WASHINGTON—&nbsp;The Secret Service director&nbsp;Kim Cheatle testified Monday before the House Oversight committee as calls mount for her to resign over security failures at a rally where a 20-year-old gunman&nbsp;attempted to assassinate&nbsp;former President&nbsp;Donald Trump.

Click below to watch a replay of the hearing.

Rep. Eric Burlison, Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri and Rep. Jake LaTurner of Kansas are members of the House Oversight Committee.

WASHINGTON—&nbsp;The Secret Service director&nbsp;Kim Cheatle testified Monday before the House Oversight committee as calls mount for her to resign over security failures at a rally where a 20-year-old gunman&nbsp;attempted to assassinate&nbsp;former President&nbsp;Donald Trump.Click below to watch a replay of the hearing.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hyP3tKtgtnw?si=Pqhet5TaSu_xleoJ&amp;start=999" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Rep. Eric Burlison, Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri and Rep. Jake LaTurner of Kansas are members of the House Oversight Committee.

🎥 Secret Service director testifies on attempted assassination of Donald Trump

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was dropping out of the 2024 race following a disastrous debate with Republican Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Lawmakers immediately called for Biden to resign from office.

In a statement from his office, Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "President Joe Biden's announcement that he will suspend his reelection campaign is an admission of something that Americans have observed for a long time – he is not fit to be president, which also means he can no longer serve as commander in chief."

Biden's announcement throws the Democratic Party into chaos just months before the election. Biden has thrown his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, the party’s instant favorite for the nomination at its August convention in Chicago.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720133821321.png" alt="File photo White House" />
 <figcaption>File photo White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was dropping out of the 2024 race following a disastrous debate with Republican Donald Trump.&nbsp;Lawmakers immediately called for Biden to resign from office.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If Joe Biden is unable to serve another term, then he must resign right now. If he&#39;s unfit to campaign, he should not have the nuclear codes - it&#39;s that simple.&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1815100264380252171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If Joe Biden isn&#39;t fit to run for re-election, he&#39;s clearly no longer fit to serve as President. He already did what he thought was best for his party. Now he needs to do what’s best for our country. It’s time for President Biden to resign from office.&mdash; Rep. Sam Graves (@RepSamGraves) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepSamGraves/status/1815101527431745620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Then RESIGN your office. If you can’t run a mere political campaign, you can’t be President <a href="https://t.co/wbO9fs0TyN">https://t.co/wbO9fs0TyN</a>&mdash; Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/HawleyMO/status/1815082478417358942?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">At this unprecedented juncture in American history, we must be clear about what just happened. The Democrat Party forced the Democrat nominee off the ballot, just over 100 days before the election. Having invalidated the votes of more than 14 million Americans who selected Joe…&mdash; Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1815093011669516433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Joe Biden should resign. If he’s not capable of being a candidate after he won the primary he’s not capable of being President. <a href="https://t.co/pb7LTFFxpd">https://t.co/pb7LTFFxpd</a>&mdash; Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eric_Schmitt/status/1815099700233855036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In a statement from his office, Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "President Joe Biden's announcement that he will suspend his reelection campaign is an admission of something that Americans have observed for a long time – he is not fit to be president, which also means he can no longer serve as commander in chief."Biden's announcement throws the Democratic Party into chaos just months before the election. Biden has thrown his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, the party’s instant favorite for the nomination at its August convention in Chicago.&nbsp;

Lawmakers: Biden must resign after ending reelection campaign

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;President Biden announced Sunday is dropping out of the 2024 race for the White House. “I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”

Shortly after releasing his letter,&nbsp; Biden throw his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330354017.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —&nbsp;President Biden announced Sunday is dropping out of the 2024 race for the White House. “I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721585094795.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best… <a href="https://t.co/x8DnvuImJV">pic.twitter.com/x8DnvuImJV</a>&mdash; Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1815087772216303933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Shortly after releasing his letter,&nbsp; Biden throw his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.

Read letter from President Biden on dropping out of 2024 race

Nebraska Department of Transportation

July 19, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Board of Examiners for County Highway and City Street Superintendents will meet on July 26, at 10:00 a.m., at the Nebraska Department of Transportation Central Headquarters Building Auditorium, 1500 Nebraska Parkway, Lincoln, Nebraska.

This meeting agenda, as of July 19, is attached to this document.

Nebraska Department of TransportationJuly 19, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Board of Examiners for County Highway and City Street Superintendents will meet on July 26, at 10:00 a.m., at the Nebraska Department of Transportation Central Headquarters Building Auditorium, 1500 Nebraska Parkway, Lincoln, Nebraska.This meeting agenda, as of July 19, is attached to this document.For details, call (402) 479-4436.

Road and Street Examiners to Meet

NEW YORK— One week after&nbsp;a gunman's attempt to assassinate&nbsp;former&nbsp;President Donald Trump&nbsp;at a Pennsylvania rally, the public has an update on his health.

On Saturday, Rep. Ronny Jackson of Texas, who was Donald Trump's White House physician, &nbsp;released a report that details&nbsp;the extent of his injuries, what treatment the Republican presidential nominee received in the hospital, and whether there may be any long-term effects on his health.

Trump's campaign had earlier refused to discuss his condition, release a medical report or records, or make the doctors who treated him available, leaving information to dribble out from Trump, his friends and family.

The first word on Trump's condition came about half an hour after shots rang out and Trump dropped to the ground after reaching for his ear and then pumped his fist defiantly to the crowd with blood streaming down his face. The campaign issued a statement saying he was “fine" and “being checked out at a local medical facility.”

“More details will follow,” his spokesperson said.

It wasn't until 8:42 p.m., however, that Trump told the public he had been struck by a bullet as opposed to shrapnel or debris. In a post on his social media network, Trump wrote that he was “shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part” of his right ear.

“I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin,” he wrote..

Trump appeared at the Republican National Convention this past week with a bandage over his right ear.&nbsp;

Dr. Jackson who served as Trump's White House doctor and traveled to be with him after the shooting, said in a podcast interview Monday that Trump was missing part of his ear — “a little bit at the top" — but that the wound would heal.

“He was lucky," Jackson said on “The Benny Show,” a conservative podcast hosted by Benny Johnson. ”It was far enough away from his head that there was no concussive effects from the bullet. And it just took the top of his ear off, a little bit of the top of his ear off as it passed through."

He said that the area would need to be treated with care to avoid further bleeding — “It's not like a clean laceration like you would have with a knife or a blade, it's a bullet track going by," he said — but that Trump is "not going to need anything to be done with it. It's going to be fine.”

&nbsp;Trump is holding his first public campaign since he survived the attempted assassination, returning to the battleground state of Michigan alongside his new running mate JD Vance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721353012709.png" alt="Trump at the RNC Thursday night-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Trump at the RNC Thursday night-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK— One week after&nbsp;a gunman's attempt to assassinate&nbsp;former&nbsp;President Donald Trump&nbsp;at a Pennsylvania rally, the public has an update on his health.On Saturday, Rep. Ronny Jackson of Texas, who was Donald Trump's White House physician, &nbsp;released a report that details&nbsp;the extent of his injuries, what treatment the Republican presidential nominee received in the hospital, and whether there may be any long-term effects on his health.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721510068404.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Trump's campaign had earlier refused to discuss his condition, release a medical report or records, or make the doctors who treated him available, leaving information to dribble out from Trump, his friends and family.The first word on Trump's condition came about half an hour after shots rang out and Trump dropped to the ground after reaching for his ear and then pumped his fist defiantly to the crowd with blood streaming down his face. The campaign issued a statement saying he was “fine" and “being checked out at a local medical facility.”“More details will follow,” his spokesperson said.It wasn't until 8:42 p.m., however, that Trump told the public he had been struck by a bullet as opposed to shrapnel or debris. In a post on his social media network, Trump wrote that he was “shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part” of his right ear.“I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin,” he wrote..Trump appeared at the Republican National Convention this past week with a bandage over his right ear.&nbsp;Dr. Jackson who served as Trump's White House doctor and traveled to be with him after the shooting, said in a podcast interview Monday that Trump was missing part of his ear — “a little bit at the top" — but that the wound would heal.“He was lucky," Jackson said on “The Benny Show,” a conservative podcast hosted by Benny Johnson. ”It was far enough away from his head that there was no concussive effects from the bullet. And it just took the top of his ear off, a little bit of the top of his ear off as it passed through."He said that the area would need to be treated with care to avoid further bleeding — “It's not like a clean laceration like you would have with a knife or a blade, it's a bullet track going by," he said — but that Trump is "not going to need anything to be done with it. It's going to be fine.”&nbsp;Trump is holding his first public campaign since he survived the attempted assassination, returning to the battleground state of Michigan alongside his new running mate JD Vance.

