Deb Fischer: “I rise to deliver my maiden speech as a U.S. Senator from Nebraska. I am humbled by the trust placed in me by Nebraskans…”

“I rise to deliver my maiden speech as a U.S. Senator from Nebraska. I am humbled by the trust placed in me by Nebraskans and inspired by their confidence to confront the great challenges before us. Our Nation's story began when bands of patriots fought a revolution to secure independence from an out-of-touch King residing an ocean away. The Framers believed a representative government closer to the people would be more responsive and better able to provide opportunity for individuals. From the start, leaders of good will and strong views disagreed over economic theories, the size of government, and foreign policy. Importantly, though, these divergent beliefs have been a source of national strength--not weakness--and through vigorous debate about the proper size and role of government, we have built a powerful nation. But as recent partisan disagreements prove, democracy is messy, and the best way forward is not always clear. While I do not aim to resolve this contest of ideas with a single speech, I do wish to outline a course I intend to chart during my time in the Senate. To understand my views, one must first understand Nebraska. Nebraska's motto is ``The Good Life''--a fitting maxim for a State with the second lowest unemployment rate in the country. Make no mistake, Nebraska's economic success and sound fiscal footing is no accident. Similar to 45 other States, Nebraska is legally required to balance its budget.…”