Nebraska Panhandle News

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts has announced his committee assignments for the 119th Congress. The Nebraska Republican will continue to serve on the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. Additionally, he will join the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and the U.S. Senate Committee on the Budget.

Ricketts expressed his goals for these roles, stating, “After four years of overregulation, an appeasement-first foreign policy, and reckless spending, it’s time to get our country back on track.” He emphasized his commitment to addressing regulatory issues through his work with the Environment and Public Works Committee: “On the Environment and Public Works Committee I’ll fight to give Nebraska families relief, not regulation.” Regarding foreign policy, Ricketts added that he aims to support President Trump in strengthening America's global presence: “On the Foreign Relations Committee I’ll help President Trump restore American strength on the world stage.”

Highlighting his business background as a valuable asset, Ricketts said, “I’m honored by the opportunity to use my business experience on the Budget and Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committees.” He noted that these committees are crucial for extending tax cuts and controlling government spending: “These committees will play an important role in extending the Trump tax cuts, controlling our spending, and providing regulatory relief to job-creators.”

The Environment and Public Works Committee oversees legislation related to environmental protection and resource conservation. It is responsible for oversight of entities such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The Foreign Relations Committee plays a key role in shaping U.S. foreign policy. It handles treaties and legislation related to international affairs including arms sales and foreign aid.

The Budget Committee drafts budget plans for Congress while monitoring federal spending rules. It oversees processes such as budget reconciliation.

The Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee addresses matters involving banks, financial exchanges, housing development, urban transit systems among others.

Ricketts’ participation in these committees reflects his focus on conservative fiscal policies alongside robust national defense strategies.