Trump releases doctor report following assassination attempt

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is issuing a reminder about the deadline to register for this summer’s&nbsp;Ag &amp; Economic Development Summit: One Nebraska.&nbsp;Registrations should be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://govsummit.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">govsummit.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;by Friday, July 26.

This year’s event covers three days and includes breakout sessions on talent attraction, housing and childcare solutions, manufacturing, stewardship of water resources, the emerging bioeconomy and more. &nbsp;

“The key to our success is working together as one Nebraska to grow our state,” said Gov. Pillen. “At this summer’s Summit, we’ll unite around a shared vision to create great opportunities for our kids and grandkids. We have the most sustainable ag supply chain on the planet, and we’re sitting on our pot of gold—the Ogallala Aquifer. The potential is sky high for Nebraska to be a hub for advanced fermentation, biomanufacturing, and production of next-generation biofuels.”

Summit events will take place Aug.&nbsp; 7-9 at Younes Conference Center North in Kearney. A complete rundown of activities and breakout topics can be found on the website.

On Aug. 7, the Nebraska Diplomats will host the opening reception and banquet. Awards will be presented to leaders, businesses and communities that have made key contributions to the state’s economic success in the previous year.

In addition to remarks from Gov. Pillen, Summit speakers include Jack Hubbard, executive director for the Center for Environment and Welfare and Athletic Director Troy Dannen from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln on Aug. 8. &nbsp;

The Summit is hosted in cooperation with the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA). For agenda and registration information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://govsummit.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">govsummit.nebraska.gov</a>.

Office Of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen is issuing a reminder about the deadline to register for this summer’s&nbsp;Ag &amp; Economic Development Summit: One Nebraska.&nbsp;Registrations should be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://govsummit.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">govsummit.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;by Friday, July 26.This year’s event covers three days and includes breakout sessions on talent attraction, housing and childcare solutions, manufacturing, stewardship of water resources, the emerging bioeconomy and more. &nbsp;“The key to our success is working together as one Nebraska to grow our state,” said Gov. Pillen. “At this summer’s Summit, we’ll unite around a shared vision to create great opportunities for our kids and grandkids. We have the most sustainable ag supply chain on the planet, and we’re sitting on our pot of gold—the Ogallala Aquifer. The potential is sky high for Nebraska to be a hub for advanced fermentation, biomanufacturing, and production of next-generation biofuels.”Summit events will take place Aug.&nbsp; 7-9 at Younes Conference Center North in Kearney. A complete rundown of activities and breakout topics can be found on the website.On Aug. 7, the Nebraska Diplomats will host the opening reception and banquet. Awards will be presented to leaders, businesses and communities that have made key contributions to the state’s economic success in the previous year.In addition to remarks from Gov. Pillen, Summit speakers include Jack Hubbard, executive director for the Center for Environment and Welfare and Athletic Director Troy Dannen from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln on Aug. 8. &nbsp;The Summit is hosted in cooperation with the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA). For agenda and registration information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://govsummit.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">govsummit.nebraska.gov</a>.

   Deadline Approaches to Register for Ag and Economic Development Summit

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Saturday, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330377104.png" alt="Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One on his return home-image courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One on his return home-image courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Saturday, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721499656652.png" alt="Biden " />
 <figcaption>Biden </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330819270.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

Read doctor's Saturday update on Biden's COVID recovery

NEW YORK —Former U.S. President Donald&nbsp; Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone call Friday regarding the ongoing War with Russia and the possibility of Future Peace Negotiations. 

On his social media page, Trump wrote, " President Zelenskyy of Ukraine and I had a very good phone call earlier today. He congratulated me on a very successful Republican National Convention and becoming the Republican nominee for President of the United States."

"He condemned the heinous assassination attempt last Saturday and remarked about the American people coming together in the spirit of Unity during these times"

"I appreciate President Zelenskyy for reaching out because I, as your next President of the United States, will bring peace to the world and end the war that has cost so many lives and devastated countless innocent families. Both sides will be able to come together and negotiate a deal that ends the violence and paves a path forward to prosperity."

According to Zelenskyy' social media account of the call, "I spoke with Donald Trump&nbsp;to congratulate him on the Republican nomination and condemn the shocking assassination attempt in Pennsylvania."

"I wished him strength and absolute safety in the future.

I noted the vital bipartisan and bicameral American support for protecting our nation's freedom and independence.
 
Ukraine will always be grateful to the United States for its help in strengthening our ability to resist Russian terror. Russian attacks on our cities and villages continue every day.

We agreed with President Trump to discuss at a personal meeting what steps can make peace fair and truly lasting."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714052496496.png" alt="File photo Donald Trump courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo Donald Trump courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK —Former U.S. President Donald&nbsp; Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone call Friday regarding the ongoing War with Russia and the possibility of Future Peace Negotiations. On his social media page, Trump wrote, " President Zelenskyy of Ukraine and I had a very good phone call earlier today. He congratulated me on a very successful Republican National Convention and becoming the Republican nominee for President of the United States.""He condemned the heinous assassination attempt last Saturday and remarked about the American people coming together in the spirit of Unity during these times""I appreciate President Zelenskyy for reaching out because I, as your next President of the United States, will bring peace to the world and end the war that has cost so many lives and devastated countless innocent families. Both sides will be able to come together and negotiate a deal that ends the violence and paves a path forward to prosperity."According to Zelenskyy' social media account of the call, "I spoke with Donald Trump&nbsp;to congratulate him on the Republican nomination and condemn the shocking assassination attempt in Pennsylvania.""I wished him strength and absolute safety in the future.

I noted the vital bipartisan and bicameral American support for protecting our nation's freedom and independence.
 
Ukraine will always be grateful to the United States for its help in strengthening our ability to resist Russian terror. Russian attacks on our cities and villages continue every day.

We agreed with President Trump to discuss at a personal meeting what steps can make peace fair and truly lasting."

Trump, reports "very good phone call" from Ukraine President 

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas.&nbsp; Late Friday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One and told reporters traveling with him, “I feel good.” The president was not wearing a mask as he walked onto Air Force One.

The president had previously been at the Original Lindo Michoacan restaurant in Las Vegas, where he was greeting diners and sat for an interview with Univision.

Biden has been vaccinated and is current on his recommended annual booster dose for COVID-19. The vaccines have proven highly effective at limiting serious illness and death from the virus, which killed more than 1 million people in the U.S. since the pandemic began in 2020. Paxlovid has been proven to curtail the chances of serious illness and death from COVID-19 when prescribed in the early days of an infection, but has also been associated with rebound infections, where the virus comes back a few days after clearing up.

Biden last tested positive for COVID-19 twice in the summer of 2022, when he had a primary case and a rebound case of the virus.

