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Nebraska lawmakers react to Trump’s State of the Union

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Nebraska lawmakers react to Trump’s State of the Union


OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – President Donald Trump delivered the first State of the Union address of his second term on Tuesday night.

In his speech, Trump touted his administration’s achievements and took aim at his predecessor, former President Biden. He also spoke on a number of topics such as current economic conditions and affordability.

Reactions from local lawmakers and the Nebraska Democratic Party are coming in following Tuesday’s speech.

DON BACON

Congressman Don Bacon says he liked the president’s focus on the economy.

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“More a lot of good. A few things I would like to fine tune myself, but the emphasis on the economy and the, lower prices for gas, for prices, for energy inflation, lower than wages. That is a theme he needs to be doing all the time,” Bacon said in an interview.

Bacon also shared a full statement:

“The President highlighted several real accomplishments that are strengthening our economy and improving the lives of the American people. The border is secure, violent crime is declining, fentanyl deaths are falling, gas prices are down, and wages are rising faster than inflation for the first time in five years. These are the winning issues that the President should focus on every day.

He is right that Iran must never be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon. A nuclear-armed Iran is a serious threat to America and our allies. I am glad he acknowledged the regime’s brutality, including the recent massacre of approximately 50,000 of its own people after they stood up against their government.

I was disappointed to hear the President double down on his approach to tariffs. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution gives tariff authority to Congress. The Supreme Court’s common-sense and straightforward ruling got it right. Broad-based tariffs are also not smart economic policy, functioning as a tax on American consumers, manufacturers, and farmers, and are unpopular nationwide by roughly two to one.”

DEB FISCHER

In a statement, Sen. Deb Fischer said she was pleased to hear Trump renew some of his commitments.

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“Tonight, President Trump articulated the success of his policies to rebuild our military, keep our communities safe, lower energy costs, and realize the American dream for all U.S. citizens. I was pleased to hear the president renew his commitment to securing our borders, strengthening our economy, and cutting waste, fraud, and abuse. I look forward to continuing to partner with him to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.”

ADRIAN SMITH

Congressman Adrian Smith also released a statement with his thoughts.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, Republicans passed the Working Families Tax Cuts, delivering meaningful tax relief for hardworking Americans across the country. We have seen robust engagement with key trading partners, helping to level the playing field for American farmers, ranchers, manufacturers, and workers.

Americans have seen lower gas prices, decreased inflation, secure borders, and mortgage rates reach a three-year low. While our work is far from over, I am encouraged by the progress we have made and the direction our nation is headed.

I remain committed to working in Congress to build on this progress and ensure that Nebraska’s families, small businesses, and agricultural producers can continue to thrive. Together, we can make the Good Life even better for all Nebraskans.”

PETE RICKETTS

U.S. Senator for Nebraska Pete Ricketts took to social media after the president’s speech.

MIKE FLOOD

A statement from Rep. Mike Flood was shared on the Republican Main Street Caucus’s page.

NEBRASKA DEMOCRATIC PARTY

The Nebraska Democratic Party also shared a statement with First Alert 6, describing the speech as “unhinged” and “decisive.”

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“As Americans, we just witnessed the most unhinged and divisive State of the Union address to the nation this evening. Instead of uniting the country, President Trump further drove a wedge between the working class and the billionaires. We continue to witness the greatest shift of wealth from those who need healthcare and want to purchase their first home to those who receive pardons and are part of the Epstein Class.

Trump continued his lies about “no new wars” and how the United States has restored its standing globally. Back at home, Americans will continue to wonder what is happening to our private data that DOGE incompetently handled and voter roll information that was blackmailed from states like Nebraska.

Instead of being straight with us on affordability, he insults us with his alternative reality on grocery prices, energy costs, and unaffordable healthcare premiums. Trump also threw out a new “pledge” that data centers will build their own energy. If he were serious about needed regulations around data centers, this would be a law, not a pledge.

He continued to lie to us about “capturing the worst of the worst” by ICE agents when the administration has clearly detained children and murdered innocent Americans in the streets. 

Trump continues to fatten his pockets via Emoluments Clause violations, making over $5 billion while in office, rather than tell us how he plans to return the average $1,700 he owes Nebraskans in illegal tariff revenue.

