her up from home, took her to Love’s residence and that Krause led her to an upstairs bedroom and made a sexual request she declined. Surveillance footage and phone records cited in court documents were among the items police examined while building their case. The affidavit also says Love gave the student $100 after the encounter; Love told investigators the money was a gift to help the student buy a phone.

Court records and reporting indicate the couple exchanged messages earlier in the year about seeking “our person” and even discussed foster-care paperwork — comments prosecutors included in the complaint to show alleged intent and planning. Police said the investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Phelps County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol.

Love is employed as a transition coordinator and teacher of the deaf with Education Service Unit No. 11 (ESU-11), which serves several rural districts in south-central Nebraska; ESU-11 has placed her on administrative leave while the case proceeds, local outlets reported. Both defendants are being held in the Phelps County Jail on $250,000 cash bonds with no surety option noted in charging documents. If convicted, the defendants face severe penalties, including possible life imprisonment and lifetime registration on Nebraska’s sex-offender registry.&nbsp;

Holdrege police said the investigation remains active and asked anyone with information or who had prior interactions with Love or Krause that now seem suspicious to contact the department. (Holdrege Police: (308) 995-4407.)&nbsp;

<b>Sources</b>:
People, Nebraska.TV, Fox News

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761655940205.png" alt="Elizabeth "Jamie" Love, 36, was arrested on Oct. 24, 2025, in Holdrege, Nebraska, on charges of sex trafficking a minor.&nbsp; Jarid "Jack" Krause, 43, was arrested on Oct. 24 2025, in Holdrege, Nebraska, on Charges of sex trafficking a minor. (Phelps County Sheriff's Office)" />
                        <figcaption>Elizabeth "Jamie" Love, 36, was arrested on Oct. 24, 2025, in Holdrege, Nebraska, on charges of sex trafficking a minor.&nbsp; Jarid "Jack" Krause, 43, was arrested on Oct. 24 2025, in Holdrege, Nebraska, on Charges of sex trafficking a minor. (Phelps County Sheriff's Office)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Holdrege, Neb. - A Holdrege teacher and her boyfriend were arrested last week after a high school student reported a string of inappropriate encounters that prompted a police investigation, authorities said. Elizabeth “Jamie” Love, 36, and Jarid “Jack” Krause, 43, were booked on felony sex-trafficking charges; Love also faces an additional count alleging sexual grooming by a school employee.&nbsp;</p><p>According to an affidavit described by investigators, the probe began after the student — who has worked with Love in a school setting since middle school — told law enforcement she had received messages, in-person attention and out-of-school contact from Love that moved beyond a professional relationship. The report says the student felt uncomfortable after an August phone call in which Krause allegedly expressed sexual interest, and Love allegedly told the student she “would be willing to share” him.&nbsp;</p><p>Investigators say a separate October incident escalated the alarm: the student told police Love picked her up from home, took her to Love’s residence and that Krause led her to an upstairs bedroom and made a sexual request she declined. Surveillance footage and phone records cited in court documents were among the items police examined while building their case. The affidavit also says Love gave the student $100 after the encounter; Love told investigators the money was a gift to help the student buy a phone.</p><p>Court records and reporting indicate the couple exchanged messages earlier in the year about seeking “our person” and even discussed foster-care paperwork — comments prosecutors included in the complaint to show alleged intent and planning. Police said the investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Phelps County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol.</p><p>Love is employed as a transition coordinator and teacher of the deaf with Education Service Unit No. 11 (ESU-11), which serves several rural districts in south-central Nebraska; ESU-11 has placed her on administrative leave while the case proceeds, local outlets reported. Both defendants are being held in the Phelps County Jail on $250,000 cash bonds with no surety option noted in charging documents. If convicted, the defendants face severe penalties, including possible life imprisonment and lifetime registration on Nebraska’s sex-offender registry.&nbsp;</p><p>Holdrege police said the investigation remains active and asked anyone with information or who had prior interactions with Love or Krause that now seem suspicious to contact the department. (Holdrege Police: (308) 995-4407.)&nbsp;</p><p><b>Sources</b>:
People, Nebraska.TV, Fox News</p>

Holdrege Teacher and Boyfriend Charged with Sex Trafficking After Student Alleges Inappropriate Relationship

FORT WORTH, Texas —On October 23, two police officers responded to a vehicular collision on Interstate 30 between Eastchase Parkway and Cooks Lane that resulted in the female driver and an infant child being ejected from the vehicle, according to a media release from Fort Worth&nbsp; Police.