Health officials have reported recent upticks in emergency room visits and hospitalizations from COVID-19. There has also been a pronounced increase in positive test results in much of the country —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-vaccinations-cdc-coronavirus-a785acb4aca8e69f21b6f1a41c021e2c">particularly the southwestern U.S.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330265336.png" alt="President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas.&nbsp; Late Friday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721431566073.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330819270.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One and told reporters traveling with him, “I feel good.” The president was not wearing a mask as he walked onto Air Force One.The president had previously been at the Original Lindo Michoacan restaurant in Las Vegas, where he was greeting diners and sat for an interview with Univision.Biden has been vaccinated and is current on his recommended annual booster dose for COVID-19. The vaccines have proven highly effective at limiting serious illness and death from the virus, which killed more than 1 million people in the U.S. since the pandemic began in 2020. Paxlovid has been proven to curtail the chances of serious illness and death from COVID-19 when prescribed in the early days of an infection, but has also been associated with rebound infections, where the virus comes back a few days after clearing up.Biden last tested positive for COVID-19 twice in the summer of 2022, when he had a primary case and a rebound case of the virus.Health officials have reported recent upticks in emergency room visits and hospitalizations from COVID-19. There has also been a pronounced increase in positive test results in much of the country —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-vaccinations-cdc-coronavirus-a785acb4aca8e69f21b6f1a41c021e2c">particularly the southwestern U.S.</a>

Read Friday update from Biden's doctor on the President's  COVID recovery

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/no-turns-on-steady-red-arrows-begins-friday-new-nebraska-law-mirrors-federal-standard/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A new Nebraska law clarifies that drivers can’t legally turn right on steady red arrows in the state, which mirrors standards that had already been in place nationwide.

On Friday, a legal change offered this spring by the Nebraska Department of Transportation officially brought&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/LTU/Transportation/Traffic-Engineering/Traffic-Signals" target="_blank">state traffic signal laws</a>&nbsp;to the same level as the federal Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The federal manual specifies no right turns on steady red arrows, or left turns if turning onto a one-way street.

“It only deals with arrows,” Jeni Campana, Nebraska DOT’s public relations manager, said this week. “It does not deal with ‘a red ball,’ as we refer to it.”

“If you’re still facing a red ball and there’s no additional signage that states ‘No turn on red,’ then you’re still permitted to take a right turn on red after stopping,” added Dan Carpenter, manager of traffic engineering for Lincoln Transportation and Utilities.

All drivers must come to a complete stop when they see a red arrow until they get an indication they can proceed. Drivers stopped at a red ball can proceed once it is safe to do so.

Lincoln had a city ordinance specifying the pattern years ago before the Nebraska Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/state-v-albarenga_2022.pdf">invalidated the ordinance</a>&nbsp;in 2022.

Nebraskans might still see signs specifying they can’t turn on red at certain intersections, and Carpenter said some will remain “as primarily a driver education tool.” However, others might come down.

Any new steady red arrow traffic signal will prohibit turns on red even if there is no signage.

LTU Director Elizabeth Elliot, in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Transcripts/Transportation/2024-02-13.pdf" target="_blank">February legislative hearing</a>, said her team would step up education efforts to inform drivers about the change if it was adopted. State Sen. Barry DeKay of Niobrara introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=54807" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 966</a>&nbsp;on the department’s behalf.

The traffic signal change was amended into&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=55163" target="_blank">LB 1200</a>, which&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11095" target="_blank">passed 47-0</a>.

The law also clarifies use of flashing yellow arrows, which had been mostly used in Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island and along the state highway system. Lincoln has had the change for about six to seven years.

Carpenter said the signal means drivers can enter an intersection to turn left but must yield to oncoming traffic or conflicting pedestrians. Green arrows indicate a safe right of way.

When faced with a steady yellow arrow, drivers should complete their turn if they have legally entered the intersection or wait until the next signal to proceed.

“Drivers took a while to get used to it, but now it’s extensively deployed throughout the city and we think that there’s a good impact to safety,” Carpenter said.

Carpenter said the changes will aid drivers’ safety but they should still buckle up, pay attention and look for others on Nebraska roadways.

“I think the big thing for drivers is simplifying the driving experience and unifying the rules,” Carpenter said of the law change. “We think that’s a great benefit for the drivers of Nebraska.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721418130712.jpeg" alt="A traffic light in downtown Lincoln displays a steady red arrow. Similar to left-turn lanes, Nebraska drivers can’t legally turn right if there is a red arrow showing. July 19, 2024. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>A traffic light in downtown Lincoln displays a steady red arrow. Similar to left-turn lanes, Nebraska drivers can’t legally turn right if there is a red arrow showing. July 19, 2024. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/no-turns-on-steady-red-arrows-begins-friday-new-nebraska-law-mirrors-federal-standard/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A new Nebraska law clarifies that drivers can’t legally turn right on steady red arrows in the state, which mirrors standards that had already been in place nationwide.On Friday, a legal change offered this spring by the Nebraska Department of Transportation officially brought&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/LTU/Transportation/Traffic-Engineering/Traffic-Signals" target="_blank">state traffic signal laws</a>&nbsp;to the same level as the federal Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The federal manual specifies no right turns on steady red arrows, or left turns if turning onto a one-way street.“It only deals with arrows,” Jeni Campana, Nebraska DOT’s public relations manager, said this week. “It does not deal with ‘a red ball,’ as we refer to it.”“If you’re still facing a red ball and there’s no additional signage that states ‘No turn on red,’ then you’re still permitted to take a right turn on red after stopping,” added Dan Carpenter, manager of traffic engineering for Lincoln Transportation and Utilities.All drivers must come to a complete stop when they see a red arrow until they get an indication they can proceed. Drivers stopped at a red ball can proceed once it is safe to do so.Lincoln had a city ordinance specifying the pattern years ago before the Nebraska Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/state-v-albarenga_2022.pdf">invalidated the ordinance</a>&nbsp;in 2022.Nebraskans might still see signs specifying they can’t turn on red at certain intersections, and Carpenter said some will remain “as primarily a driver education tool.” However, others might come down.Any new steady red arrow traffic signal will prohibit turns on red even if there is no signage.LTU Director Elizabeth Elliot, in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Transcripts/Transportation/2024-02-13.pdf" target="_blank">February legislative hearing</a>, said her team would step up education efforts to inform drivers about the change if it was adopted. State Sen. Barry DeKay of Niobrara introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=54807" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 966</a>&nbsp;on the department’s behalf.The traffic signal change was amended into&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=55163" target="_blank">LB 1200</a>, which&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=11095" target="_blank">passed 47-0</a>.The law also clarifies use of flashing yellow arrows, which had been mostly used in Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island and along the state highway system. Lincoln has had the change for about six to seven years.Carpenter said the signal means drivers can enter an intersection to turn left but must yield to oncoming traffic or conflicting pedestrians. Green arrows indicate a safe right of way.When faced with a steady yellow arrow, drivers should complete their turn if they have legally entered the intersection or wait until the next signal to proceed.“Drivers took a while to get used to it, but now it’s extensively deployed throughout the city and we think that there’s a good impact to safety,” Carpenter said.Carpenter said the changes will aid drivers’ safety but they should still buckle up, pay attention and look for others on Nebraska roadways.“I think the big thing for drivers is simplifying the driving experience and unifying the rules,” Carpenter said of the law change. “We think that’s a great benefit for the drivers of Nebraska.”

No turns on steady red arrows begins Friday; new Nebraska law mirrors federal standard

North Platte, Neb. - The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and first responders responded to a one-vehicle, fatal accident Thursday morning outside of North Platte.&nbsp;

According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office (LCSO), shortly before 10:00 am Thursday, deputies and first responders were dispatched to an accident on West A Street, several miles west of North Platte.&nbsp;

The LCSO states as deputies arrived on the scene, they found a 2000 Monte Carlo that had heavy frontend damage from hitting a tree and two occupants inside the vehicle. The female driver was seriously injured, and the male passenger was deceased. Evidence indicates the accident happened hours earlier.&nbsp;

The vehicle's driver was identified as Addison Malone, 18, from Ogallala. Officials say that Malone may have been confused about what road she was driving on and did not realize that she was on A Street, which is a dead-end street. The driver failed to see the warning signs and hit a large tree, head-on, at a high rate of speed. Malone suffers from serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. The deceased passenger was identified as Nathaniel Sandavol, 18 of Ogallala.&nbsp;

The North Platte Rescue had to use extraction equipment to open the vehicle to remove the occupants. Both occupants were wearing seatbelts.&nbsp;LCSO says alcohol was a factor in the accident and criminal charges are pending for Malone. The investigation remains ongoing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716320706146.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostNorth Platte, Neb. - The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and first responders responded to a one-vehicle, fatal accident Thursday morning outside of North Platte.&nbsp;According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office (LCSO), shortly before 10:00 am Thursday, deputies and first responders were dispatched to an accident on West A Street, several miles west of North Platte.&nbsp;The LCSO states as deputies arrived on the scene, they found a 2000 Monte Carlo that had heavy frontend damage from hitting a tree and two occupants inside the vehicle. The female driver was seriously injured, and the male passenger was deceased. Evidence indicates the accident happened hours earlier.&nbsp;The vehicle's driver was identified as Addison Malone, 18, from Ogallala. Officials say that Malone may have been confused about what road she was driving on and did not realize that she was on A Street, which is a dead-end street. The driver failed to see the warning signs and hit a large tree, head-on, at a high rate of speed. Malone suffers from serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. The deceased passenger was identified as Nathaniel Sandavol, 18 of Ogallala.&nbsp;The North Platte Rescue had to use extraction equipment to open the vehicle to remove the occupants. Both occupants were wearing seatbelts.&nbsp;LCSO says alcohol was a factor in the accident and criminal charges are pending for Malone. The investigation remains ongoing.

