<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/17/debate-delayed-on-owner-occupied-housing-valuations-as-tensions-flare-in-nebraska-legislature/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;What was intended to be a simple, rare Saturday meeting of the Nebraska Legislature began with flared emotions but ended with key senators making nice to save the very legislation their fight had imperiled.

At the center of the debate was&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58068" target="_blank">Legislative Resolution 2CA</a>, a constitutional amendment that would allow the Legislature, if voters approve, to set a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/16/nebraska-constitutional-amendment-revived-on-owner-occupied-property-valuations/">different valuation process</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/committee-advances-proposal-to-value-ne-owner-occupied-housing-differently-similar-to-ag-land/">owner-occupied housing</a>. Most Nebraska property is valued&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/about/frequently-asked-questions/nebraska-property-assessment-faqs" target="_blank">at or near 100% of actual market value</a>, with the exception of agricultural land, which is currently valued at 75%. Voters in 1984 authorized the Legislature to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/articles.php?article=VIII-1" target="_blank">value ag land differently</a>.

State Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth, a farmer, said he got the idea for LR 2CA while on his tractor, frustrated at how the Nebraska Constitution is “locked up so tight,” and he wanted to see a specific change.

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the Revenue Committee chair, noted at least 19 states value residential property differently than other types.

“There’s no smoke and mirrors here,” Brandt said Thursday after his measure was unanimously voted out of the Revenue Committee. “It simply is something the Legislature can do.”

Logan County, at 85%, has the most owner-occupied homeownership among Nebraska’s 93 counties.

The other highest nine counties, all at 83%, are:

Hooker County has the least owner-occupied homeownership, at 45%.&nbsp;

Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://news.legislature.ne.gov/lrd/files/2024/08/Maptime-29-Percentage-of-Owner-Occupied-Homeownership-by-County.png" target="_blank">Legislative Research Office</a>

Lawmakers left without advancing the measure Saturday but allowed it to limp along until Tuesday, with about one hour of debate remaining. That’s because lawmakers voted&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11371" target="_blank">25-7</a>&nbsp;to postpone debate, at Brandt’s request, for a chance to win more support and have more senators in attendance.

Had lawmakers gotten to a vote on the measure itself Saturday, it likely would have needed 33 votes. Only 36 senators were in attendance and a number of them were opposed, including some who voted to give Brandt a fighting chance.

On Tuesday, Brandt will likely again need 33 votes (he would need 25 if debate ended before the four-hour mark). To pass during final reading, it would need at least 30 votes in order to appear on the 2026 ballot, and at least 40 votes to appear on the November 2024 ballot.

Brandt said he’s unsure if he’ll have 40 votes but is more confident about the smaller threshold.

Speaker John Arch of La Vista confirmed he’ll schedule LR 2CA on Tuesday. The earliest day final debate could come is Thursday. Should the tax package and budget-related bills pass Tuesday, lawmakers could also just vote to go home and end the session.

The postponement was a strategy brokered between Brandt, Linehan and Omaha State Sen. Justin Wayne, with flared tensions among them spawning the audible to begin with. State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha offered the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11369" target="_blank">prevailing motion</a>&nbsp;to regroup Tuesday.

Wayne was the first to speak Saturday and drew his line in the sand, telling Brandt, “This is what happens when you play political games with people’s lives.”

On Friday, lawmakers fell one vote short of a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/budget-related-bills-to-fund-nebraskas-property-tax-relief-plan-advance-without-changes/">procedural motion</a>&nbsp;that could have led to a vote on whether to exempt residential electricity from sales taxes as part of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58118" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 3</a>. Brandt was one of 17 senators to oppose Wayne’s procedural move to determine the amendment was relevant, or germane, and able to be amended onto LB 3. Wayne had&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Journal/s1day14.pdf" target="_blank">21 supporters</a>, but he needed 22.

“Let’s just say ‘to hell with the individual’ and focus on profits over people, because that’s what we’re doing,” Wayne said Saturday.

Linehan saw anger also aimed at her because she was “present, not voting” on that LB 3 fight, unaware her vote could have been the deciding one. She said even if she had known, it might not have made a difference as she was following the lead of Appropriations Committee chair State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood.

“The hardest thing we do here is picking between our friends,” Linehan said, visibly frustrated and wiping her eyes with a tissue while speaking.

Wayne and Linehan, both elected in 2016, are in their&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/15/term-limited-nebraska-lawmakers-mount-what-could-be-last-push-for-more-property-tax-relief/">last year in the Legislature</a>. They have often been on opposing sides of issues but have a close friendship and frequently help one another, even when diametrically opposed.

This session, Wayne has fought to have the Legislature try for more than currently contained in the core tax package, LB 34, even though he opposes the current version and opposed the original package contained in LB 1, which Linehan introduced on behalf of Gov. Jim Pillen.&nbsp;

Wayne has helped stall debate to give Linehan and others time to negotiate. He helped draft ideas. He took political hits for her. It was often his progressive colleagues who declined to budge.

Linehan, speaking angrily on the floor Saturday, recounted how many times in her eight years the Legislature has helped agriculture, only to see multiple senators from more rural districts opposing LR 2CA.

“I’m not mad at anybody in here&nbsp;today,” Linehan said. “I am furious with the Farm Bureau, texting us this morning and saying that 2CA is hard for ag.”

Brandt said the organization told him Friday night it was in favor of his constitutional amendment, but by Saturday morning the Farm Bureau had flipped. He shared an email the organization sent to him and State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward, with what Brandt said were “fantasy numbers.”

Linehan pointed to a major property tax proposal passed in 2020,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=41565" target="_blank">LB 1107</a>, that had lawmakers negotiating in the State Capitol for a three-year funding stretch while the Farm Bureau was busy making a deal with lobbyists for a five-year proposal. She said “they threw us under the bus.”

That moment wasn’t a one-off exchange, Linehan added, arguing ag has been “really lucky” and “the angels have been with them.”&nbsp;

She sees LR 2CA as a chance for agricultural interests to join with residential landowners and find a “partner,” which she said the Farm Bureau currently lacks. As a result, Linehan argued, ag land might soon return to being valued at 100% of market value.

“You have to understand, Ag: if you ever want to move the ball, you’re going to need a partner, and the partner you ought to be holding hands with is the homeowners,” Linehan said. “And if you don’t want to,&nbsp;I can’t feel sorry for you anymore.”

‘Whack-a-mole’ for other property types

State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte repeated criticism he lobbied at the measure Friday, saying that it was “way too early” and “not ready for primetime.”&nbsp;

Jacobson said LR 2CA doesn’t have 40 votes and might fall short of 33. He’s promised to filibuster the bill either way to prevent unintended consequences.

“Without pay-fors, this is whack-a-mole,” Jacobson said. “One goes up, others go down. One goes down, the other one or two classes [of property valuations] go up.”

Others, including State Sen. Brad von Gillern of Elkhorn, Revenue Committee vice chair, expressed similar concern for renters and multi-family units in commercial properties.

Brandt and Wayne, after moving past their differences, suggested using property tax credits to buy down the cost of lowered valuations for owner-occupied properties, which they said could already be done now, without a constitutional change. That would be different from ag land, where counties are affected by a shift in valuations, Brandt said.

State Sens. Julie Slama of Dunbar and Mike McDonnell of Omaha, who also&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/11/tributes-paid-to-15-departing-state-senators-as-session-nears-end-13-leaving-due-to-term-limits/">won’t return</a>&nbsp;to the Legislature next year, differed over whether to continue the special session to tackle other ideas. Slama opposed LR 2CA; McDonnell supported it.

Slama said for ag to accomplish any victories, it often includes negotiations that mean urban areas have to get something, too. She said the special session has amped up emotions in a compressed timeline to an “11” but that if lawmakers fail, “it’s not for lack of trying.”

“You are on duty 24/7, 365, but that doesn’t discount the sacrifices that people are making to be here,” Slama said of the session, pointing to lawmakers with personal health issues or whose journeys to Lincoln include leaving “ailing” family members at home.

McDonnell said that suggestions from Jacobson and others to wait until January aren’t good enough and that senators can’t just say, “We tried.” He suggested an up-or-down vote on various proposals after one hour of debate, and then if a bill doesn’t have 33 votes, it’s dead for the session.

“I don’t believe we should stop until we’ve exhausted every idea, had every discussion possible, because if we’re saying we’re going to wait until next year, there’s people out there that can’t wait,” McDonnell said. “There’s people out there making life-changing decisions today — where they’re going to live, and what they’re going to eat.”

