NORTH PLATTE — With the National Finals Rodeo underway in Las Vegas, the Buffalo Bill Rodeo Committee is inviting fans to gather for a special watch party tonight, Dec. 12,&nbsp; at the Lincoln RV Park.

Committee members Shelli Arensdorf and Heather Harwager said the event was inspired by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, which encouraged major rodeos nationwide to host viewing gatherings and supplied official NFR merchandise for giveaways.

“We got notification from the PRCA asking if committees would want to do a watch party, and they’d give us some swag and things to give away,” Arensdorf said. “That’s how it all started.”

The watch party falls on Round 9 of the NFR, a night when world title races typically tighten. Harwager said doors open at 7 p.m., with the live feed of the rodeo beginning at 7:45 p.m.

Guests can arrive early for a nacho bar, cash bar, and drawings for NFR-themed prizes. Admission is $10 at the door, and no advance tickets are required. An NFR pool drawing will also be available.

Harwager said the evening is designed to celebrate rodeo fans while also thanking the volunteers who help stage the Buffalo Bill Rodeo each June.

“Our rodeo and Nebraskaland Days are all made up of volunteers,” Arensdorf said. “It’s a way to give back to them and thank them for the time they give every year.”

While preparing for the watch party, the committee is also planning for future rodeos. Arensdorf said many contract acts are booked through 2029, and she will travel to upcoming conventions to secure additional entertainers.

“If you enjoy rodeo — and especially the Buffalo Bill Rodeo — this night has your name on it,” Harwager said. “Come early, grab some nachos, pick a good spot and enjoy Round 9 with us.”

The watch party begins at 7 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Lincoln RV Park in North Platte.

Buffalo Bill Rodeo Committee Plans NFR Watch Party in North Platte Tonight

The Hot Sheets: December 12, 2025

DECEMBER 10, 2025 –&nbsp;In celebration of the holiday season, the American Red Cross is hosting special&nbsp;Holiday Blood Drives&nbsp;at four locations across Central Nebraska on December 23. Eligible donors are encouraged to make an appointment and give the gift of life during this critical time of year.

The holiday season often brings a decline in blood donations due to busy schedules, festive activities and inclement weather. Yet, patients in hospitals still rely on lifesaving transfusions every day. By donating blood, you can bring comfort and hope to someone in need—gifts more meaningful than anything found in a store.

As a special thank you,&nbsp;all who come to give at these Holiday Blood Drives will receive an&nbsp;exclusive long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt,&nbsp;while supplies last, and be&nbsp;entered to win a $500 e-gift card&nbsp;of their choosing.

A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://us.cisionone.cision.com/c/eJwszEtuwyAURuHVmBmWeZgLAwaZZBvRNfxOaHHcglW3u69Sdfod6eSofbKTE4iK3GyCIh3EIzKtWBeA2RrDRmGareXES8ouK6yiRBdMWLLTWBzNN-V4JfKBiGbFg516yXgvn3LjUtG6dBS8C0RLlsf32xbGVxA1Po7jYzCXQV8HfT3Pc2zIqe29j3u7iw25sGyo4A5ZcvyD2z8M5qKC18GKFivOnz4mbrU8y2An8L2icS77-MQh-tGA7XXA6jUl5eUU7CStSl76nJ1EoJngFGhl8RX1bwAAAP__uuZX9Q">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://us.cisionone.cision.com/c/eJwszE9O6zAQgPHTxDtH8Z_MeBZeVE_qAd4Fqkk8bl2cBpxAgNOjIra_T_pStGH2AyiJBmF0ZNCSukWw7NlxdjlP7LxNIZtxmDEB5DGbrEoEcjQlsDIBjhcDnBEDIeJouPPDVpK8lDe9cKnSNg1IAQhxSnr_vC_UP4Oq8bbvr507dfbc2fNxHP2_9v79f73zaZFWZn5wv7arWiQV1k2q8Ca6pPgLlz_o3MlQsORVi1WOr62fudXyKJ0fhK9VGqey9g_Z1bY3keV5kBwszibogfygvZmDDimBFsIRBYxgZvUR7U8AAAD__zSJWmI">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.

American Red Cross Hosts Holiday Blood Drives in Central Nebraska

Republicans call his visit ‘opportunistic and disappointing,’ say it ‘does nothing to help’ Lexington

&nbsp;U.S. Senate candidate Dan Osborn, a registered nonpartisan, held a press conference in Lexington, Nebraska, on Dec. 9, 2025. (Juan Salinas II/Nebraska Examiner)

LEXINGTON, Neb. — Across the street from a Tyson beef plant set to close at the end of January, Nebraska U.S. Senate candidate Dan Osborn accused the company of breaking a century-old law aimed at preventing anti-competitive behavior by meatpackers.

