NEBRASKA SECRETARY OF STATE SAYS RNC LAWSUIT OVER STATE ELECTION LAW IS 'A LITTLE BAFFLING'

LINCOLN— Outgoing Bob Evnen questioned a lawsuit filed by the Republican National Committee that seeks to strike down a Nebraska law allowing U.S. citizens who have never lived in the United States to vote in Nebraska if one of their parents is a registered Nebraska voter. Evnen said the provision is rarely, if ever, used and was surprised it had become a legal priority, especially as election officials face other challenges involving voter verification systems.

The lawsuit argues the law violates the Nebraska Constitution because voting should be tied to residency. The provision dates back to a 2005 bill sponsored by Deb Fischer, which was intended to help Americans living overseas participate in elections. Evnen said if a court determines the law is unconstitutional, the state will stop registering voters under that provision. The lawsuit has drawn support from Republican Secretary of State nominee Scott Petersen, while Democratic nominee Sarah Slattery criticized it as an effort to target voters. Similar lawsuits have been filed by the RNC in several other states, with mixed results in court.

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NONPARTISAN CANDIDATE MACEY BUDKE WILL RUN WRITE-IN CAMPAIGN FOR NEBRASKA'S 3RD DISTRICT

LINCOLN— Nonpartisan congressional candidate Macey Budke announced she will continue her campaign for Nebraska's 3rd Congressional District as a write-in candidate after determining she would not collect the 2,000 valid signatures required to appear on the November ballot. Budke said her volunteer-run campaign lacked the infrastructure and resources to gather signatures across the large, predominantly rural district, but emphasized that the decision is a strategic shift rather than an end to her campaign.

Budke is one of several challengers seeking to unseat incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith. Fellow nonpartisan candidate Mark Cohen is still collecting signatures to qualify for the ballot, while Becky Stille is the Democratic nominee and David J. Else is running on the Legal Marijuana NOW Party ticket. The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3.

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PETE BUTTIGIEG HEADING TO OMAHA TO STUMP FOR DENISE POWELL IN NEBRASKA CD2 RACE

OMAHA— Former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has endorsed Democratic congressional candidate Denise Powell in Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District and plans to campaign with her in Omaha on July 14. Buttigieg praised Powell as a strong advocate for Nebraska families and said she would focus on lowering the cost of everyday expenses such as groceries and housing.

Powell, who won a crowded Democratic primary, will face Republican Brinker Harding in the November general election. Harding has been endorsed by President Donald Trump and supported by Nebraska's Republican elected officials, while Buttigieg's endorsement underscores the national attention on the competitive Omaha-area congressional race. Democrats have not held the seat since Brad Ashford was elected in 2014.

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PILLEN TALKS PRIORITIES, PIVOT FROM NEBRASKA PRIMARY ELECTION TO NOV. 3 FACEOFF

LINCOLN— Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen said his reelection campaign will focus on many of the same priorities from his first term, including additional tax cuts, reducing state spending, property tax relief, improving school discipline, expanding school choice, overhauling K-12 school funding, further restricting abortion, and changing Nebraska's method of allocating presidential electoral votes. Pillen also suggested lowering the state's top income tax rate by another 1% and broadening the sales tax base to help offset budget pressures while continuing efforts to reduce government spending. 

Pillen defended his administration's cost-cutting measures, including changes to Medicaid waiver programs, saying they improve efficiency while maintaining necessary services. He also reaffirmed his support for lowering the legislative vote threshold to overcome filibusters, arguing it would help pass key priorities that previously fell short. On the campaign trail, Pillen expressed confidence in his reelection prospects against Democratic nominee Lynne Walz and Legal Marijuana NOW candidate Rick Beard, highlighting his record fundraising advantage and confirming he will once again decline to participate in debates with his opponents.

