But, I don't want to assume that our tradition of excellence is a guarantee of future excellence.

But, I don't want to assume that our tradition of excellence is a guarantee of future excellence.

I believe education is the great equalizer. Our children are our hope for the future, so we have an obligation to provide them with the tools to succeed. There is no more powerful tool than knowledge.

I want to emphasize that I am not opposed to pipelines. We already have hundreds of them in our state. I am opposed to the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline route because it is directly over the Ogallala Aquifer.

Ultimately, we have to decide, with the Legislature: Are we willing to take some bold steps to make us even more competitive in the future, competing in a global economy? I think Nebraskans are willing to listen to that discussion. They want an opportunity for their kids and grandkids to live here.

Nebraskans have very strong opinions, but we sit down around a table and we solve our problems.