American farmers and ranchers work hard to provide the world with high-quality, nutritious, and affordable food options, all while dealing with many challenges outside of their control. Agricultural markets are inherently volatile, and the high-risk nature of the agriculture industry means producers are particularly exposed. Recent headlines are a reminder of why American producers need as much certainty as we can provide.

New policy must be circumspect to avoid unintended consequences. I have serious concerns increasing imports of Argentine beef or other government intervention to influence the price of cattle may create such unintended consequences. I have brought my concerns to the administration, and I continue to be in regular contact with officials to share what Nebraskans already know: when outside forces unduly influence the market, it arbitrarily picks winners and losers. Too often, cattle ranchers are the ones who lose out.

Years of drought, barriers to international markets, and the threat of New World Screwworm have contributed to a shrinking cattle market and 74-year-low inventories. Producers work hard to identify these challenges, manage their risk, and plan for their operation. Despite decreased inventories, domestic beef production has remained relatively stable—emphasizing American producers’ commitment to providing affordable protein options.

Thanks to world-leading advancements and application of animal research, including at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, ranchers in the United States produce nearly 20 percent of the world's beef with only 8 percent of the world’s cattle. Nebraska’s Third District is at the forefront of beef industry innovation.

When our world-class producers are empowered with certainty in policy, it paves the way for investments which can be a game changer for producers and consumers alike. In March of this year, I participated in the ribbon cutting for the Sustainable Beef plant in North Platte. Projected to drive $1.2 billion in annual economic activity across our state, a venture like this would not be possible without pioneering industry partnerships.

In August, I visited the Empirical Foods facility in South Sioux City, which processes beef products which otherwise would go to waste into high-quality food products. This highly efficient system processes 12 million pounds of 30 percent lean trimmings each week, generating 4 million pounds of lean beef and 8 million pounds of edible tallow. This type of innovation brings consumer prices down, while still adding more value to each carcass.

I am pleased to see Secretary Rollins announced this week USDA will resume Farm Service Agency core operations, including critical services for farm loan processing and other programs. Furthermore, the proposal to increase grazing access on federal lands and decrease regulatory burdens for the industry is a step in the right direction.

These commonsense initiatives announced by USDA help provide current and future generations with the certainty they need to provide American families with affordable, nutritious, American-produced food. However, statements which undermine the domestic cattle market threaten our domestic food security.

As they raise and grow the food which goes on our tables, the hardworking families who raise cattle in Nebraska and all across our great country deserve policy which fights as hard as they do. Heavy-handed government intervention is unwelcome in the cattle market, and I am fighting to ensure the voices of Third District cattle producers are heard.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727279471716.jpeg" alt="Adrian Smith" />
 <figcaption>Adrian Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>American farmers and ranchers work hard to provide the world with high-quality, nutritious, and affordable food options, all while dealing with many challenges outside of their control. Agricultural markets are inherently volatile, and the high-risk nature of the agriculture industry means producers are particularly exposed. Recent headlines are a reminder of why American producers need as much certainty as we can provide.New policy must be circumspect to avoid unintended consequences. I have serious concerns increasing imports of Argentine beef or other government intervention to influence the price of cattle may create such unintended consequences. I have brought my concerns to the administration, and I continue to be in regular contact with officials to share what Nebraskans already know: when outside forces unduly influence the market, it arbitrarily picks winners and losers. Too often, cattle ranchers are the ones who lose out.Years of drought, barriers to international markets, and the threat of New World Screwworm have contributed to a shrinking cattle market and 74-year-low inventories. Producers work hard to identify these challenges, manage their risk, and plan for their operation. Despite decreased inventories, domestic beef production has remained relatively stable—emphasizing American producers’ commitment to providing affordable protein options.Thanks to world-leading advancements and application of animal research, including at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, ranchers in the United States produce nearly 20 percent of the world's beef with only 8 percent of the world’s cattle. Nebraska’s Third District is at the forefront of beef industry innovation.When our world-class producers are empowered with certainty in policy, it paves the way for investments which can be a game changer for producers and consumers alike. In March of this year, I participated in the ribbon cutting for the Sustainable Beef plant in North Platte. Projected to drive $1.2 billion in annual economic activity across our state, a venture like this would not be possible without pioneering industry partnerships.In August, I visited the Empirical Foods facility in South Sioux City, which processes beef products which otherwise would go to waste into high-quality food products. This highly efficient system processes 12 million pounds of 30 percent lean trimmings each week, generating 4 million pounds of lean beef and 8 million pounds of edible tallow. This type of innovation brings consumer prices down, while still adding more value to each carcass.I am pleased to see Secretary Rollins announced this week USDA will resume Farm Service Agency core operations, including critical services for farm loan processing and other programs. Furthermore, the proposal to increase grazing access on federal lands and decrease regulatory burdens for the industry is a step in the right direction.These commonsense initiatives announced by USDA help provide current and future generations with the certainty they need to provide American families with affordable, nutritious, American-produced food. However, statements which undermine the domestic cattle market threaten our domestic food security.As they raise and grow the food which goes on our tables, the hardworking families who raise cattle in Nebraska and all across our great country deserve policy which fights as hard as they do. Heavy-handed government intervention is unwelcome in the cattle market, and I am fighting to ensure the voices of Third District cattle producers are heard.Sincerely,<figure>
 <img src="https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/meips/ADKq_NYmhxEyccW3DFsOONp9Rzkt2m1J1HDeL7HKhupc3MkO9moGAIqdrBsSIwviMgEYZjAuw5UgNYmZt2t6vhfgyS71fa_Euxm8eIkW9qdvfxTw7_Z-Yh9MaDqc6FbzaQpA9s4K=s0-d-e1-ft#https://iqconnect.house.gov/iqextranet/Customers/NE03AS/NE03AS_Signature.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Adrian SmithMember of Congress

From the Desk of Adrian Smith: Cattle Producers Need Certainty

McCook, Neb - A Nebraska district court has ruled that the state can proceed with converting the Work Ethic Camp North of McCook into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility, despite ongoing legal challenges.

On October 27, 2025, Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng denied a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by former State Senator DiAnna Schimek and 13 other McCook residents. The lawsuit, initiated by Nebraska Appleseed, argues that Governor Jim Pillen's plan to repurpose the facility violates the Nebraska Constitution by bypassing legislative approval for such a significant change in use. The plaintiffs contend that only the Nebraska Legislature has the authority to repurpose state-owned buildings, including correctional facilities.&nbsp;

The judge also overruled a request for a temporary injunction that sought to halt the conversion process while the case proceeds. In his ruling, Judge Heng found that the plaintiffs did not demonstrate "irreparable harm" and that the public interest favored allowing the state to move forward with the project. He noted that the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has the statutory authority to operate and locate work camps, and the law does not restrict the use of such facilities to specific purposes.&nbsp;

The state plans to repurpose the Work Ethic Camp into a detention center dubbed the "Cornhusker Clink," modeled after similar facilities in other states. The facility is expected to house up to 300 detainees and is projected to generate approximately $14 million annually in revenue for the state under a contract with ICE running through 2027.

While the conversion can proceed, the lawsuit will continue to be litigated in court. The outcome may have significant implications for the balance of power between Nebraska's executive and legislative branches concerning the use and repurposing of state-owned facilities.

As of now, the Work Ethic Camp has been vacated, and preparations are underway to transform it into the Cornhusker Clink, with a new perimeter fence and other modifications to accommodate the planned detainee population.

This development has sparked ongoing debate within the McCook community, with some residents expressing concern over the loss of rehabilitative programs and the potential impact on local resources. The case is expected to continue to draw attention as it progresses through the courts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757081405621.jpeg" alt="Nebraska Work Ethic Camp set to continue transition to ICE Facility after District Court Judges ruling.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Work Ethic Camp set to continue transition to ICE Facility after District Court Judges ruling.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Allison PeckMcCook, Neb - A Nebraska district court has ruled that the state can proceed with converting the Work Ethic Camp North of McCook into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility, despite ongoing legal challenges.On October 27, 2025, Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng denied a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by former State Senator DiAnna Schimek and 13 other McCook residents. The lawsuit, initiated by Nebraska Appleseed, argues that Governor Jim Pillen's plan to repurpose the facility violates the Nebraska Constitution by bypassing legislative approval for such a significant change in use. The plaintiffs contend that only the Nebraska Legislature has the authority to repurpose state-owned buildings, including correctional facilities.&nbsp;The judge also overruled a request for a temporary injunction that sought to halt the conversion process while the case proceeds. In his ruling, Judge Heng found that the plaintiffs did not demonstrate "irreparable harm" and that the public interest favored allowing the state to move forward with the project. He noted that the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has the statutory authority to operate and locate work camps, and the law does not restrict the use of such facilities to specific purposes.&nbsp;The state plans to repurpose the Work Ethic Camp into a detention center dubbed the "Cornhusker Clink," modeled after similar facilities in other states. The facility is expected to house up to 300 detainees and is projected to generate approximately $14 million annually in revenue for the state under a contract with ICE running through 2027.While the conversion can proceed, the lawsuit will continue to be litigated in court. The outcome may have significant implications for the balance of power between Nebraska's executive and legislative branches concerning the use and repurposing of state-owned facilities.As of now, the Work Ethic Camp has been vacated, and preparations are underway to transform it into the Cornhusker Clink, with a new perimeter fence and other modifications to accommodate the planned detainee population.This development has sparked ongoing debate within the McCook community, with some residents expressing concern over the loss of rehabilitative programs and the potential impact on local resources. The case is expected to continue to draw attention as it progresses through the courts.