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AUSTIN AHLMAN SAYS HE HAS ENOUGH SIGNATURES TO BE ON THE BALLOT FOR NEBRASKA'S 1ST DISTRICT

LINCOLN— Independent candidate Austin Ahlman says he has collected more than the 2,000 signatures required to qualify for Nebraska's 1st Congressional District ballot this November, though his campaign plans to keep gathering signatures before the Aug. 3 filing deadline. If certified, Ahlman will join Republican incumbent Rep. Mike Flood, Democratic nominee Chris Backemeyer, and Libertarian Nik Sandman in a four-way race.

Ahlman, a journalist who entered the race after the May primary, said his campaign has seen strong grassroots support. However, Nebraska Democrats have criticized his candidacy, arguing it could split the anti-Flood vote. Despite the additional candidate, political analysts continue to rate the 1st District as safely Republican, with Flood having won his previous two elections by comfortable double-digit margins.

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REP. MIKE FLOOD 'CONFIDENT' HOUSING BILL WILL BECOME LAW WITHOUT PRESIDENT'S SIGNATURE

OMAHA— Rep. Mike Flood said he is confident the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act will become law by the end of the week, even if President Donald Trump does not sign it. Under the Constitution, the bill will automatically become law if the president neither signs nor vetoes it within the required timeframe. Flood said he has been assured by House leadership and the White House that the bill will take effect and believes Congress could override a veto if necessary.

Flood, who chairs the House Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, highlighted the legislation as a major bipartisan achievement. The bill aims to encourage housing construction, reduce regulatory barriers, and limit large institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes. He praised his partnership with Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, saying both focused on passing meaningful housing legislation rather than partisan messaging.

Flood made the remarks during a housing event in Papillion after touring Habitat for Humanity’s Tallgrass development with local officials, including Omaha Mayor John Ewing. Housing leaders said the project demonstrates how federal policy, local leadership, and nonprofit partnerships can work together to expand affordable housing opportunities.

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NEBRASKA THC SHOPS CHALLENGE, QUESTION PROPOSED LAW ON HEMP-DERIVED EDIBLES

LINCOLN— Nebraska hemp businesses are pushing back against a proposed rule from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture that would ban THC-infused foods and drinks, including gummies and beverages. Industry representatives argued at a public hearing that the change would force businesses to close, hurt the state’s economy, and limit access to alternative wellness products used for stress, anxiety, and sleep.

The proposed rule stems from an executive order by Gov. Jim Pillen, who says the products pose risks to children and consumers. Attorney General Mike Hilgers has also been a longtime critic of THC products. Nearly 500 people submitted comments opposing the rule, while business owners said they already restrict sales to customers 21 and older and support reasonable regulations rather than an outright ban.

Industry advocates also questioned whether the Department of Agriculture has the legal authority to prohibit THC food products without action from the Legislature. They warned the rule could jeopardize an industry that contributes millions of dollars in taxes and economic activity across Nebraska.

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JUDGE HALTS TRANSFER OF FUNDS FROM ENVIRONMENTAL TRUST TO NEBRASKA'S GENERAL FUND

LINCOLN— A Lancaster County judge temporarily blocked Nebraska from transferring $13.5 million from the Nebraska Environmental Trust after finding the plaintiffs were likely to succeed in their constitutional challenge. Judge Susan Strong said allowing the transfer before the case is decided could cause irreparable harm because the money could be spent, making the lawsuit meaningless.

The lawsuit, filed by former state officials Jon Oberg and W. Don Nelson, argues that the Legislature has improperly used the Environmental Trust as a "piggy bank" to cover other state expenses. They contend that a 2003 constitutional amendment requires lottery proceeds allocated to the trust to be spent through the Environmental Trust Act's conservation grant process. The state argues lawmakers still have discretion to redirect the funds for environmental purposes, even outside the trust's grant program.

The disputed transfer stems from Gov. Jim Pillen's budget proposal to use trust funds for water management and state park projects to balance the state budget and provide property tax relief. The temporary injunction prevents the transfer until the court rules on the case, marking another legal victory for plaintiff Jon Oberg, who successfully challenged a similar transfer of Environmental Trust funds in 2020.