The infant was pinned beneath the overturned vehicle and was unresponsive. Sergeant Nichols and Office Bounds with help from witnesses to the accident, were able to free the trapped infant.

 Sergeant Nichols immediately began to perform CPR on the unconscious infant, eventually waking the child and keeping her alive until <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FortWorthFireDepartment?__cft__[0]=AZUvQtqMvBwYlX8BHgQ4ms3HUCYAdSY5DzQxM-EOAU1Fww6IVLGYtyy3VblQHVhpcSlmVMw37Kho9PLD-bQdFrecJA3ZSkBAZ1s7btwPgvzj-Zb4Ex12Uf_wdPJ0p9z3Co5I4m7MgXpoDiYx6mtZqSvnkXnr-VJvVYEI-kPm6uzigU7b1aMkpBODHcoNb8-gyFXpTqWrJvU_FnjBr2TBGhfi&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Fort Worth Fire Department</a> arrived on scene. 

The woman and infant are in stable condition and expected to make a full recovery.

"We are beyond proud of the life saving actions performed by Sergeant Nichols and Officer Bounds for their bravery and quick response to this terrible scene. We are also grateful to the Fort Worth citizens who saw someone in danger and, without hesitation, assisted our officers."

<p>FORT WORTH, Texas —On October 23, two police officers responded to a vehicular collision on Interstate 30 between Eastchase Parkway and Cooks Lane that resulted in the female driver and an infant child being ejected from the vehicle, according to a media release from Fort Worth&nbsp; Police.</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2567348986965281%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><p>The infant was pinned beneath the overturned vehicle and was unresponsive. Sergeant Nichols and Office Bounds with help from witnesses to the accident, were able to free the trapped infant.</p><p> Sergeant Nichols immediately began to perform CPR on the unconscious infant, eventually waking the child and keeping her alive until <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FortWorthFireDepartment?__cft__[0]=AZUvQtqMvBwYlX8BHgQ4ms3HUCYAdSY5DzQxM-EOAU1Fww6IVLGYtyy3VblQHVhpcSlmVMw37Kho9PLD-bQdFrecJA3ZSkBAZ1s7btwPgvzj-Zb4Ex12Uf_wdPJ0p9z3Co5I4m7MgXpoDiYx6mtZqSvnkXnr-VJvVYEI-kPm6uzigU7b1aMkpBODHcoNb8-gyFXpTqWrJvU_FnjBr2TBGhfi&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Fort Worth Fire Department</a> arrived on scene. </p><p>The woman and infant are in stable condition and expected to make a full recovery.</p><p>"We are beyond proud of the life saving actions performed by Sergeant Nichols and Officer Bounds for their bravery and quick response to this terrible scene. We are also grateful to the Fort Worth citizens who saw someone in danger and, without hesitation, assisted our officers."</p>

🎥Police, bystanders rescue baby pinned under car after rollover crash

No progress has been made to end the government shutdown as it enters&nbsp; another week. 

On Monday Senate chaplain, Retired Rear-Admiral Barry Black prayed,&nbsp;"When our children and grandchildren want to know what we were doing&nbsp; in the 119th Congress during the famous shutdown may we not have to give these answers: I helped set new record for keeping government closed. No gold medals are given for breaking shutdown records"

<p>No progress has been made to end the government shutdown as it enters&nbsp; another week. </p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;When our children &amp; grandchildren want to know what we were doing 119th Congress during famous shutdown may we not have to give these answers: I helped set new record for keeping government closed ...No gold medals are given for breaking shutdown records&quot;<br>- Senate chaplain Black <a href="https://t.co/5KHY8hfo8p">pic.twitter.com/5KHY8hfo8p</a></p>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1982887966813905311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>On Monday Senate chaplain, Retired Rear-Admiral Barry Black prayed,&nbsp;"When our children and grandchildren want to know what we were doing&nbsp; in the 119th Congress during the famous shutdown may we not have to give these answers: I helped set new record for keeping government closed. No gold medals are given for breaking shutdown records"</p>