Osborn, a registered nonpartisan running against U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., in 2026, pointed to his time as a former labor leader in an Omaha Kellogg’s plant to say he knows “what it feels like” to give a company “complete loyalty” and said workers feel betrayed. He said Tyson’s quarterly earnings report won’t feel the ripple effects that the town will face.

He said Tyson is trying to maximize profits at the expense of producers and customers in violation of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/packers-and-stockyards-act/faq#:~:text=Answer:%20The%20Packers%20and%20Stockyards%20Act%20(the,in%20the%20livestock%2C%20meat%2C%20and%20poultry%20industries." target="_blank">the Packers and Stockyards Act</a>, a federal law passed in 1921. That law was meant to promote competitiveness and fair practices in the livestock, meat and poultry industries and ensure&nbsp;payment protection. The law also prohibits deception and fraud in those markets.

Tyson officials had no immediate comment.

Osborn called the move to close the plant and not sell it to a competitor “market manipulation” and said Tyson is “destroying 5 percent of America’s beef processing capacity.” Basel Musharbash, an antitrust lawyer from Texas, also spoke at the press conference, saying the “law is on Lexington’s side.”

“The legal analysis here is pretty straightforward,” Musharbash said. “The Lexington plant accounts for around 5% of the nation’s cattle.&nbsp; By shutting down a plant that slaughters such a large portion of the cattle in this region and the country, Tyson will single-handedly reshape the nation’s cattle markets from boom to bust.”&nbsp;

Musharbash said the move would force Nebraska “ranchers to accept lower prices, and Tyson will be able to make higher profits.”

In response to the plant closure, the U.S. Department of Agriculture told the Nebraska Examiner this week that it would “continue to monitor the closure of the plant to ensure compliance with the Packers and Stockyards Act, including ensuring that livestock sellers are issued timely and accurate payments.”

Lexington, a west-central Nebraska city home to more than 10,000 people, has been dealing with the aftermath of Tyson’s decision to close the plant, which will result in the combined layoffs of up to 3,200 workers. Osborn asked where are state federal delegation.

“The people of Lexington need their elected officials to fight now more than ever,” Osborn said. “They don’t have time for reports to come out and investigations to happen. … The law that’s been on the books for over 100 years should be enforced. … So pick up the damn phone, call [U.S. Agriculture Secretary]&nbsp;Brooke Rollins and get the USDA to enforce the law.”&nbsp;

Ricketts, in a call Wednesday with reporters, said his team is looking into any allegation of wrongdoing by Tyson. Ricketts said he had talked with Tyson CEO&nbsp; Johnny King about “making sure that that facility can continue to be used for job creation.”

Gov. Jim Pillen, a Republican whose family runs a hog operation based in Columbus, has said the state got its “butts kicked” by the closure. State&nbsp;agencies have&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/agencies-groups-reach-out-to-tyson-workers-as-lexington-beef-plant-closure-nears/">partnered with Lexington nonprofits and other groups</a>&nbsp;to help the workers affected.

But Ricketts’ campaign and several elected Republicans criticized the visit to&nbsp;Nebraska’s 3rd Congressional District, with U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith saying the congressional delegation is working with the governor to help the people of Lexington find new jobs and connect them with available help.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Dan Osborn parachuting in for a press conference does nothing to help the Lexington community,” Smith said.

Nebraska 1st District U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, a Republican from Norfolk, has emphasized that the state dealt with a similar Tyson plant closure in 2006 in his hometown. Flood, in a video posted on social media by his office, said it&nbsp;“stripped the plant bare” and the property couldn’t be used as a beef processing facility.

He said the plant still sits empty today.&nbsp;

Former U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., criticized Osborn during his 2024 Senate race against her for helping drive the Omaha Kellogg’s plant out of business. Its leaders announced the plant would close in 2026, though the union leaders who followed Osborn didn’t blame the concessions he negotiated.

The Ricketts campaign, in a statement Tuesday, said Osborn was “heavy on grandstanding but offered no help or solutions to those impacted in Lexington.” Will Coup, a Ricketts campaign spokesperson, said Ricketts is working with state leaders to keep jobs in the community. He called the closure devastating.

“Senator Ricketts will continue approaching this like a natural disaster, with work carried out locally, directed by the state and supported by the federal government,” Coup said. “Nebraskans will overcome this together.”&nbsp;

Osborn’s campaign had organized a listening session for Tyson workers at a local restaurant in the middle of the day Tuesday, after the press conference, but no workers showed up. The Osborn campaign said they would reach out to the workers who had expressed interest in the listening session to set meetings with the former labor leader at a later date.&nbsp;

State Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner, in a social media post this week, said the closing of the Tyson plant was heartbreaking news for many families in her district and the community of Lexington. She criticized Osborn for “using this community’s hardship to score campaign points,” calling it&nbsp; “opportunistic and disappointing.”