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NU REGENTS APPROVE NEW TEMPORARY PARTNER IN NEBRASKA MEDICINE

LINCOLN— The University of Nebraska Board of Regents approved a 90-day temporary governance agreement that gives the Omaha Community Foundation a shared leadership role in Nebraska Medicine while negotiations continue on a permanent partnership. Under the interim structure, the foundation and the university will each appoint two voting members to Nebraska Medicine's board through Sept. 30.

The move comes as Clarkson Regional Health Services exits its co-ownership of Nebraska Medicine after nearly two years of planning. Earlier this year, the regents voted to become the sole owner of the health system, but that proposal faced legal challenges and criticism from Nebraska Medicine leaders, lawmakers and philanthropists who worried the university could eventually use the health system's finances to address its own budget issues.

NU President Dr. Jeffrey Gold said the Omaha Community Foundation was chosen because of its strong ties to Nebraska's philanthropic community and its long history of supporting UNMC and Nebraska Medicine. Gold said the next 90 days will determine whether the partnership becomes permanent, with both sides aiming to create a governance model that ensures long-term stability while keeping Nebraska Medicine focused on patient care, education and research.

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NEW PARTY PETITIONS TO MAKE NOVEMBER BALLOT, CAUSING PARTISAN FINGER-POINTING

LINCOLN— A group is attempting to form a new political organization called the Nebraska Working People Party ahead of Nebraska's November elections. State filings identify legislative write-in candidate Robin Richards as the sponsor. According to the filing, the party aims to represent working families, rural communities, small businesses, farmers, ranchers, and others seeking economic opportunity and accountable government.

Petition circulators have begun gathering signatures in Omaha and Lincoln, though some appeared to know little about who was organizing the effort. At one event, the petition table displayed left-wing messaging supporting a new working-class party, criticizing capitalism, and advocating for abolishing ICE. Richards previously ran as a write-in candidate for the Legislature after her filing fee check bounced and later endorsed incumbent Merv Riepe.

The effort has sparked political backlash. Jane Kleeb accused the new party of being a spoiler designed to help Pete Ricketts, while the Nebraska Republican Party denied any involvement. Nebraska Democratic Party Vice Chair Ron Kaminski also criticized the effort, calling it misleading and politically motivated. Organizers must submit enough petition signatures by July 15 for the party to qualify for the November ballot.

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U.S. SUPREME COURT LETS NEBRASKA-COLORADO SOUTH PLATTE RIVER, PERKINS COUNTY CANAL CASE PROCEED

LINCOLN— The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear Nebraska's lawsuit against Colorado over alleged violations of the 1923 South Platte River Compact and disputes surrounding the proposed Perkins County Canal. The Court granted Nebraska permission to file its complaint, and Colorado has 30 days to respond. A special master will oversee the case, which could take years to resolve.

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers argues that Colorado has improperly allowed newer water users to take water that should have priority under the compact, depriving Nebraska of its rightful share. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser denies the allegations, saying the state is complying with the compact and not obstructing Nebraska's canal plans. While the federal solicitor general recommended the Court hear only Nebraska's claims about irrigation-season water deliveries, the dispute over the Perkins County Canal remains a central issue in the case.

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GROUP PUSHING ONLINE SPORTS BETTING TURNS IN MORE SIGNATURES THAN NEEDED TO GET ON NEBRASKA BALLOT

LINCOLN— A group called Tax Relief Nebraska has submitted more than 350,000 signatures to place two ballot measures legalizing online sports betting before Nebraska voters in November. The petitions easily exceeded the required signature thresholds and, if verified, would amend the state constitution to allow mobile sports betting and establish a regulatory system that directs 70% of tax revenue from online wagers to property tax relief.

Supporters, including representatives from WarHorse Casinos, say the proposal could generate more than $30 million annually in gaming tax revenue and would allow online sportsbooks like DraftKings and FanDuel to partner with Nebraska casinos. Opponents argue that expanding online betting would increase gambling addiction and related social harms. If approved by voters, Nebraska residents would be able to place sports bets online rather than only in person at the state's racetrack casinos.