Donald Trump made no mention of the Epstein File survivors who attended, or the worst job market in over two decades, or the contributions by immigrants to this nation during his speech. Despite his assertions that our economy is benefiting all, he will continue to profit off the backs of working Americans like no president before, with cryptocurrency schemes, backroom deals with elites, and oil industry takeovers. 

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The Nebraska Democratic Party will continue to organize, ensuring Democratic candidates win back Congress in November and hold Trump and his radical administration accountable. This begins at home, where we will work harder than ever to ensure Nebraskans are fairly represented at all levels of our government.

Since 2025, Democratic candidates have won or outperformed 90% of key races nationwide, including here in Omaha and Lincoln, proving that the movement to oppose this administration will continue. 

Trump’s polling numbers continue to tank as he continues to fail on his two big lies of unifying the country and making things affordable. If there ever was a time to register to vote and cast your ballot, the midterm elections could be the means to stop Donald Trump and his chaotic and dismantling of our great nation. The Nebraska Democratic Party stands ready to do our part to preserve and protect our democracy that has endured for 250 years.”

Watch breaking news unfold on our livestream. Download the First Alert 6 streaming app to your TV or find us in your favorite streaming platform.

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Nebraska State Patrol investigates attempted murder/suicide in Kearney County

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Nebraska State Patrol investigates attempted murder/suicide in Kearney County


MINDEN, Neb. (KSNB) – The Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from the Kearney County Sheriff’s Office and Kearney County Attorney’s Office, is investigating an attempted murder/suicide in rural Kearney County.

The Kearney County Sheriff’s Office was called to the scene Saturday afternoon.

According to NSP, three children and a woman had gunshot wounds, with the woman found dead.

The three children were transported by ambulance to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney and treated for their injuries. Two of the children have since been transported to Children’s Hospital in Omaha.

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NSP said all three children are expected to survive. The children are all under the age of 12.

This investigation is ongoing. Law enforcement said there is no ongoing threat to the public.

According to NSP, names are not being released at this time to protect the identities of the victims.

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UNK Students Selected for Nebraska Intercollegiate Band – Sandhills Express

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UNK Students Selected for Nebraska Intercollegiate Band – Sandhills Express


Ten UNK students will perform with other outstanding instrumentalists from across the state as part of the 2026 Nebraska Intercollegiate Band. Front row, from left: Olivia Kohmetscher, Kaia Johnson, Douglas Davidchik, Micah Feddersen and Avery Reitz. Back row, from left: Evan Porter, Ike Smith, Kaitlyn Obrecht, Cameron Grafel and Chloe Harms. (Courtesy UNK, Click to enlarge)

KEARNEY, Neb – Ten students will represent the University of Nebraska at Kearney as members of the 2026 Nebraska Intercollegiate Band.

They’ll perform 11:30 a.m. March 7 in Kimball Recital Hall on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus as part of the 65th annual Nebraska State Bandmasters Association convention. The concert is free and open to the public.

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The Nebraska Intercollegiate Band includes outstanding instrumentalists from colleges and universities across the state. Students selected for the honor spend time rehearsing together in Lincoln before performing for the public. This year’s ensemble is led by guest conductor Donald McKinney, director of bands at Indiana University.

Rehearsing and performing in the Nebraska Intercollegiate Band will be an excellent opportunity for experiential learning,” said professor Duane Bierman, director of bands at UNK. “Not only will these students get a great musical experience but they will also get a chance to expand their network and grow their interpersonal skills.”

Students representing UNK include:
Broken Bow – Cameron Grafel, horn
Columbus – Douglas Davidchik, clarinet
Elm Creek – Chloe Harms, euphonium
Grand Island – Olivia Kohmetscher, tenor saxophone
Kearney – Ike Smith, trumpet
Kearney – Micah Feddersen, trumpet
Kearney – Avery Reitz, string bass and tuba
La Vista – Kaitlyn Obrecht, piano
Minden – Evan Porter, percussion
Ravenna – Kaia Johnson, flute

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How to Watch No. 12 Nebraska Basketball at USC with Preview, Breakdown, TV Channel

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How to Watch No. 12 Nebraska Basketball at USC with Preview, Breakdown, TV Channel


Not even more sickness could stop the No. 12 Nebraska men’s basketball team.