Osborn said it was important to him to come to advocate for the workers because in his eyes, no one is advocating for them.

Dan Osborn says Tyson manipulated beef market with Nebraska plant closure

 The Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation (NBAF) has awarded $17,000.00 in scholarships to four students who are currently attending Nebraska universities with aspirations to work in broadcasting upon their graduation. The following students have been awarded a NBAF scholarship for the 2025-2026 academic year: 

Lucy Mendez, a junior at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln, pursuing a dual major in Broadcasting and Journalism; Eli Rodriguez, a sophomore at University of Nebraska – Lincoln pursuing a double major in Sports Media &amp; Communication and Broadcasting; Jacqueline Ruiz-Rodriguez, a junior at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, pursuing a dual major in Broadcasting &amp; Journalism; and Barrett Stearns, a sophomore at Wayne State College, pursuing a dual major in Sports Media and Mass Communication. 

Current NBA Board Chairmen Mark Jensen, President of MWB Broadcasting II, LLC said, “Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation is proud to celebrate our scholarship winners, whose talent and ambition promise to illuminate the future of our industry. May these scholarships open doors to new opportunities and be a vote of confidence in their abilities.” 

The NBAF offers scholarships to assist students enrolled in radio and/or television broadcasting or broadcast journalism educational programs at designated higher education institutions in Nebraska. Qualified applications are reviewed by a panel of NBA board members. Scholarship levels are $5,000.00 (Marty Riemenschneider Scholarship), $3,500 (Dick Palmquist Scholarship) and $2,500.00 (NBA Foundation Scholarship). The number of scholarships and total dollar amount awarded each year is at the discretion of the NBA board of directors based on application quality and quantity. More than $350,000 in college scholarships have been awarded by the NBA and NBAF since 1977.

NBA Foundation Awards $17,000 in College Scholarships

The Hot Sheets: December 9, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 8, 2025

OGALLALA — The Ogallala City Council will meet Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. at City Hall, where members will review several infrastructure items, financial updates and end-of-year certifications.

The meeting will open with routine consent agenda items, including approval of minutes from the Nov. 25 meeting. The council is also set to consider awarding the contract for the 2025 Western Diamonds Overflow Parking Lot Overlay project. Additional consent items include approval of City Maintenance Agreement No. 43, the accompanying Certificate of Compliance, and authorization to seek Requests for Proposals for SCADA system improvements for both the water and wastewater departments.

The agenda does not list any scheduled public hearings, though time has been reserved for public forum.

City Clerk-Treasurer updates will include the November 2025 financial report and discussion on rescheduling the council meeting currently set for Dec. 23, which falls during the holiday week.

Under department and committee recommendations, Community Development will provide a KCAD office update from Mary Wilson. The council will also consider the Year-End Certification of the City Street Superintendent, presented as Resolution 2322.

City Attorney and City Manager reports are expected to cover ongoing legal matters and project updates, respectively, followed by updates from council members.

The agenda notes that council may enter closed session if needed, and that all written materials to be discussed will be available to the public during the meeting as required under Nebraska law.

The meeting will be held at Ogallala City Hall, 411 East 2nd Street.

Ogallala City Council to Consider Infrastructure Contracts, Financial Report at Dec. 9 Meeting

The Hot Sheets: December 7, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 6, 2025

The Hot Sheets: December 5, 2025

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, and discussed a tough road trip to Wyoming that, in the end, had some positives. And what Coach feels are the small things the team can work on.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #7 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

On today's late episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss a rollercoaster weekend in Wyoming where the Knights split the two-game road trip. While also touching on a very positive victory against Hastings College JV.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #10 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's late episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, and dived into the recent struggles the team has faced over the past three games, and discussed an impressive victory against Hastings College JV on Monday.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #9 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, and discussed a record-breaking performance vs Midland University JV and what they need to take from that game to keep the momentum going.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #6 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

On today's late episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss another tough loss this time against Frank Philips at home and what Coach Brandl is looking for from his team after the short Thanksgiving break.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #8 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss an exciting victory over Garden City Community College and what he feels his team needs to focus on for the upcoming games.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #6 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

Listen to the full interview with Kevin Wilkins on the Kubota Podcast Page.&nbsp;

Ogallala, Neb. - The Ogallala City Council met this week with several key items on the agenda, including the resignation of Councilman Dustin Holstein, recognition for long-serving members of the police department, and updates on ongoing city projects.

City Manager Kevin Wilkins said the council accepted Holstein’s resignation after he announced plans to leave Ogallala to pursue another venture. “That’s going to leave a vacancy on the council,” Wilkins said, adding that members were advised by legal counsel on how to proceed.