Judge Allows McCook Work Ethic Camp Conversion to ICE Detention Facility Amid Legal Challenges

Award-Winning Wines Scoring 90+ Points Place Nebraska Among America's Elite Wine Regions&nbsp;

LINCOLN, NE – October 24, 2025 – Nebraska's wine country is earning championship-level recognition in&nbsp; international wine competitions, with scores that match premium wines from Napa Valley, Bordeaux, and other world renowned regions. Award-winning Nebraska wineries from Omaha to Grand Island are achieving elite scores in&nbsp; professional wine rating systems, where 90+ points (out of 100) are classified as "Outstanding."&nbsp;

Championship Scores: Nebraska Wines Compete at the Highest Level&nbsp;

• 98 points – Miletta Vista Winery, 2022 Elephant Ear Red (Double Gold, Best of Class, 2025 Los Angeles&nbsp; International Wine Competition)&nbsp;

• 98 points – Prairie Creek Vineyard, 2019 Edelweiss (Best of Show, California Competition, 2020) • 97 points – Prairie Creek Vineyard, 2019 La Crescent (Double Gold Medal)&nbsp;

• 97 points – Whiskey Run Creek Winery, 2020 Frontenac (Best of Show Rosé, 2021 International Eastern&nbsp; Wine Competition)&nbsp;

• 96 points – James Arthur Vineyards, Sweet Charlotte (Double Gold, Best in Class, 2025 International Eastern&nbsp; Wine Competition)&nbsp;

• 93 points – Miletta Vista Winery, 2016 Legacy Port Style Wine (Best of Class, 2025 Los Angeles&nbsp; International)&nbsp;

"Wine and food have always brought people together – around the dinner table, at holiday gatherings, and&nbsp; celebrating traditions," said Renae Littrell, Executive Director of the Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers&nbsp; Association. "When our winemakers earn national recognition for their craft, it's a moment of pride for all of&nbsp; Nebraska. We're honored to share these award-winning Nebraska wines and invite everyone to experience them at&nbsp; Holiday TOAST."&nbsp;

Best of Show: Nebraska Wineries Beating National Competition&nbsp;

Nebraska wineries have earned Best of Show titles – the industry's highest honor – by defeating all competitors at&nbsp; prestigious national and international competitions.&nbsp;

James Arthur Vineyards in Raymond, near Lincoln, swept major competitions with their Vignoles, earning Best of&nbsp; Show at the Florida State Fair International Wine Competition and Best White Wine at California's Monterey Wine&nbsp; Competition. Miletta Vista Winery near St. Paul earned a stunning 98 points at the 2025 Los Angeles International&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wine Competition and won Best of Show at the U.S. National Competition in Sonoma (2012). Prairie Creek Vineyard in Central City proved Nebraska's heartland produces world-class wines with their 98-point Edelweiss.&nbsp; Cellar 426 Winery in Ashland, between Omaha and Lincoln, swept multiple Best of Show categories at the 2024&nbsp;International Cold Climate Wine Competition, with their Summer Blush earning Best of Show Rosé, Origin 2552&nbsp; Itasca winning Best of Class Itasca, Apollo's Blend taking Best of Class Red Blend, and Bluejay Edelweiss capturing&nbsp; Best of Class Other White. The winery also earned Double Gold medals at the 2025 San Francisco Chronicle Wine&nbsp; Competition for their Linoma Lighthouse and Snowbound. Niobrara Valley Vineyards in Nenzel brought their&nbsp; Sandhills terroir to victory with Best of Show White Blend. Mac's Creek Winery in Lexington won Best of Show at&nbsp; the Grand Harvest Awards in Sonoma, California. Whiskey Run Creek Winery in historic Brownville scored 97&nbsp; points with their Best of Show Rosé. Glacial Till Vineyard in Palmyra earned Grand National Champion Cidery&nbsp; honors, and Soaring Wings Vineyard in Springfield, near Omaha, has collected over 300 international awards since&nbsp; 2001.&nbsp;

These achievements prove Nebraska's cold climate wine region competes on merit. Winter temperatures routinely&nbsp; drop to -35°F, forcing vintners to grow cold-hardy hybrid varieties like Edelweiss, Brianna, La Crescent, Marquette,&nbsp; and Frontenac – grapes that don't just survive brutal conditions but produce distinctive wines that win championships.&nbsp; Nebraska's state statute requires all wines labeled "Nebraska Wine" to contain at least 60% Nebraska-grown grapes,&nbsp; ensuring authenticity and supporting local agriculture across the state's 22 wineries.&nbsp;

Taste Championship Wines at Holiday TOAST Wine Festival – November 15 in Grand Island&nbsp;

Experience the wines that earned 98-point scores and beat California at their own competitions. Holiday TOAST&nbsp; Nebraska Wine Festival brings together 18 award-winning Nebraska wineries for an all-inclusive celebration of&nbsp; food and wine on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at Fonner Park in Grand Island. This is Nebraska's second largest wine festival and one of the best wine events in the Midwest – your chance to taste the wines that are putting&nbsp; Nebraska on the national wine map.&nbsp;

Every ticket includes wine tastings of 100+ wines from 18 Nebraska wineries, featuring the championship wines&nbsp; scoring 90+ points. The festival introduces a new progressive 3-tier dining experience with appetizers, entrees, and&nbsp; desserts paired with Nebraska wines throughout the day – all included with admission. Guests will enjoy live music&nbsp; performances by Josh Hoyer, the 2025 International Blues Challenge Winner, and styling sessions with Lincoln native&nbsp; Maddie Graham from The Frugal Fox. Winemaker Fireside Chats offer the chance to hear the stories behind&nbsp; award-winning wines directly from the people who made them, while Wine Bingo adds an interactive element&nbsp; with prizes throughout the day.&nbsp;

VIP tickets are sold out, but general admission tickets remain available at $65 (prices increase November 7).&nbsp; Designated driver tickets are $40 and must be 21+. The wine and food festival runs from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM at&nbsp; Fonner Park in Grand Island, easily accessible from Omaha, Lincoln, and throughout central Nebraska. This is just a&nbsp; taste of what attendees will experience at TOAST. Learn more and get tickets now at www.TOASTWineFest.com&nbsp;

About the Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association&nbsp;

The Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association (NWGGA) represents Nebraska's wine industry through the&nbsp; TOAST Nebraska Wine Festival series and The Nebraska Wine Passport. The organization supports wineries and&nbsp; grape growers and promotes wine tourism throughout the state. For more information about Nebraska wineries and&nbsp; wine tasting events, visit www.NebraskaWines.org&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761570110473.jpeg" alt="Award Winning Miletta Vista Winery (Courtsey&nbsp;Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association)" />
 <figcaption>Award Winning Miletta Vista Winery (Courtsey&nbsp;Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Award-Winning Wines Scoring 90+ Points Place Nebraska Among America's Elite Wine Regions&nbsp;</h2>LINCOLN, NE – October 24, 2025 – Nebraska's wine country is earning championship-level recognition in&nbsp; international wine competitions, with scores that match premium wines from Napa Valley, Bordeaux, and other world renowned regions. Award-winning Nebraska wineries from Omaha to Grand Island are achieving elite scores in&nbsp; professional wine rating systems, where 90+ points (out of 100) are classified as "Outstanding."&nbsp;<h2>Championship Scores: Nebraska Wines Compete at the Highest Level&nbsp;</h2>Recent High-Point Winners:&nbsp;• 98 points – Miletta Vista Winery, 2022 Elephant Ear Red (Double Gold, Best of Class, 2025 Los Angeles&nbsp; International Wine Competition)&nbsp;• 98 points – Prairie Creek Vineyard, 2019 Edelweiss (Best of Show, California Competition, 2020) • 97 points – Prairie Creek Vineyard, 2019 La Crescent (Double Gold Medal)&nbsp;• 97 points – Whiskey Run Creek Winery, 2020 Frontenac (Best of Show Rosé, 2021 International Eastern&nbsp; Wine Competition)&nbsp;• 96 points – James Arthur Vineyards, Sweet Charlotte (Double Gold, Best in Class, 2025 International Eastern&nbsp; Wine Competition)&nbsp;• 93 points – Miletta Vista Winery, 2016 Legacy Port Style Wine (Best of Class, 2025 Los Angeles&nbsp; International)&nbsp;"Wine and food have always brought people together – around the dinner table, at holiday gatherings, and&nbsp; celebrating traditions," said Renae Littrell, Executive Director of the Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers&nbsp; Association. "When our winemakers earn national recognition for their craft, it's a moment of pride for all of&nbsp; Nebraska. We're honored to share these award-winning Nebraska wines and invite everyone to experience them at&nbsp; Holiday TOAST."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761570192690.png" alt="Award Winning Whiskey Run Creek in historic Brownville scored 97 points with their Best of Show Rosé&nbsp; (Courtesy&nbsp;Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association" />
 <figcaption>Award Winning Whiskey Run Creek in historic Brownville scored 97 points with their Best of Show Rosé&nbsp; (Courtesy&nbsp;Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Best of Show: Nebraska Wineries Beating National Competition&nbsp;</h2>Nebraska wineries have earned Best of Show titles – the industry's highest honor – by defeating all competitors at&nbsp; prestigious national and international competitions.&nbsp;James Arthur Vineyards in Raymond, near Lincoln, swept major competitions with their Vignoles, earning Best of&nbsp; Show at the Florida State Fair International Wine Competition and Best White Wine at California's Monterey Wine&nbsp; Competition. Miletta Vista Winery near St. Paul earned a stunning 98 points at the 2025 Los Angeles International&nbsp;&nbsp;Wine Competition and won Best of Show at the U.S. National Competition in Sonoma (2012). Prairie Creek Vineyard in Central City proved Nebraska's heartland produces world-class wines with their 98-point Edelweiss.&nbsp; Cellar 426 Winery in Ashland, between Omaha and Lincoln, swept multiple Best of Show categories at the 2024&nbsp;International Cold Climate Wine Competition, with their Summer Blush earning Best of Show Rosé, Origin 2552&nbsp; Itasca winning Best of Class Itasca, Apollo's Blend taking Best of Class Red Blend, and Bluejay Edelweiss capturing&nbsp; Best of Class Other White. The winery also earned Double Gold medals at the 2025 San Francisco Chronicle Wine&nbsp; Competition for their Linoma Lighthouse and Snowbound. Niobrara Valley Vineyards in Nenzel brought their&nbsp; Sandhills terroir to victory with Best of Show White Blend. Mac's Creek Winery in Lexington won Best of Show at&nbsp; the Grand Harvest Awards in Sonoma, California. Whiskey Run Creek Winery in historic Brownville scored 97&nbsp; points with their Best of Show Rosé. Glacial Till Vineyard in Palmyra earned Grand National Champion Cidery&nbsp; honors, and Soaring Wings Vineyard in Springfield, near Omaha, has collected over 300 international awards since&nbsp; 2001.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761570297961.png" alt="Award Winning Cellar 426&nbsp;with their Summer Blush earning Best of Show Rosé, Origin 2552 Itasca winning Best of Class Itasca, Apollo's Blend taking Best of Class Red Blend, and Bluejay Edelweiss capturing Best of Class Other White. (Courtesy&nbsp;Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association)" />
 <figcaption>Award Winning Cellar 426&nbsp;with their Summer Blush earning Best of Show Rosé, Origin 2552 Itasca winning Best of Class Itasca, Apollo's Blend taking Best of Class Red Blend, and Bluejay Edelweiss capturing Best of Class Other White. (Courtesy&nbsp;Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association)</figcaption>
 </figure>These achievements prove Nebraska's cold climate wine region competes on merit. Winter temperatures routinely&nbsp; drop to -35°F, forcing vintners to grow cold-hardy hybrid varieties like Edelweiss, Brianna, La Crescent, Marquette,&nbsp; and Frontenac – grapes that don't just survive brutal conditions but produce distinctive wines that win championships.&nbsp; Nebraska's state statute requires all wines labeled "Nebraska Wine" to contain at least 60% Nebraska-grown grapes,&nbsp; ensuring authenticity and supporting local agriculture across the state's 22 wineries.&nbsp;<h2>Taste Championship Wines at Holiday TOAST Wine Festival – November 15 in Grand Island&nbsp;</h2>Experience the wines that earned 98-point scores and beat California at their own competitions. Holiday TOAST&nbsp; Nebraska Wine Festival brings together 18 award-winning Nebraska wineries for an all-inclusive celebration of&nbsp; food and wine on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at Fonner Park in Grand Island. This is Nebraska's second largest wine festival and one of the best wine events in the Midwest – your chance to taste the wines that are putting&nbsp; Nebraska on the national wine map.&nbsp;Every ticket includes wine tastings of 100+ wines from 18 Nebraska wineries, featuring the championship wines&nbsp; scoring 90+ points. The festival introduces a new progressive 3-tier dining experience with appetizers, entrees, and&nbsp; desserts paired with Nebraska wines throughout the day – all included with admission. Guests will enjoy live music&nbsp; performances by Josh Hoyer, the 2025 International Blues Challenge Winner, and styling sessions with Lincoln native&nbsp; Maddie Graham from The Frugal Fox. Winemaker Fireside Chats offer the chance to hear the stories behind&nbsp; award-winning wines directly from the people who made them, while Wine Bingo adds an interactive element&nbsp; with prizes throughout the day.&nbsp;VIP tickets are sold out, but general admission tickets remain available at $65 (prices increase November 7).&nbsp; Designated driver tickets are $40 and must be 21+. The wine and food festival runs from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM at&nbsp; Fonner Park in Grand Island, easily accessible from Omaha, Lincoln, and throughout central Nebraska. This is just a&nbsp; taste of what attendees will experience at TOAST. Learn more and get tickets now at www.TOASTWineFest.com&nbsp;<h2>About the Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association&nbsp;</h2>The Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association (NWGGA) represents Nebraska's wine industry through the&nbsp; TOAST Nebraska Wine Festival series and The Nebraska Wine Passport. The organization supports wineries and&nbsp; grape growers and promotes wine tourism throughout the state. For more information about Nebraska wineries and&nbsp; wine tasting events, visit www.NebraskaWines.org&nbsp;

