INVESTIGATION OF $2.5M NO-BID CONTRACT STILL WITH LINCOLN POLICE DEPARTMENT

LINCOLN—The Lincoln Police Department is continuing to investigate a controversial $2.5 million no-bid emergency contract awarded by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development in 2024. State Auditor Mike Foley flagged the contract, which went to a bioeconomy consultant and lobbyist known to Gov. Jim Pillen, saying it raised concerns about possible favoritism. Foley alleged the state failed to adequately justify why the contract was considered an emergency, allowing officials to bypass competitive bidding requirements for contracts worth more than $50,000.

Foley also alleged that state officials attempted to mislead the Auditor’s Office during its review, which could constitute a misdemeanor. His findings were initially referred to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office and Nebraska State Patrol, but the State Patrol transferred the investigation to Lincoln police because of a potential conflict of interest. Pillen’s administration has defended the contract, arguing that quickly securing the consultant was necessary because of deadlines associated with federal funding.

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GOP, BUSINESS LEADERS RALLY AROUND PILLEN FOLLOWING LINDSTROM ANNOUNCEMENT

LINCOLN— Gov. Jim Pillen's reelection campaign highlighted broad support from Republican leaders and business officials following former state senator Brett Lindstrom's announcement that he will run for governor as an Independent. Pillen received endorsements from former Governors Dave Heineman and Pete Ricketts, Nebraska's congressional delegation, several state senators, Attorney General Mike Hilgers, State Treasurer Joey Spellerberg, pro-life organizations, and business leaders. Supporters praised Pillen's record on tax relief, economic development, agriculture, law enforcement, Second Amendment rights, and pro-life policies.

Meanwhile, Democratic candidate Lynne Walz unveiled her "Commitment to Nebraska" platform, promising bipartisan leadership by appointing Republicans, Democrats, and Independents to key positions while criticizing Pillen's handling of the state's budget deficit. Brett Lindstrom said his independent campaign is intended to give Nebraskans another option as the state faces budget challenges and economic decisions. While Lindstrom has yet to actively campaign since announcing his bid, Pillen's endorsements demonstrate that he enters the general election with strong backing from much of Nebraska's Republican establishment.

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WHAT IS THE APPEAL OF DAN OSBORN TO HIS SUPPORTERS IN NEBRASKA'S US SENATE RACE?

LA VISTA—Independent U.S. Senate candidate Dan Osborn officially launched his statewide campaign tour in La Vista, emphasizing his independent status and arguing that Nebraska's elected officials have prioritized corporations and special interests over everyday residents. Speaking to a crowd of about 500 supporters, Osborn called for less political division and said his campaign is focused on finding common ground rather than partisan labels. Supporters interviewed at the event said they were drawn to his independence, willingness to campaign across rural Nebraska, and desire to challenge incumbent Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts, even if they do not agree with all of Osborn's positions.

The race against Sen. Pete Ricketts has become one of Nebraska's most closely watched political contests, drawing national attention due to its unusual dynamics and multiple legal challenges involving the Democratic ballot. Ricketts' campaign has sought to portray Osborn as a "secret Democrat," citing Democratic financial support and endorsements, while also criticizing his leadership during the 2021 Kellogg's workers strike. Osborn responded by blaming the Omaha Kellogg's plant closure on corporate decisions rather than worker wages, arguing that "greedy CEOs" are responsible. Many attendees at the rally said they view Osborn as a candidate who could bridge political divides or simply provide an alternative to Ricketts.

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LINDSTROM TURNS IN SIGNATURES, RELEASES 'NEBRASKA DOCTRINE' FOR NONPARTISAN GOVERNOR BID

LINCOLN— Former Nebraska state Sen. Brett Lindstrom submitted more than 5,700 signatures in an effort to qualify as a nonpartisan candidate for governor in November. He needs at least 4,000 valid signatures, including 750 from each congressional district. If approved, Lindstrom and running mate Mike Picard would face Republican Gov. Jim Pillen, Democrat Lynne Walz and Legal Marijuana NOW candidate Rick Beard. Lindstrom criticized the Pillen administration for spending down state reserves and making financial commitments without a sustainable way to fund them.

Lindstrom also released a policy platform called the “Nebraska Doctrine,” focused on affordability, long-term growth and reducing political division. His proposals include stabilizing property valuations through rolling averages, gradually reducing schools’ property tax authority while increasing state support, and placing greater emphasis on agricultural land’s productive value. He also wants to expand housing near jobs, protect public power, strengthen the energy grid, complete rural broadband deployment, and keep more agricultural processing within Nebraska.

Additional proposals include recruiting former Nebraskans back to the state, coordinating education and workforce training, attracting industries in areas where Nebraska already has advantages, and establishing guidelines for responsible artificial intelligence use. Lindstrom said he is not running as a spoiler or protest candidate, but as an alternative to both parties’ approaches to spending, taxation and economic growth.

