This article marks the beginning of the Young Forwardists’ "Watchdogs of Democracy" series, where we aim to educate the public and hold elected officials accountable by evaluating whether their actions align with the promises they made to their constituents.

We begin with an in-depth look at Nebraskan Senator Deb Fischer, examining her record on supporting farmers and strengthening national defense. As a recently reelected Senator, we plan to answer the question: Does Fischer’s tenure reflect the values she vowed to uphold?

Stay tuned as we bring transparency to politics, one article at a time.

Throughout her service in the Senate, Nebraskan Republican Deb Fischer has focused on three core promises to her voters; supporting Nebraskan farmers, strengthening national defense, and controlling federal spending. Have her actions throughout her career reflected an adherence to these values?

Deb Fischer has been a prominent figure in politics since her first election in 2012. It is due time for the productivity of this long tenure of hers, (and of many other politicians), to be examined. Over the course of her election campaigns, Fischer has endorsed the narrative of being an advocate for Nebraska’s rural communities, as well as for increased national defense measures. But recently, her re-election to a third term in 2024 contrasted a self-imposed two term limit - raising interest about her adherence to other promises.

Fischer entered the Senate in 2012. Running on a platform centered on support for Nebraska farmers and strengthening national defense, she easily secured reelection in 2018. In 2024, Fischer faced an unprecedented challenge from independent candidate Dan Osborn. It was a spokesperson from Osborn’s campaign that highlighted Fischer’s decision to seek a third term despite earlier claims that she would retire after two terms. Campaign spokesman Dustin Wahl accused Fischer of “breaking her promise” and prioritizing corporate sponsors over Nebraskan values. Fischer, however, defended her decision to run. She reasoned that her experience and ongoing work in Washington justified her continued service.

Fischer has vowed to protect Nebraska’s agricultural economy by advocating for farm-friendly policies. In 2018, she worked to pass the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This agreement between the U.S, Mexico, and Canada allegedly benefits American farmers and ranchers by modernizing and strengthening food and agriculture trade in North America. Since the Agreement was signed into law on July 1, 2020 until the present day, most experts agree the USMCA has neither been a positive or negative substantial change. Due to its wide berth in proposed policy changes, Deb Fischer’s claim that her support for the USMCA indicated her strong support for Nebraska's farmers feels languid. In other words, the decision and its correlation to her claims lacked the depth or vigor involved in direct advocacy. 

Another key issue is Fischer’s role in weakening the 50-14 cattle price transparency bill, which aimed to protect ranchers from price manipulation by dominant meatpackers. Instead, Fischer introduced a watered-down alternative that delayed meaningful reforms and ultimately failed to pass. According to Senator Fischer,“We’re on a pause right now and we’re paused because my party, the Republicans, we believe we need to have more farm in the farm bill.” While that statement allows for vague interpretation, the fact pattern shows that Senator Fischer has not always put her promises to voters first. At least, not over the interest of large corporate donors. 

Critics argue Fischer prioritized corporate donors over Nebraska ranchers, who continue to struggle with low cattle prices despite high retail beef prices. Deb Fischer said she helped write and pass a farm bill that ensured the best deal for Nebraska. Unfortunately, it appears she was referring to the best interests of large corporations with stakes in Nebraska, not to Nebraska’s farmers, ranchers, and agriculturists. In regards to her promises for farm friendly promises, the Young Forwardists “grade” Deb Fischer a “B” in this area. 

Stating that she strongly supports “taking steps to protect our nation at home and abroad”, Fischer is a staunch advocate for defense spending. Fischer has emphasized the importance of modernizing the nuclear arsenal, and ensuring military readiness. Her history in the Senate reflects an adherence to this promise, as she voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025, which would dole out billions of dollars in annual military spending. Additionally, Fischer serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee and advocated for many of the bill’s funding provisions. Reflected by her enthusiastic and measurable support for defense spending, the Young Forwardists give Senator Fischer an “A” in regards to her adherence to this particular promise. 

Fischer’s time in the Senate is marked with partial or selective adherence to her promises. Most of Fischer’s actions generally align with her campaigning. However, the loyalty to corporate donors over the general public is less than ideal in the eyes of the Watchdogs. A senator who generally aligns with her promises - as long as they can compromise with third party interest.  Overall, when comparing Senator Fischer’s campaign promises to her actions, The Young Forwardists feel that a “B+” is an accurate grading. 

Conclusion: The Watchdogs of Democracy believe in transparency for voters, accountability from politicians, and advocacy for all. Continuing to examine and criticize the kept promises - or lack thereof - from politicians will be vital to a productive democracy, so stay vigilant.