Lawmakers will meet from 9-9:30 a.m. Monday for a check-in day. Debate is scheduled to resume Tuesday on&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58075" target="_blank">LB 34</a>&nbsp;(the core tax package),&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58053" target="_blank">LB 2</a>&nbsp;(<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/14/nebraska-legislature-sidesteps-filibuster-on-cuts-to-hhs-legislative-council/">budget cuts</a>), LB 3 (<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/second-budget-bill-advances-after-another-filibuster/">cash fund transfers and fee increases</a>) and LR 2CA. Special sessions continue until lawmakers vote to go home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724073748547.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth, center, meets with a group of his colleagues as debate takes an unintended turn Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Lincoln. Around him are, from left, State Sens. George Dungan of Lincoln, John Cavanaugh of Omaha, Ben Hansen of Blair, Anna Wishart of Lincoln and Justin Wayne of Omaha. Not pictured, to Brandt’s right: State Sens. Wendy DeBoer of Omaha and Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth, center, meets with a group of his colleagues as debate takes an unintended turn Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Lincoln. Around him are, from left, State Sens. George Dungan of Lincoln, John Cavanaugh of Omaha, Ben Hansen of Blair, Anna Wishart of Lincoln and Justin Wayne of Omaha. Not pictured, to Brandt’s right: State Sens. Wendy DeBoer of Omaha and Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/17/debate-delayed-on-owner-occupied-housing-valuations-as-tensions-flare-in-nebraska-legislature/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;What was intended to be a simple, rare Saturday meeting of the Nebraska Legislature began with flared emotions but ended with key senators making nice to save the very legislation their fight had imperiled.At the center of the debate was&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58068" target="_blank">Legislative Resolution 2CA</a>, a constitutional amendment that would allow the Legislature, if voters approve, to set a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/16/nebraska-constitutional-amendment-revived-on-owner-occupied-property-valuations/">different valuation process</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/committee-advances-proposal-to-value-ne-owner-occupied-housing-differently-similar-to-ag-land/">owner-occupied housing</a>. Most Nebraska property is valued&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/about/frequently-asked-questions/nebraska-property-assessment-faqs" target="_blank">at or near 100% of actual market value</a>, with the exception of agricultural land, which is currently valued at 75%. Voters in 1984 authorized the Legislature to&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/articles.php?article=VIII-1" target="_blank">value ag land differently</a>.State Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth, a farmer, said he got the idea for LR 2CA while on his tractor, frustrated at how the Nebraska Constitution is “locked up so tight,” and he wanted to see a specific change.State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the Revenue Committee chair, noted at least 19 states value residential property differently than other types.“There’s no smoke and mirrors here,” Brandt said Thursday after his measure was unanimously voted out of the Revenue Committee. “It simply is something the Legislature can do.”<h2>Owner-occupied housing statewide</h2>Logan County, at 85%, has the most owner-occupied homeownership among Nebraska’s 93 counties.The other highest nine counties, all at 83%, are:<ul>
 <li>Boyd.</li><li>Cass.</li><li>Deuel.</li><li>Franklin.</li><li>Gosper.</li><li>Greely.</li><li>Harlan.</li><li>Nance.</li><li>Pawnee.</li>
 </ul>Hooker County has the least owner-occupied homeownership, at 45%.&nbsp;The other lowest nine counties are:<ul>
 <li>Cherry (58%).&nbsp;</li><li>Lancaster (59%).&nbsp;</li><li>Thurston (61%).&nbsp;</li><li>Douglas (62%).&nbsp;</li><li>Hall (62%).&nbsp;</li><li>Sioux (62%).&nbsp;</li><li>Dawes (63%).&nbsp;</li><li>Cheyenne (65%).&nbsp;</li><li>Dakota (65%).</li>
 </ul>Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://news.legislature.ne.gov/lrd/files/2024/08/Maptime-29-Percentage-of-Owner-Occupied-Homeownership-by-County.png" target="_blank">Legislative Research Office</a><h2>Debate postponed to Tuesday</h2>Lawmakers left without advancing the measure Saturday but allowed it to limp along until Tuesday, with about one hour of debate remaining. That’s because lawmakers voted&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11371" target="_blank">25-7</a>&nbsp;to postpone debate, at Brandt’s request, for a chance to win more support and have more senators in attendance.Had lawmakers gotten to a vote on the measure itself Saturday, it likely would have needed 33 votes. Only 36 senators were in attendance and a number of them were opposed, including some who voted to give Brandt a fighting chance.On Tuesday, Brandt will likely again need 33 votes (he would need 25 if debate ended before the four-hour mark). To pass during final reading, it would need at least 30 votes in order to appear on the 2026 ballot, and at least 40 votes to appear on the November 2024 ballot.Brandt said he’s unsure if he’ll have 40 votes but is more confident about the smaller threshold.Speaker John Arch of La Vista confirmed he’ll schedule LR 2CA on Tuesday. The earliest day final debate could come is Thursday. Should the tax package and budget-related bills pass Tuesday, lawmakers could also just vote to go home and end the session.<h2>‘Picking between our friends’</h2>The postponement was a strategy brokered between Brandt, Linehan and Omaha State Sen. Justin Wayne, with flared tensions among them spawning the audible to begin with. State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha offered the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11369" target="_blank">prevailing motion</a>&nbsp;to regroup Tuesday.Wayne was the first to speak Saturday and drew his line in the sand, telling Brandt, “This is what happens when you play political games with people’s lives.”On Friday, lawmakers fell one vote short of a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/budget-related-bills-to-fund-nebraskas-property-tax-relief-plan-advance-without-changes/">procedural motion</a>&nbsp;that could have led to a vote on whether to exempt residential electricity from sales taxes as part of&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58118" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 3</a>. Brandt was one of 17 senators to oppose Wayne’s procedural move to determine the amendment was relevant, or germane, and able to be amended onto LB 3. Wayne had&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Journal/s1day14.pdf" target="_blank">21 supporters</a>, but he needed 22.“Let’s just say ‘to hell with the individual’ and focus on profits over people, because that’s what we’re doing,” Wayne said Saturday.Linehan saw anger also aimed at her because she was “present, not voting” on that LB 3 fight, unaware her vote could have been the deciding one. She said even if she had known, it might not have made a difference as she was following the lead of Appropriations Committee chair State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood.“The hardest thing we do here is picking between our friends,” Linehan said, visibly frustrated and wiping her eyes with a tissue while speaking.Wayne and Linehan, both elected in 2016, are in their&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/15/term-limited-nebraska-lawmakers-mount-what-could-be-last-push-for-more-property-tax-relief/">last year in the Legislature</a>. They have often been on opposing sides of issues but have a close friendship and frequently help one another, even when diametrically opposed.This session, Wayne has fought to have the Legislature try for more than currently contained in the core tax package, LB 34, even though he opposes the current version and opposed the original package contained in LB 1, which Linehan introduced on behalf of Gov. Jim Pillen.&nbsp;Wayne has helped stall debate to give Linehan and others time to negotiate. He helped draft ideas. He took political hits for her. It was often his progressive colleagues who declined to budge.<h2>Ag leaders ‘need a partner’</h2>Linehan, speaking angrily on the floor Saturday, recounted how many times in her eight years the Legislature has helped agriculture, only to see multiple senators from more rural districts opposing LR 2CA.“I’m not mad at anybody in here&nbsp;today,” Linehan said. “I am furious with the Farm Bureau, texting us this morning and saying that 2CA is hard for ag.”Brandt said the organization told him Friday night it was in favor of his constitutional amendment, but by Saturday morning the Farm Bureau had flipped. He shared an email the organization sent to him and State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward, with what Brandt said were “fantasy numbers.”Linehan pointed to a major property tax proposal passed in 2020,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=41565" target="_blank">LB 1107</a>, that had lawmakers negotiating in the State Capitol for a three-year funding stretch while the Farm Bureau was busy making a deal with lobbyists for a five-year proposal. She said “they threw us under the bus.”That moment wasn’t a one-off exchange, Linehan added, arguing ag has been “really lucky” and “the angels have been with them.”&nbsp;She sees LR 2CA as a chance for agricultural interests to join with residential landowners and find a “partner,” which she said the Farm Bureau currently lacks. As a result, Linehan argued, ag land might soon return to being valued at 100% of market value.“You have to understand, Ag: if you ever want to move the ball, you’re going to need a partner, and the partner you ought to be holding hands with is the homeowners,” Linehan said. “And if you don’t want to,&nbsp;I can’t feel sorry for you anymore.”<h2>‘Whack-a-mole’ for other property types</h2>State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte repeated criticism he lobbied at the measure Friday, saying that it was “way too early” and “not ready for primetime.”&nbsp;Jacobson said LR 2CA doesn’t have 40 votes and might fall short of 33. He’s promised to filibuster the bill either way to prevent unintended consequences.“Without pay-fors, this is whack-a-mole,” Jacobson said. “One goes up, others go down. One goes down, the other one or two classes [of property valuations] go up.”Others, including State Sen. Brad von Gillern of Elkhorn, Revenue Committee vice chair, expressed similar concern for renters and multi-family units in commercial properties.Brandt and Wayne, after moving past their differences, suggested using property tax credits to buy down the cost of lowered valuations for owner-occupied properties, which they said could already be done now, without a constitutional change. That would be different from ag land, where counties are affected by a shift in valuations, Brandt said.<h2>Looking ahead</h2>State Sens. Julie Slama of Dunbar and Mike McDonnell of Omaha, who also&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/11/tributes-paid-to-15-departing-state-senators-as-session-nears-end-13-leaving-due-to-term-limits/">won’t return</a>&nbsp;to the Legislature next year, differed over whether to continue the special session to tackle other ideas. Slama opposed LR 2CA; McDonnell supported it.Slama said for ag to accomplish any victories, it often includes negotiations that mean urban areas have to get something, too. She said the special session has amped up emotions in a compressed timeline to an “11” but that if lawmakers fail, “it’s not for lack of trying.”“You are on duty 24/7, 365, but that doesn’t discount the sacrifices that people are making to be here,” Slama said of the session, pointing to lawmakers with personal health issues or whose journeys to Lincoln include leaving “ailing” family members at home.McDonnell said that suggestions from Jacobson and others to wait until January aren’t good enough and that senators can’t just say, “We tried.” He suggested an up-or-down vote on various proposals after one hour of debate, and then if a bill doesn’t have 33 votes, it’s dead for the session.“I don’t believe we should stop until we’ve exhausted every idea, had every discussion possible, because if we’re saying we’re going to wait until next year, there’s people out there that can’t wait,” McDonnell said. “There’s people out there making life-changing decisions today — where they’re going to live, and what they’re going to eat.”Lawmakers will meet from 9-9:30 a.m. Monday for a check-in day. Debate is scheduled to resume Tuesday on&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58075" target="_blank">LB 34</a>&nbsp;(the core tax package),&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58053" target="_blank">LB 2</a>&nbsp;(<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/14/nebraska-legislature-sidesteps-filibuster-on-cuts-to-hhs-legislative-council/">budget cuts</a>), LB 3 (<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/second-budget-bill-advances-after-another-filibuster/">cash fund transfers and fee increases</a>) and LR 2CA. Special sessions continue until lawmakers vote to go home.