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ARGUING THAT NEBRASKA DEMOCRATS MUST HAVE A SENATE CANDIDATE, PRIMARY LOSER SAYS HE'S WILLING

LINCOLN— William Forbes, who received just over 10% of the vote in Nebraska’s Democratic U.S. Senate primary, is asking a court to force the Nebraska Democratic Party to select a replacement candidate after primary winner Cindy Burbank withdrew. Forbes, an anti-abortion pastor accused by Democrats of entering the race to benefit Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts, said he would be willing to be considered as the replacement. Burbank had previously indicated she would withdraw to encourage Democratic support for independent candidate Dan Osborn.

The case centers on whether Nebraska law requires the party to fill the vacancy or merely allows it to do so. Forbes’ attorneys argue that the law makes a replacement mandatory. In contrast, Democratic Party attorneys say the decision is optional and contend Forbes lacks standing because he has not suffered a concrete injury. Judge Susan Strong also questioned whether the lawsuit is an attempt to circumvent laws that prevent defeated primary candidates from running independently or as write-ins in the general election.

Strong took the request for a temporary injunction under advisement and said she would issue a written decision quickly. She could deny the request without addressing the central statutory question if she finds Forbes lacks standing or that an injunction is inappropriate. Her decision is expected to be appealed to the Nebraska Supreme Court.

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NATIONAL DEMOCRATS PUT NE-01 IN ITS 'DISTRICTS IN PLAY' PROGRAM

LINCOLN— The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) has added Nebraska's 1st Congressional District to its "Districts in Play" program for the first time, signaling that national Democrats believe the race is competitive enough to invest additional resources. Democratic nominee Chris Backemeyer is challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Mike Flood, with Libertarian Nik Sandman also on the ballot. The designation could help Backemeyer raise more campaign funds, although Flood currently maintains a sizable financial advantage with roughly $1.5 million in cash on hand compared to Backemeyer's $290,000.

Democrats argue Flood's record has contributed to higher costs for families and farmers, while Flood's campaign dismissed the move as national partisan politics and pointed to his bipartisan work on housing affordability and other issues. Despite the increased attention, political analysts continue to rate Nebraska's 1st District as safely Republican, noting Flood's victories by 20 and 16 percentage points in his previous two congressional elections. The race is one of 47 nationwide included in the DCCC's "Districts in Play" program as Democrats seek to regain control of the U.S. House in November.

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NEBRASKA STATE FAIR WILL HOST US SENATE DEBATE BETWEEN OSBORN, RICKETTS

LINCOLN—The Nebraska State Fair will host a U.S. Senate debate between incumbent Republican Pete Ricketts and registered nonpartisan candidate Dan Osborn on September 1 at the Big Iron Events Center. Moderated by News Channel Nebraska, the event will also feature questions from reporters representing The Examiner, Flatwater Free Press, and the Omaha World-Herald. It will be the first State Fair debate since 2018.

Both candidates welcomed the opportunity to debate. Ricketts said he looks forward to highlighting his record on public safety, border security, and economic issues, while Osborn said he plans to present himself as a candidate focused on representing Nebraska's working class. The race is expected to be one of Ricketts' most competitive as an incumbent, following Osborn's relatively strong 2024 Senate campaign against Sen. Deb Fischer. Legal Marijuana NOW Party candidate Mike Marvin remains in the race but did not qualify for the debate.

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LEGAL MARIJUANA NOW CANDIDATE WILL STAY ON FALL BALLOT FOR NEBRASKA US SENATE

LINCOLN— Legal Marijuana NOW Party candidate Mike Marvin will remain on Nebraska's U.S. Senate ballot after missing the deadline to withdraw from the race. Marvin has faced accusations of being a "plant" intended to help registered nonpartisan candidate Dan Osborn, though he has denied those claims. Former Democratic nominee Cindy Burbank, who dropped out shortly after Osborn qualified for the ballot, previously paid Marvin's filing fee.

Although the race officially includes three candidates, it is widely viewed as a contest between incumbent Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts and Dan Osborn. The campaign has attracted national attention due to allegations of candidate "plants," multiple lawsuits, and the possible emergence of two new political parties that could qualify candidates for the November 3 election if their petition signatures are verified.

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NEBRASKA GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATE LYNNE WALZ PICKS RUNNING MATE

ELKHORN— Democratic gubernatorial candidate Lynne Walz announced Ben Steffen, a farmer from Humboldt, as her running mate for Nebraska's November election. Steffen has served in leadership roles with several agricultural and local organizations, including the Richardson County Farm Bureau, county planning commission, school board, and other community groups. Walz said she chose Steffen because of his commitment to public service, Nebraska values, and understanding of the challenges facing both rural and urban communities.