🎥Senate chaplain prayer: No medals for breaking gov't shutdown records

TOKYO — President Donald Trump received a warm greeting from&nbsp;the new Japanese prime minister. He took her with him as he spoke to U.S. troops aboard an aircraft carrier.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761615314155.png" alt="Photo courtesy White. House video" />
                        <figcaption>Photo courtesy White. House video</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>TOKYO — President Donald Trump received a warm greeting from&nbsp;the new Japanese prime minister. He took her with him as he spoke to U.S. troops aboard an aircraft carrier.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> arrives at Akasaka Palace and is greeted by the Prime Minister of Japan 🇺🇸🇯🇵 <a href="https://t.co/PTdTzvErbZ">pic.twitter.com/PTdTzvErbZ</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1982973115346120878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tl" dir="ltr">Welcome ceremony at Akasaka Palace for President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>! 🇺🇸🇯🇵 <a href="https://t.co/CLez54dOTt">pic.twitter.com/CLez54dOTt</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1982975243523334578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> to PM Takaichi: &quot;Shinzo Abe was a great friend of mine... He spoke so well of you, long before we met, and I&#39;m not surprised to see that you are now the Prime Minister — and he would be very happy to know that, and I congratulate you on behalf of the United States.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/2Gi4YZjuX9">pic.twitter.com/2Gi4YZjuX9</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1982977645550956780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">PM Takaichi gifts President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> a golf bag signed by Hideki Matsuyama and Prime Minister Abe’s putter ❤️⛳️ <a href="https://t.co/YlaYnfr846">pic.twitter.com/YlaYnfr846</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1982993837921579232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump delivers a toast before lunch 🇺🇸🇯🇵 <a href="https://t.co/qkdeXav9oY">pic.twitter.com/qkdeXav9oY</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1982996429087093173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> arrives to deliver remarks to U.S. troops aboard USS George Washington at Yokosuka Naval Base 🇺🇸🇯🇵 <a href="https://t.co/R4etKv4d7H">pic.twitter.com/R4etKv4d7H</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1983075951228436931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">GOD BLESS OUR NAVY! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/5kxIVsc7nj">pic.twitter.com/5kxIVsc7nj</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1983078481484238967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Commander-in-Chief on the USS George Washington at Yokosuka Naval Base 🇺🇸🇯🇵 <a href="https://t.co/JmG5ABWaVX">pic.twitter.com/JmG5ABWaVX</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1983080910250528954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Trump dance with our U.S. Navy in Japan! 😂🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/Gsm3XJT1ot">pic.twitter.com/Gsm3XJT1ot</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1983093838152335585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump meets with Mrs. Abe and is gifted a beautiful piece of art that she created with a message of PEACE for the Peacemaker ❤️🕊️ <a href="https://t.co/LWH3BMSoue">pic.twitter.com/LWH3BMSoue</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1983111640741752914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Golf gift among highlights of Trump's visit with Japan's new prime minister

The Mega Millions® jackpot surges past $700 million for only the ninth time in the game’s history for the next drawing on Tuesday, October 28, according to the game's web site.

 The estimated prize is now an impressive $714 million ($334.1 million cash) after no ticket matched all six numbers drawn Friday night – the white balls 11, 18, 31, 51 and 56, plus the gold Mega Ball 24. 

The jackpot has been growing since it was last won at $348 million in Virginia on June 27.If won next Tuesday, it would be the second-largest Mega Millions jackpot ever won in the month of October. 

Almost exactly seven years ago, the game’s first-ever billion-dollar jackpot was won in South Carolina, on October 23, 2018; that prize of $1.537 billion remains the second-largest Mega Millions prize ever awarded. 

In the October 24 drawing, there were 482,430 winning tickets across all prize tiers, for total nationide winnings of more than $11.7 million. One ticket, sold in Connecticut, matched the five white balls to win the second-tier prize; with the 2X multiplier, it is worth $2 million. 

Twelve tickets matched four white balls plus the Mega Ball to win the game’s third-tier prize: seven at 2X for $20,000 (two in Arizona and one each in California, Indiana, Michigan, Tennessee and Texas), two at 3X for $30,000 (Michigan and Virginia), one at 4X for $40,000 (Missouri) and two at 5X for $50,000 (Massachusetts and Michigan).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx">&nbsp;Click here for complete drawing result</a>s.