The council had two options — holding a special election or appointing someone through an application process. “The council has chosen to take the route of an appointment,” Wilkins explained. Applications will be accepted from anyone interested in serving the remainder of Holstein’s term. Applicants must be registered voters who live within the city limits, and political affiliation does not matter since the seat is nonpartisan.

Applications should include proof of eligibility and a short background or statement of interest. Wilkins said he will forward all applications to Council President Steve Kraske, who will make a recommendation to the council at its next meeting. The council will then vote to ratify that recommendation. If the nominee is not approved, the process will continue at the following meeting until the position is filled.

The meeting also included a pair of recognitions for members of the Ogallala Police Department. Chief James Herman was honored for 25 years of service to the community, and Sergeant Taylor Molzon was recognized for five years. “Chief Herman does a great job with the OPD,” Wilkins said. “He’s thoughtful and considerate to both his team and the citizens of Ogallala.” Molzon, who serves as the school resource officer, was also recently promoted to sergeant.

Council members then approved routine business, including minutes from the October 28 meeting and the city’s financial report. Wilkins said the council requested some additional detail in future reports to better track expenses tied to grant funding. “If we don’t get the money, we don’t spend it,” he said. “The council wants to take a more focused look at those budget items that depend on outside funds.”

The council also approved taking bids for a parking lot overlay project near Western Diamonds, located in the southeast quadrant of the facility.

In his city manager’s report, Wilkins said the council plans to take a deeper look at city operations moving forward. “They want to do possible department consolidations, contract consolidations, and a wage and benefit analysis,” he said. Each council member will take on a specific subject area to help guide that process, but final assignments will wait until the vacant council seat is filled.

Wilkins also noted that the latest city newsletter was sent out with water bills, outlining the next nuisance abatement area. “We hope residents will clean up their properties ahead of any nuisance action,” he said.

The Ogallala Tree Board recently received a $52,000 grant to support tree removal and planting efforts. About $30,000 of that total will go directly toward tree removal. Wilkins said the Tree Board will share more details on that project soon.

City crews are preparing for winter weather, with the street department tuning up snow removal equipment and continuing work on Second Street. “We just opened the street in front of City Hall,” Wilkins said. “They should be pouring concrete later this week in front of Second Chapter.”

The council is also expected to continue discussions about renewing the city’s half-cent infrastructure sales tax, which could appear on the November 2026 ballot. Wilkins said the tax could bring in around a million dollars a year for infrastructure, with more than half of that revenue likely coming from visitors outside Ogallala.

For residents interested in applying for the open council seat, Wilkins said members meet twice a month and spend an average of four to eight hours a week on city business. “There are also additional meetings during budget season and some extra time expected as we take deeper dives into city operations,” he said.

Residents are reminded to move RVs and boats off city streets by October 1 and to move vehicles every 72 hours during the winter months to allow for snow removal. “When you scoop snow, don’t push it into the street,” Wilkins said. “It just creates problems for your neighbors.”

Wilkins wrapped up the update by noting that the city is ready for the colder season ahead. “Hopefully we won’t have to use that snow equipment too much this year,” he said with a laugh. “But it’s hard to believe we’re already talking about snow.”

🎙️Ogallala City Council Accepts Resignation, Recognizes Longtime Police Chief, and Reviews City Updates

By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post

Listen the full interview with Russ Jones on our Kubota Podcast Page.

North Platte, NE – Midwest Championship Fighting (MCF) is set to bring a night of intense MMA action and community celebration to North Platte with its upcoming “Salute to Veterans V” event at the D&amp;N Event Center.&nbsp;

Russ Jones, MCF President, says the event offers a mix of fight levels rarely seen in one night. “We start with street fights—guys literally off the streets—then move to amateur matches, amateur title fights, and finally professional bouts,” he explained. “The lower-level fights are just as important as the high-level fights because that’s how fighters get to the top.” Some street fighters even receive free training if they want to continue competing, giving local athletes an opportunity to develop skills and find a constructive outlet.

Veterans Honored
The “Salute to Veterans” program, now in its fifth year, invites over 200 veterans to attend free of charge with VIP seating. The event includes a flag salute at the start and a special parade of veterans during intermission. “We started this program to give veterans a place to gather, celebrate, and be recognized for their service,” Jones said. The initiative also creates a space where veterans of all ages can connect, fostering camaraderie and community.

Tickets remain available at <a href="https://www.midwestchampionshipfighting.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">midwestchampionshipfighting.com</a>, including a pay-per-view option for $35. Jones encouraged fans to arrive early to see the veterans parade, expected around 7:30 p.m..