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FEDERAL JUDGE BLOCKS NEBRASKA'S SOCIAL MEDIA AGE VERIFICATION LAW FROM GOING INTO EFFECT IN JULY

LINCOLN— A federal judge has temporarily blocked key parts of Nebraska's 2025 Parental Rights in Social Media Act (LB 383), ruling that its requirements for age verification and parental consent before minors can create social media accounts are likely unconstitutional under the First Amendment. Senior U.S. District Judge John Gerrard found the law broadly restricts protected speech and is unlikely to survive constitutional scrutiny, even though the state has a compelling interest in protecting children's mental health.

However, the judge allowed one provision to take effect: social media companies must provide parents with a dashboard to monitor a minor's posts, interactions, and private messages. The lawsuit was brought by NetChoice, whose members include major platforms such as Meta, TikTok, Google, and X. The injunction is temporary while the case proceeds, and NetChoice is expected to seek a permanent block of the law.

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PILLEN SIGNS OFF ON NEBRASKA MEDICAL CANNABIS REGULATIONS

LINCOLN— Nebraska's medical cannabis regulations will officially become permanent on Monday after Gov. Jim Pillen approved them, replacing the temporary rules that were set to expire later in July. The regulations had already been reviewed and approved by Attorney General Mike Hilgers, who said they do not clearly violate the state or federal constitutions.

The regulations establish the framework for Nebraska's medical cannabis program, including requiring patients to receive recommendations from approved healthcare providers, limiting purchases to 5 ounces every 30 days (with a cap on THC content), allowing up to 12 dispensaries statewide, and banning smokable, vaping, and edible cannabis products. They also limit each licensed cultivator to 1,250 flowering plants at a time. While both Pillen and Hilgers previously questioned the legality of Nebraska's voter-approved medical cannabis laws, the regulations now provide the permanent rules governing the program, with the next Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission meeting scheduled for July 20.

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WHY ARE THERE SO MANY INDEPENDENT NEBRASKA CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR OFFICE THIS YEAR?

LINCOLN— Nebraska is seeing a notable rise in independent (nonpartisan) candidates running for traditionally partisan offices in 2026, a sharp increase from previous election cycles. Several candidates, including Austin Ahlman, Mark Cohen and Macey Budke, credit the 2024 Senate campaign of Dan Osborn for inspiring their bids. Former state senators Brett Lindstrom and Bob Krist are also considering independent runs for statewide offices.

The trend comes as Nebraska's number of registered nonpartisan voters continues to grow, while Democratic registration has declined. Candidates and political observers say many voters are frustrated with partisan politics and feel the two major parties are not addressing their concerns. Political scientists note that independent candidates may appeal to moderates and voters dissatisfied with polarization, though they still face long odds in a state dominated by Republicans.

The article also highlights the debate over the impact of independent candidates on key races. Republicans have criticized Osborn as a "fake independent," while some Democrats worry candidates like Ahlman could act as spoilers. Supporters argue the increase in independent campaigns reflects growing voter dissatisfaction with the two-party system and a desire for more centrist, problem-solving leadership. The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3.

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NE-02 GOP CANDIDATE BRINKER HARDING SUBMITS PERSONAL FINANCIAL DISCLOSURES

OMAHA— Republican congressional candidate Brinker Harding has filed his overdue financial disclosure report after facing criticism for missing federal deadlines. The filing shows income from his real estate business, Omaha City Council salary, and family investments, including holdings in companies such as Pfizer.

Democratic candidate Denise Powell criticized Harding over those investments, while Harding countered by raising questions about Powell’s past consulting work for nonprofit organizations that are currently involved in a lawsuit over alleged foreign funding of ballot initiatives. Powell’s campaign said her work was focused on organizing and communications and was unrelated to fundraising. The disclosures have added another point of debate in the competitive race for Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.