Nebraska Earns Championship Wine Scores: 93, 96, and 98 Points Prove Quality  Competes Nationally 

By: Everett Kelley,&nbsp;AFGE National President

This week, Congress pushed our nation into the fourth week of a full government shutdown – an avoidable crisis that is harming families, communities, and the very institutions that hold our country together. Both political parties have made their point, and still there is no clear end in sight.&nbsp;

Today I’m making mine: it’s time to pass a clean continuing resolution and end this shutdown today. No half measures, and no gamesmanship. Put every single federal worker back on the job with full back pay — today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As president of the American Federation of Government Employees, I represent over 800,000 federal and D.C. government workers who serve with pride and professionalism.&nbsp;

They ensure our skies are safe, our veterans receive care, our borders are protected, and our food is inspected. They come from every political background and every corner of this nation. What unites them is a simple belief: that service to country is honorable work.&nbsp;

Today, that belief is being tested. The Army nurse in San Antonio, the TSA officer in Atlanta, the USDA food safety inspector in Iowa, and hundreds of thousands more like them are being asked to keep our country running without the paychecks that keep their own households afloat.&nbsp;

These are patriotic Americans – parents, caregivers, and veterans – forced to work without pay while struggling to cover rent, groceries, gas and medicine because of political disagreements in Washington. That is unacceptable.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, shutdowns have become a recurring tactic in Washington. But there is no “winning” a government shutdown. They cost taxpayers billions, hurt small businesses, and erode confidence in government itself. And the American people know this. That’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/projects/most-see-the-federal-shutdown-as-a-problem-and-think-there-is-plenty-of-blame-to-go-around/" target="_blank">why 9 out of 10 Americans think this government shutdown is a problem</a>.&nbsp;

It’s time for our leaders to start focusing on how to solve problems for the American people, rather than on who is going to get the blame for a shutdown that Americans dislike.&nbsp;

Because when the folks who serve this country are standing in line for food banks after missing a second paycheck because of this shutdown, they aren’t looking for partisan spin. They’re looking for the wages they earned. The fact that they’re being cheated out of it is a national disgrace.&nbsp;

It’s long past time for our leaders to put aside partisan politics and embrace responsible government. A strong America requires a functioning government — one that pays its bills, honors its commitments, and treats its workforce with respect by paying them on time.&nbsp;

The path forward for Congress is clear:&nbsp;

Reopen the government immediately under a clean continuing resolution that allows continued debate on larger issues.&nbsp;

Ensure back pay for every single employee who has served or been forced to stay home through no fault of their own.&nbsp;

Work together on a bipartisan basis to address important policy matters like addressing rising costs and fixing the broken appropriations process.&nbsp;

None of these steps favor one political side over another. They favor the American people – who expect stability from their government and responsibility from their leaders.&nbsp;

The national interest requires Congress to act immediately to bring every federal employee back to work, pay them for the work they’ve already done (or been locked out from doing), and continue having the debates and disagreements that are the hallmark of a strong democracy – without punishing the people who keep our nation running.&nbsp;

The government belongs to all of us. Let’s open it back up and keep America moving forward.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759315687610.png" alt="Photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>By: Everett Kelley,&nbsp;AFGE National PresidentThis week, Congress pushed our nation into the fourth week of a full government shutdown – an avoidable crisis that is harming families, communities, and the very institutions that hold our country together. Both political parties have made their point, and still there is no clear end in sight.&nbsp;Today I’m making mine: it’s time to pass a clean continuing resolution and end this shutdown today. No half measures, and no gamesmanship. Put every single federal worker back on the job with full back pay — today.&nbsp;&nbsp;As president of the American Federation of Government Employees, I represent over 800,000 federal and D.C. government workers who serve with pride and professionalism.&nbsp;They ensure our skies are safe, our veterans receive care, our borders are protected, and our food is inspected. They come from every political background and every corner of this nation. What unites them is a simple belief: that service to country is honorable work.&nbsp;Today, that belief is being tested. The Army nurse in San Antonio, the TSA officer in Atlanta, the USDA food safety inspector in Iowa, and hundreds of thousands more like them are being asked to keep our country running without the paychecks that keep their own households afloat.&nbsp;These are patriotic Americans – parents, caregivers, and veterans – forced to work without pay while struggling to cover rent, groceries, gas and medicine because of political disagreements in Washington. That is unacceptable.&nbsp;Unfortunately, shutdowns have become a recurring tactic in Washington. But there is no “winning” a government shutdown. They cost taxpayers billions, hurt small businesses, and erode confidence in government itself. And the American people know this. That’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/projects/most-see-the-federal-shutdown-as-a-problem-and-think-there-is-plenty-of-blame-to-go-around/" target="_blank">why 9 out of 10 Americans think this government shutdown is a problem</a>.&nbsp;It’s time for our leaders to start focusing on how to solve problems for the American people, rather than on who is going to get the blame for a shutdown that Americans dislike.&nbsp;Because when the folks who serve this country are standing in line for food banks after missing a second paycheck because of this shutdown, they aren’t looking for partisan spin. They’re looking for the wages they earned. The fact that they’re being cheated out of it is a national disgrace.&nbsp;It’s long past time for our leaders to put aside partisan politics and embrace responsible government. A strong America requires a functioning government — one that pays its bills, honors its commitments, and treats its workforce with respect by paying them on time.&nbsp;The path forward for Congress is clear:&nbsp;Reopen the government immediately under a clean continuing resolution that allows continued debate on larger issues.&nbsp;Ensure back pay for every single employee who has served or been forced to stay home through no fault of their own.&nbsp;Work together on a bipartisan basis to address important policy matters like addressing rising costs and fixing the broken appropriations process.&nbsp;None of these steps favor one political side over another. They favor the American people – who expect stability from their government and responsibility from their leaders.&nbsp;The national interest requires Congress to act immediately to bring every federal employee back to work, pay them for the work they’ve already done (or been locked out from doing), and continue having the debates and disagreements that are the hallmark of a strong democracy – without punishing the people who keep our nation running.&nbsp;The government belongs to all of us. Let’s open it back up and keep America moving forward.

Largest federal worker union calls on Congress to end shutdown

Audrey Eckert of Nebraska was crowned Miss USA 2025 during the 74th annual pageant held October 24 at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. The 23-year-old University of Nebraska–Lincoln graduate made history as she brought the national crown home to the Cornhusker State.

Eckert’s road to the Miss USA title began earlier this year when she was crowned Miss Nebraska USA 2025, earning her spot on the national stage. She’s no stranger to pageantry—Eckert previously held the title of Miss Nebraska Teen USA 2020 and went on to place as third runner-up at Miss Teen USA 2020. Her steady rise through the ranks highlights her dedication and experience in the world of competition and community representation.

A graduate of UNL with a degree in business administration and a focus on marketing, Eckert also served as captain of the Husker cheer squad. She now works as a social media and marketing coordinator for a Thai handbag brand, combining her business background with her passion for fashion and global connection. Those experiences, she says, helped shape her confidence, leadership, and advocacy—qualities that stood out on the Miss USA stage.

During the final question round, Eckert was asked what she hopes future generations will say about today’s young people. Her answer centered on adaptability and digital responsibility. “Our generation is, without a doubt, adaptable,” she said. “We have learned to grow and change through so many things. I work in digital media every single day, and I teach 500 athletes on a weekly basis how to stay safe online. Being safe online, and learning to grow up in a digital world, requires you to be adaptable.” Her response drew praise from judges and audience members alike, underscoring her commitment to teaching young people how to use social media responsibly.