He also highlighted several fights fans are eagerly anticipating, including local favorites Bristol vs. Seamann, Chris Burbine, Jareb Huerta, Oliver Nutter, and Madison McCord. 

“Bristol vs. Seamann is a heated street fight that fans have been waiting for,” he said. “And we also have a title fight that promises to be one of the standout bouts of the evening.”

Beyond entertainment, MCF provides a safe, structured environment where fighters—many on the "fringe" of society—can channel their energy positively. 

“These kids are looking for an outlet, a brotherhood,” Jones said. “Seeing fighters step into the cage is a moment you can’t put a value on.”

MCF events also draw a significant audience, boosting the local economy while providing a unique entertainment option in Western Nebraska. For North Platte residents, MCF Salute to Veterans offers a rare combination of high-level MMA action, veteran recognition, and community engagement.

🎙️Midwest Championship Fighting Returns to North Platte with “Salute to Veterans V”

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jeff Thurman, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Women's Basketball team, and discussed the opening weekend of basketball and what he observed from the games. Coach Thurman also discussed how important culture is to a young team and how he sees its effects early on.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #4 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Women's Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss the opening weekend of action vs Laramie County Community College and Eastern Wyoming Community College and what he saw from his team. And what transpired on the Knights' first two road games earlier this week.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #5 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a>

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday night that aims to preempt states from enacting rules governing artificial intelligence, a major departure from the typical federalist structure of American government that Trump said was necessary because of the issue’s high stakes.

In an early evening signing ceremony in the Oval Office, Trump said the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/eliminating-state-law-obstruction-of-national-artificial-intelligence-policy/" target="_blank">order</a>&nbsp;would position the United States to win a competition with China to dominate the burgeoning AI industry. Coordinating policy among 50 different states would put the U.S. at a disadvantage, Trump said, adding that Chinese President Xi Jinping did not have similar restraints.

“This will not be successful unless they have one source of approval or disapproval,” he said. “It’s got to be one source. They can’t go to 50 different sources.”

The order creates a task force to monitor state laws on AI and to challenge them in court, and directs the Commerce secretary to complete a review of state laws within three months.

David Sacks, the chair of a White House board on technology, said there were more than 1,000 pending AI bills in state legislatures.

White House staff secretary Will Scharf said during the Oval Office event that the order would “ensure that AI can operate within a single national framework in this country, as opposed to being subject to state level regulation that could potentially cripple the industry.”

“The big picture is that we’re taking steps to ensure that AI operates under a single national standard so that we can reap the benefits that will come from it.”

The order, a major assertion of presidential power over state governments and Congress, is likely to see court challenges, including from environmental groups that oppose AI expansion because of the energy resources the technology requires.

“Congress has repeatedly rejected attempts to undermine states’ and local communities’ efforts to protect themselves from the unchecked spread of AI, which is driving a wave of dangerous data center development,” Mitch Jones, the chief of policy and litigation at the advocacy group Food and Water Watch, said in a statement.&nbsp;

“We’ll be following the administration’s attempts to implement this farcical order, and we’ll fight it in Congress, in the states, in the courts, and with communities across this country.”

President Trump signs order intended to block states from regulating AI

By:<a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/author/tdavies/">Tom Davies</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/author/casey-smith/">Casey Smith</a> <a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/">Indiana Capital Chronicle</a>

The Republican-dominated Indiana Senate spurned months of demands from President Donald Trump as it voted 31-19 on Thursday to reject a redrawing of the state’s congressional maps.

The final outcome remained uncertain until 21 Republicans joined all 10 Democratic senators in blocking the redistricting plan. The proposal didn’t even win support from a majority of the 40 Republican senators.

With that tally, Indiana became the first Republican-led state Legislature to vote down Trump’s wish to&nbsp;<a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2025/10/10/indiana-leaders-hint-at-early-redistricting-resolution-following-third-meeting-with-vp/">squeeze out more GOP-friendly congressional seats</a>&nbsp;in hopes of improving the party’s chances of keeping its slim U.S. House majority after the 2026 midterm elections.

“This is an extremely important issue that we’ve taken very seriously,” Bray told reporters after the bill’s defeat.

Bray downplayed the prospect of retribution from the White House after Trump and Vice President JD Vance publicly criticized him and other Republican senators.

“It’s their prerogative to have opinions about what we’re doing here. So, that’s fair,” he said.

Asked whether he was concerned about possible loss of federal funding or other consequences, Bray appeared unmoved.&nbsp;

“I’ve had lots of conversations with folks in Washington, D.C.,” he said. “Indiana will continue to function.”

A bill needs 26 votes for passage or defeat. Because a constitutional majority — 25 votes or more — voted against the measure, it can’t be taken up by state lawmakers again until the 2027 session.