Debate delayed on owner-occupied housing valuations as tensions flare in Nebraska Legislature

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Phil Donahue has died. Learn more about his life and career by searching his 22 C-SPAN appearances: <a href="https://t.co/3WPp9Y3ySL">https://t.co/3WPp9Y3ySL</a> RIP. <a href="https://t.co/cK1mzaXxHB">pic.twitter.com/cK1mzaXxHB</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1825535226853851609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Phil Donahue, talk show host pioneer and husband of Marlo Thomas, dies at 88

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>

WASHINGTON — Just a little over a month after she became a candidate for president in the biggest shakeup in generations of presidential politics, Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday will deliver a widely anticipated speech accepting the Democratic nomination at the party’s convention in Chicago.

Harris’ ascent to the top of the ticket after President Joe Biden changed course and said he would not seek reelection has breathed new life into the Democratic bid, with polls showing Harris — who is already&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/kamala-harris-will-be-democratic-presidential-nominee-dnc-announces" target="_blank">the party’s official nominee</a>&nbsp;after a virtual roll call earlier this month — faring much better than Biden was against Republican rival Donald Trump.

Over the course of four days, Democrats will look to capitalize on their base’s newfound enthusiasm for the campaign, with leading speakers aiming to rally the faithful around the party’s positions on reproductive rights, gun safety and voting rights, while<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/harris-ballot-democrats-work-build-momentum-bigger-youth-vote" target="_blank">&nbsp;making a strong pitch to young voters</a>. Harris will also be expected to further lay out her policy positions.

Harris’ nomination is historic. The daughter of immigrants, Harris is the first Black and South Asian woman selected to lead a major party ticket. She would be the first woman of any race to guide the nation as chief executive.

The party has not released an official detailed schedule of speakers, but a convention official confirmed that “current and past presidents are expected to participate in convention programming.” Biden and two former presidents, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, as well as former nominee Hillary Clinton, will all speak,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/12/us/politics/dnc-speakers-biden-obama-clinton.html" target="_blank">according to the New York Times.</a>

Vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is expected to address the convention Wednesday evening, with Harris’ acceptance speech closing out the convention Thursday, the convention official said.

The evening programming block will run from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. the rest of the week.

In addition to the usual television broadcasts, the convention will livestream on several social media platforms, including YouTube, X, Instagram and TikTok. The official live stream will be available on&nbsp;<a href="https://demconvention.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d68a84b1a4b0303a9452770cd&amp;id=e86e03e670&amp;e=a21b6b7198" target="_blank">DemConvention.com</a>.

Scores of Democratic caucus and council meetings, as well as state delegation breakfasts and gatherings, are also scheduled throughout the week’s daytime hours. Media organizations and outside groups are also holding daytime events that will feature Democratic officeholders and candidates.

Protests are also expected over the Biden administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war, with the backdrop of a&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2024/04/08/israel-hamas-war-sets-progressive-and-young-voters-on-collision-course-with-white-house/" target="_blank">delegation of uncommitted voters</a>&nbsp;who oppose the war.

As many as 25,000 protestors are expected over the course of the convention, according to DemList, a newsletter for Democratic officials and allies.

Harris’ entry into the race, nearly immediately after Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/president-joe-biden-bows-out-reelection-campaign-harris-vows-win-nomination-8" target="_blank">announced on July 21</a>&nbsp;he would no longer seek reelection, energized Democrats distressed over Biden’s poor showings in polls against Trump, whose reelection bid Biden turned back in 2020.

A Monmouth University&nbsp;<a href="https://www.monmouth.edu/polling-institute/reports/monmouthpoll_US_081424/" target="_blank">poll published Aug. 14</a>&nbsp;showed a huge jump in enthusiasm for Democrats. The survey found 85% of Democratic respondents were excited about the Harris-Trump race. By comparison, only 46% of Democratic respondents said in June they were excited about a Biden-Trump race.

Harris is also seeing better polling numbers in matchups against Trump, with battleground-state and national surveys consistently shifting toward the Democratic ticket since Biden left the race.

Polls of seven battleground states&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cookpolitical.com/survey-research/2024-swing-state-project/fight-redefine-2024-race-president" target="_blank">published</a>&nbsp;by The Cook Political Report With Amy Walter on Aug. 14 showed Harris narrowly leading in five states —&nbsp;Arizona, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin — and&nbsp;tied in Georgia and trailing in Nevada. All were improvements from Biden’s standing in the same poll in May.

<a href="https://poll.qu.edu/poll-release?releaseid=3902" target="_blank">An Aug. 14 survey from Quinnipiac University</a>&nbsp;showed Harris with a 48%-45% edge in Pennsylvania. The 3-point advantage for Harris was within the poll’s margin of error.

Democrats hope to carry the momentum through the convention. Polls typically favor a party during and immediately after its national party gathering.

Despite the recent polling, Harris and Walz continue to describe themselves&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkwZ_A49hb8" target="_blank">as underdogs in the race</a>.

In her short time on the campaign trail, Harris has emphasized a few core messages.

She’s made reproductive rights a central focus, including the slogan “We are not going back” in her stump speech after describing Republicans’ position on abortion. Additionally, a Texas woman who had to leave the state for an emergency abortion will speak at the DNC,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/texas-woman-who-left-state-abortion-back-harris-convention-2024-08-15/" target="_blank">according to Reuters.</a>

Harris has also played up her background as a prosecutor, drawing a contrast with Trump’s legal troubles.

Walz has highlighted his working-class background and military service, while attacking Republican positions to restrict reproductive rights and ban certain books in schools.

Walz’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/walz-first-solo-speech-vp-candidate-touts-dem-tickets-labor-union-ties" target="_blank">first solo campaign stop</a>&nbsp;since Harris selected him as her running mate was at a union convention, where he emphasized his union background as a high school teacher.

Walz was not initially considered the favorite to be Harris’ running mate, but his appeal as a Midwesterner with a record of winning tough elections and enacting progressive policies&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/minnesota-gov-tim-walz-picked-harris-her-running-mate-democratic-ticket" target="_blank">led to his selection</a>&nbsp;Aug. 6.

Harris has faced criticism for not sitting down for a formal media interview or holding a press conference since she became a candidate.

Democrats have not finalized their platform for 2024. Adopting a party platform is generally among the official items at a convention.

The party set&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats.org/news/dnc-releases-2024-party-platform-draft-outlining-historic-record-and-bold-agenda-for-president-biden-and-vice-president-harris-to-finish-the-job/" target="_blank">a draft platform</a>&nbsp;in July just eight days before Biden dropped his reelection bid. The document centered on the theme of “finishing the job” and mentioned Biden, then the presumptive nominee, 50 times and Harris 12.

Party spokespeople did not respond to an inquiry this week about plans for an update to the platform.

Reproductive rights will likely be a focus point of any policy wishlist.

Harris, during her time as vice president, has led the administration’s messaging on reproductive rights after the Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to an abortion in the summer of 2022.

In her campaign speeches, she has often stressed the need to “trust women” and that the government should not be deciding reproductive health.

Harris has often promised that if she is elected, she will restore those reproductive rights, but unless Democrats control a majority in the U.S. House and 60 Senate votes, it’s unlikely she would be able to achieve that promise.

Since&nbsp;<a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2022/06/24/updated-u-s-supreme-court-overturns-right-to-abortion-in-landmark-decision/" target="_blank">Roe v. Wade was overturned</a>&nbsp;in that Supreme Court decision, Democrats have campaigned on reproductive rights that expand beyond abortion and include protections for in vitro fertilization.

<a href="https://democrats.org/where-we-stand/party-platform/" target="_blank">The 2020 party platform</a>&nbsp;focused on recovering from the coronavirus pandemic, the economy, quality health care, investing in education, protecting democracy and combating climate change.