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TEXAS SEN. TED CRUZ CAMPAIGNS FOR RICKETTS IN NEBRASKA

LINCOLN— Texas Sen. Ted Cruz visited Lincoln to campaign for Nebraska Sen. Pete Ricketts, emphasizing that Nebraska’s Senate race could play a key role in determining control of the U.S. Senate. Both Republicans argued that independent candidate Dan Osborn is closely aligned with Democrats despite running as a nonpartisan candidate, and warned supporters not to assume Ricketts will win easily.

Ricketts highlighted Republican accomplishments on taxes, border security, and national defense, while Cruz said recent polling shows the race is competitive. Osborn pushed back, criticizing Ricketts and Cruz as representatives of wealthy political elites and arguing that Ricketts has been disconnected from everyday Nebraskans.

The event drew about 300 attendees and underscored growing Republican concern about what had once been considered a safe Senate seat. Around 20 protesters gathered outside the venue, criticizing the senators’ policies and support for President Donald Trump ahead of the Nov. 3 election.

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TRUMP 'TRAMPLED' VOTER PRIVACY BY FEEDING INFO INTO HOMELAND SECURITY SYSTEM

WASHINGTON D.C.— A federal judge ruled that the Trump administration illegally expanded the Department of Homeland Security’s SAVE database, a system originally designed to verify immigrants’ eligibility for government benefits, to help identify potential noncitizen voters. The judge found that the changes violated federal privacy laws, the Social Security Act, and the Administrative Procedure Act by allowing federal agencies to combine and share personal information from millions of Americans without proper legal authority.

The ruling blocks Homeland Security from using the revamped SAVE system and could complicate the administration’s efforts to verify voter citizenship ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The judge cited evidence that the system contained inaccurate citizenship information and had wrongly flagged some naturalized U.S. citizens, leading to voter registration issues in Texas. Voting rights groups praised the decision, arguing that the database could be used to improperly purge eligible voters.

The Trump administration defended the program as a tool to prevent noncitizen voting and indicated it may appeal the decision. The ruling also comes as the administration has sought voter-roll data from states and considered tying homeland security grant funding to states’ use of SAVE and election security measures. If the decision stands, it could significantly limit the federal government's ability to use the database in election administration before the November midterms.

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NEBRASKA FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE ENDORSES SEN. PETE RICKETTS IN HIS REELECTION CAMPAIGN

LINCOLN— The Nebraska Fraternal Order of Police, the state's largest law enforcement union, has endorsed Pete Ricketts in his 2026 U.S. Senate reelection campaign against independent candidate Dan Osborn. Union President Anthony Conner praised Ricketts for consistently supporting law enforcement through policies and resources aimed at officer safety and public security.

The race is expected to be Ricketts' most competitive general election contest to date. Osborn gained national attention after his unexpectedly strong challenge to U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer in 2024 and has secured endorsements from several labor and progressive organizations, including the Nebraska AFL-CIO and the state's largest teachers union. Meanwhile, Democratic nominee Cindy Burbank is widely expected to withdraw from the race, potentially consolidating support behind Osborn. Nebraska voters will decide the contest on November 3.

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NEBRASKA'S GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATES RAKING IN FUNDRAISING AHEAD OF GENERAL ELECTION

LINCOLN— Gov. Jim Pillen and Democratic challenger Lynne Walz each claimed growing voter support in competing campaign statements released Tuesday. Pillen highlighted his campaign’s strong fundraising, reporting $9.5 million cash on hand and nearly 6,000 donors since 2022, most of them from Nebraska. He credited support for his tax-cutting policies and commitment to what he called Nebraska values.

Meanwhile, Walz’s campaign said it has outraised Pillen since the May primary, bringing in more than $292,000 compared to Pillen’s $164,000 during the same period. Her campaign pointed to a recent internal poll showing a close race and argued that Walz’s message on affordability and new leadership is gaining momentum ahead of the November election.

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