Trump was calling individual senators this week seeking support and took to social media Wednesday night to seethe over Bray and other Indiana Republicans who weren’t following his demands.

A crowd of about 100 protesters outside the Senate chamber echoed throughout the three-hour debate, chanting, “Fair maps now!” and “Vote no!” and “Cheaters!” and “Liars!” and “Just vote no!”

Brooke Isaac of Columbus and other protesters cheered the outcome, saying she was “very surprised and so very thankful.”

Isaac said she believed Trump was trying to use Indiana as a “pawn” to acquire power.

“I’m just really relieved that the Republicans and our government have decided to show integrity and to stand up for what the people in our state care about,” Isaac said.

Sen. Sue Glick, R-LaGrange, was among the senators voting against the new maps and said she believed the pressure and threats from Washington backfired.&nbsp;

“You have to know Hoosiers, we can’t be bullied,” Glick said. “We don’t want that. And the instant reaction is we dig in our heels and say, why?”

Indiana House Republicans pushed the proposed maps through that chamber last week by a 57-41 margin, with 12 GOP members joining Democrats in voting “no.”

Several Republican senators against the redistricting plan cited what they described as overwhelming public opposition. Others said they didn’t believe it was proper to overhaul the Republican-drawn maps approved in 2021 for such blatant political purposes, with some objecting to the overt gerrymandering of Indianapolis among four districts spanning as far away as the Ohio River.

Trump started the national redistricting fight by pushing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.texastribune.org/2025/12/04/texas-redistricting-map-us-supreme-court-2026-midterms/" target="_blank">Texas Republicans to redraw</a>&nbsp;its congressional map this summer, followed by Republican redistricting moves in&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/national-republicans-gear-up-to-fight-referendum-on-missouri-congressional-map/" target="_blank">Missouri</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2025/10/31/ohio-redistricting-commission-unanimously-passes-congressional-map-further-gop-advantage/" target="_blank">Ohio</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://ncnewsline.com/briefs/federal-judges-in-nc-will-consider-bid-to-block-newly-gerrymandered-district/" target="_blank">North Carolina</a>. An attempt by&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/08/kansas-legislative-leadership-wobbly-on-redistricting-as-january-session-draws-near/" target="_blank">Kansas Republicans</a>&nbsp;for a special session on redistricting stalled this fall.

Democrats responded with their own redistricting in&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/11/california-proposition-50-takeaways/" target="_blank">California</a>&nbsp;and possible moves in&nbsp;<a href="https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/u-s-house-minority-leader-jeffries-accelerates-illinois-redistricting-push/" target="_blank">Illinois</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://virginiamercury.com/2025/11/07/judges-cool-to-legal-challenges-as-democrats-move-to-redraw-virginias-maps/" target="_blank">Virginia</a>.

Bill sponsor called for Republicans to ‘fight’

Redistricting bill sponsor Sen. Mike Gaskill, R-Pendleton, used all of his 30-minute speaking time to argue in support of it after all 10 Democratic senators and three Republicans spoke in opposition.

“They want you to play by a different set of rules,” Gaskill said, referring to Democrats.

He called on his colleagues “to step up and do the right thing.”

“I want to see us on the Republican side fight as hard for our side as they do,” Gaskill said.

Sen. Greg Walker, R-Columbus —&nbsp;<a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2025/12/08/testimony-begins-with-initial-senate-redistricting-vote-expected-today/" target="_blank">who has been outspoken against midcycle redistricting</a>&nbsp;—&nbsp;called the bill “on its face, is unconstitutional.”

“I cannot, myself, support the bill for which there must be a legal injunction in order for it to be found constitutional,” he said.

Sen. Greg Goode, R-Terre Haute, had not announced a position before Thursday’s vote but told the chamber that “overwhelming feedback” from his constituents — “regardless of political leaning, or party affiliation” — influenced his decision. He ultimately voted no on the bill.&nbsp;

“I’ve done my very best to quietly and respectfully listen to the people I represent,” Goode said, “and I’m confident that my vote reflects the will of my constituents.”

At least a dozen legislators, many Senate Republicans — including Goode — have publicly disclosed being targeted in&nbsp;<a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2025/11/20/two-more-indiana-gop-senators-report-swatting-attempts-as-redistricting-pressure-rages/">swatting attempts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/briefs/senate-republican-reports-business-bomb-threat/">bomb threats</a>&nbsp;and more. The incidents have prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2025/12/08/as-indiana-senate-begins-redistricting-turn-republicans-keep-mum/">an ongoing investigation</a>&nbsp;now led by the Indiana State Police.

“Whether we realize it or not — whether we accept it or not — the forces that define these vitriolic political affairs in places outside of Indiana have gradually, and now very blatantly, infiltrated the political affairs in Indiana,” Goode said. “Misinformation, cruel social media posts, over-the-top pressure from within the Statehouse and outside. Threats of primaries. Threats of violence. Acts of violence. Friends, we’re better than this, are we not?”