One teen deceased, one teen seriously injured in fatal crash outside of North Platte

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/paige-gross/">PAIGE GROSS</a>

Air travel, banking, media and hospital systems are just some of the industries affected by a bug in a software update that has scrambled business operations for many globally Friday morning.

Many of those who use Microsoft Windows are likely experiencing a “blue screen of death” or an error page. The issue is due to a single bug in a software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike, which provides antivirus software for Microsoft users.

The company pushed out an update to the software overnight, and at 1:30 a.m. EST, CrowdStrike said its “Falcon Sensor” software was causing Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/global-cyber-outage-grounds-flights-hits-media-financial-telecoms-2024-07-19/" target="_blank">Reuters reported</a>.

CrowdStrike President and CEO George Kurtz released a statement early Friday morning<a href="https://x.com/George_Kurtz/status/1814235001745027317" target="_blank">&nbsp;on X</a>, saying that the incident was not a security concern or a cyberattack. He added that the issue has been identified and that the company has been deploying a fix.

“We refer customers to the support portal for the latest updates and will continue to provide complete and continuous updates on our website,” Kurtz said.

The bug was causing major delays and cancellations at airports across the globe. Flight tracking data site&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled" target="_blank">FlightAware&nbsp;</a>noted nearly 24,000 delays and 2,300 cancellations globally by 9:30 a.m. Friday. While some airlines have been able to resume operation of their digital systems, others are finding analogue solutions in the meantime.

The U.S. Department of Transportation said it was monitoring the situation and suggested those experiencing travel delays and cancellations to use its&nbsp;<a href="http://flightrights.gov/" target="_blank">FlightRights.gov</a>&nbsp;website to help navigate their delays in travel.

Some states’ 911 and non-emergency lines were experiencing issues, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2024/07/19/alaska-experiencing-statewide-911-outage/" target="_blank">Alaska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/microsoft-global-outage-metro-service-dc-virginia-maryland-fairfax-county-systems-down-impacts-it-tech-airports-dulles-regean-dca-iad-airlines-banks-media-reporting-issues-widespread-911-call-centers-police-fire-ems" target="_blank">Virginia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562024/approved/20240719a.shtml" target="_blank">New Jersey</a>.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy released a statement early Friday morning saying that the state had activated its State Emergency Operations Center in response to the disruptions and has provided guidance to other agencies about how to work through the situation.

“We are also engaging county and local governments, 911 call centers, and utilities to assess the impact and offer our assistance.,” he said.

Microsoft released&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MSFT365Status/status/1814251159537729592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1814251159537729592%7Ctwgr%5E5f8cc315987d34735a3ace896336faf95a49a44f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2F6abc.com%2Fpost%2Fhow-global-outage-is-impacting-services-philadelphia%2F15070804%2F" target="_blank">a trouble shooting guide</a>&nbsp;on X early Friday morning.

By 10 a.m. Friday, some global companies were seeing relief in their outages.&nbsp;<a href="https://downdetector.com/" target="_blank">Downdetector</a>, which tracks real-time outages, showed companies like Visa, Zoom, UPS and Southwest Airlines gaining more normal operations than they were experiencing in the early morning hours.

Speaking to the hosts of Today this morning, Kurtz said he was “deeply sorry for the impact we’ve caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected.” He said some customers have been able to reboot and are seeing progress getting online, and that trend will likely continue throughout the day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721398046262.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/paige-gross/">PAIGE GROSS</a>Air travel, banking, media and hospital systems are just some of the industries affected by a bug in a software update that has scrambled business operations for many globally Friday morning.Many of those who use Microsoft Windows are likely experiencing a “blue screen of death” or an error page. The issue is due to a single bug in a software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike, which provides antivirus software for Microsoft users.The company pushed out an update to the software overnight, and at 1:30 a.m. EST, CrowdStrike said its “Falcon Sensor” software was causing Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/global-cyber-outage-grounds-flights-hits-media-financial-telecoms-2024-07-19/" target="_blank">Reuters reported</a>.CrowdStrike President and CEO George Kurtz released a statement early Friday morning<a href="https://x.com/George_Kurtz/status/1814235001745027317" target="_blank">&nbsp;on X</a>, saying that the incident was not a security concern or a cyberattack. He added that the issue has been identified and that the company has been deploying a fix.“We refer customers to the support portal for the latest updates and will continue to provide complete and continuous updates on our website,” Kurtz said.The bug was causing major delays and cancellations at airports across the globe. Flight tracking data site&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled" target="_blank">FlightAware&nbsp;</a>noted nearly 24,000 delays and 2,300 cancellations globally by 9:30 a.m. Friday. While some airlines have been able to resume operation of their digital systems, others are finding analogue solutions in the meantime.The U.S. Department of Transportation said it was monitoring the situation and suggested those experiencing travel delays and cancellations to use its&nbsp;<a href="http://flightrights.gov/" target="_blank">FlightRights.gov</a>&nbsp;website to help navigate their delays in travel.Some states’ 911 and non-emergency lines were experiencing issues, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2024/07/19/alaska-experiencing-statewide-911-outage/" target="_blank">Alaska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/microsoft-global-outage-metro-service-dc-virginia-maryland-fairfax-county-systems-down-impacts-it-tech-airports-dulles-regean-dca-iad-airlines-banks-media-reporting-issues-widespread-911-call-centers-police-fire-ems" target="_blank">Virginia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562024/approved/20240719a.shtml" target="_blank">New Jersey</a>.New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy released a statement early Friday morning saying that the state had activated its State Emergency Operations Center in response to the disruptions and has provided guidance to other agencies about how to work through the situation.“We are also engaging county and local governments, 911 call centers, and utilities to assess the impact and offer our assistance.,” he said.Microsoft released&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MSFT365Status/status/1814251159537729592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1814251159537729592%7Ctwgr%5E5f8cc315987d34735a3ace896336faf95a49a44f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2F6abc.com%2Fpost%2Fhow-global-outage-is-impacting-services-philadelphia%2F15070804%2F" target="_blank">a trouble shooting guide</a>&nbsp;on X early Friday morning.By 10 a.m. Friday, some global companies were seeing relief in their outages.&nbsp;<a href="https://downdetector.com/" target="_blank">Downdetector</a>, which tracks real-time outages, showed companies like Visa, Zoom, UPS and Southwest Airlines gaining more normal operations than they were experiencing in the early morning hours.Speaking to the hosts of Today this morning, Kurtz said he was “deeply sorry for the impact we’ve caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected.” He said some customers have been able to reboot and are seeing progress getting online, and that trend will likely continue throughout the day.

IT glitch causing delays in flights, business operations globally

(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— High speeds are on the rise across Nebraska roadways. The Nebraska State Patrol is urging motorists to slow down to keep all travelers safe.

In June, Nebraska State Troopers issued over 100 citations for speeding at 100 miles per hour or more. That marks the fourth straight month of triple-digit citations for triple-digit speeds.