Democrats are likely to continue to criticize the Project 2025 playbook — a blueprint by the Heritage Foundation, a think tank, to implement conservative policies across the federal government should Trump win in November.

Trump has disavowed the document, but has not detailed his own policy plans.

The Democratic National Convention will take place in Chicago, a city with a long history of hosting the event. Democrats have held their convention in Chicago 11 times, first in 1864 and most recently in 1996.

This year’s will be the first in-person Democratic National Convention since 2016. It was upended due to the coronavirus pandemic and held virtually in 2020.

Throughout the four-day convention, there will be speeches and side events hosted by state Democratic party leaders.

The ceremonial roll call vote with delegates on the convention floor will take place Tuesday. The vice presidential nomination speech by Walz will be Wednesday night and on Thursday night, Harris will give her nomination acceptance speech.

The city is also preparing for massive protests from several groups on reproductive rights, LGBTQ protections, housing and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wbez.org/government-politics/dnc-2024/2024/08/12/dnc-democratic-national-convention-protests-kamala-harris-israel-gaza-lgbtq-reproductive-rights-cpd-police" target="_blank">according to WBEZ News.&nbsp;</a>

The City Council of Chicago in January approved a ceasefire resolution, with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson the tiebreaker, making it the largest city to call for an end to the Israel-Hamas war, in which<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-war-hamas-dead-graves-40000-988d16b648e06e222f04964dc9440da0?taid=66bdedd74b96700001cc25c8&amp;utm_campaign=TrueAnthem&amp;utm_medium=AP&amp;utm_source=Twitter" target="_blank">&nbsp;more than 40,000 Palestinians have died</a>.

The war followed an Oct. 7 attack from Hamas, in which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/longform/2023/10/9/israel-hamas-war-in-maps-and-charts-live-tracker" target="_blank">nearly 1,200 people</a>&nbsp;were killed in Israel and hundreds taken hostage.

Harris’ acceptance speech will cap a five-year journey to her party’s nomination.

In 2019, the California senator announced a bid for president in the next year’s election, but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2019/12/03/784443227/kamala-harris-drops-out-of-presidential-race" target="_blank">dropped out</a>&nbsp;before the first primary or caucus votes were cast after she failed to catch on with Democratic voters.

Biden later picked her as a running mate, and the two defeated Trump and then-Vice President Mike Pence in the 2020 election.

Biden launched a reelection campaign for 2024, but stepped aside after a disastrous debate performance in June spurred questions about his ability to campaign and serve for another four-year term.

After Biden bowed out, Harris&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/democratic-delegates-swiftly-give-harris-enough-support-clinch-presidential-nomination" target="_blank">quickly secured 99%</a>&nbsp;of delegates&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/kamala-harris-officially-becomes-democratic-presidential-nominee" target="_blank">to become the party’s likely nominee</a>. The virtual five-day vote secured her official nomination.

With less than three months until Election Day, Harris and Walz already have sprinted through battleground states including Arizona, Pennsylvania and North Carolina.

Their campaign has also pulled in more than $300 million, according to the campaign. Official Federal Election Commission records will be released in mid-October.

Harris and Trump have&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/08/trump-agrees-to-sept-10-debate-with-harris-claims-two-more-upcoming/" target="_blank">agreed to a Sept. 10&nbsp;</a>debate hosted by ABC News in Philadelphia. Trump proposed two more debates, and Harris has said she would be open to another one between the first debate and Election Day.

Walz and Republican vice presidential candidate Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/mark-your-calendar-vp-candidates-walz-and-vance-debate-oct-1" target="_blank">agreed to an Oct. 1</a>&nbsp;debate on CBS News, in New York City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724014226536.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>WASHINGTON — Just a little over a month after she became a candidate for president in the biggest shakeup in generations of presidential politics, Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday will deliver a widely anticipated speech accepting the Democratic nomination at the party’s convention in Chicago.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724014466626.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Harris’ ascent to the top of the ticket after President Joe Biden changed course and said he would not seek reelection has breathed new life into the Democratic bid, with polls showing Harris — who is already&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/kamala-harris-will-be-democratic-presidential-nominee-dnc-announces" target="_blank">the party’s official nominee</a>&nbsp;after a virtual roll call earlier this month — faring much better than Biden was against Republican rival Donald Trump.Over the course of four days, Democrats will look to capitalize on their base’s newfound enthusiasm for the campaign, with leading speakers aiming to rally the faithful around the party’s positions on reproductive rights, gun safety and voting rights, while<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/harris-ballot-democrats-work-build-momentum-bigger-youth-vote" target="_blank">&nbsp;making a strong pitch to young voters</a>. Harris will also be expected to further lay out her policy positions.Harris’ nomination is historic. The daughter of immigrants, Harris is the first Black and South Asian woman selected to lead a major party ticket. She would be the first woman of any race to guide the nation as chief executive.The party has not released an official detailed schedule of speakers, but a convention official confirmed that “current and past presidents are expected to participate in convention programming.” Biden and two former presidents, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, as well as former nominee Hillary Clinton, will all speak,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/12/us/politics/dnc-speakers-biden-obama-clinton.html" target="_blank">according to the New York Times.</a>Vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is expected to address the convention Wednesday evening, with Harris’ acceptance speech closing out the convention Thursday, the convention official said.The evening programming block will run from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. the rest of the week.In addition to the usual television broadcasts, the convention will livestream on several social media platforms, including YouTube, X, Instagram and TikTok. The official live stream will be available on&nbsp;<a href="https://demconvention.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d68a84b1a4b0303a9452770cd&amp;id=e86e03e670&amp;e=a21b6b7198" target="_blank">DemConvention.com</a>.Scores of Democratic caucus and council meetings, as well as state delegation breakfasts and gatherings, are also scheduled throughout the week’s daytime hours. Media organizations and outside groups are also holding daytime events that will feature Democratic officeholders and candidates.Protests are also expected over the Biden administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war, with the backdrop of a&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2024/04/08/israel-hamas-war-sets-progressive-and-young-voters-on-collision-course-with-white-house/" target="_blank">delegation of uncommitted voters</a>&nbsp;who oppose the war.As many as 25,000 protestors are expected over the course of the convention, according to DemList, a newsletter for Democratic officials and allies.<h2>A contest transformed</h2>Harris’ entry into the race, nearly immediately after Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/president-joe-biden-bows-out-reelection-campaign-harris-vows-win-nomination-8" target="_blank">announced on July 21</a>&nbsp;he would no longer seek reelection, energized Democrats distressed over Biden’s poor showings in polls against Trump, whose reelection bid Biden turned back in 2020.A Monmouth University&nbsp;<a href="https://www.monmouth.edu/polling-institute/reports/monmouthpoll_US_081424/" target="_blank">poll published Aug. 14</a>&nbsp;showed a huge jump in enthusiasm for Democrats. The survey found 85% of Democratic respondents were excited about the Harris-Trump race. By comparison, only 46% of Democratic respondents said in June they were excited about a Biden-Trump race.Harris is also seeing better polling numbers in matchups against Trump, with battleground-state and national surveys consistently shifting toward the Democratic ticket since Biden left the race.Polls of seven battleground states&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cookpolitical.com/survey-research/2024-swing-state-project/fight-redefine-2024-race-president" target="_blank">published</a>&nbsp;by The Cook Political Report With Amy Walter on Aug. 14 showed Harris narrowly leading in five states —&nbsp;Arizona, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin — and&nbsp;tied in Georgia and trailing in Nevada. All were improvements from Biden’s standing in the same poll in May.<a href="https://poll.qu.edu/poll-release?releaseid=3902" target="_blank">An Aug. 14 survey from Quinnipiac University</a>&nbsp;showed Harris with a 48%-45% edge in Pennsylvania. The 3-point advantage for Harris was within the poll’s margin of error.Democrats hope to carry the momentum through the convention. Polls typically favor a party during and immediately after its national party gathering.Despite the recent polling, Harris and Walz continue to describe themselves&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkwZ_A49hb8" target="_blank">as underdogs in the race</a>.<h2>Campaign themes</h2>In her short time on the campaign trail, Harris has emphasized a few core messages.She’s made reproductive rights a central focus, including the slogan “We are not going back” in her stump speech after describing Republicans’ position on abortion. Additionally, a Texas woman who had to leave the state for an emergency abortion will speak at the DNC,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/texas-woman-who-left-state-abortion-back-harris-convention-2024-08-15/" target="_blank">according to Reuters.</a>Harris has also played up her background as a prosecutor, drawing a contrast with Trump’s legal troubles.Walz has highlighted his working-class background and military service, while attacking Republican positions to restrict reproductive rights and ban certain books in schools.Walz’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/walz-first-solo-speech-vp-candidate-touts-dem-tickets-labor-union-ties" target="_blank">first solo campaign stop</a>&nbsp;since Harris selected him as her running mate was at a union convention, where he emphasized his union background as a high school teacher.Walz was not initially considered the favorite to be Harris’ running mate, but his appeal as a Midwesterner with a record of winning tough elections and enacting progressive policies&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/minnesota-gov-tim-walz-picked-harris-her-running-mate-democratic-ticket" target="_blank">led to his selection</a>&nbsp;Aug. 6.Harris has faced criticism for not sitting down for a formal media interview or holding a press conference since she became a candidate.<h2>Platform in flux</h2>Democrats have not finalized their platform for 2024. Adopting a party platform is generally among the official items at a convention.The party set&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats.org/news/dnc-releases-2024-party-platform-draft-outlining-historic-record-and-bold-agenda-for-president-biden-and-vice-president-harris-to-finish-the-job/" target="_blank">a draft platform</a>&nbsp;in July just eight days before Biden dropped his reelection bid. The document centered on the theme of “finishing the job” and mentioned Biden, then the presumptive nominee, 50 times and Harris 12.Party spokespeople did not respond to an inquiry this week about plans for an update to the platform.Reproductive rights will likely be a focus point of any policy wishlist.Harris, during her time as vice president, has led the administration’s messaging on reproductive rights after the Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to an abortion in the summer of 2022.In her campaign speeches, she has often stressed the need to “trust women” and that the government should not be deciding reproductive health.Harris has often promised that if she is elected, she will restore those reproductive rights, but unless Democrats control a majority in the U.S. House and 60 Senate votes, it’s unlikely she would be able to achieve that promise.Since&nbsp;<a href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2022/06/24/updated-u-s-supreme-court-overturns-right-to-abortion-in-landmark-decision/" target="_blank">Roe v. Wade was overturned</a>&nbsp;in that Supreme Court decision, Democrats have campaigned on reproductive rights that expand beyond abortion and include protections for in vitro fertilization.<a href="https://democrats.org/where-we-stand/party-platform/" target="_blank">The 2020 party platform</a>&nbsp;focused on recovering from the coronavirus pandemic, the economy, quality health care, investing in education, protecting democracy and combating climate change.Democrats are likely to continue to criticize the Project 2025 playbook — a blueprint by the Heritage Foundation, a think tank, to implement conservative policies across the federal government should Trump win in November.Trump has disavowed the document, but has not detailed his own policy plans.<h2>Chicago conventions</h2>The Democratic National Convention will take place in Chicago, a city with a long history of hosting the event. Democrats have held their convention in Chicago 11 times, first in 1864 and most recently in 1996.This year’s will be the first in-person Democratic National Convention since 2016. It was upended due to the coronavirus pandemic and held virtually in 2020.Throughout the four-day convention, there will be speeches and side events hosted by state Democratic party leaders.The ceremonial roll call vote with delegates on the convention floor will take place Tuesday. The vice presidential nomination speech by Walz will be Wednesday night and on Thursday night, Harris will give her nomination acceptance speech.The city is also preparing for massive protests from several groups on reproductive rights, LGBTQ protections, housing and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wbez.org/government-politics/dnc-2024/2024/08/12/dnc-democratic-national-convention-protests-kamala-harris-israel-gaza-lgbtq-reproductive-rights-cpd-police" target="_blank">according to WBEZ News.&nbsp;</a>The City Council of Chicago in January approved a ceasefire resolution, with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson the tiebreaker, making it the largest city to call for an end to the Israel-Hamas war, in which<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-war-hamas-dead-graves-40000-988d16b648e06e222f04964dc9440da0?taid=66bdedd74b96700001cc25c8&amp;utm_campaign=TrueAnthem&amp;utm_medium=AP&amp;utm_source=Twitter" target="_blank">&nbsp;more than 40,000 Palestinians have died</a>.The war followed an Oct. 7 attack from Hamas, in which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/longform/2023/10/9/israel-hamas-war-in-maps-and-charts-live-tracker" target="_blank">nearly 1,200 people</a>&nbsp;were killed in Israel and hundreds taken hostage.<h2>Road to nomination</h2>Harris’ acceptance speech will cap a five-year journey to her party’s nomination.In 2019, the California senator announced a bid for president in the next year’s election, but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2019/12/03/784443227/kamala-harris-drops-out-of-presidential-race" target="_blank">dropped out</a>&nbsp;before the first primary or caucus votes were cast after she failed to catch on with Democratic voters.Biden later picked her as a running mate, and the two defeated Trump and then-Vice President Mike Pence in the 2020 election.Biden launched a reelection campaign for 2024, but stepped aside after a disastrous debate performance in June spurred questions about his ability to campaign and serve for another four-year term.After Biden bowed out, Harris&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/democratic-delegates-swiftly-give-harris-enough-support-clinch-presidential-nomination" target="_blank">quickly secured 99%</a>&nbsp;of delegates&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/kamala-harris-officially-becomes-democratic-presidential-nominee" target="_blank">to become the party’s likely nominee</a>. The virtual five-day vote secured her official nomination.With less than three months until Election Day, Harris and Walz already have sprinted through battleground states including Arizona, Pennsylvania and North Carolina.Their campaign has also pulled in more than $300 million, according to the campaign. Official Federal Election Commission records will be released in mid-October.Harris and Trump have&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/08/trump-agrees-to-sept-10-debate-with-harris-claims-two-more-upcoming/" target="_blank">agreed to a Sept. 10&nbsp;</a>debate hosted by ABC News in Philadelphia. Trump proposed two more debates, and Harris has said she would be open to another one between the first debate and Election Day.Walz and Republican vice presidential candidate Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/mark-your-calendar-vp-candidates-walz-and-vance-debate-oct-1" target="_blank">agreed to an Oct. 1</a>&nbsp;debate on CBS News, in New York City.