Three Republicans —&nbsp;Sens. Liz Brown, Tyler Johnson and Chris Garten —&nbsp;all spoke in staunch support.

“The vote we are about to take is not just about lines on a map — it’s a vote of critical, epic proportion,” Garten said in his passionate remarks. “We’re not here to be neutral arbiters of decline. We’re here to be active agents of American greats.”

Indiana Republicans reject Trump’s plea for gerrymandered maps

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate in long-anticipated votes failed to advance legislation Thursday that would have addressed the rising cost of health insurance, leaving lawmakers deadlocked on how to curb a surge in premiums expected next year.&nbsp;

Senators voted&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1191/vote_119_1_00643.htm" target="_blank">51-48</a>&nbsp;on a Republican bill co-sponsored by Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy and Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo that would have provided funding through Health Savings Accounts for some ACA marketplace enrollees during 2026 and 2027.&nbsp;

They then voted&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1191/vote_119_1_00644.htm" target="_blank">51-48&nbsp;</a>on a measure from Democrats that would have extended enhanced tax credits for people who purchase their health insurance from the Affordable Care Act Marketplace for three years. A group of Senate Democrats in November&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-advances-bill-end-record-breaking-government-shutdown" target="_blank">agreed</a>&nbsp;to end a government shutdown of historic length in exchange for a commitment by Republicans to hold a vote on extending the enhanced subsidies.

Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan of Alaska and Rand Paul of Kentucky voted for the Democrats’ bill. Paul also voted against the GOP bill.&nbsp;

Neither bill received the 60 votes needed to advance under the Senate’s legislative filibuster rule.&nbsp;

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., criticized the ACA marketplace and the subsidies for leading to large increases in the costs of health insurance.&nbsp;

“Under Democrats’ plan insurance premiums will continue to spiral, American taxpayers will find themselves on the hook for ever-increasing subsidy payments,” Thune said. “And don’t think that all those payments are going to go to vulnerable Americans.”

Thune argued Democrats’ bill was only an extension of the “status quo” of a “failed, flawed, fraud program that is increasing costs at three times the rate of inflation.&nbsp;

Thune said the Republican bill from Cassidy and Crapo would “help individuals to meet their out-of-pocket costs and for many individuals who don’t use their insurance or who barely use it, it would allow them to save for health care expenses down the road.”

Schumer calls GOP plan ‘mean and cruel’

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said the three-year extension bill was the only option to avoid a spike in costs for people enrolled in ACA marketplace plans.&nbsp;

“By my last count, Republicans are now at nine different health care proposals and counting. And none of them give the American people the one thing they most want — a clean, simple extension of these health care tax credits,” Schumer said. “But our bill does extend these credits cleanly and simply and it’s time for Republicans to join us.”

Schumer referred to the Cassidy-Crapo proposals as “stingy” as well as “mean and cruel.”

“Under the Republican plan, the big idea is essentially to hand people about $80 a month and wish them good luck,” Schumer said. “And even to qualify for that check, listen to how bad this is, Americans would be forced onto bare-bones bronze plans with sky-high deductibles; $7,000 or $10,000 for an individual, tens of thousands for a couple.”

After the votes failed, Schumer outlined some of the guardrails Democrats would put in place regarding negotiations with GOP colleagues.

“They want to talk about health care in general and how to improve it — we’re always open to that, but we do not want what they want — favoring the insurance companies, favoring the drug companies, favoring the special interests and turning their back on the American people,” he said.&nbsp;

The Cassidy-Crapo bill would have the Department of Health and Human Services deposit money into Health Savings Accounts for people enrolled in bronze or catastrophic health insurance plans purchased on the ACA marketplace in 2026 or 2027, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.help.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/health_care_freedom_for_patients_act_one-pager.pdf" target="_blank">a summary</a>&nbsp;of the bill.&nbsp;

Health Savings Accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts that consumers can use to pay for medical expenses that are not otherwise reimbursed. They are not health insurance products.

ACA marketplace enrollees who select a bronze or catastrophic plan and make up to 700% of the federal poverty level would receive $1,000 annually if they are between the ages of 18 and 49 and $1,500 per year if they are between the ages of 50 and 64.&nbsp;

That would set a threshold of $109,550 in annual income for one person, or $225,050 for a family of four, according to the 2025&nbsp;<a href="https://aspe.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/documents/dd73d4f00d8a819d10b2fdb70d254f7b/detailed-guidelines-2025.pdf" target="_blank">federal poverty guidelines</a>. The numbers are somewhat higher for residents of Alaska and Hawaii.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The funding could not go toward abortion access or gender transitions, according to the Republican bill summary.&nbsp;

Members of Congress have introduced several other health care proposals, including two bipartisan bills in the House that would extend the enhanced ACA marketplace tax credits for at least another year with some modifications.&nbsp;

Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has been reluctant to bring either bipartisan bill up for a floor vote, though he may not have the option if&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/DischargePetition/2025121012?Page=2" target="_blank">a discharge petition</a>&nbsp;filed earlier this week garners the 218 signatures needed.&nbsp;

Pennsylvania Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick wrote in a statement the legislation represents a “solution that can actually pass—not a political messaging exercise.”