“The excessively high speeds we’re seeing on Nebraska roadways increase the risk of crashes for everyone on the road,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our Troopers continue working hard to address the issue, but the easiest solution is for all motorists to drive responsibly.”

In the last ten years, the monthly average of citations for 100+ MPH speeds has more than doubled, from an average of 45 per month in 2015 to 98 per month in 2024.

“Every time you get behind the wheel, drive with others in mind,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Slow down and keep your fellow travelers safe.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration cites speeding as one of the major factors in fatality crashes across the country. Speeding was a contributing factor in 29 percent of traffic fatalities in 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721398095379.jpeg" alt="NSP trooper pulled over a Dodge Challenger (Courtesy of Nebraska State Patrol)" />
 <figcaption>NSP trooper pulled over a Dodge Challenger (Courtesy of Nebraska State Patrol)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol(LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— High speeds are on the rise across Nebraska roadways. The Nebraska State Patrol is urging motorists to slow down to keep all travelers safe.In June, Nebraska State Troopers issued over 100 citations for speeding at 100 miles per hour or more. That marks the fourth straight month of triple-digit citations for triple-digit speeds.“The excessively high speeds we’re seeing on Nebraska roadways increase the risk of crashes for everyone on the road,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our Troopers continue working hard to address the issue, but the easiest solution is for all motorists to drive responsibly.”In the last ten years, the monthly average of citations for 100+ MPH speeds has more than doubled, from an average of 45 per month in 2015 to 98 per month in 2024.<div><style type="text/css">
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<table class="tg"><thead>
 <tr>
 <th class="tg-8d3w">Year</th>
 <th class="tg-8d3w">Monthly Average</th>
 </tr></thead>
<tbody>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-gct1">2015</td>
 <td class="tg-gct1">45</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-gct1">2016</td>
 <td class="tg-gct1">55</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2017</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">60</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2018</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">57</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2019</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">50</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2020</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">90</td>
 </tr>
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 <td class="tg-baqh">2021</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">73</td>
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 <td class="tg-baqh">2022</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">78</td>
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 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2023</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">91</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-baqh">2024 YTD</td>
 <td class="tg-baqh">98</td>
 </tr>
</tbody></table></div>“Every time you get behind the wheel, drive with others in mind,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Slow down and keep your fellow travelers safe.”The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration cites speeding as one of the major factors in fatality crashes across the country. Speeding was a contributing factor in 29 percent of traffic fatalities in 2022.

Troopers Urge Slower Speeds as Summer Flies By

Aaron Sanderford <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/ben-sasse-resigns-his-university-of-florida-presidency-after-wifes-condition-worsens/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — Former Nebraska U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse announced Thursday he was stepping down as president of the University of Florida to help his family cope with his wife’s worsening health.&nbsp;

Sasse, in a&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ufl.edu/2024/07/sasse-announces-resignation/#:~:text=University%20of%20Florida%20President%20Ben%20Sasse%20announced%20today%20that%20he,search%20for%20a%20new%20president." target="_blank">statement from the University of Florida</a>, said he was no longer able to meet the time demands of leading a top national university and be there for his family.

His wife, Melissa, has been dealing with the after-effects of strokes suffered in 2007. She was recently diagnosed with epilepsy and has struggled with memory issues, Sasse said.

He said he and his wife have been spending a lot of late nights discussing “what matters most,” with two daughters in college and a son “just turning 13.” They decided he should step back.&nbsp;

“Gator Nation needs a president who can keep charging hard,” he said. “Melissa deserves a husband who can pull his weight, and my kids need a dad who can be home many more nights.”

Sasse, who previously led Midland University in Fremont, Nebraska, resigned his post as Nebraska’s junior U.S. senator in January 2023 to take the position at Florida, which he said could revolutionize one of his pet projects,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/01/04/nebraskas-ben-sasse-looking-forward-to-shaping-future-of-work-at-florida/">the “future of work.”</a>

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen appointed his predecessor, Pete Ricketts, to replace Sasse. Ricketts is now running to serve out the final two years of Sasse’s six-year term, which he won in 2020.

Sasse rose to national prominence as a Senate candidate by criticizing fellow conservatives for talking about repealing Obamacare without specifying how they would replace it.

He kept that willingness to buck the GOP at several moments, although his votes typically sided with his party. He got crosswise at times with former President Donald Trump.

But Sasse won re-election to the Senate by a larger margin than Trump.&nbsp;

In Florida, Sasse has survived pushback from parts of his campus resistant to a conservative senator leading the flagship university in the nation’s third most populous state.

His wife’s health was part of why some of his supporters&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/03/16/nu-leadership-choice-was-deadlocked-between-unmc-chancellor-and-state-chamber-head/">pressed the University of Nebraska</a>&nbsp;to consider him when NU had an open presidency, with some hinting he might want to return home.

Sasse said he and his family will stay in Gainesville, Fla., where he says he will serve as a professor and president emeritus.&nbsp;

Mori Hosseini, who chairs Florida’s Board of Trustees, credited Sasse for his leadership on the national and international stage.&nbsp; Hosseini said Sasse’s work benefited Florida students and the state.

The board announced that it would work quickly to hire an interim president and begin another search for Sasse’s permanent replacement. A majority of the university’s trustees have been appointed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Sasse thanked the university community for embracing his family. He said he needed to step back for a bit to “walk arm-in-arm with my dearest friend more hours of every week.”

“She kept our family grounded while I missed too many family dinners, little league games, hugs, and tears,” he said of his wife. “She’s the strongest person I know.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1564937419455.png" alt="Ben Sasse" />
 <figcaption>Ben Sasse</figcaption>
 </figure>Aaron Sanderford <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/ben-sasse-resigns-his-university-of-florida-presidency-after-wifes-condition-worsens/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — Former Nebraska U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse announced Thursday he was stepping down as president of the University of Florida to help his family cope with his wife’s worsening health.&nbsp;Sasse, in a&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ufl.edu/2024/07/sasse-announces-resignation/#:~:text=University%20of%20Florida%20President%20Ben%20Sasse%20announced%20today%20that%20he,search%20for%20a%20new%20president." target="_blank">statement from the University of Florida</a>, said he was no longer able to meet the time demands of leading a top national university and be there for his family.His wife, Melissa, has been dealing with the after-effects of strokes suffered in 2007. She was recently diagnosed with epilepsy and has struggled with memory issues, Sasse said.He said he and his wife have been spending a lot of late nights discussing “what matters most,” with two daughters in college and a son “just turning 13.” They decided he should step back.&nbsp;“Gator Nation needs a president who can keep charging hard,” he said. “Melissa deserves a husband who can pull his weight, and my kids need a dad who can be home many more nights.”<h2>Sasse’s Nebraska roots</h2>Sasse, who previously led Midland University in Fremont, Nebraska, resigned his post as Nebraska’s junior U.S. senator in January 2023 to take the position at Florida, which he said could revolutionize one of his pet projects,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/01/04/nebraskas-ben-sasse-looking-forward-to-shaping-future-of-work-at-florida/">the “future of work.”</a>Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen appointed his predecessor, Pete Ricketts, to replace Sasse. Ricketts is now running to serve out the final two years of Sasse’s six-year term, which he won in 2020.Sasse rose to national prominence as a Senate candidate by criticizing fellow conservatives for talking about repealing Obamacare without specifying how they would replace it.He kept that willingness to buck the GOP at several moments, although his votes typically sided with his party. He got crosswise at times with former President Donald Trump.But Sasse won re-election to the Senate by a larger margin than Trump.&nbsp;<h2>Pushback on campus</h2>In Florida, Sasse has survived pushback from parts of his campus resistant to a conservative senator leading the flagship university in the nation’s third most populous state.His wife’s health was part of why some of his supporters&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/03/16/nu-leadership-choice-was-deadlocked-between-unmc-chancellor-and-state-chamber-head/">pressed the University of Nebraska</a>&nbsp;to consider him when NU had an open presidency, with some hinting he might want to return home.Sasse said he and his family will stay in Gainesville, Fla., where he says he will serve as a professor and president emeritus.&nbsp;Mori Hosseini, who chairs Florida’s Board of Trustees, credited Sasse for his leadership on the national and international stage.&nbsp; Hosseini said Sasse’s work benefited Florida students and the state.The board announced that it would work quickly to hire an interim president and begin another search for Sasse’s permanent replacement. A majority of the university’s trustees have been appointed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.Sasse thanked the university community for embracing his family. He said he needed to step back for a bit to “walk arm-in-arm with my dearest friend more hours of every week.”“She kept our family grounded while I missed too many family dinners, little league games, hugs, and tears,” he said of his wife. “She’s the strongest person I know.”&nbsp;

Ben Sasse resigns his University of Florida presidency after wife’s condition worsens

MILWAUKEE —&nbsp;Donald Trump accepted the GOP presidential nomination on Thursday at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/republican-national-convention">the Republican National Convention</a>&nbsp;in Milwaukee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?c5124681/presidential-nominee-donald-trump">Click here to watch</a> Trump's full acceptance speech

The former president began his acceptance speech with a personal message that drew directly from his brush with death at the campaign rally on Saturday.