<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx"></a>&nbsp;In the 34 drawings in this jackpot run to date, there have been more than 10 million winning tickets at all levels, with prizes worth more than $240.9 million. They include 17 second-tier prizes: Eight with the 2X multiplier (Arizona, California, Connecticut, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Texas and Virginia), seven with the 3X multiplier (two in California and one each in Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey and New York), and one each at 4X and 5X (both in California).&nbsp;

There have also been 230 third-tier winning tickets so far in this run, ranging from $20,000 to $100,000. These third-tier prizes were won in 38 different jurisdictions across the country: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

&nbsp;Before the June 27 Virginia jackpot win at $348 million, other jackpots awarded this year were in Ohio ($112 million on April 18), Illinois ($349 million on March 25), and Arizona ($112 million on January 17).About Mega MillionsMega Millions is the only lottery game that has produced seven jackpot wins exceeding $1 billion each – all in different states. South Carolina was the first in 2018, followed by Michigan in 2021, Illinois in 2022, Maine and Florida in 2023, and New Jersey and California in 2024. The Florida prize on August 8, 2023, is the game’s current record jackpot at $1.602 billion.<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/About/Jackpot-History.aspx">See the complete Mega Millions jackpot history.</a>Tickets are sold in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

Tickets are $5 each and include a randomly assigned multiplier, multiplying the base prize levels by 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X or 10X. Half of the proceeds from the sale of each Mega Millions ticket remains in the state where the ticket was sold, where the money supports designated good causes and retailer commissions.Drawings are conducted at 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesdays and Fridays in Atlanta, Georgia. The overall odds of winning any Mega Millions prize are 1 in 23; the odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 290,472,336.The Top Mega Millions Jackpots:AmountDateWinning Tickets$1.602 billion8/8/20231-FL$1.537 billion10/23/20181-SC$1.348 billion1/13/20231-ME$1.337 billion7/29/20221-IL$1.269 billion12/27/20241-CA$1.128 billion3/26/20241-NJ$1.050 billion1/22/20211-MI$810 million9/10/20241-TX$714 million (est)10/28/2025?$656 million&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3/30/2012&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3-IL, KS, MD

<p>The Mega Millions® jackpot surges past $700 million for only the ninth time in the game’s history for the next drawing on Tuesday, October 28, according to the game's web site.</p><p> The estimated prize is now an impressive $714 million ($334.1 million cash) after no ticket matched all six numbers drawn Friday night – the white balls 11, 18, 31, 51 and 56, plus the gold Mega Ball 24. </p><p>The jackpot has been growing since it was last won at $348 million in Virginia on June 27.If won next Tuesday, it would be the second-largest Mega Millions jackpot ever won in the month of October. </p><p>Almost exactly seven years ago, the game’s first-ever billion-dollar jackpot was won in South Carolina, on October 23, 2018; that prize of $1.537 billion remains the second-largest Mega Millions prize ever awarded. </p><p>In the October 24 drawing, there were 482,430 winning tickets across all prize tiers, for total nationide winnings of more than $11.7 million. One ticket, sold in Connecticut, matched the five white balls to win the second-tier prize; with the 2X multiplier, it is worth $2 million. </p><p>Twelve tickets matched four white balls plus the Mega Ball to win the game’s third-tier prize: seven at 2X for $20,000 (two in Arizona and one each in California, Indiana, Michigan, Tennessee and Texas), two at 3X for $30,000 (Michigan and Virginia), one at 4X for $40,000 (Missouri) and two at 5X for $50,000 (Massachusetts and Michigan).&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx">&nbsp;Click here for complete drawing result</a>s.</p><p><a href="https://www.megamillions.com/Winning-Numbers.aspx"></a>&nbsp;In the 34 drawings in this jackpot run to date, there have been more than 10 million winning tickets at all levels, with prizes worth more than $240.9 million. They include 17 second-tier prizes: Eight with the 2X multiplier (Arizona, California, Connecticut, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Texas and Virginia), seven with the 3X multiplier (two in California and one each in Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey and New York), and one each at 4X and 5X (both in California).&nbsp;</p><p>There have also been 230 third-tier winning tickets so far in this run, ranging from $20,000 to $100,000. These third-tier prizes were won in 38 different jurisdictions across the country: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.</p><p>&nbsp;Before the June 27 Virginia jackpot win at $348 million, other jackpots awarded this year were in Ohio ($112 million on April 18), Illinois ($349 million on March 25), and Arizona ($112 million on January 17).About Mega MillionsMega Millions is the only lottery game that has produced seven jackpot wins exceeding $1 billion each – all in different states. South Carolina was the first in 2018, followed by Michigan in 2021, Illinois in 2022, Maine and Florida in 2023, and New Jersey and California in 2024. The Florida prize on August 8, 2023, is the game’s current record jackpot at $1.602 billion.<a href="https://www.megamillions.com/About/Jackpot-History.aspx">See the complete Mega Millions jackpot history.</a>Tickets are sold in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. </p><p>Tickets are $5 each and include a randomly assigned multiplier, multiplying the base prize levels by 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X or 10X. Half of the proceeds from the sale of each Mega Millions ticket remains in the state where the ticket was sold, where the money supports designated good causes and retailer commissions.Drawings are conducted at 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesdays and Fridays in Atlanta, Georgia. The overall odds of winning any Mega Millions prize are 1 in 23; the odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 290,472,336.The Top Mega Millions Jackpots:AmountDateWinning Tickets$1.602 billion8/8/20231-FL$1.537 billion10/23/20181-SC$1.348 billion1/13/20231-ME$1.337 billion7/29/20221-IL$1.269 billion12/27/20241-CA$1.128 billion3/26/20241-NJ$1.050 billion1/22/20211-MI$810 million9/10/20241-TX$714 million (est)10/28/2025?$656 million&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3/30/2012&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3-IL, KS, MD</p>