Big moment arrives for Harris: Democratic convention kicks off in Chicago

JERUSALEM —U.S. forces in the the middle east continue to face almost daily threats.

On Sunday, forces successfully destroyed one Iranian-backed terrorist drone in a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

In addition since August 13, U.S. forces&nbsp;successfully destroyed two Iranian-backed Houthi vessels and on&nbsp; Iranian-backed Houthi unmanned surface vessel  in the Red Sea and destroyed one Iranian-backed Houthi ground control station in a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen.

U.S. officials determined the weapons or ground control stations presented an imminent threat to U.S. and coalition forces, and merchant vessels in the region. These actions were taken to protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701138062166.png" alt="File photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>File photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>JERUSALEM —U.S. forces in the the middle east continue to face almost daily threats.On Sunday, forces successfully destroyed one Iranian-backed terrorist drone in a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.In addition since August 13, U.S. forces&nbsp;successfully destroyed two Iranian-backed Houthi vessels and on&nbsp; Iranian-backed Houthi unmanned surface vessel in the Red Sea and destroyed one Iranian-backed Houthi ground control station in a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen.U.S. officials determined the weapons or ground control stations presented an imminent threat to U.S. and coalition forces, and merchant vessels in the region. These actions were taken to protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure.

U.S. forces make more defensive strikes in the Red Sea, Yemen

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>&nbsp;

Democrats will gather in Chicago for their once-every-four-years convention, beginning Monday. Here’s a rundown.

National political conventions are large gatherings of party officeholders, candidates and allies. They meet every four years to officially nominate candidates for president and vice president; to adopt a party platform, the list of policy proposals most party members agree on; and to celebrate and network.

This year, Vice President Kamala Harris has already been officially nominated through a virtual roll call vote earlier this month. A ceremonial roll call is still expected to be a part of the convention, and Harris will officially accept the nomination.

The convention runs from Monday, Aug. 19 to Thursday, Aug. 22.

Major news networks and a host of streaming platforms will broadcast the nightly events — usually speeches from high-profile members of the party —&nbsp;live. The prime-time program runs from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Full schedules for prime-time speeches have not been disclosed, but the vice presidential candidate usually accepts the nomination on Wednesday night and the presidential nominee’s acceptance speech closes out the convention on Thursday night.

Former presidents and presidential nominees are also likely to have speaking roles.

During the day, delegates and party officials will hold various events and meetings, only some of which will be broadcast or even open to reporters, as the convention doubles as a huge networking event for Democratic politicians, strategists, activists and others.

Network and cable news TV stations generally air the prime-time programming from start to finish.

National Public Radio will also broadcast much of the convention.

Convention organizers will also be livestreaming the event on a host of platforms, including YouTube, X and TikTok. A full list of official livestreams is available&nbsp;<a href="https://demconvention.com/news/press-releases/how-to-watchdemocratic-national-convention-announces-streaming-partners-and-first-ever-vertical-streaming-platforms/" target="_blank">here</a>.

Chicago is hosting the Democratic convention for the 12th time, the most of any city.

The major addresses in the evening will be at the United Center, an arena that fits tens of thousands for the city’s professional basketball and hockey teams, concerts or other events.

Daytime activities will be more spread out, with locations at McCormick Place, about 6 miles southeast of the United Center, and the River North neighborhood, about 2 ½ miles to the northeast.

About 5,000 Democratic delegates, who have the formal duty of voting to approve the nominees for president and vice president, are expected to attend.

A total of about 50,000 people could be in town for the event, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://chicago2024.com/faqs/" target="_blank">the city</a>.

The 2016 Democratic National Convention — the last in-person convention Democrats held, since they moved the 2020 version online in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic —&nbsp;that nominated Hillary Clinton featured celebrities including singer Katy Perry and screenwriter/actor Lena Dunham.