This year’s Miss USA competition also marked a new chapter for the organization. Under new leadership, the judging process was overhauled, with final results determined entirely by the judges and a stronger focus on intellect, advocacy, and current events. The shift comes as the pageant works to rebuild its image and highlight empowerment, confidence, and authenticity over glamour alone.

Following her win, Eckert will represent the United States at the Miss Universe 2025 competition in Thailand this November. Organizers say she’ll have a busy year ahead filled with travel, public appearances, and community outreach, serving as what they call “the new face of a modern Miss USA.”

For Nebraska, Eckert’s victory is a moment of pride and inspiration—proof that confidence, perseverance, and heart can shine just as brightly as any crown.

Sources: Business Insider, People, 10/11 Now, Pageant Update

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761369235841.jpeg" alt="Audrey Eckert (Photo Miss USA)" />
 <figcaption>Audrey Eckert (Photo Miss USA)</figcaption>
 </figure>Audrey Eckert of Nebraska was crowned Miss USA 2025 during the 74th annual pageant held October 24 at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. The 23-year-old University of Nebraska–Lincoln graduate made history as she brought the national crown home to the Cornhusker State.Eckert’s road to the Miss USA title began earlier this year when she was crowned Miss Nebraska USA 2025, earning her spot on the national stage. She’s no stranger to pageantry—Eckert previously held the title of Miss Nebraska Teen USA 2020 and went on to place as third runner-up at Miss Teen USA 2020. Her steady rise through the ranks highlights her dedication and experience in the world of competition and community representation.A graduate of UNL with a degree in business administration and a focus on marketing, Eckert also served as captain of the Husker cheer squad. She now works as a social media and marketing coordinator for a Thai handbag brand, combining her business background with her passion for fashion and global connection. Those experiences, she says, helped shape her confidence, leadership, and advocacy—qualities that stood out on the Miss USA stage.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F25371268212466601%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>During the final question round, Eckert was asked what she hopes future generations will say about today’s young people. Her answer centered on adaptability and digital responsibility. “Our generation is, without a doubt, adaptable,” she said. “We have learned to grow and change through so many things. I work in digital media every single day, and I teach 500 athletes on a weekly basis how to stay safe online. Being safe online, and learning to grow up in a digital world, requires you to be adaptable.” Her response drew praise from judges and audience members alike, underscoring her commitment to teaching young people how to use social media responsibly.This year’s Miss USA competition also marked a new chapter for the organization. Under new leadership, the judging process was overhauled, with final results determined entirely by the judges and a stronger focus on intellect, advocacy, and current events. The shift comes as the pageant works to rebuild its image and highlight empowerment, confidence, and authenticity over glamour alone.Following her win, Eckert will represent the United States at the Miss Universe 2025 competition in Thailand this November. Organizers say she’ll have a busy year ahead filled with travel, public appearances, and community outreach, serving as what they call “the new face of a modern Miss USA.”For Nebraska, Eckert’s victory is a moment of pride and inspiration—proof that confidence, perseverance, and heart can shine just as brightly as any crown.Sources: Business Insider, People, 10/11 Now, Pageant Update

From Miss Nebraska USA to Miss USA: Audrey Eckert Brings the Crown Home

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">Shauneen Miranda</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture said in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26196837-usda-memo-102425/" target="_blank">a memo</a>&nbsp;Friday the agency’s contingency fund cannot legally be used to provide food assistance benefits for more than 42 million people in November, as the government shutdown drags on.

The position is a reversal from the department’s earlier stance, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26196921-fy2026-usda-lapse-plan-sept30/" target="_blank">a since-deleted copy</a>&nbsp;of the USDA’s Sept. 30 shutdown plan that said the department would use its multi-year contingency fund to continue paying&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program,&nbsp;or SNAP, benefits during the ongoing shutdown.&nbsp;

SNAP&nbsp;has about $6 billion in the contingency fund — short of the roughly $9 billion needed to cover a full month of the program, putting November benefits in jeopardy.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/pay-trump-and-congress-continues-shutdown-unless-they-ask-it-be-held" target="_blank">Because of a stalemate</a>&nbsp;in Congress over a stopgap spending bill, the government shut down on Oct. 1 without new SNAP funding enacted.

The memo, which was first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/24/gov-shutdown-snap-payments-emergency-funds" target="_blank">reported by Axios</a>&nbsp;on Friday, said states would not be reimbursed if they use their own funds to cover the cost of the benefits.

“There is no provision or allowance under current law for States to cover the cost of benefits and be reimbursed,” the memo says, while also noting that “the best way for SNAP to continue is for the shutdown to end.”

The memo also says the contingency fund is meant for natural disasters and similar emergencies, not for a lack of appropriations.

But USDA’s Sept. 30 contingency plan contradicts that and appears to greenlight the use of SNAP’s contingency fund during a lapse in funding.

“Congressional intent is evident that SNAP’s operations should continue since the program has been provided with multi-year contingency funds that can be used for State Administrative Expenses to ensure that the State can also continue operations during a Federal Government shutdown,” according to the plan. “These multi-year contingency funds are also available to fund participant benefits in the event that a lapse occurs in the middle of the fiscal year.”

USDA’s contingency plan is no longer online, but is accessible through an internet archive.

After providing States Newsroom with the memo Friday afternoon, USDA did not immediately respond to a follow-up inquiry about the discrepancy between Friday’s memo and its contingency plan.

In the memo, USDA said transferring money toward SNAP from other sources “would pull away funding for school meals and infant formula.”&nbsp;

The agency said it has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/nutrition-program-women-infants-and-children-stay-afloat-through-end-month" target="_blank">shuffled funds to cover</a>&nbsp;several nutrition programs during the shutdown, including the&nbsp;Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, as well as the&nbsp;National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program.&nbsp;

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said last week the government would run out of funds to deliver November&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecRollins/status/1978984208975478809" target="_blank">SNAP benefits</a>&nbsp;as a result of the ongoing shutdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday morning, U.S. House Democrats, like nearly all of their Senate counterparts and the Republican chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, urged Rollins to not only use the contingency fund, but to reprogram other money to cover a $3 billion shortfall.&nbsp;

“A potential lapse in benefits would be felt by Americans of all ages and affect every corner and congressional district in the country,” according to the letter from more than&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats-agriculture.house.gov/uploadedfiles/251024_-_letter_-_house_dems_to_usda_on_snap_shutdown.pdf?utm_campaign=2270-520" target="_blank">200 House Democrats.</a>

In a separate letter, 46 Senate Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://www.booker.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/letter_to_release_funding_to_continue_snap_into_novemberp.pdf" target="_blank">sent</a>&nbsp;to Rollins on Wednesday, voicing concerns that USDA told states to hold off on sending in SNAP benefits to be processed for November.&nbsp;

“We were deeply disturbed to hear that the USDA has instructed states to stop processing SNAP benefits for November and were surprised by your recent comments that the program will ‘run out of money in two weeks,’” according to the letter. “In fact, the USDA has several tools available which would enable SNAP benefits to be paid through or close to the end of November.”&nbsp;

The chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Republican Susan Collins of Maine, also urged Rollins in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.collins.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/102325mainesnaplettercollins.pdf" target="_blank">Thursday letter</a>&nbsp;to “consider all available options in accordance with federal law to ensure that this vital nutrition assistance continues, including the use of contingency funds and looking at the viability of partial payments or any transfer authority you may have.”&nbsp;

Benefits could be slow even if a deal reached

States have been told by the agency to hold off on submitting SNAP benefit requests to processing centers. Food banks and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/rhode-island-food-pantries-slammed-snap-beneficiaries-brace-funding-run-dry" target="_blank">pantries</a>&nbsp;are already bracing for the increased need, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/food-banks-prepare-lapse-snap-funding-unprecedented-need-due-government-shutdown" target="_blank">in Iowa</a>, where more than 270,000 Iowans rely on SNAP each month.

However, even if Congress immediately reached a deal to end the shutdown, the time needed to process the payments and make them available for recipients means SNAP benefits would likely be delayed. State officials have warned SNAP recipients of the possibility of delays.

In West Virginia,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/im-very-scared-snap-benefits-delay-worries-wv-elderly-who-use-it-feed-themselves-grandkids" target="_blank">officials said delays are expected</a>&nbsp;and told residents to seek assistance at local food pantries. Roughly 1 in 6 West Virginia residents rely on SNAP each month.&nbsp;

Sharon Parrott,&nbsp;a White House Office of Management and Budget official during the Obama administration who now leads a left-leaning think tank,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/press/statements/trump-administration-is-legally-required-to-provide-snap-in-shutdown-contrary-to" target="_blank">said in a Thursday statement</a>&nbsp;that USDA is legally required to use its SNAP contingency funds.

Parrott, the president of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, said the multi-year contingency fund is “billions of dollars that Congress provided for use when SNAP funding is inadequate that remain available during the shutdown — to fund November benefits for the 1 in 8 Americans who need SNAP to afford their grocery bill.”

