Rep. Flood and candidate Backemeyer square off in first and only debate for congressional district 1

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – As Republican Mike Flood seeks his third full term in Congress, Democratic challenger Chris Backemeyer is working hard to give him a run for his money.

With only 41 days before the general election happens, both candidates spoke to voters about several important issues, such as the war in Iran.

This is Beckemeyer’s first run for office, and with rising costs in mind, he used his background in foreign policy to present a reality check of sorts.

“What are we trying to accomplish? What are our objectives? How are we going to achieve those and then how are we going to get out?” Backemeyer asked at Wednesday’s debate.

Rep. Flood speaking to the issue of nuclear weapons.

“We’re in a situation now where we don’t want this country to get a nuclear weapon. I want it over as fast as everybody else, but I’m not willing to cut and run until the job is done,” said Flood.

Before the two could discuss immigration and border patrol, moderators confirmed that there has been a 329% increase in arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Nebraska during President Trump’s first term.

Rep. Flood stated his support for the agency, although condemning the recent fatalities at the hands of ICE agents earlier this year.

“I support ICE and CBP doing their job. What we saw happen up in Minnesota was too much. And I think the rest of America felt a huge lump in our throat that that was not right,” he said.

Backemeyer then calling out Flood’s reaction as late.

“I wish we would have heard condemnation like that when these acts actually happened in Minneapolis because let’s remember, we had two American citizens shot dead in the street by ICE,” said Backemeyer.

Flood also implied that former Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s leadership was to blame, before praising President Trump for appointing the role to Tom Holman.

Backemeyer also giving his two cents.

“ICE currently has a bigger budget than the U.S. Marine Corps. Now think about that, does that make sense? I don’t believe we need to abolish ICE, but we need to rein it in, and we need to bring it back to its mission post 9-11,” he said.

Another important issue for many Nebraskans, rural healthcare.

Flood referenced the Rural Healthcare Transformation Act when speaking on the topic.

“In a state with 2 million people, the federal government providing a billion dollars is in fact significant,” he said.

Also using his time to talk about how the funds have been split among several rural hospitals across the state.

When discussing rural healthcare, Backemeyer highlighted the work requirements adhered to medical coverage in the state.

“For the work requirements, for example, they’re required to work more hours than Congress did this very session in the 104 days that they were in,” he said.

When it came to closing statements, both candidates left a final impression of who they are before voters approach the polls.

“I’ve built my life here. I listen and I get results. It’s because I’m in touch with Lincoln City officials. Listen, one of us on this stage tonight has actually reached across the aisle and solved problems,” said Flood.

“I am not a career politician because I devoted my career to public service. I am the one on this stage who has worked across the aisle,” said Backemeyer.

Adding, “Ask yourselves, how do you feel? Are you happy with the direction of our country and of our state?”

The general election is happening on Nov. 3.