The Republican National Convention in July included appearances by musical artist Kid Rock and professional wrestler Hulk Hogan during prime time.

A full list of participants for the Democratic convention this year has not yet been shared, but that has not stopped some fans of major music acts from&nbsp;<a href="https://sign.moveon.org/petitions/taylor-swift-and-beyonce-to-perform-together-at-the-dnc-convention-and-formally-support-harris" target="_blank">wishing</a>&nbsp;they’ll see their favorites at the event.

Where can I find fair, fearless and free reporting about the convention?

<a href="http://newsfromthestates.com/" target="_blank">Right here!</a>&nbsp;And from your state’s newsroom, which you can find on&nbsp;<a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/newsrooms/" target="_blank">this map.&nbsp;</a>States Newsroom is sending multiple reporters to cover the convention and will have in-depth coverage of the major events and more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723944718302.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jacob-fischler/">JACOB FISCHLER</a>&nbsp;Democrats will gather in Chicago for their once-every-four-years convention, beginning Monday. Here’s a rundown.<h2>What is it?</h2>National political conventions are large gatherings of party officeholders, candidates and allies. They meet every four years to officially nominate candidates for president and vice president; to adopt a party platform, the list of policy proposals most party members agree on; and to celebrate and network.This year, Vice President Kamala Harris has already been officially nominated through a virtual roll call vote earlier this month. A ceremonial roll call is still expected to be a part of the convention, and Harris will officially accept the nomination.<h2>When should I tune in?</h2>The convention runs from Monday, Aug. 19 to Thursday, Aug. 22.Major news networks and a host of streaming platforms will broadcast the nightly events — usually speeches from high-profile members of the party —&nbsp;live. The prime-time program runs from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Full schedules for prime-time speeches have not been disclosed, but the vice presidential candidate usually accepts the nomination on Wednesday night and the presidential nominee’s acceptance speech closes out the convention on Thursday night.Former presidents and presidential nominees are also likely to have speaking roles.During the day, delegates and party officials will hold various events and meetings, only some of which will be broadcast or even open to reporters, as the convention doubles as a huge networking event for Democratic politicians, strategists, activists and others.<h2>How can I watch?</h2>Network and cable news TV stations generally air the prime-time programming from start to finish.National Public Radio will also broadcast much of the convention.Convention organizers will also be livestreaming the event on a host of platforms, including YouTube, X and TikTok. A full list of official livestreams is available&nbsp;<a href="https://demconvention.com/news/press-releases/how-to-watchdemocratic-national-convention-announces-streaming-partners-and-first-ever-vertical-streaming-platforms/" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2>Where is the convention this year?</h2>Chicago is hosting the Democratic convention for the 12th time, the most of any city.The major addresses in the evening will be at the United Center, an arena that fits tens of thousands for the city’s professional basketball and hockey teams, concerts or other events.Daytime activities will be more spread out, with locations at McCormick Place, about 6 miles southeast of the United Center, and the River North neighborhood, about 2 ½ miles to the northeast.<h2>How many people will be there?</h2>About 5,000 Democratic delegates, who have the formal duty of voting to approve the nominees for president and vice president, are expected to attend.A total of about 50,000 people could be in town for the event, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://chicago2024.com/faqs/" target="_blank">the city</a>.<h2>Will any celebrities be there?</h2>The 2016 Democratic National Convention — the last in-person convention Democrats held, since they moved the 2020 version online in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic —&nbsp;that nominated Hillary Clinton featured celebrities including singer Katy Perry and screenwriter/actor Lena Dunham.The Republican National Convention in July included appearances by musical artist Kid Rock and professional wrestler Hulk Hogan during prime time.A full list of participants for the Democratic convention this year has not yet been shared, but that has not stopped some fans of major music acts from&nbsp;<a href="https://sign.moveon.org/petitions/taylor-swift-and-beyonce-to-perform-together-at-the-dnc-convention-and-formally-support-harris" target="_blank">wishing</a>&nbsp;they’ll see their favorites at the event.<h2>Where can I find fair, fearless and free reporting about the convention?</h2><a href="http://newsfromthestates.com/" target="_blank">Right here!</a>&nbsp;And from your state’s newsroom, which you can find on&nbsp;<a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/newsrooms/" target="_blank">this map.&nbsp;</a>States Newsroom is sending multiple reporters to cover the convention and will have in-depth coverage of the major events and more.

What to know about the Democratic National Convention

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/darrell-ehrlick/">DARRELL EHRLICK</a>

Nine states, including Kansas, are challenging an executive order by President Joe Biden that would enlist federal agencies to help register residents to vote, and those states say the order undermines their power to control elections, calling it a federally subsidized program aimed at boosting Democratic and left-leaning blocs.

Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach and Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen filed the federal lawsuit in court in Wichita. The nine states are Montana, Kansas, Iowa, South Dakota, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Carolina.

The heart of the lawsuit is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/03/07/executive-order-on-promoting-access-to-voting/" target="_blank">Executive Order 14019</a>, which was issued on March 10, 2021, and directs federal agencies to “consider ways to expand citizens’ opportunities to register to vote and to obtain information about, and participate in, the electoral process.”

The states challenging the executive order say that Biden converts various federal agencies, turning them in part into “a voter registration organization” illegally. The attorneys general say that elections, including voter registration, are solely the province of states, guaranteed by the Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution.

Moreover, the states said that it’s an example of the federal government trying to usurp the sovereignty of the states, and giving the states no other choice than to resort to federal court. The lawsuit said the states were never invited into the process, never allowed to comment, and they accuse the Biden administration of hiding the plans.

“In response to requests under the Freedom of Information Act, the Biden-Harris Administration has asserted the plans are subject to privilege and may be withheld from public scrutiny,” the lawsuit claims.

The lawsuit lists a number of federal agencies as defendants, including the U.S. Treasury, the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of The Interior, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the U.S. Department of Education.

The lawsuit also claims that the National Voter Registration Act means that federal agencies cannot stand in the way of citizens voting, but it also said that voter registration activity is left to the states, and Biden’s order oversteps its authority.

The 41-page lawsuit outlines a number of ways the executive order commands the federal agencies to help bolster the efforts to register voters, for example:

“There is little detail about how agencies determine whether a third-party organization is ‘approved,’ ‘non-partisan,’ or what third-party organizations an agency can work with to promote voter registration,” the lawsuit said. “A rule that permits federal agencies to engage in voter registration activities trenches on States’ constitutionally protected sovereign rights.”

From a practical standpoint, the states claim that the federal government’s executive order doesn’t just exceed the constitution, but could threaten efforts in the individual states.

“The vast resources of the federal government render it unique among all possible entities engaged in voter registration. Because of the resources it can bring to bear, the federal government can engage in voter registration activities on a scale that will, as a practical matter, swamp any state’s attempt to regulate the government’s actions,” the lawsuit said.

Knudsen, Montana’s Attorney General, echoed that sentiment when he announced the lawsuit from Helena on Tuesday.

“Fair elections are an essential part of our country’s republic. Congress gave the states the power to oversee elections years ago,”&nbsp;Knudsen said.&nbsp;“I will not stand by while the Biden-Harris administration attempts to shamelessly garner votes by employing its own agencies to register voters and disregard states’ own voter registration systems, putting the integrity of our elections at risk.”

The states also said that encouraging a variety of different agencies without proper training put the elections at risk of fraud.

“They failed to consider the risk of fraud or to implement actions to prevent fraud, which threatens the integrity of state administration of elections,” the states said. “This includes, at a minimum, ensuring that illegal aliens do not register to vote through the plans the agency defendants put in place.”

It is already against federal law for noncitizens to vote in elections.

The states conclude the lawsuit by saying that the plans in the executive order weren’t motivated to help resident register to vote, rather they are part of a Democrat plan.

“(The executive order) was motivated by a partisan desire to unfairly increase the Democrat vote as shown by the fact that the order came from left-wing, progressive groups,” the lawsuit claims. “The purpose is to promote left-wing politicians and policies at elections.”