“This bill delivers the urgent help families need now, while giving Congress the runway to keep improving our healthcare system for the long term,” Fitzpatrick wrote. “Responsible governance means securing 80 percent of what families need today, rather than risking 100 percent of nothing tomorrow.”

But Johnson said Wednesday that he will&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-gop-promises-vote-reducing-health-care-premiums-few-specifics-disclosed" target="_blank">put a package of bills on the House floor</a>&nbsp;next week that he believes “​​will actually reduce premiums for 100% of Americans who are on health insurance.” Details of those bills have not been disclosed.

Thune told reporters that if “somebody is successful in getting a discharge petition and a bill out of the House, obviously we’ll take a look at it. But at the moment, you know, we’re focused on the action here in the Senate, which is the side-by-side vote we’re going to have later today.”&nbsp;

Alaska’s Murkowski said lawmakers can find a compromise on health care by next week “if we believe it is possible.”

The issue of affordability and rising health care costs is likely to be central to the November midterm elections, where Democrats hope to flip the House from red to blue and gain additional seats in the Senate.&nbsp;

The Democratic National Committee isn’t waiting to begin those campaigns,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/national-democrats-target-us-senate-gop-incumbents-health-care-votes" target="_blank">placing digital ads in the hometown newspapers</a>&nbsp;of several Republicans up for reelection next year, including Maine’s Collins and Ohio’s Jon Husted.&nbsp;

“Today’s Senate vote to extend the ACA tax credits could be the difference between life and death for many Americans,” DNC Chair Ken Martin said in a press release. “Over 20 million Americans will see their health care premiums skyrocket next year if Susan Collins, John Cornyn, Jon Husted, and Dan Sullivan do not stand with working families and vote to extend these lifesaving credits.”

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt blasted Senate Democrats’ proposal during Thursday’s press briefing, calling it a “political show vote” meant to provide cover for Democrats, whom she blamed for creating the problem.&nbsp;

Trump and Republicans would “unveil creative ideas and solutions to the health care crisis that was created by Democrats,” she said. “Chuck Schumer is not sincerely interested in lowering health care costs for the American people. He’s putting this vote on the floor knowing that it will fail so he can have another talking point that he can throw around without any real plan or action.”

Shauneen Miranda and Jacob Fischler contributed to this report.&nbsp;

US Senate hits stalemate on solution to spiraling health insurance costs

Powerball® is giving players the chance to play for a jackpot estimated at $1 billion this Saturday! The jackpot carries an estimated cash value of $461.3 million, according to a media release from the Multi-State Lottery Association.

Saturday’s jackpot ranks as the seventh-largest in Powerball history. It’s also the second Powerball jackpot to reach $1 billion this year, following the $1.787 billion jackpot won on Sept. 6 in Missouri and Texas.

The Powerball jackpot rolled last night after no ticket matched all six numbers drawn – white balls 10, 16, 29, 33, 69 and red Powerball 22. The Power Play® multiplier was 3X.

Although the jackpot eluded players, three tickets sold in Maryland, Michigan and New Jersey matched all five white balls to win $1 million prizes.

Saturday’s drawing will be the 42nd in the current jackpot run – tying the game record for most consecutive drawings in a single jackpot cycle. The Powerball jackpot was last won on Sept. 6 by two tickets in Missouri and Texas that split a $1.787 billion prize.

If a player wins Saturday’s jackpot, they will choose between an annuitized prize estimated at $1 billion or a lump sum payment estimated at $461.3 million. Both prize options are before taxes. If the winner selects the annuity option, they will receive one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5-percent each year.

Powerball® tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold. Since its first drawing in 1992, the Powerball game has helped generate more than $37 billion for good causes supported by U.S. lotteries.

Powerball drawings are broadcast live every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, Fla. Powerball drawings are also live streamed on Powerball.com.

The overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 24.9. The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.

Powerball jackpot rises to $1 billion for Saturday drawing

Specialist Sarah Diane Beckstrom of the West Virginia Army National Guard was laid to rest Tuesday with full military honors at the West Virginia National Cemetery in Grafton. Governor Patrick Morrisey released the following statement.&nbsp;

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