Parrott said the Trump administration could use its legal transfer authority, just as it did with WIC funding, to “supplement the contingency reserves, which by themselves are not enough to fund families’ full benefits.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689674819900.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">Shauneen Miranda</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture said in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26196837-usda-memo-102425/" target="_blank">a memo</a>&nbsp;Friday the agency’s contingency fund cannot legally be used to provide food assistance benefits for more than 42 million people in November, as the government shutdown drags on.The position is a reversal from the department’s earlier stance, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26196921-fy2026-usda-lapse-plan-sept30/" target="_blank">a since-deleted copy</a>&nbsp;of the USDA’s Sept. 30 shutdown plan that said the department would use its multi-year contingency fund to continue paying&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program,&nbsp;or SNAP, benefits during the ongoing shutdown.&nbsp;SNAP&nbsp;has about $6 billion in the contingency fund — short of the roughly $9 billion needed to cover a full month of the program, putting November benefits in jeopardy.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/pay-trump-and-congress-continues-shutdown-unless-they-ask-it-be-held" target="_blank">Because of a stalemate</a>&nbsp;in Congress over a stopgap spending bill, the government shut down on Oct. 1 without new SNAP funding enacted.The memo, which was first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/24/gov-shutdown-snap-payments-emergency-funds" target="_blank">reported by Axios</a>&nbsp;on Friday, said states would not be reimbursed if they use their own funds to cover the cost of the benefits.“There is no provision or allowance under current law for States to cover the cost of benefits and be reimbursed,” the memo says, while also noting that “the best way for SNAP to continue is for the shutdown to end.”<h2>Discrepancy with shutdown plan</h2>The memo also says the contingency fund is meant for natural disasters and similar emergencies, not for a lack of appropriations.But USDA’s Sept. 30 contingency plan contradicts that and appears to greenlight the use of SNAP’s contingency fund during a lapse in funding.“Congressional intent is evident that SNAP’s operations should continue since the program has been provided with multi-year contingency funds that can be used for State Administrative Expenses to ensure that the State can also continue operations during a Federal Government shutdown,” according to the plan. “These multi-year contingency funds are also available to fund participant benefits in the event that a lapse occurs in the middle of the fiscal year.”USDA’s contingency plan is no longer online, but is accessible through an internet archive.After providing States Newsroom with the memo Friday afternoon, USDA did not immediately respond to a follow-up inquiry about the discrepancy between Friday’s memo and its contingency plan.In the memo, USDA said transferring money toward SNAP from other sources “would pull away funding for school meals and infant formula.”&nbsp;The agency said it has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/nutrition-program-women-infants-and-children-stay-afloat-through-end-month" target="_blank">shuffled funds to cover</a>&nbsp;several nutrition programs during the shutdown, including the&nbsp;Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, as well as the&nbsp;National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program.&nbsp;<h2>Dems call on Rollins to tap into fund</h2>U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said last week the government would run out of funds to deliver November&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SecRollins/status/1978984208975478809" target="_blank">SNAP benefits</a>&nbsp;as a result of the ongoing shutdown.&nbsp;&nbsp;Friday morning, U.S. House Democrats, like nearly all of their Senate counterparts and the Republican chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, urged Rollins to not only use the contingency fund, but to reprogram other money to cover a $3 billion shortfall.&nbsp;“A potential lapse in benefits would be felt by Americans of all ages and affect every corner and congressional district in the country,” according to the letter from more than&nbsp;<a href="https://democrats-agriculture.house.gov/uploadedfiles/251024_-_letter_-_house_dems_to_usda_on_snap_shutdown.pdf?utm_campaign=2270-520" target="_blank">200 House Democrats.</a>In a separate letter, 46 Senate Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://www.booker.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/letter_to_release_funding_to_continue_snap_into_novemberp.pdf" target="_blank">sent</a>&nbsp;to Rollins on Wednesday, voicing concerns that USDA told states to hold off on sending in SNAP benefits to be processed for November.&nbsp;“We were deeply disturbed to hear that the USDA has instructed states to stop processing SNAP benefits for November and were surprised by your recent comments that the program will ‘run out of money in two weeks,’” according to the letter. “In fact, the USDA has several tools available which would enable SNAP benefits to be paid through or close to the end of November.”&nbsp;The chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Republican Susan Collins of Maine, also urged Rollins in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.collins.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/102325mainesnaplettercollins.pdf" target="_blank">Thursday letter</a>&nbsp;to “consider all available options in accordance with federal law to ensure that this vital nutrition assistance continues, including the use of contingency funds and looking at the viability of partial payments or any transfer authority you may have.”&nbsp;<h2>Benefits could be slow even if a deal reached</h2>States have been told by the agency to hold off on submitting SNAP benefit requests to processing centers. Food banks and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/rhode-island-food-pantries-slammed-snap-beneficiaries-brace-funding-run-dry" target="_blank">pantries</a>&nbsp;are already bracing for the increased need, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/food-banks-prepare-lapse-snap-funding-unprecedented-need-due-government-shutdown" target="_blank">in Iowa</a>, where more than 270,000 Iowans rely on SNAP each month.However, even if Congress immediately reached a deal to end the shutdown, the time needed to process the payments and make them available for recipients means SNAP benefits would likely be delayed. State officials have warned SNAP recipients of the possibility of delays.In West Virginia,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/im-very-scared-snap-benefits-delay-worries-wv-elderly-who-use-it-feed-themselves-grandkids" target="_blank">officials said delays are expected</a>&nbsp;and told residents to seek assistance at local food pantries. Roughly 1 in 6 West Virginia residents rely on SNAP each month.&nbsp;<h2>Legal requirement cited</h2>Sharon Parrott,&nbsp;a White House Office of Management and Budget official during the Obama administration who now leads a left-leaning think tank,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/press/statements/trump-administration-is-legally-required-to-provide-snap-in-shutdown-contrary-to" target="_blank">said in a Thursday statement</a>&nbsp;that USDA is legally required to use its SNAP contingency funds.Parrott, the president of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, said the multi-year contingency fund is “billions of dollars that Congress provided for use when SNAP funding is inadequate that remain available during the shutdown — to fund November benefits for the 1 in 8 Americans who need SNAP to afford their grocery bill.”Parrott said the Trump administration could use its legal transfer authority, just as it did with WIC funding, to “supplement the contingency reserves, which by themselves are not enough to fund families’ full benefits.”

USDA won’t shuffle funds to extend SNAP during shutdown, in about-face from earlier plan

Lincoln, Ne - Oct. 23, 2025 – The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has opened an investigation and ordered Roberts Seed, Inc., of Axtell to immediately cease and desist all operations as a Grain Dealer and Grain Warehouse in Nebraska.

The PSC Grain Department was recently informed that the company had purchased grain from a producer. An Oct. 20 inspection by the PSC Grain Department found that the company is purchasing various amounts of commodities from Nebraska producers and is also storing commodities at its facility in Axtell without proper license.

“It is imperative that our producers/sellers who are in the thick of harvest season are aware that this company does not hold a license to conduct grain dealer or grain warehouse activity in the state of Nebraska,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram.

The PSC is investigating Roberts Seed, Inc., for performing actions as a grain dealer in the state of Nebraska without a valid Grain Dealer License issued by the Commission, in violation of Nebraska Revised Statue § 75-903 and 291 Nebraska Administrative Code § 8-003.01; and as a grain warehouse, without a valid Grain Warehouse License, in violation of Nebraska Revised Statute §88- 527, and 291 Nebraska Administrative Code § 08-002.01.

In 2018, Roberts Seed, Inc., was fined by the Commission and was prohibited from engaging in grain dealer activities without obtaining a Grain Dealer License. Commission Vice-Chair Kevin Stocker said, “This company’s apparent blatant disregard for state law leaves us with no option but to order them to immediately cease and desist all activity.”

The PSC will begin the process of filing a formal complaint against Roberts Seed, Inc. Once the company receives the complaint, it will be required to show why it should not be assessed civil penalties for operating as both a grain dealer and a grain warehouse without proper license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686701463880.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASELincoln, Ne - Oct. 23, 2025 – The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has opened an investigation and ordered Roberts Seed, Inc., of Axtell to immediately cease and desist all operations as a Grain Dealer and Grain Warehouse in Nebraska.The PSC Grain Department was recently informed that the company had purchased grain from a producer. An Oct. 20 inspection by the PSC Grain Department found that the company is purchasing various amounts of commodities from Nebraska producers and is also storing commodities at its facility in Axtell without proper license.“It is imperative that our producers/sellers who are in the thick of harvest season are aware that this company does not hold a license to conduct grain dealer or grain warehouse activity in the state of Nebraska,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram.The PSC is investigating Roberts Seed, Inc., for performing actions as a grain dealer in the state of Nebraska without a valid Grain Dealer License issued by the Commission, in violation of Nebraska Revised Statue § 75-903 and 291 Nebraska Administrative Code § 8-003.01; and as a grain warehouse, without a valid Grain Warehouse License, in violation of Nebraska Revised Statute §88- 527, and 291 Nebraska Administrative Code § 08-002.01.In 2018, Roberts Seed, Inc., was fined by the Commission and was prohibited from engaging in grain dealer activities without obtaining a Grain Dealer License. Commission Vice-Chair Kevin Stocker said, “This company’s apparent blatant disregard for state law leaves us with no option but to order them to immediately cease and desist all activity.”The PSC will begin the process of filing a formal complaint against Roberts Seed, Inc. Once the company receives the complaint, it will be required to show why it should not be assessed civil penalties for operating as both a grain dealer and a grain warehouse without proper license.

PSC Orders Axtell Company to Cease & Desist

WASHINGTON —In support of the President’s directive to dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and counter narco-terrorism in defense of the Homeland, the Secretary of War has directed the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and embarked carrier air wing to the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) area of responsibility (AOR), according to a statement from the Department of War.

'The enhanced U.S. force presence in the USSOUTHCOM AOR will bolster U.S. capacity to detect, monitor, and disrupt illicit actors and activities that compromise the safety and prosperity of the United States homeland and our security in the Western Hemisphere. These forces will enhance and augment existing capabilities to disrupt narcotics trafficking and degrade and dismantle TCOs."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696803172229.png" alt="File photo The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in mid October 2024-photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>File photo The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in mid October 2024-photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —In support of the President’s directive to dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and counter narco-terrorism in defense of the Homeland, the Secretary of War has directed the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and embarked carrier air wing to the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) area of responsibility (AOR), according to a statement from the Department of War.'The enhanced U.S. force presence in the USSOUTHCOM AOR will bolster U.S. capacity to detect, monitor, and disrupt illicit actors and activities that compromise the safety and prosperity of the United States homeland and our security in the Western Hemisphere. These forces will enhance and augment existing capabilities to disrupt narcotics trafficking and degrade and dismantle TCOs."

Drug war: US sending aircraft carrier to Latin America 

By: Center for Agricultural Profitability

The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program, in partnership with the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, announced the launch of a new online course, “LLCs for Nebraska Farms and Ranches.” The program is designed to help farm and ranch families make informed decisions about whether an LLC is the right structure for their business and avoid costly mistakes.&nbsp;

“Whether you're exploring LLCs as a new business structure for your farm or ranch or looking to better manage your existing LLC, this course offers practical guidance tailored to the unique needs of Nebraska producers,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program.

The course includes short video interviews with attorneys, accountants and ag professionals, as well as checklists, worksheets and links to podcasts and articles that address specialized topics.

The cost for the course is $150 per person. Participants will have access to the course for 90 days from the date of enrollment.