<a href="https://dailymontanan.com/2024/08/15/nine-gop-led-attorneys-general-sue-biden-administration-over-voter-registration-efforts/" target="_blank">This story</a>&nbsp;was produced by Daily Montanan, a States Newsroom affiliate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723829601184.png" alt="Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach joined eight other states in filing a lawsuit over President Joe Biden's 2021 executive order that directs federal agencies to look for ways to expand opportunities to register to vote. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach joined eight other states in filing a lawsuit over President Joe Biden's 2021 executive order that directs federal agencies to look for ways to expand opportunities to register to vote. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/darrell-ehrlick/">DARRELL EHRLICK</a>Nine states, including Kansas, are challenging an executive order by President Joe Biden that would enlist federal agencies to help register residents to vote, and those states say the order undermines their power to control elections, calling it a federally subsidized program aimed at boosting Democratic and left-leaning blocs.Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach and Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen filed the federal lawsuit in court in Wichita. The nine states are Montana, Kansas, Iowa, South Dakota, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Carolina.The heart of the lawsuit is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/03/07/executive-order-on-promoting-access-to-voting/" target="_blank">Executive Order 14019</a>, which was issued on March 10, 2021, and directs federal agencies to “consider ways to expand citizens’ opportunities to register to vote and to obtain information about, and participate in, the electoral process.”The states challenging the executive order say that Biden converts various federal agencies, turning them in part into “a voter registration organization” illegally. The attorneys general say that elections, including voter registration, are solely the province of states, guaranteed by the Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution.Moreover, the states said that it’s an example of the federal government trying to usurp the sovereignty of the states, and giving the states no other choice than to resort to federal court. The lawsuit said the states were never invited into the process, never allowed to comment, and they accuse the Biden administration of hiding the plans.“In response to requests under the Freedom of Information Act, the Biden-Harris Administration has asserted the plans are subject to privilege and may be withheld from public scrutiny,” the lawsuit claims.The lawsuit lists a number of federal agencies as defendants, including the U.S. Treasury, the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of The Interior, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the U.S. Department of Education.The lawsuit also claims that the National Voter Registration Act means that federal agencies cannot stand in the way of citizens voting, but it also said that voter registration activity is left to the states, and Biden’s order oversteps its authority.The 41-page lawsuit outlines a number of ways the executive order commands the federal agencies to help bolster the efforts to register voters, for example:<ul>
 <li>The lawsuit accuses the Department of Justice of providing information to those who remain eligible to vote while in federal custody, as well as preparing prisoners about voting laws and rights before reentry.</li><li>It says that the Department of the Interior will disseminate information about registering and voting at schools operated by the Bureau of Indian Education and tribal colleges and universities.</li><li>The order also encourages the Department of Agriculture to provide nonpartisan voter information through its borrowers and lenders about registration and voting.</li><li>Designating 2,400 American Job Centers, which provide employment guidance, training and career services, to become voter registration agencies under the National Voter Registration Act.</li><li>Allowing public housing community areas space for certain election-related activities, including voter registration or voter drop boxes for early voting.</li><li>The lawsuit said that the order allows the Department of Education to allow federal work study funds to “support voter registration” activities.</li>
 </ul>“There is little detail about how agencies determine whether a third-party organization is ‘approved,’ ‘non-partisan,’ or what third-party organizations an agency can work with to promote voter registration,” the lawsuit said. “A rule that permits federal agencies to engage in voter registration activities trenches on States’ constitutionally protected sovereign rights.”From a practical standpoint, the states claim that the federal government’s executive order doesn’t just exceed the constitution, but could threaten efforts in the individual states.“The vast resources of the federal government render it unique among all possible entities engaged in voter registration. Because of the resources it can bring to bear, the federal government can engage in voter registration activities on a scale that will, as a practical matter, swamp any state’s attempt to regulate the government’s actions,” the lawsuit said.Knudsen, Montana’s Attorney General, echoed that sentiment when he announced the lawsuit from Helena on Tuesday.“Fair elections are an essential part of our country’s republic. Congress gave the states the power to oversee elections years ago,”&nbsp;Knudsen said.&nbsp;“I will not stand by while the Biden-Harris administration attempts to shamelessly garner votes by employing its own agencies to register voters and disregard states’ own voter registration systems, putting the integrity of our elections at risk.”The states also said that encouraging a variety of different agencies without proper training put the elections at risk of fraud.“They failed to consider the risk of fraud or to implement actions to prevent fraud, which threatens the integrity of state administration of elections,” the states said. “This includes, at a minimum, ensuring that illegal aliens do not register to vote through the plans the agency defendants put in place.”It is already against federal law for noncitizens to vote in elections.The states conclude the lawsuit by saying that the plans in the executive order weren’t motivated to help resident register to vote, rather they are part of a Democrat plan.“(The executive order) was motivated by a partisan desire to unfairly increase the Democrat vote as shown by the fact that the order came from left-wing, progressive groups,” the lawsuit claims. “The purpose is to promote left-wing politicians and policies at elections.”<a href="https://dailymontanan.com/2024/08/15/nine-gop-led-attorneys-general-sue-biden-administration-over-voter-registration-efforts/" target="_blank">This story</a>&nbsp;was produced by Daily Montanan, a States Newsroom affiliate.

Nine GOP-led attorneys general sue Biden administration over voter registration efforts

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen issued the following statement regarding efforts by some senators to water down the local government spending caps in the property tax relief package currently moving through the Legislature:

“I will veto any bill that comes to my desk with local government property tax collection caps that are weaker than those included in LB34 when it passed general file consideration on Tuesday, August 13. That bill allowed for property tax collection growth of zero percent or inflation,&nbsp;whichever is greater, and included commonsense exceptions for law enforcement and public safety investments necessary to keep our communities secure.

While the current state of the property tax relief plan will deliver real relief to real, hardworking Nebraskans, any further compromises would fall short of Nebraskans’ minimum expectations of the Legislature for this special session. Nebraskans know that unchecked government spending is a major driver of our spiraling property tax crisis. I will therefore veto any watered-down caps.”

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen issued the following statement regarding efforts by some senators to water down the local government spending caps in the property tax relief package currently moving through the Legislature:“I will veto any bill that comes to my desk with local government property tax collection caps that are weaker than those included in LB34 when it passed general file consideration on Tuesday, August 13. That bill allowed for property tax collection growth of zero percent or inflation,&nbsp;whichever is greater, and included commonsense exceptions for law enforcement and public safety investments necessary to keep our communities secure.While the current state of the property tax relief plan will deliver real relief to real, hardworking Nebraskans, any further compromises would fall short of Nebraskans’ minimum expectations of the Legislature for this special session. Nebraskans know that unchecked government spending is a major driver of our spiraling property tax crisis. I will therefore veto any watered-down caps.”

Gov. Pillen Issues Statement on Efforts to Weaken Government Spending Caps in Property Tax Relief Plan

Buffalo County -&nbsp;The Buffalo County Sheriff's Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding a two vehicle head-on crash just west of Amherst, NE on Highway 40.&nbsp; The crash occurred at approximately 7:24 AM on Friday August 16, 2024.&nbsp; At the time of this news media press release, public safety first responders remain at the scene.&nbsp; A portion of Highway 40 at this location remains closed at this time.&nbsp;

According to preliminary investigation, two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collided on Highway 40. &nbsp;Both drivers were transported from the scene to CHI – GSH hospital in Kearney, NE.&nbsp; No passengers were in either vehicle.&nbsp; At the time of this media release, the identity of the drivers has not been confirmed, and authorities are actively investigating at the crash scene.&nbsp; A portion of Highway 40 remains closed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Deputies were assisted at the scene by members of the Kearney Police Department, Kearney / Buffalo County Fatality Accident Investigation (FAIT) team, Amherst &nbsp;Volunteer Fire Department, CHI GSH Paramedics, Nebraska State Department of Roads and Buffalo County Attorney’s Office.

Buffalo County Sheriff's OfficeBuffalo County -&nbsp;The Buffalo County Sheriff's Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding a two vehicle head-on crash just west of Amherst, NE on Highway 40.&nbsp; The crash occurred at approximately 7:24 AM on Friday August 16, 2024.&nbsp; At the time of this news media press release, public safety first responders remain at the scene.&nbsp; A portion of Highway 40 at this location remains closed at this time.&nbsp;According to preliminary investigation, two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collided on Highway 40. &nbsp;Both drivers were transported from the scene to CHI – GSH hospital in Kearney, NE.&nbsp; No passengers were in either vehicle.&nbsp; At the time of this media release, the identity of the drivers has not been confirmed, and authorities are actively investigating at the crash scene.&nbsp; A portion of Highway 40 remains closed.&nbsp; &nbsp;Deputies were assisted at the scene by members of the Kearney Police Department, Kearney / Buffalo County Fatality Accident Investigation (FAIT) team, Amherst &nbsp;Volunteer Fire Department, CHI GSH Paramedics, Nebraska State Department of Roads and Buffalo County Attorney’s Office.Investigation is ongoing at this time.

Central Nebraska law enforcement investigating a head-on collision 

Office of U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) joined a bipartisan effort urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to modernize and improve the accuracy of its foreign land ownership disclosure process. In the letter, the senators note alleged inaccuracies in information publicly posted by the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the problems that arise when this information is inaccurate.

“The current practice of manual data entry, including the re-typing of paper-filed reports into FSA systems, can lead to the publication of problematic and inaccurate information,”&nbsp;wrote the senators.&nbsp;“We’re told there have been instances where energy developers have been incorrectly identified as having ownership interests from sanctioned nations, when in reality the investment originates from U.S. allies. If true, such errors not only create confusion but also undermine the credibility of the data published by the FSA.”

In addition to Ricketts&nbsp;and Fischer,&nbsp;other signatories include Senators John Fetterman (D-PA),&nbsp;Joni Ernst (R-IA),&nbsp;Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), John Barrasso (R-WY), Mike Braun (R-IN), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).

Read the full letter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024.08.12-Senate-Oversight-Letter-to-USDA-on-AFIDA-Reporting-Errors.pdf">here</a>.

