SE Nebraska News

U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) addressed the House of Representatives ahead of Constitution Day, which is observed on September 17, 2025. In his remarks, Flood focused on the importance of upholding and defending First Amendment rights in light of the recent assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk.

Flood said, "Mister Speaker. I rise as Constitution Day approaches.

The assassination of Charlie Kirk is a watershed moment for free speech. Charlie made a name for himself exercising his First Amendment rights and he was shot while answering a question from a liberal influencer.

His assassination sends a message that if you disagree on the wrong issues, you might end up paying for it - even with your life.

Regardless of politics, Americans don’t want a country where people are shot for their views.

Freedom of speech is under serious threat. From gender ideology to race, the far left has weaponized political correctness, punishing dissenters with social and professional consequences.

If we want the First Amendment to survive this moment, we must restore respect for the rule of law and confront the factors fueling division.

Charlie Kirk was reaching out to the other side when he died, and to honor his legacy, we should do the same.

Thank you, and I yield back."

Mike Flood has represented Nebraska’s 1st district in Congress since 2022 after replacing Jeff Fortenberry. He previously served in the Nebraska State Legislature from 2007 to 2013. Born in Omaha in 1975, Flood currently lives in Norfolk. He holds a BA from the University of Notre Dame and earned his JD from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2001.