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With a nasty flu strain ripping through the Huskers and the UNL campus as a whole, Nebraska needed a little more time to take care of Maryland, but freshman star Braden Frager and his team-high 21 points and eight rebounds led a late NU surge for a 74-61 victory over the Terrapins. Forward Pryce Sandfort added to the effort with 16 points and eight rebounds while both Rienk Mast (13) and Sam Hoiberg (12) also reached double figures.

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Now with just three games remaining in the regular season, the Huskers venture west for a two-game road trip to L.A., where they start off against a USC team in the middle of a long losing skid. Here’s all you need to know for Saturday’s mid-afternoon showdown between the Huskers and Trojans.

How to Follow Along 

  • Matchup: Nebraska (24-4, 13-4 B1G) at USC (18-10, 7-10 B1G)
  • When: Saturday, February 28
  • Where: Galen Center, Los Angeles, Calif.
  • Time: 3 p.m. CST 
  • Watch: Big Ten Network
  • Listen: Huskers Radio Network and Affiliates

USC head coach Eric Musselman has already surpassed the wins total from his first season in charge of the Trojans. | Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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USC Scout

Head Coach

  • Eric Musselman | 2nd season at USC; 11th as HC
  • 35-28 (.556) at USC; 256-121 (.679) College Career Record
  • 6x NCAA Tournament Apps., 2x Elite Eight, 2x Sweet 16, 1x CBI Championship
  • 3x MWC regular season, 1x MWC tournament
  • 1x MWC Coach OTY (2018), 1x NBA D-League Coach OTY (2012)
  • Previous head coach at Arkansas, Nevada, Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors
  • Previous assistant at LSU, Arizona State, Memphis Grizzlies, Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic and Minnesota Timberwolves

2024-2025 Record & Awards

  • Record: 17-18 (7-13 B1G, T-12th)
  • Finish: L, 60-59 to Villanova in CBC Quarterfinals
  • All-B1G: 1x Honorable Mention

All-Time Series

  • USC leads 6-5
  • Jan. 22, 2025, last matchup, 78-73 USC

Washington guard Desmond Claude (1) was an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention pick last year at USC before transferring. | Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
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Key Returners

  • Terrance Williams II | F | Gr. | Was off to a great start with 10.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game last year before getting knocked out for the season just seven games in; has not been the same with just 2.5 PPG in 27 contests this season.

Key Departures

  • Desmond Claude | G | Transfer | Named All-Big Ten Honorable Mention last season for the Trojans after leading the team with 15.8 points per game, but transferred to Washington over the offseason.
  • Wesley Yates III | G | Transfer | Another player that transferred to Washington, the Texas native was second on the team last season in scoring (14.1) and steals (40) as a redshirt freshman.
  • Chibuzo Agbo | G | Graduated | Veteran guard that scored 11.8 points per contest while leading the team with 76 made three-pointers as part of his final college season.
  • Saint Thomas | F | Graduated | The Omaha native and Millard North graduate scored 9.5 points and grabbed 5.9 rebounds per game in his final college season.
  • Rashaun Agee | F | Graduated | A 6-foot-8 veteran forward who proved to be USC’s most dangerous threat off the bench by scoring over nine points per game.
  • Josh Cohen | F | Graduated | A 6-foot-10 post that started in 25 of his 33 appearances while adding 5.9 points per game for the Trojans.
  • Clark Slajchert | G | Graduated | Another key reserve for the Trojans who put up four points per game in 11 minutes across 27 games.
  • Kevin Patton Jr. | F | Transfer | After scoring 9.8 PPG at San Diego, the California native saw limited action for USC off the bench to prompt his transfer to New Mexico over the offseason.
  • Matt Knowling | F | Graduated | Played in 27 contests with an average of over 18 minutes, but added little production with three points and 2.6 rebounds.