This course is supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2024-70027-42470. All attendees are welcome to participate regardless of race, gender, or any other protected status.&nbsp;

<a href="https://go.unl.edu/llc">Enrollment is available online.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761318269870.jpeg" alt="Thinking about forming an LLC for your farm or ranch? Learn how to set up and manage your business structure the right way — and avoid common legal and tax pitfalls — in the new LLCs for Nebraska Farms and Ranches online course from Nebraska Women in Agriculture. (Photo Craig Chandler/UNL Communications and Marketing)" />
 <figcaption>Thinking about forming an LLC for your farm or ranch? Learn how to set up and manage your business structure the right way — and avoid common legal and tax pitfalls — in the new LLCs for Nebraska Farms and Ranches online course from Nebraska Women in Agriculture. (Photo Craig Chandler/UNL Communications and Marketing)</figcaption>
 </figure>By: Center for Agricultural ProfitabilityThe Nebraska Women in Agriculture program, in partnership with the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, announced the launch of a new online course, “LLCs for Nebraska Farms and Ranches.” The program is designed to help farm and ranch families make informed decisions about whether an LLC is the right structure for their business and avoid costly mistakes.&nbsp;“Whether you're exploring LLCs as a new business structure for your farm or ranch or looking to better manage your existing LLC, this course offers practical guidance tailored to the unique needs of Nebraska producers,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program.Course participants will learn how to:<ul>
 <li>Decide whether an LLC is the right entity structure for their operation</li><li>Navigate the steps and costs of forming an LLC in Nebraska</li><li>Identify and avoid frequent legal and tax missteps through better business management</li>
 </ul>The course includes short video interviews with attorneys, accountants and ag professionals, as well as checklists, worksheets and links to podcasts and articles that address specialized topics.The cost for the course is $150 per person. Participants will have access to the course for 90 days from the date of enrollment.This course is supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2024-70027-42470. All attendees are welcome to participate regardless of race, gender, or any other protected status.&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/llc">Enrollment is available online.</a>

New ‘LLCs for Nebraska Farms and Ranches’ Online Course Launches Nov. 1

Nebraska Lottery Reminds Players to Set Limits

Lincoln, NE – October 23, 2025 – The Mega Millions jackpot has been growing for over three months. Because of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery reminds customers to set spending and time limits.

A string of drawings without a jackpot winner has grown the estimated Mega Millions jackpot to its highest level since December 2024. There have been 33 consecutive drawings since July 1 without a jackpot winner. This run has grown the estimated jackpot for the Friday, October 24 drawing to $680 million or $318.2 million with the cash option selected. This is the 9th largest jackpot in the history of the game.

The jackpot run has produced two big winners in Nebraska so far. A $30,000 winning ticket for the August 12 drawing was sold at Mega Saver, 12005 Pacific Street in Omaha. And a $5,000 winning ticket for the October 7 drawing was sold at Casey's #3816, 3725 N 147th Street in Omaha.

The largest Mega Millions jackpot on record occurred in August 2023 when one ticket was sold in Florida for a $1.602 billion jackpot.

Because of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to set limits and play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the Mega Millions jackpot is, the odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 290 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVCGW7ZFoOjGhEOuDYk17Wg-2BgeY7UPBPUQdMljN8fRzJJX3pb_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnOn7m9-2F3-2BvWF4Yw3EJ-2BqUwOI1PTGPLeI41yVW7HhqzQl7AJRuC7XuyHAJbxilWfwZ4MhhvJ7bnkS8BoaNiGnsPWRbBGRo70Ehj3GKOa4VcJr2XdsN8N0UQnCtbHzWchQ6TrW0PZ-2BsD5dULqY-2F2nUEvMqblQr7pPntQf8V3jdihEZn3XQxn9FczmswLsss8BLRN-2B-2FHffdaMKHtlKlzUFu4ltDsHxHtr8VUpq-2FWJH5BO3ey-2F0KLi-2F1ZmXhhZnoLICGZ5ObDM-2FHl6S1QbbUBUHYogg-3D-3D" target="_blank">nelottery.com/knowyourlimit</a>&nbsp;for more information on setting limits on your lottery play.

If you or someone you know has a problem with gambling, free help is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVNHPTLOEvuBuA89teB3GDv5klcXlRRej62RghdJLZz1r39P9_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnOn7m9-2F3-2BvWF4Yw3EJ-2BqUwOI1PTGPLeI41yVW7HhqzQl7AJRuC7XuyHAJbxilWfwZ4MhhvJ7bnkS8BoaNiGnsPWRbBGRo70Ehj3GKOa4VcJpviv5owl6V5WXZ7UYZq5944hMlWv7V-2BrlMlXSlCGfroFl3ad5nJdrE-2FKsn3himILiYCCHVGiXtBwICmKWct8uHtScm3isJQwRNB1ffM6DuWOEdcexl6SvAvfrH81v6OWObu1oLnNHlX7hvV1EncEZzoHGpTTU-2BuAC5blTJVcwUjg-3D-3D" target="_blank">problemgambling.nebraska.gov</a>.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. $1.051 billion has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620755777014.png" alt="Oct. 24 Mega Millions drawing marks 9th largest jackpot in history." />
 <figcaption>Oct. 24 Mega Millions drawing marks 9th largest jackpot in history.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2></h2><h2>Nebraska Lottery Reminds Players to Set Limits</h2>Lincoln, NE – October 23, 2025 – The Mega Millions jackpot has been growing for over three months. Because of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery reminds customers to set spending and time limits.A string of drawings without a jackpot winner has grown the estimated Mega Millions jackpot to its highest level since December 2024. There have been 33 consecutive drawings since July 1 without a jackpot winner. This run has grown the estimated jackpot for the Friday, October 24 drawing to $680 million or $318.2 million with the cash option selected. This is the 9th largest jackpot in the history of the game.The jackpot run has produced two big winners in Nebraska so far. A $30,000 winning ticket for the August 12 drawing was sold at Mega Saver, 12005 Pacific Street in Omaha. And a $5,000 winning ticket for the October 7 drawing was sold at Casey's #3816, 3725 N 147th Street in Omaha.The largest Mega Millions jackpot on record occurred in August 2023 when one ticket was sold in Florida for a $1.602 billion jackpot.<h2>Know Your Limit</h2>Because of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to set limits and play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the Mega Millions jackpot is, the odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 290 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVCGW7ZFoOjGhEOuDYk17Wg-2BgeY7UPBPUQdMljN8fRzJJX3pb_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnOn7m9-2F3-2BvWF4Yw3EJ-2BqUwOI1PTGPLeI41yVW7HhqzQl7AJRuC7XuyHAJbxilWfwZ4MhhvJ7bnkS8BoaNiGnsPWRbBGRo70Ehj3GKOa4VcJr2XdsN8N0UQnCtbHzWchQ6TrW0PZ-2BsD5dULqY-2F2nUEvMqblQr7pPntQf8V3jdihEZn3XQxn9FczmswLsss8BLRN-2B-2FHffdaMKHtlKlzUFu4ltDsHxHtr8VUpq-2FWJH5BO3ey-2F0KLi-2F1ZmXhhZnoLICGZ5ObDM-2FHl6S1QbbUBUHYogg-3D-3D" target="_blank">nelottery.com/knowyourlimit</a>&nbsp;for more information on setting limits on your lottery play.If you or someone you know has a problem with gambling, free help is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.qkacV-2FUEFnhDrHGFtQlhVNHPTLOEvuBuA89teB3GDv5klcXlRRej62RghdJLZz1r39P9_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtJT3xXLcGnwndj0t64QaXbVDk0wvL65KD1iN4vYB7rKAhKu1l-2FBLlTpj0KgRYXUJnOn7m9-2F3-2BvWF4Yw3EJ-2BqUwOI1PTGPLeI41yVW7HhqzQl7AJRuC7XuyHAJbxilWfwZ4MhhvJ7bnkS8BoaNiGnsPWRbBGRo70Ehj3GKOa4VcJpviv5owl6V5WXZ7UYZq5944hMlWv7V-2BrlMlXSlCGfroFl3ad5nJdrE-2FKsn3himILiYCCHVGiXtBwICmKWct8uHtScm3isJQwRNB1ffM6DuWOEdcexl6SvAvfrH81v6OWObu1oLnNHlX7hvV1EncEZzoHGpTTU-2BuAC5blTJVcwUjg-3D-3D" target="_blank">problemgambling.nebraska.gov</a>.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. $1.051 billion has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Tonights Mega Millions® Jackpot 9th Largest in History; Know Your Limit

President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend the U.S. Supreme Court on November 5, 2025, for oral arguments in a landmark case challenging the legality of his administration's sweeping tariffs. This marks a rare instance of a sitting president planning to observe Supreme Court proceedings in person.

The case, Learning Resources v. Trump and Trump v. V.O.S. Selections, Inc., centers on whether the president overstepped his authority by imposing broad tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Lower courts have ruled against the administration, but the Supreme Court's decision could have significant implications for presidential power and trade policy.

President Trump has emphasized the importance of the case, describing the tariffs as "vital" to the nation's economic security. He has warned that overturning the tariffs could lead to substantial economic consequences, including potential refunds of up to $1 trillion in collected duties.

The Supreme Court's ruling is expected to have far-reaching effects on the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches concerning trade authority.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760488159744.png" alt="President Donald Trump plans to attend the initial U.S. Supreme Court hearing on tariffs on Nov. 5, 2025. A rare instance for a sitting president to appear at Supreme Court proceedings." />
 <figcaption>President Donald Trump plans to attend the initial U.S. Supreme Court hearing on tariffs on Nov. 5, 2025. A rare instance for a sitting president to appear at Supreme Court proceedings.</figcaption>
 </figure>President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend the U.S. Supreme Court on November 5, 2025, for oral arguments in a landmark case challenging the legality of his administration's sweeping tariffs. This marks a rare instance of a sitting president planning to observe Supreme Court proceedings in person.The case, Learning Resources v. Trump and Trump v. V.O.S. Selections, Inc., centers on whether the president overstepped his authority by imposing broad tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Lower courts have ruled against the administration, but the Supreme Court's decision could have significant implications for presidential power and trade policy.<div><iframe src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/115428907096790566/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0" width="600" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe><script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script></div>President Trump has emphasized the importance of the case, describing the tariffs as "vital" to the nation's economic security. He has warned that overturning the tariffs could lead to substantial economic consequences, including potential refunds of up to $1 trillion in collected duties.<div><iframe src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/115428915165145135/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0" width="600" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe><script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script></div>The Supreme Court's ruling is expected to have far-reaching effects on the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches concerning trade authority.