Mega Millions jackpot surges past $700 million for only 9th time

LINCOLN, Neb. — Twenty-three people lost their lives on Nebraska roadways during September 2025, according to data from the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT). 

These fatalities occurred in 21 separate crashes.

Seatbelt usage continues to be a concern. Of the 20 vehicle occupants who were killed, nine were not wearing seatbelts, six were buckled up, and five had unknown seatbelt status.

Rural roads remain particularly dangerous, with 16 of the 23 fatalities occurring in rural areas. No deaths were reported on the interstate, while 11 occurred on other highways and 12 on local roads. Among the fatalities, two were pedestrians, one was a motorcyclist, and one crash involved a train.

Comparing September 2025 with previous years shows a slight decrease in fatalities. There were 30 fatalities in September 2024. Looking at the broader picture, Nebraska has seen 163 traffic fatalities so far in 2025, down from 196 at the same point in 2024 but slightly higher than 155 in 2023.

NDOT reminds drivers to buckle up and drive safely, especially in rural areas. For more information and daily counts of traffic fatalities, visit <a href="https://ndot.info/tollcompare">ndot.info/tollcompare</a>.

This report reflects data available through October 14, 2025, from NDOT’s Highway Safety Section. For additional information, contact NDOT Communications and Public Policy at (402) 479-4316.

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                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562084161517.png" alt="<br>" />
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                    </figure><p>LINCOLN, Neb. — Twenty-three people lost their lives on Nebraska roadways during September 2025, according to data from the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT). </p><p>These fatalities occurred in 21 separate crashes.</p><p>Seatbelt usage continues to be a concern. Of the 20 vehicle occupants who were killed, nine were not wearing seatbelts, six were buckled up, and five had unknown seatbelt status.</p><p>Rural roads remain particularly dangerous, with 16 of the 23 fatalities occurring in rural areas. No deaths were reported on the interstate, while 11 occurred on other highways and 12 on local roads. Among the fatalities, two were pedestrians, one was a motorcyclist, and one crash involved a train.</p><p>Comparing September 2025 with previous years shows a slight decrease in fatalities. There were 30 fatalities in September 2024. Looking at the broader picture, Nebraska has seen 163 traffic fatalities so far in 2025, down from 196 at the same point in 2024 but slightly higher than 155 in 2023.</p><p>NDOT reminds drivers to buckle up and drive safely, especially in rural areas. For more information and daily counts of traffic fatalities, visit <a href="https://ndot.info/tollcompare">ndot.info/tollcompare</a>.</p><p>This report reflects data available through October 14, 2025, from NDOT’s Highway Safety Section. For additional information, contact NDOT Communications and Public Policy at (402) 479-4316.</p>