Office of U.S. Senator Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) joined a bipartisan effort urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to modernize and improve the accuracy of its foreign land ownership disclosure process. In the letter, the senators note alleged inaccuracies in information publicly posted by the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the problems that arise when this information is inaccurate.“The current practice of manual data entry, including the re-typing of paper-filed reports into FSA systems, can lead to the publication of problematic and inaccurate information,”&nbsp;wrote the senators.&nbsp;“We’re told there have been instances where energy developers have been incorrectly identified as having ownership interests from sanctioned nations, when in reality the investment originates from U.S. allies. If true, such errors not only create confusion but also undermine the credibility of the data published by the FSA.”In addition to Ricketts&nbsp;and Fischer,&nbsp;other signatories include Senators John Fetterman (D-PA),&nbsp;Joni Ernst (R-IA),&nbsp;Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), John Barrasso (R-WY), Mike Braun (R-IN), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).Read the full letter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024.08.12-Senate-Oversight-Letter-to-USDA-on-AFIDA-Reporting-Errors.pdf">here</a>.

Ricketts & Fischer Join Bipartisan Effort to Modernize Process for Disclosing Foreign-Owned Land

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/second-budget-bill-advances-after-another-filibuster/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — The Nebraska Legislature on Thursday advanced the second of two budget bills of the special session intended to offset the costs of a slimmed-down property tax relief plan.

But state senators spent most of the day getting there, venting about what they wish they had included in a property tax package and hunting for a last-minute path toward more substantive relief.

Essentially, senators seeking different options than provided by Speaker John Arch’s special session processes watched Wednesday’s failed filibuster of the first budget bill and said: “Samesies.”

The Appropriations Committee rewrote&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58118" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 3</a>&nbsp;to shift $22 million in fees and interest gathered by state agencies to the general fund to cover some costs of Legislative Bill 34, the property tax relief package championed by Gov. Jim Pillen and his allies.

The bill advanced in a 35-11 vote after eight hours of debate. LB 3 followed passage of LB 2 on Wednesday, which contained $117 million in spending cuts. Combined, the two would cover most of the $185 million cost of the new relief.

State Sen. Rob Clements, chair of the Appropriations Committee, said the state would use $46 million from its cash reserves to cover the rest, but LB 3 helps cover part of the cost.

Clements repeatedly defended the committee’s decision to sweep or use interest earned from state fees for license plates and other items produced by state prisoners.

He eventually acquiesced to an amendment from State Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha that restored the $250,000. He did so saying conflict over that issue wasn’t worth losing the other $22 million-23 million in funds.

“We don’t need to move this money, because we have issues currently that need to be solved,” McKinney said.

Clements apologized “for the great turmoil this has caused” and said no one had raised issues about the corrections money during hearings the committee held on LB 3.

“That’s why we bring bills to the floor and debate them,” he said.

Clements thwarted a similar effort to restore $2 million being culled from Universal Service Fund dollars, parts of which are used to improve rural broadband and cell phone service.

“We have come up with funding that will help the property tax bill be funded but not hurt any individual agency that has a cash fund,” Clements said.

For the second straight day, State Sens. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln and Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha argued there was no need to find funding for property tax relief during a special session.

But members of the Appropriations Committee, including State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard, pushed back against efforts to filibuster the cuts, saying that appropriators took their work seriously.

Much of the debate,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/15/term-limited-nebraska-lawmakers-mount-what-could-be-last-push-for-more-property-tax-relief/">as the Examiner reported earlier Thursday</a>, was hijacked by efforts to push for more property tax relief than provided by Legislative Bill 34, as advanced this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723819194005.jpeg" alt="State Sens. Justin Wayne of Omaha, speaking, with State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood. Aug. 14, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>State Sens. Justin Wayne of Omaha, speaking, with State Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood. Aug. 14, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Sanderford<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/second-budget-bill-advances-after-another-filibuster/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — The Nebraska Legislature on Thursday advanced the second of two budget bills of the special session intended to offset the costs of a slimmed-down property tax relief plan.But state senators spent most of the day getting there, venting about what they wish they had included in a property tax package and hunting for a last-minute path toward more substantive relief.Essentially, senators seeking different options than provided by Speaker John Arch’s special session processes watched Wednesday’s failed filibuster of the first budget bill and said: “Samesies.”The Appropriations Committee rewrote&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58118" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 3</a>&nbsp;to shift $22 million in fees and interest gathered by state agencies to the general fund to cover some costs of Legislative Bill 34, the property tax relief package championed by Gov. Jim Pillen and his allies.The bill advanced in a 35-11 vote after eight hours of debate. LB 3 followed passage of LB 2 on Wednesday, which contained $117 million in spending cuts. Combined, the two would cover most of the $185 million cost of the new relief.State Sen. Rob Clements, chair of the Appropriations Committee, said the state would use $46 million from its cash reserves to cover the rest, but LB 3 helps cover part of the cost.Clements repeatedly defended the committee’s decision to sweep or use interest earned from state fees for license plates and other items produced by state prisoners.He eventually acquiesced to an amendment from State Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha that restored the $250,000. He did so saying conflict over that issue wasn’t worth losing the other $22 million-23 million in funds.“We don’t need to move this money, because we have issues currently that need to be solved,” McKinney said.Clements apologized “for the great turmoil this has caused” and said no one had raised issues about the corrections money during hearings the committee held on LB 3.“That’s why we bring bills to the floor and debate them,” he said.Clements thwarted a similar effort to restore $2 million being culled from Universal Service Fund dollars, parts of which are used to improve rural broadband and cell phone service.“We have come up with funding that will help the property tax bill be funded but not hurt any individual agency that has a cash fund,” Clements said.For the second straight day, State Sens. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln and Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha argued there was no need to find funding for property tax relief during a special session.But members of the Appropriations Committee, including State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard, pushed back against efforts to filibuster the cuts, saying that appropriators took their work seriously.Much of the debate,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/15/term-limited-nebraska-lawmakers-mount-what-could-be-last-push-for-more-property-tax-relief/">as the Examiner reported earlier Thursday</a>, was hijacked by efforts to push for more property tax relief than provided by Legislative Bill 34, as advanced this week.

Second budget bill advances after another filibuster 

WASHINGTON —On Monday night, a rare public conversation between former President Donald Trump and X owner Elon Musk spanned more than two hours and was overwhelmingly friendly and reached a billion combined views, according to Musk.

On Thursday, the Kamala Harris campaign decided to release a video conversation with her running mate Tim Walz.

The Vice President and Minnesota governor talk taco recipes, hot peppers, their childhoods, careers, and the rights and freedoms they want to protect.&nbsp;

WASHINGTON —On Monday night, a rare public conversation between former President Donald Trump and X owner Elon Musk spanned more than two hours and was overwhelmingly friendly and reached a billion combined views, according to Musk.On Thursday, the Kamala Harris campaign decided to release a video conversation with her running mate Tim Walz.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WkwZ_A49hb8?si=Temq-pRH4tZ_Ysrw&amp;start=1" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Vice President and Minnesota governor talk taco recipes, hot peppers, their childhoods, careers, and the rights and freedoms they want to protect.&nbsp;

🎥Harris, running mate Walz release a conversation

LOUDON COUNTY, Virginia —Law enforcement have identified a suspect and a warrant has been issued for the burglary at Trump Campaign Headquarters, according to the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office.

&nbsp;Deputies also secured a warrant for the arrest of Toby Shane Kessler, 39, on the charge of Burglary; Entering dwelling house, etc., with intent to commit larceny, assault and battery or other felony) in connection with the break in at the local office of Trump for President 2024 campaign in Ashburn, VA, Sunday.

 The office, in the 20000 block of Ashbrook Place, is being leased by the Trump campaign and also serves as the headquarters of the Virginia 10th District Republican Committee.

Just after 9p.m. Sunday, the sheriff's office was contacted about the burglary and deputies responded. Investigators have video surveillance of the suspect. He is a white adult male, wearing dark clothing, a dark cap, and a backpack when he entered the location.

“It is rare to have the office of any political campaign or party broken into,” said Sheriff Mike Chapman. “We are determined to identify the suspect, investigate why it happened, and determine what may have been taken as well as what may have been left behind.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723644144685.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LOUDON COUNTY, Virginia —Law enforcement have identified a suspect and a warrant has been issued for the burglary at Trump Campaign Headquarters, according to the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723718627492.png" alt="Kessler-photo Loudon Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Kessler-photo Loudon Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Deputies also secured a warrant for the arrest of Toby Shane Kessler, 39, on the charge of Burglary; Entering dwelling house, etc., with intent to commit larceny, assault and battery or other felony) in connection with the break in at the local office of Trump for President 2024 campaign in Ashburn, VA, Sunday. The office, in the 20000 block of Ashbrook Place, is being leased by the Trump campaign and also serves as the headquarters of the Virginia 10th District Republican Committee.Just after 9p.m. Sunday, the sheriff's office was contacted about the burglary and deputies responded. Investigators have video surveillance of the suspect. He is a white adult male, wearing dark clothing, a dark cap, and a backpack when he entered the location.“It is rare to have the office of any political campaign or party broken into,” said Sheriff Mike Chapman. “We are determined to identify the suspect, investigate why it happened, and determine what may have been taken as well as what may have been left behind.”Anyone who believes they know the suspect, witnessed the burglary, or has any other information is asked to contact Detective Franks at 571-918-1869.&nbsp;------