Trump Plans to Attend Supreme Court Hearing on Tariffs

Washington D.C. - President Donald Trump announced Friday that all U.S. trade negotiations with Canada are “terminated immediately,” escalating tensions between the two longtime trading partners after a new political ad from Ontario angered the White House.

The ad, which used edited clips of a 1987 speech by former President Ronald Reagan about tariffs and free trade, aired earlier this week as part of an Ontario campaign promoting local manufacturing. Trump called the ad “fake,” claiming it distorted Reagan’s words and amounted to interference in U.S. legal and trade matters.

“We will not continue talks with any country that mocks the United States or misuses our history for propaganda,” Trump said Friday morning in remarks from the White House.

The Ontario government has not formally responded to Trump’s statement but has maintained that the ad was meant to celebrate economic independence, not comment on current U.S. politics.

The latest rupture comes after months of rising trade tension between the U.S. and Canada.

In June, Trump abruptly suspended trade discussions following Ottawa’s decision to move forward with a digital services tax — a 3 percent levy on large U.S. tech companies like Google and Meta. The administration called the measure “a direct attack on American business” and hinted at possible retaliatory tariffs.

Although the two countries resumed limited contact over the summer, little progress was made toward a new bilateral framework. Canada has continued to defend the tax as a matter of fairness and sovereignty, while U.S. officials have pressed for full withdrawal before talks could proceed.

Friday’s announcement appears to end those talks entirely — at least for now.

Despite Trump’s declaration, trade under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) — the continent’s existing trade pact — remains in place. The U.S. has not filed formal notice to withdraw, which would require a six-month process under the agreement’s terms.

That means day-to-day commerce between the two nations, from auto parts and steel to grain and energy, continues for the moment. Still, business leaders and economists warn that the uncertainty could disrupt planning, pricing, and investment on both sides of the border.

“Even if the USMCA technically still stands, markets respond to instability,” said one Toronto-based analyst. “When trade relations become political, companies start pulling back.”

The White House has not detailed what additional steps may follow the termination announcement, but several U.S. industries — especially agriculture, energy, and manufacturing — are watching closely. Canada is America’s second-largest trading partner after Mexico, with more than $800 billion in goods and services exchanged annually.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has not yet commented publicly, but sources in Ottawa told national outlets that officials are “assessing options to de-escalate” and remain open to dialogue “once conditions stabilize.”

As of Friday evening, no new tariffs or sanctions had been announced by either side.

While the Reagan ad may have triggered this latest confrontation, experts say the underlying dispute is rooted in deeper economic and political disagreements — from digital taxation to industrial subsidies and cross-border energy policy.

Whether the October 24 declaration marks a temporary pause or the start of a prolonged trade freeze remains unclear.

For now, the message from Washington is unmistakable: negotiations are off the table, and the world’s longest undefended border is once again home to a very public trade dispute.

Sources:
Time, Politico, Business Insider, Al Jazeera, The Guardian, Digital Journal

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761316628016.png" alt="President Donald Trump has announced that trade negotiations with Canada are terminated effective immediately on Oct. 24, 2025, citing "mockery" as the last straw." />
 <figcaption>President Donald Trump has announced that trade negotiations with Canada are terminated effective immediately on Oct. 24, 2025, citing "mockery" as the last straw.</figcaption>
 </figure>Washington D.C. - President Donald Trump announced Friday that all U.S. trade negotiations with Canada are “terminated immediately,” escalating tensions between the two longtime trading partners after a new political ad from Ontario angered the White House.The ad, which used edited clips of a 1987 speech by former President Ronald Reagan about tariffs and free trade, aired earlier this week as part of an Ontario campaign promoting local manufacturing. Trump called the ad “fake,” claiming it distorted Reagan’s words and amounted to interference in U.S. legal and trade matters.“We will not continue talks with any country that mocks the United States or misuses our history for propaganda,” Trump said Friday morning in remarks from the White House.The Ontario government has not formally responded to Trump’s statement but has maintained that the ad was meant to celebrate economic independence, not comment on current U.S. politics.<h2>Background: Months of Growing Strain</h2>The latest rupture comes after months of rising trade tension between the U.S. and Canada.In June, Trump abruptly suspended trade discussions following Ottawa’s decision to move forward with a digital services tax — a 3 percent levy on large U.S. tech companies like Google and Meta. The administration called the measure “a direct attack on American business” and hinted at possible retaliatory tariffs.Although the two countries resumed limited contact over the summer, little progress was made toward a new bilateral framework. Canada has continued to defend the tax as a matter of fairness and sovereignty, while U.S. officials have pressed for full withdrawal before talks could proceed.Friday’s announcement appears to end those talks entirely — at least for now.<h2>Existing Trade Still in Effect</h2>Despite Trump’s declaration, trade under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) — the continent’s existing trade pact — remains in place. The U.S. has not filed formal notice to withdraw, which would require a six-month process under the agreement’s terms.That means day-to-day commerce between the two nations, from auto parts and steel to grain and energy, continues for the moment. Still, business leaders and economists warn that the uncertainty could disrupt planning, pricing, and investment on both sides of the border.“Even if the USMCA technically still stands, markets respond to instability,” said one Toronto-based analyst. “When trade relations become political, companies start pulling back.”<h2>Political and Economic Implications</h2>The White House has not detailed what additional steps may follow the termination announcement, but several U.S. industries — especially agriculture, energy, and manufacturing — are watching closely. Canada is America’s second-largest trading partner after Mexico, with more than $800 billion in goods and services exchanged annually.Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has not yet commented publicly, but sources in Ottawa told national outlets that officials are “assessing options to de-escalate” and remain open to dialogue “once conditions stabilize.”As of Friday evening, no new tariffs or sanctions had been announced by either side.<h2>What Comes Next</h2>While the Reagan ad may have triggered this latest confrontation, experts say the underlying dispute is rooted in deeper economic and political disagreements — from digital taxation to industrial subsidies and cross-border energy policy.Whether the October 24 declaration marks a temporary pause or the start of a prolonged trade freeze remains unclear.For now, the message from Washington is unmistakable: negotiations are off the table, and the world’s longest undefended border is once again home to a very public trade dispute.Sources:
Time, Politico, Business Insider, Al Jazeera, The Guardian, Digital Journal

Trump Ends U.S.–Canada Trade Talks Over Ontario “Reagan” Ad

Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea, according to a social media report from the Seretary of War.

The vessel was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics. Six male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike, which was conducted in international waters—and was the first strike at night. All six terrorists were killed and no U.S. forces were harmed in this strike.

If you are a narco-terrorist smuggling drugs in our hemisphere, we will treat you like we treat Al-Qaeda. Day or NIGHT, we will map your networks, track your people, hunt you down, and kill you.

(Click below to watch President Trump's answer on a possible declaration of war for the drug boat attacks)

Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea, according to a social media report from the Seretary of War.The vessel was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics. Six male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike, which was conducted in international waters—and was the first strike at night. All six terrorists were killed and no U.S. forces were harmed in this strike.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea. The vessel was known by our… <a href="https://t.co/lVlw0FLBv4">pic.twitter.com/lVlw0FLBv4</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1981706596972372446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>If you are a narco-terrorist smuggling drugs in our hemisphere, we will treat you like we treat Al-Qaeda. Day or NIGHT, we will map your networks, track your people, hunt you down, and kill you.(Click below to watch President Trump's answer on a possible declaration of war for the drug boat attacks)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Drugs = Dead <a href="https://t.co/rbM8IgsOFU">pic.twitter.com/rbM8IgsOFU</a>&mdash; Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth/status/1981553144099147809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump: They're going to be like, dead; U.S. strikes another drug boat 

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">Ashley Murray</a>

WASHINGTON — The Senate Thursday failed to advance a Republican measure and rejected unanimous agreements on two related bills from Democrats that would have paid federal employees and contractors who have continued to work amid the government shutdown, which entered day 23.&nbsp;

The stalemate constituted the latest example of how dug in to their arguments both parties are as the shutdown that began Oct. 1 drags out, as well as the heightened political tensions in the upper chamber when it comes to striking a deal to resume government funding.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Most federal employees will miss their first full paycheck on Friday or early next week. More than 42 million Americans, some 40% under the age of 17, are also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-likely-halt-food-benefits-42-million-just-days" target="_blank">at risk of delayed food assistance</a>&nbsp;if Congress doesn’t address a funding shortfall expected by Nov. 1 in the&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.&nbsp;

Senate Democrats Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.booker.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/letter_to_release_funding_to_continue_snap_into_novemberp.pdf" target="_blank">sent a letter</a>&nbsp;to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins over concerns that the agency has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-likely-halt-food-benefits-42-million-just-days" target="_blank">warned states to hold off on processing SNAP benefits.</a>&nbsp;They contended the agency has the resources to keep payments flowing.

“We were deeply disturbed to hear that the USDA has instructed states to stop processing SNAP benefits for November and were surprised by your recent comments that the program will ‘run out of money in two weeks,’” according to the letter. “In fact, the USDA has several tools available which would enable SNAP benefits to be paid through or close to the end of November.”

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo.,<a href="https://www.hawley.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Keep-SNAP-Funded-Act.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;introduced a bill</a>&nbsp;Wednesday to continue SNAP funding through the shutdown. During Thursday’s briefing, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration would “absolutely support” the legislation.

In the Senate, a measure from Wisconsin GOP Sen. Ron Johnson on a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1191/vote_119_1_00585.htm" target="_blank">54-45 vote</a>&nbsp;did not reach the 60-vote threshold needed to advance in the chamber. Its failure means that federal employees who have continued to work will not be paid until the shutdown ends.

Democratic senators who agreed to the measure included Pennsylvania’s John Fetterman and Georgia’s Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock. Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota changed his vote in order to reconsider the measure.&nbsp;

“I don’t think it makes sense to hold these federal workers hostage,” Warnock told States Newsroom in an interview on his vote Thursday. “If I could have a path to give some of these folks relief while fighting for health care, that’s what I decided to do.”

A separate measure from Maryland Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen also failed to move forward after Johnson objected. Van Hollen requested unanimous consent to approve his bill that would have also protected federal workers from mass Reductions in Force, or RIFs, that President Donald Trump has attempted during the shutdown.&nbsp;

A second Democratic bill, from Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., was narrower, only including pay for federal workers. But when he requested unanimous approval for his measure, it was also blocked by Johnson.