Trump said, "I’m not supposed to be here tonight."

Meanwhile, Trump and his campaign have&nbsp;not released information&nbsp;about his injury or the treatment he received. The former president on Thursday described his story of surviving the attack — and vowed he would not talk about it again.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721382561480.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>MILWAUKEE —&nbsp;Donald Trump accepted the GOP presidential nomination on Thursday at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/republican-national-convention">the Republican National Convention</a>&nbsp;in Milwaukee.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?c5124681/presidential-nominee-donald-trump">Click here to watch</a> Trump's full acceptance speech<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Balloon drop <a href="https://twitter.com/GOPconvention?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOPconvention</a>. <a href="https://t.co/FebXGCL3nk">pic.twitter.com/FebXGCL3nk</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814153606767210595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald Trump kisses the helmet of firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was killed during Saturday&#39;s rally. <a href="https://t.co/qdGdcwr9G9">pic.twitter.com/qdGdcwr9G9</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814133511626031333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald Trump: “I am running to be president for all America, not half of America because there is no victory in winning for half of America. So, tonight with faith and devotion I proudly accept your nomination for president of the United States.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/HuspXIyYGL">pic.twitter.com/HuspXIyYGL</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814128352028205504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The former president began his acceptance speech with a personal message that drew directly from his brush with death at the campaign rally on Saturday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/MELANIATRUMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MELANIATRUMP</a> enters the Republican National Convention. <a href="https://t.co/h2GI4sZggJ">pic.twitter.com/h2GI4sZggJ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814122476194156875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump Dance Cam at <a href="https://twitter.com/GOPconvention?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOPConvention</a> <a href="https://t.co/NcHThSRH84">pic.twitter.com/NcHThSRH84</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814101438294839807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump said, "I’m not supposed to be here tonight."Meanwhile, Trump and his campaign have&nbsp;not released information&nbsp;about his injury or the treatment he received. The former president on Thursday described his story of surviving the attack — and vowed he would not talk about it again.

🎥Trump urges unity after assassination attempt during RNC finale

OMAHA, NE — The Platte Institute is encouraged the proposed plan includes crucial measures such as hard caps to control local spending, state spending decreases, and the retooling of 1107 credits to fund the plan, resulting in dollar-for-dollar property tax relief for Nebraska property owners. 

Jim Vokal, CEO of the Platte Institute, stated, “We are pleased to see that the Governor’s plan aims to provide substantial property tax relief through controlled local and state spending. However, we hope that as the plan moves through the legislature, alternatives to taxing business and agricultural inputs (machinery and energy) and advertising will be considered. These taxes can lead to economic inefficiencies and increased consumer costs.” 

The Platte Institute also cautions against the reliance on cigarette tax increases as a revenue source. Vokal emphasized, “History and research show that increases in cigarette taxes can result in unreliable income due to tax avoidance. It’s essential to find stable and sustainable funding mechanisms for the property tax relief plan.” 

Additionally, the plan must address valuation increases by decreasing levy rates to completely offset the valuation hikes. This step is vital to ensure that property tax relief is meaningful and effective. 

“We applaud Governor Pillen’s goal of reducing property taxes and look forward to being a resource to policymakers and the public as this package moves through the special session,” Vokal added. 

The Platte Institute remains dedicated to promoting sustainable and effective tax reform that supports long-term fiscal responsibility and economic growth. 

Platte InstituteOMAHA, NE — The Platte Institute is encouraged the proposed plan includes crucial measures such as hard caps to control local spending, state spending decreases, and the retooling of 1107 credits to fund the plan, resulting in dollar-for-dollar property tax relief for Nebraska property owners. Jim Vokal, CEO of the Platte Institute, stated, “We are pleased to see that the Governor’s plan aims to provide substantial property tax relief through controlled local and state spending. However, we hope that as the plan moves through the legislature, alternatives to taxing business and agricultural inputs (machinery and energy) and advertising will be considered. These taxes can lead to economic inefficiencies and increased consumer costs.” The Platte Institute also cautions against the reliance on cigarette tax increases as a revenue source. Vokal emphasized, “History and research show that increases in cigarette taxes can result in unreliable income due to tax avoidance. It’s essential to find stable and sustainable funding mechanisms for the property tax relief plan.” Additionally, the plan must address valuation increases by decreasing levy rates to completely offset the valuation hikes. This step is vital to ensure that property tax relief is meaningful and effective. “We applaud Governor Pillen’s goal of reducing property taxes and look forward to being a resource to policymakers and the public as this package moves through the special session,” Vokal added. The Platte Institute remains dedicated to promoting sustainable and effective tax reform that supports long-term fiscal responsibility and economic growth.

 Platte Institute Responds to Governor Pillen’s Property Tax Plan Ahead of Special Session 

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330354017.png" alt="President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721329858359.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330819270.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

Read Thurs. update from Biden's doctor on the President's health

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen joined state senators Lou Ann Linehan (District 39) and Robert Clements (District 2), presenting a sweeping plan for property tax reform. The entire proposal would slash property taxes paid by Nebraskans by an average of 50 percent, representing the largest property tax cut in Nebraska history. &nbsp;A copy of the plan is available on the Governor’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan">https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan</a>.

“This is unacceptable and it’s accelerating,” said Gov. Pillen. “In a few short years Nebraskans will be paying $1 million a day in property taxes. That’s $6 billion a year. Property taxes are hurting young people, our seniors, homeowners, renters, farmers, business owners. We need state senators to enter the upcoming special session with the determination to fix this issue immediately.”

During the news conference, Sen. Linehan outlined key objectives of the comprehensive tax proposal which include:

“Local spending is a significant issue when it comes to ever-rising property taxes, and one that we need to finally address,” said Sen. Linehan. “If local governments want to collect more in property taxes, then that decision should be left to taxpayers. That is flexible and that is fair. It creates a pathway for community growth, but with reasonable controls.”

Local government spending has caused property taxes to balloon by $1 billion in the last five years.

“While we call for spending restraint at the local level, we need to do the same in state government. When we talk about running government like a business, this is integral to the goal,” said Gov. Pillen. “Money saved can be directed to providing property tax reform, which is necessary to making us more competitive and ultimately, to growing Nebraska.”

In addition to expanding state funding of public schools, which would be phased in over three years, and limiting local property tax collections, cutting state expenditures is a significant and necessary feature of reducing property taxes. The plan cuts state spending by $350 million, leverages $235 million in idle cash funds, and uses federal funds to supplant general funds.

The elimination of 114 tax exemptions would generate an estimated $950 million in property tax relief. Food and medications would remain untouched, but things like cigarettes, candy, pop, games of skill and other items would be taxable, as they are in other states.

