Cornhusker State News

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) addressed Nebraska media this week to discuss the One Big Beautiful Bill, which he described as a significant measure for national and border security.

“Lasting prosperity depends on lasting security,” said Ricketts. “No nation can thrive without secure borders and a strong military. The One Big Beautiful Bill is the strongest national security and border security package in American history. This bill protects the good life in Nebraska.”

During his remarks, Ricketts outlined several components of the proposed legislation, emphasizing its impact on both national defense and local communities in Nebraska.

He stated that illegal immigration has affected every state, including Nebraska, referencing issues such as fentanyl trafficking and human trafficking. “We have lost young lives like Taryn Lee Griffith,” he said.

The senator highlighted recent law enforcement actions in Omaha involving members of the MS-13 gang as evidence of ongoing security concerns. He argued that the bill would provide law enforcement with tools to address these challenges while restoring the rule of law.

Ricketts criticized President Biden’s administration for what he called federal failures at the border, citing 10.5 million illegal border encounters during Biden’s tenure. He noted that the effects of what he termed the “Biden Border Crisis” are still being felt in Nebraska.

According to Ricketts, the bill proposes $46.5 billion for completing the border wall system and $10 billion in grants to reimburse states for costs related to federal immigration policy. An additional $6.1 billion would go toward surveillance technology for Border Patrol agents.

The legislation also includes funding for hiring 16,000 new immigration and customs agents and expanding detention capacity.

On broader defense issues, Ricketts pointed out investments exceeding $150 billion intended to strengthen America’s defense posture against foreign adversaries such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The bill allocates funds for missile defense systems, shipbuilding—including Virginia-class submarines—and enhancements to military supply chains through an expanded Defense Production Act.

Further provisions support Coast Guard operations with funding for new icebreakers, cutters, helicopters, and planes; development of advanced military technologies; increased munitions production; and application of artificial intelligence on the battlefield.

Ricketts also mentioned efforts within the bill aimed at reversing recruitment challenges facing U.S. armed forces: “Under President Trump, we are seeing record-breaking recruitment numbers.”

Specific investments tied to Nebraska include $2.5 billion for risk reduction activities related to the Sentinel ICBM program based partly in Western Nebraska and $168 million to accelerate production of the Survivable Airborne Operations Center at Offutt Air Force Base.

“These investments will mean more jobs, more innovation, and a stronger defense posture right here in Nebraska,” said Ricketts.

He concluded by stating: “The One Big Beautiful Bill keeps America secure and protects Nebraskans… As President Trump responds to rising global threats and reverses Biden’s open border policies, this bill gives our nation the resources to act… The One Big Beautiful Bill protects Nebraska and protects America.”