Senators then left Capitol Hill for the weekend. On Wednesday, the Senate took&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-day-22-sets-record-second-longest-us-history-no-sign-deal" target="_blank">a failed 12th vote</a>&nbsp;to provide the federal government and its services with flat funding through Nov. 21.

Senate Republicans have pressed Senate Democrats to approve the GOP-written stopgap measure. But Democrats have maintained that they will not support the House measure because it does not extend tax credits that will expire at the end of the year for people who buy their health insurance through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace.

Van Hollen argued his bill would protect workers from the president’s targeting of certain federal agencies and programs.

“We certainly shouldn’t set up a system where the president of the United States gets to decide what agencies to shut down, what they can open, who to pay and who not to pay, who to punish and who not to punish,” Van Hollen said on the Senate floor before asking for unanimous consent to move the bill forward.

Johnson objected to including Van Hollen’s provision to ban federal worker layoffs during a shutdown.&nbsp;President Donald Trump’s efforts to lay off thousands of federal workers during the shutdown have been on hold since last week, after a federal judge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-blocks-trump-carrying-out-thousands-layoffs-during-shutdown" target="_blank">issued a temporary restraining order</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-broadens-order-blocking-trump-administration-layoffs-during-shutdown" target="_blank">was later expanded</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, Johnson said he was willing to add into his own bill the provision from Van Hollen to pay furloughed workers.

“I’m more than happy to sit down with you. Maybe we should do that later today,” Van Hollen told Johnson during their debate on the floor.

Shortly after, Peters introduced a near-mirror version of Van Hollen’s bill, except that his measure would not prohibit layoffs — essentially what Johnson told Van Hollen he would agree to.

“We all say we agree on this, so let’s just pass this bill now,” the Michigan Democrat said before asking for unanimous consent to advance the legislation.

“It only solves a problem temporarily. We’re going to be right back in the same position,” Johnson said in an interview with States Newsroom about why he rejected Peters’ proposal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Johnson said he talked with Peters and Van Hollen after the vote and “we’ll be talking beyond this.”

Even if the Senate passed the bill sponsored by Johnson or Van Hollen, it’s unlikely the House, which has been in recess since last month, would return to vote on either measure.

At a Thursday morning press conference, House Speaker Mike Johnson argued that Republicans already passed a stopgap measure to pay federal workers and that Senate Democrats should support that legislation.&nbsp;

Johnson said bringing back the House would be a “waste of time,” noting that Democrats would not vote on the Republican proposal.&nbsp;

“If I brought everybody back right now and we voted on a measure to do this, to pay essential workers, it would be spiked in the Senate,” said the Louisiana Republican. “So it would be a waste of our time.”

Duffy warns of flight delays due to shutdown

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy joined Johnson and House Republicans during their press conference.&nbsp;

He said that flight delays have increased due to staffing shortages.

More than 50,000 TSA agents and more than 13,000 air traffic controllers have continued to work without pay during the government shutdown.&nbsp;

“They’re angry,” Duffy said of air traffic controllers. “I’ve gone to a number of different towers over the course of the last week to 10 days. They’re frustrated.”

Next Tuesday, air traffic controllers will not receive their full paycheck for their work in October, Duffy said.

He added that the agency is already short-staffed — by up to 3,000 air traffic controllers.

“When we have lower staffing, what happens is, you’ll see delays or cancellations,” Duffy said.&nbsp;

The FlightAware tracker said there were 2,132 delays within, into or out of the United States of unspecified length reported by Thursday afternoon, compared to 4,175 on Wednesday, 3,846 on Tuesday and 6,792 on Monday.

A shortage of air traffic controllers helped play a role in ending the 2019 government shutdown, which lasted 35 days, after thousands of commercial flights were ground to a halt.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761249362665.png" alt="Counting votes Thursday in the U.S. Senate -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Counting votes Thursday in the U.S. Senate -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">Ashley Murray</a>WASHINGTON — The Senate Thursday failed to advance a Republican measure and rejected unanimous agreements on two related bills from Democrats that would have paid federal employees and contractors who have continued to work amid the government shutdown, which entered day 23.&nbsp;The stalemate constituted the latest example of how dug in to their arguments both parties are as the shutdown that began Oct. 1 drags out, as well as the heightened political tensions in the upper chamber when it comes to striking a deal to resume government funding.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most federal employees will miss their first full paycheck on Friday or early next week. More than 42 million Americans, some 40% under the age of 17, are also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-likely-halt-food-benefits-42-million-just-days" target="_blank">at risk of delayed food assistance</a>&nbsp;if Congress doesn’t address a funding shortfall expected by Nov. 1 in the&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.&nbsp;Senate Democrats Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.booker.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/letter_to_release_funding_to_continue_snap_into_novemberp.pdf" target="_blank">sent a letter</a>&nbsp;to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins over concerns that the agency has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-likely-halt-food-benefits-42-million-just-days" target="_blank">warned states to hold off on processing SNAP benefits.</a>&nbsp;They contended the agency has the resources to keep payments flowing.“We were deeply disturbed to hear that the USDA has instructed states to stop processing SNAP benefits for November and were surprised by your recent comments that the program will ‘run out of money in two weeks,’” according to the letter. “In fact, the USDA has several tools available which would enable SNAP benefits to be paid through or close to the end of November.”Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo.,<a href="https://www.hawley.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Keep-SNAP-Funded-Act.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;introduced a bill</a>&nbsp;Wednesday to continue SNAP funding through the shutdown. During Thursday’s briefing, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration would “absolutely support” the legislation.<h2>Deadlock on federal worker pay</h2>In the Senate, a measure from Wisconsin GOP Sen. Ron Johnson on a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1191/vote_119_1_00585.htm" target="_blank">54-45 vote</a>&nbsp;did not reach the 60-vote threshold needed to advance in the chamber. Its failure means that federal employees who have continued to work will not be paid until the shutdown ends.Democratic senators who agreed to the measure included Pennsylvania’s John Fetterman and Georgia’s Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock. Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota changed his vote in order to reconsider the measure.&nbsp;“I don’t think it makes sense to hold these federal workers hostage,” Warnock told States Newsroom in an interview on his vote Thursday. “If I could have a path to give some of these folks relief while fighting for health care, that’s what I decided to do.”A separate measure from Maryland Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen also failed to move forward after Johnson objected. Van Hollen requested unanimous consent to approve his bill that would have also protected federal workers from mass Reductions in Force, or RIFs, that President Donald Trump has attempted during the shutdown.&nbsp;A second Democratic bill, from Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., was narrower, only including pay for federal workers. But when he requested unanimous approval for his measure, it was also blocked by Johnson.Senators then left Capitol Hill for the weekend. On Wednesday, the Senate took&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-day-22-sets-record-second-longest-us-history-no-sign-deal" target="_blank">a failed 12th vote</a>&nbsp;to provide the federal government and its services with flat funding through Nov. 21.Senate Republicans have pressed Senate Democrats to approve the GOP-written stopgap measure. But Democrats have maintained that they will not support the House measure because it does not extend tax credits that will expire at the end of the year for people who buy their health insurance through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace.<h2>Layoffs cited by Van Hollen</h2>Van Hollen argued his bill would protect workers from the president’s targeting of certain federal agencies and programs.“We certainly shouldn’t set up a system where the president of the United States gets to decide what agencies to shut down, what they can open, who to pay and who not to pay, who to punish and who not to punish,” Van Hollen said on the Senate floor before asking for unanimous consent to move the bill forward.Johnson objected to including Van Hollen’s provision to ban federal worker layoffs during a shutdown.&nbsp;President Donald Trump’s efforts to lay off thousands of federal workers during the shutdown have been on hold since last week, after a federal judge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-blocks-trump-carrying-out-thousands-layoffs-during-shutdown" target="_blank">issued a temporary restraining order</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-broadens-order-blocking-trump-administration-layoffs-during-shutdown" target="_blank">was later expanded</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, Johnson said he was willing to add into his own bill the provision from Van Hollen to pay furloughed workers.“I’m more than happy to sit down with you. Maybe we should do that later today,” Van Hollen told Johnson during their debate on the floor.Shortly after, Peters introduced a near-mirror version of Van Hollen’s bill, except that his measure would not prohibit layoffs — essentially what Johnson told Van Hollen he would agree to.“We all say we agree on this, so let’s just pass this bill now,” the Michigan Democrat said before asking for unanimous consent to advance the legislation.Johnson also objected to that proposal.“It only solves a problem temporarily. We’re going to be right back in the same position,” Johnson said in an interview with States Newsroom about why he rejected Peters’ proposal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Johnson said he talked with Peters and Van Hollen after the vote and “we’ll be talking beyond this.”<h2>‘Waste of time’ for House to meet</h2>Even if the Senate passed the bill sponsored by Johnson or Van Hollen, it’s unlikely the House, which has been in recess since last month, would return to vote on either measure.At a Thursday morning press conference, House Speaker Mike Johnson argued that Republicans already passed a stopgap measure to pay federal workers and that Senate Democrats should support that legislation.&nbsp;Johnson said bringing back the House would be a “waste of time,” noting that Democrats would not vote on the Republican proposal.&nbsp;“If I brought everybody back right now and we voted on a measure to do this, to pay essential workers, it would be spiked in the Senate,” said the Louisiana Republican. “So it would be a waste of our time.”<h2>Duffy warns of flight delays due to shutdown</h2>Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy joined Johnson and House Republicans during their press conference.&nbsp;He said that flight delays have increased due to staffing shortages.More than 50,000 TSA agents and more than 13,000 air traffic controllers have continued to work without pay during the government shutdown.&nbsp;“They’re angry,” Duffy said of air traffic controllers. “I’ve gone to a number of different towers over the course of the last week to 10 days. They’re frustrated.”Next Tuesday, air traffic controllers will not receive their full paycheck for their work in October, Duffy said.He added that the agency is already short-staffed — by up to 3,000 air traffic controllers.“When we have lower staffing, what happens is, you’ll see delays or cancellations,” Duffy said.&nbsp;The FlightAware tracker said there were 2,132 delays within, into or out of the United States of unspecified length reported by Thursday afternoon, compared to 4,175 on Wednesday, 3,846 on Tuesday and 6,792 on Monday.A shortage of air traffic controllers helped play a role in ending the 2019 government shutdown, which lasted 35 days, after thousands of commercial flights were ground to a halt.&nbsp;