“Special interest groups have been very successful in carving out tax exemptions,” said Gov. Pillen. “Over time, they have eroded our tax base. This proposal better balances the state’s three-legged stool and broadens that base, putting the choice to spend in the hands of consumers.” &nbsp;

Further, the plan calls for retooling credits to taxpayers, so they are loaded on the front end, instead of taxpayers having to claim them on the back end. In 2022, over half of all Nebraska property taxpayers did not claim these benefits. &nbsp;

Gov. Pillen wrapped up the news conference with a call to action – requesting Nebraskans contact their state senators to support the plan.&nbsp;&nbsp; On page 10 of the published document (<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan">https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan</a>.) is a QR code and email link that users can access to calculate how they will directly benefit.

<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/press/Exemptions-Only-List2.pdf">Exemptions Only List</a>

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen joined state senators Lou Ann Linehan (District 39) and Robert Clements (District 2), presenting a sweeping plan for property tax reform. The entire proposal would slash property taxes paid by Nebraskans by an average of 50 percent, representing the largest property tax cut in Nebraska history. &nbsp;A copy of the plan is available on the Governor’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan">https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan</a>.“This is unacceptable and it’s accelerating,” said Gov. Pillen. “In a few short years Nebraskans will be paying $1 million a day in property taxes. That’s $6 billion a year. Property taxes are hurting young people, our seniors, homeowners, renters, farmers, business owners. We need state senators to enter the upcoming special session with the determination to fix this issue immediately.”During the news conference, Sen. Linehan outlined key objectives of the comprehensive tax proposal which include:<ul>
 <li>Slashing property taxes by an average of 50%</li><li>Having the state assume greater funding of K-12 public schools</li><li>Ensuring that investments in public safety are protected and exempt from hard caps on local government tax collections</li><li>Placing limits on local tax collections</li><li>Identifying massive savings at the state level and running state government like a business</li>
 </ul>“Local spending is a significant issue when it comes to ever-rising property taxes, and one that we need to finally address,” said Sen. Linehan. “If local governments want to collect more in property taxes, then that decision should be left to taxpayers. That is flexible and that is fair. It creates a pathway for community growth, but with reasonable controls.”Local government spending has caused property taxes to balloon by $1 billion in the last five years.“While we call for spending restraint at the local level, we need to do the same in state government. When we talk about running government like a business, this is integral to the goal,” said Gov. Pillen. “Money saved can be directed to providing property tax reform, which is necessary to making us more competitive and ultimately, to growing Nebraska.”In addition to expanding state funding of public schools, which would be phased in over three years, and limiting local property tax collections, cutting state expenditures is a significant and necessary feature of reducing property taxes. The plan cuts state spending by $350 million, leverages $235 million in idle cash funds, and uses federal funds to supplant general funds.The elimination of 114 tax exemptions would generate an estimated $950 million in property tax relief. Food and medications would remain untouched, but things like cigarettes, candy, pop, games of skill and other items would be taxable, as they are in other states.“Special interest groups have been very successful in carving out tax exemptions,” said Gov. Pillen. “Over time, they have eroded our tax base. This proposal better balances the state’s three-legged stool and broadens that base, putting the choice to spend in the hands of consumers.” &nbsp;Further, the plan calls for retooling credits to taxpayers, so they are loaded on the front end, instead of taxpayers having to claim them on the back end. In 2022, over half of all Nebraska property taxpayers did not claim these benefits. &nbsp;Gov. Pillen wrapped up the news conference with a call to action – requesting Nebraskans contact their state senators to support the plan.&nbsp;&nbsp; On page 10 of the published document (<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan">https://governor.nebraska.gov/nebraska-property-tax-plan</a>.) is a QR code and email link that users can access to calculate how they will directly benefit.<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/press/Exemptions-Only-List2.pdf">Exemptions Only List</a>

Gov. Pillen Releases Property Tax Reduction Plan Ahead of Special Session

MILWAUKEE— President Trump's vice presidential nominee JD Vance spoke Wednesday night to the Republican National Convention.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8TlBHRtrvM">Click here </a>to watch his full acceptance speech

MILWAUKEE— President Trump's vice presidential nominee JD Vance spoke Wednesday night to the Republican National Convention.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">JD Vance: &quot;Our movement is about single moms like mine, who struggled with money and addiction, but never gave up. I&#39;m proud to say that tonight my my mom is here, 10 years, clean and sober. I love you mom.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/sl2P0hDk5i">pic.twitter.com/sl2P0hDk5i</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1813783939099828705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">JD Vance: &quot;I stand here humbled and I&#39;m overwhelmed with gratitude to say I officially accept your nomination to be Vice President of the United States of America.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/xSq3U4sLeR">pic.twitter.com/xSq3U4sLeR</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1813770852082860461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8TlBHRtrvM">Click here </a>to watch his full acceptance speech

🎥Trump vice presidential pick talks Appalachian ties in speech at RNC

President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721298336544.png" alt="Biden boarding Air Force One Wednesday-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Biden boarding Air Force One Wednesday-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721256037259.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I tested positive for COVID-19 this afternoon, but I am feeling good and thank everyone for the well wishes. I will be isolating as I recover, and during this time I will continue to work to get the job done for the American people.&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1813715823053193685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Read note from Biden's doctor: President tests positive for COVID

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/17/petitions-turned-in-seeking-to-stop-nebraskas-redesigned-school-choice-law/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraskans appear likely to vote this November on whether to repeal the revamped version of Nebraska’s first major school choice legislation in a generation.

Public schools advocacy group Support Our Schools on Wednesday announced that it was turning in more than 86,000 signatures gathered from people seeking a chance to weigh in.&nbsp;

The group had only 67 days to collect the roughly 61,000 valid signatures it needed from 5% of registered voters, including 5% in at least 38 of Nebraska’s 93 counties.

Why 67 days? State senators passed Legislative Bill 1402 on the last day of the legislative session in April. And Gov. Jim Pillen, a school choice supporter, held the bill before signing it.

Support Our Schools then worked with its lawyers and the Secretary of State’s Office on&nbsp;petition&nbsp;language and organized an effort to gather signatures, the second in as many years.

The same group gathered signatures last year to put the original version of the school choice law, Legislative Bill 753, on the ballot. That law was replaced this year by the new LB 1402.

The group used 2,800 volunteers to gather signatures this summer, after using 2,100 last year, said Jenni Benson, president of the Nebraska State Education Association.&nbsp;

“We want it to go to the ballot, and that’s what’s going to happen,” she said Wednesday. “We’re not going to get it taken this time.”

Once signatures are verified, the Secretary of State’s Office said it would work with the Attorney General’s Office to verify that constitutional and statutory requirements are met.

Cynthia Peterson, of the League of Women Voters, said she wore the same red Support Our Schools T-shirt this week that she did the first time the group turned in petitions in August 2023.&nbsp;

She said Wednesday felt “like deja vu.”

LB 1402 will replace LB 753’s tax credit for donating to scholarships for needy students attending private K-12 schools with a school voucher program.

This is the first year of students attending private schools using up to $25 million-a-year scholarship tax credits. LB 1402 creates a $10 million-a-year voucher program.

Supporters of both efforts have said they hope to increase the amount appropriated over time and to increase the number of students eligible, while still favoring families in need.

The author of both bills, State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha, has said LB 1402 responded to critics of the earlier tax credit. She has also acknowledged wanting to sidestep the first ballot push by passing the new legislation.&nbsp;

Linehan said the petition effort “hurts our kids by taking school choice away from families that need it the most.” She said repealing the law would hit low-income families hard.

She said 48 states provide state support for private K-12 schools, including neighboring Iowa, which revamped its approach to let state funding follow the student to a chosen school.

Voucher supporters did not organize a “Decline to Sign” campaign, as they did in 2023.

They have said they expected Support Our Schools and the Nebraska State Education Association to collect enough signatures.

“But no matter how much money they spend or how many signatures they collect, supporters of school choice won’t stop fighting for parents rights and for our kids,” Linehan said.

Linehan again criticized teachers unions and Democratic donors Susie Buffett and Barbara Weitz and her daughter, Katie, for funding a network of nonprofits backing Support Our Schools.

Buffett is one of the top funders of programs supporting additional needs of public schools through her foundations. Barbara Weitz is a University of Nebraska regent who does similar work.

