Over these past few weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, I have been working day after day on tax reform. The House’s historic vote on Nov. 16 to pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was a crucial step closer to a simpler, fairer tax code.

I am thankful we were able to come together and pass this important pro-growth legislation for the good of our country. Middle-income folks have been squeezed for far too long by an outdated, overly complex tax system, and this overhaul will help Americans keep more of their own money. There is more work to do, but we are on the right track to get a bill on President Trump’s desk by the end of this year.
As grateful as I am to see tax reform moving forward, there are many other reasons to be thankful
this season.
First and foremost, I am thankful for my wife, Andrea, and our newborn son, Ezekiel. Parenthood has been an experience unlike any other, and no matter what happens on a given day in Congress, I always look most forward to the time I get to spend holding my son.
Living in the greatest country in the world is a privilege we should be thankful for every day. Despite the vitriol which unfortunately has become all too common in politics, we still witnessed a peaceful transition of power from one political party to another after last year’s presidential election. This is such a rare occurrence throughout the world. The freedoms we enjoy in this country are second to none, and I am proud and grateful to be an American.
I am grateful for the men and women of our military who are spending their holiday season defending our freedoms. We owe all who have served a debt we cannot repay, but we should take every opportunity to show them our appreciation.
I am grateful to the farmers and ranchers who work tirelessly each day to put high-quality food on our tables and feed the world. When we share our Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends, we have many producers to thank for making it possible.
I am grateful to be a sixth-generation Nebraskan and for the privilege of representing the Third District in the U.S. House. Thank you for the trust you have placed in me to be your voice in Congress. I will continue to be an advocate for smaller government, strengthening rural America, and focusing on real solutions.
On the subject of thankfulness, I would appreciate the opportunity to hear from you. Our country faces many challenges, but there is also much to celebrate – and I would like to share a Thankful Third District roundup on my website and in my e-newsletter. Please send me a note at AdrianSmith.house.gov/TellAdrian to tell me what you are giving thanks for this year. 
Also, if you have not yet subscribed to my weekly e-newsletter, you can do so on my website at AdrianSmith.house.gov/Newsletter.
To all Nebraskans, our family wishes you and yours a blessed
Thanksgiving.