Representative Mike Flood Faces Tough Questions at Final Town Hall of the Year
At his final town hall of the year, 1st District Congressman Mike Flood fielded questions on a myriad of pressing issues, from the ongoing conflict in Iran to healthcare reform and immigration concerns. This event, held at the Vance D. Rogers Center for Fine Arts at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln, marked Flood’s sixth town hall in two years, though attendance appeared to dwindle compared to previous gatherings.
Flood noted a significant drop in turnout, attributing it to disruptions from attendees shouting over each other and the availability of online discussions. “Last year, I think we had 600 or 700 people,” he recalled, “and I don’t know what the count was today, but it was half that I’m thinking at best.”
Representing cities such as Lincoln, Fremont, and Norfolk, as well as rural areas of eastern Nebraska, Flood has engaged in numerous spirited town halls over the past 18 months. These meetings often spotlight contentious topics like healthcare, immigration, and economic affordability.
The congressman opened his remarks by highlighting a recently passed housing bill and federal funding for CEDARS youth services. He also mentioned over half a million dollars earmarked for body cameras in Lancaster County, stating, “I do believe in body cameras. I believe ICE should have body cameras,” which received widespread applause.
Healthcare was a dominant theme, with attendees challenging Flood on Medicaid funding cuts. He emphasized, “It is very clear that if you are persistently mentally ill or developmentally disabled, you do not have to work to get those benefits,” while noting that undocumented immigrants are not eligible for the program.
Addressing accountability concerns, Flood confirmed his vote for the release of the Epstein files and expressed his commitment to curbing government corruption. “I can tell you I’m a co-sponsor of the bill to prohibit stock trading in Congress, and I also believe it should apply to the executive branch of government, including the president and the vice president,” he stated.
The town hall also saw heated exchanges over President Donald Trump’s actions, with one attendee questioning Flood’s compliance. Flood defended his stance, citing his efforts to prevent cuts to the National Weather Service.
Questions about the conflict in Iran drew particular attention. When asked if he would work to end the war, Flood replied that he wants the conflict resolved swiftly but emphasized the need to prevent Iran from posing a security threat to the U.S. “I don’t think any American wants to be in a war with Iran,” Flood said, followed by an uproar from the crowd.
Attendees also voiced concerns over potential cuts to Veterans Affairs services and rising affordability challenges. Flood acknowledged the limitations of VA service payments and advocated for uncapping these restrictions for better resource allocation.
Outside the venue, supporters of Chris Backemeyer, Flood’s Democratic opponent in the upcoming election, staged a demonstration, displaying provocative imagery and messages about Flood and Trump.
As the event concluded, attendees expressed dissatisfaction, while Flood addressed reporters. He reiterated his support for Ukraine and explained his recent vote against an aid package, citing other priorities. Flood also commented on the Middle East conflict, emphasizing the long-standing intelligence partnership between Israel and the U.S., and condemned rising antisemitism.