Benson said Linehan, along with U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., and former Trump Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and other school choice funders are the ones who deserve scrutiny.

She defended the Nebraska teachers funding unions at the local, state and national levels, saying they “care about all kids.” She said private schools can choose which students they serve.

Support Our Schools has raised $1.37 million and spent more than $1.2 million for this second petition effort, according to the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission.&nbsp;

“When Senator Linehan … does all these tricks to block Nebraskans from voting, it doesn’t work,” Benson said. “Don’t poke the bear. They poked the bear, friends.”

Organizations say people should get to vote

Brad Christian-Sallis of the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table, one of the nonprofits Linehan criticized, said “some politicians and wealthy special interests” tried to block the vote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721248594283.jpeg" alt="Jenni Benson, president of the Nebraska State Education Association and sponsor of the Support Our Schools ballot referendum, leads supporters in transporting more than 86,000 signatures to the Nebraska Secretary of State. July 17, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Jenni Benson, president of the Nebraska State Education Association and sponsor of the Support Our Schools ballot referendum, leads supporters in transporting more than 86,000 signatures to the Nebraska Secretary of State. July 17, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/17/petitions-turned-in-seeking-to-stop-nebraskas-redesigned-school-choice-law/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraskans appear likely to vote this November on whether to repeal the revamped version of Nebraska’s first major school choice legislation in a generation.Public schools advocacy group Support Our Schools on Wednesday announced that it was turning in more than 86,000 signatures gathered from people seeking a chance to weigh in.&nbsp;The group had only 67 days to collect the roughly 61,000 valid signatures it needed from 5% of registered voters, including 5% in at least 38 of Nebraska’s 93 counties.Why 67 days? State senators passed Legislative Bill 1402 on the last day of the legislative session in April. And Gov. Jim Pillen, a school choice supporter, held the bill before signing it.Support Our Schools then worked with its lawyers and the Secretary of State’s Office on&nbsp;petition&nbsp;language and organized an effort to gather signatures, the second in as many years.<h2>The second go-round</h2>The same group gathered signatures last year to put the original version of the school choice law, Legislative Bill 753, on the ballot. That law was replaced this year by the new LB 1402.The group used 2,800 volunteers to gather signatures this summer, after using 2,100 last year, said Jenni Benson, president of the Nebraska State Education Association.&nbsp;“We want it to go to the ballot, and that’s what’s going to happen,” she said Wednesday. “We’re not going to get it taken this time.”Once signatures are verified, the Secretary of State’s Office said it would work with the Attorney General’s Office to verify that constitutional and statutory requirements are met.Cynthia Peterson, of the League of Women Voters, said she wore the same red Support Our Schools T-shirt this week that she did the first time the group turned in petitions in August 2023.&nbsp;She said Wednesday felt “like deja vu.”<h2>School choice supporters changed the law</h2>LB 1402 will replace LB 753’s tax credit for donating to scholarships for needy students attending private K-12 schools with a school voucher program.This is the first year of students attending private schools using up to $25 million-a-year scholarship tax credits. LB 1402 creates a $10 million-a-year voucher program.Supporters of both efforts have said they hope to increase the amount appropriated over time and to increase the number of students eligible, while still favoring families in need.The author of both bills, State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha, has said LB 1402 responded to critics of the earlier tax credit. She has also acknowledged wanting to sidestep the first ballot push by passing the new legislation.&nbsp;Linehan said the petition effort “hurts our kids by taking school choice away from families that need it the most.” She said repealing the law would hit low-income families hard.She said 48 states provide state support for private K-12 schools, including neighboring Iowa, which revamped its approach to let state funding follow the student to a chosen school.Voucher supporters did not organize a “Decline to Sign” campaign, as they did in 2023.They have said they expected Support Our Schools and the Nebraska State Education Association to collect enough signatures.“But no matter how much money they spend or how many signatures they collect, supporters of school choice won’t stop fighting for parents rights and for our kids,” Linehan said.<h2>Linehan criticizes Support Our Schools</h2>Linehan again criticized teachers unions and Democratic donors Susie Buffett and Barbara Weitz and her daughter, Katie, for funding a network of nonprofits backing Support Our Schools.Buffett is one of the top funders of programs supporting additional needs of public schools through her foundations. Barbara Weitz is a University of Nebraska regent who does similar work.Benson said Linehan, along with U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., and former Trump Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and other school choice funders are the ones who deserve scrutiny.She defended the Nebraska teachers funding unions at the local, state and national levels, saying they “care about all kids.” She said private schools can choose which students they serve.Support Our Schools has raised $1.37 million and spent more than $1.2 million for this second petition effort, according to the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission.&nbsp;“When Senator Linehan … does all these tricks to block Nebraskans from voting, it doesn’t work,” Benson said. “Don’t poke the bear. They poked the bear, friends.”<h2>Organizations say people should get to vote</h2>Brad Christian-Sallis of the Nebraska Civic Engagement Table, one of the nonprofits Linehan criticized, said “some politicians and wealthy special interests” tried to block the vote.He said people “stepped up and made sure that we got this work done.” The Rev. Dr. Karla Cooper noted that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law 60 years ago this month.“I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of ignorance,” Cooper said at the Support Our Schools event. “If we don’t get this right, wrong will always be the lot of our lives.”Rebecca Firestone of OpenSky Policy Institute, another of the groups Linehan named, said most of the families that benefit from voucher programs were already attending private schools.Petition organizers said nine out of 10 Nebraska students attend public schools. They stressed potential harm to rural students from LB 1402, saying 48 of the state’s 93 counties have no private schools.Lena Translaviña Stover, executive director of the Heartland Workers Center, said immigrants often need help from their public schools to learn English and assimilate.Andy Grosshans, a school board member in Waverly, said that Nebraskans don’t want to spend tax dollars on private schools and that the state doesn’t hold such schools accountable.“Diverting those funds from public schools is only going to damage the public schools,” he said. “The taxpayers cannot afford to support two school systems.”<h2>Linehan: State can afford voucher program</h2>Linehan and others have said the state can do both. Lawmakers last session added new funding for public schools, including a $1 billion fund being used to provide a baseline of state aid and special education, among other priorities.&nbsp;Pillen has&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/07/14/gov-pillens-property-tax-plan-would-add-new-taxes-on-120-goods-and-services-draft-indicates/">considered using</a>&nbsp;some of that funding for possible offsets to help fund property tax relief during a promised special session this summer on property taxes, starting as early as next week.Benson and Tim Royers, the NSEA’s president-elect, said they will be watching how Pillen and others approach Pillen’s proposal to have the state assume more K-12 costs.Royers said most Nebraskans have voted&nbsp; on school choice proposals before, and each time they have sided with maintaining their public schools.&nbsp;“Our opponents are somehow trying to capture the narrative that they’re the ones trying to do this for all kids,” Royers said. “Their goal is to undermine public education and profit (from private schools).”&nbsp;Jeremy Ekeler, executive director of a scholarship-granting organization under LB 753, Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska, said in a statement that his group is already helping students.More than 2,000 students have applied for funds through his organization, one of several that provide them, and has awarded 508 scholarships.He and spokeswoman Lauren Gage said the organization hopes to award more than 1,500 by September. They shared statements from parents saying they are excited about the program.Stats provided by the organization show about 45% of the scholarship applicants were rural and 55% were urban. The group says 30% of its applicants are students of color.&nbsp;Tom Venzor, executive director of the Nebraska Catholic Conference, called the ballot measure “frustrating beyond measure.”“It demonstrates a blatant disregard for thousands of students in need of more educational options, and it undermines the fundamental rights of parents as the primary educators of their children,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>The Legislature could change the law again</h2>Benson was asked what Support Our Schools would do if the Legislature tried to pass another version of the school choice law during a special session to sidestep the initiative.She said the group would work to make sure Nebraskans on all sides of the political aisle communicate with state senators about the importance of letting Nebraska’s second house vote.“We always have those concerns,” she said. “The more those 49 people … hear from people, the better off we are. Use your voice.”