Another standout guard for USC last season, Wesley Yates III (9) transferred to Washington ahead of his redshirt sophomore year. | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

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Impact Transfers/Newcomers

  • Rodney Rice | G | Jr. | The third leading scorer from a Sweet 16 Maryland squad last season, the transfer scored over 20 points per game for the Trojans before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury in December.
  • Chad Baker-Mazara | G/F | Gr. | A veteran transfer that aided Auburn’s run to the Final Four last season, the Dominican Republic native leads all active Trojans with 18.6 points per game and 71 total assists.
  • Ezra Ausar | F | Sr. | The 6-foot-9 forward transfer from Utah scores over 15 points per game and grabs over six rebounds per contest in an elevated role after the injury to Rice.
  • Alijah Arenas | G | Fr. | The son of former NBA star Gilbert Arenas, the true freshman missed the first 18 games of the season, but he’s been highly productive with a 13.9 points per game average in his first 10 college games.
  • Jacob Cofie | F | Soph. | A massive 6-foot-10 forward from Seattle, the Virginia transfer gives USC a weapon inside with 9.8 points and seven rebounds per game as a full-time starter.
  • Kam Woods | G | Gr. | A mid-season transfer from Robert Morris, where he led the program to its 10th NCAA Tournament appearance, the Alabama native has added over eight points and four rebounds in 16 contests this year.
  • Jordan Marsh | G | Jr. | The 2025 Big South Conference Newcomer of the Year last season at UNC-Ashville, Marsh acts as the sixth man for the Trojans with 6.7 PPG to lead all reserves.
  • Jaden Brownell | F | Gr. | A 6-foot-10 bench forward, the USC big man was a 14-point scorer at Samford last season before making his way to L.A.
  • Jerry Easter II | G | Fr. | An Ohio native who went to the heralded Link Academy in Missouri, Easter II has earned six starts in his 26 appearances by scoring 4.4 points per game.
  • Gabe Dynes | C | Jr. | The 7-foot-5 center led the country in blocks (104) last season at Youngstown State before transferring to USC, where he’s putting up three points per game, but has collected 30 blocks while only averaging 12 minutes per appearance.

Outlook

A veteran head coach at both the college and NBA levels, Eric Musselman was at the center of one of college basketball’s wildest coaching carousel moves following the 2023–24 season, leaving Arkansas for USC and paving the way for the legendary John Calipari to take over the Razorbacks program.

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While Calipari marched his team to a Sweet 16 appearance in his first season, Musselman’s debut season in L.A. ended with a quarterfinal loss in the CBC for an underwhelming year. What followed was an exodus from the program, with top-two scorers Desmond Claude (15.8) and Wesley Yates III (14.1) both transferring to Washington despite standout seasons. Six others graduated, including Omaha native Saint Thomas (9.5) as well as Chibuzo Agbo, a veteran guard who scored 11.8 points per game in his final college season.

That resulted in a whole new crop of transfers to join the team, including the crown jewel of the haul in Rodney Rice, who played a big part in helping Maryland reach the Sweet 16 last season. The junior started out hot for the Trojans, logging over 20 points per game, but a devastating shoulder injury ended his season just seven games in, which immediately lowered the ceiling for a USC team with decent talent. Chad Baker-Mazara has stepped up in the place of Rice with 18.6 points per game and a team-high 71 assists after transferring from Auburn, where he helped the Tigers reach the Final Four.

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Rodney Rice (1) was scoring over 20 points per game for USC before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury in December. | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

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Utah transfer Ezra Ausar has produced at a high level with over 15 points and six rebounds per contest. Despite missing the first 18 games of the season, true freshman Alijah Arenas has averaged 13.9 points per game as a starter. Sophomore and Virginia transfer Jacob Cofie is the muscle in the post, scoring 9.8 points per game and grabbing a team-high seven rebounds per contest. Similar to Arenas, Robert Morris transfer Kam Woods has been a big mid-season addition with over eight points and 4.6 rebounds per game. Plus, Jordan Marsh (6.7), Jaden Brownell (5.3), and 7-foot-5 center Gabe Dynes give Musselman the opportunity to mix-and-match his lineup off the bench depending on the matchup.

The Rice injury is massive, and could end up being one of the primary reasons for the Trojans missing the NCAA Tournament, for which they are a bubble team in the latest projections. It’s crunch time for USC, which is in the midst of a four-game losing streak after dropping contests to Ohio State, No. 10 Illinois, Oregon, and UCLA. Three of those four were winnable for the Trojans and games that could really haunt them as they search for key wins down the stretch to lock up a spot in March Madness.

Against a Trojan team that doesn’t defend well, but ranks as one of the top rebounding teams in the conference, USC is an interesting matchup for Nebraska. Being on the road and dealing with more sickness isn’t helpful, but I’m riding the Huskers for this one to reach 25 wins on the year.



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