At the announcement, Walz and Steffen focused on property tax relief, the state budget, and agriculture. Steffen criticized Gov. Jim Pillen for failing to deliver on property tax relief, while Walz pledged to work across party lines on responsible tax reform that does not reduce essential services. Walz also raised concerns about Nebraska's projected budget deficit, and Steffen highlighted the financial pressures facing farmers, citing projected losses for corn producers. Walz said she intends to run a positive campaign, while Pillen's campaign responded by criticizing her record on taxes, transgender sports policies, and data center subsidies. Walz and Steffen will face Republican Gov. Jim Pillen and Legal Marijuana NOW Party candidate Rick Beard in the November election.

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NONPARTISAN COHEN SUBMITS SIGNATURES SEEKING NEBRASKA'S 3RD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT BALLOT

LINCOLN— Registered nonpartisan candidate Mark Cohen submitted approximately 3,680 signatures to qualify for Nebraska's 3rd Congressional District ballot, exceeding the 2,000 valid signatures required. If enough signatures are verified, Cohen will challenge incumbent Republican Rep. Adrian Smith alongside Democratic nominee Becky Kelly Stille and Legal Marijuana NOW candidate David Else. Cohen argues an independent candidate has a stronger chance of appealing to the district's conservative voters than a traditional Democrat.

The Nebraska Democratic Party continues to support Stille rather than adopting the same independent-backed strategy it is using in the U.S. Senate race with Dan Osborn. Meanwhile, Smith's campaign highlighted the congressman's conservative voting record and legislative accomplishments. Cohen's campaign is part of a broader increase in registered nonpartisan candidates seeking office in Nebraska this election cycle, a trend some have referred to as the "Osborn effect."

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OFFICIALS REJECT MOST SIGNATURES FROM CONSERVATIVE GROUP SEEKING TO RESHAPE LINCOLN ELECTIONS; MORE THAN 13,300 SIGNATURES FLAGGED AS FRAUDULENT

LINCOLN— Lancaster County election officials have referred more than 13,300 petition signatures to law enforcement after identifying them as suspected fraudulent during the review of three Good Government Lincoln petitions seeking to change Lincoln's election system. The petitions, which proposed moving city elections to even-numbered years, imposing City Council term limits, and expanding voting eligibility for some residents outside city limits, fell well short of the required 4,981 valid signatures for each measure. 

Campaign leader Tony Fulton said he supports the investigation and prosecution of anyone responsible for fraudulent signatures while continuing efforts to restart signature gathering before the September 1 certification deadline.

The article also draws comparisons to the 2024 medical cannabis petition investigation, in which election officials uncovered fraudulent signatures that led to criminal charges against a petition circulator and a notary. Supporters of the medical cannabis campaign argue the current petition controversy should receive the same level of scrutiny from state officials, questioning why Attorney General Mike Hilgers has not publicly taken the same aggressive approach. The Nebraska Supreme Court is still considering appeals related to the 2024 medical cannabis petition case.

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NU HIRES DELOITTE TO LOOK FOR AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT ACROSS SYSTEM

LINCOLN— The University of Nebraska has hired Deloitte Consulting under a nearly $1.5 million contract to conduct a system-wide review of the university's academic programs, governance, administrative structure, and financial sustainability. The review, announced by NU President Jeff Gold, aims to identify opportunities to better align academic offerings, improve efficiency, and ensure the university's long-term success. Deloitte will evaluate strategic alignment, mission differentiation, governance, organizational structure, and resource allocation across NU's four campuses before presenting recommendations to university leadership and the Board of Regents.

The review comes as the university faces significant financial challenges, including $29 million in budget cuts for the 2026-27 fiscal year following reduced state appropriations, slow tuition growth, and rising operating costs. Previous budget reductions included a $20 million deficit, faculty buyouts, position eliminations, and the closure of several academic programs. Deloitte's recommendations could include consolidating or eliminating academic programs, restructuring leadership, centralizing or decentralizing administrative services, revising the university's budget model, and making additional budget reductions or reinvestments. The project is scheduled to continue through December 2026, with faculty, staff, and students participating in interviews, focus groups, and listening sessions throughout the review process.

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PILLEN ANNOUNCES PICKS FOR TAX INCENTIVE-ELIGIBLE 'OPPORTUNITY ZONES,' A SLATE STRETCHING STATEWIDE

LINCOLN— Gov. Jim Pillen announced Nebraska's 28 recommended Opportunity Zones, which have been submitted to the U.S. Treasury for certification. The federally designated zones are intended to attract private investment through tax incentives, encouraging economic development, job creation, and the construction of affordable workforce housing. Selected communities include Omaha, Lincoln, Lexington, Scottsbluff, Norfolk, North Platte, McCook, Hastings, Columbus, and several other cities across the state.

A major focus of the announcement was Lexington, where the closure of the Tyson Foods beef plant resulted in the loss of about 3,000 jobs. Local officials believe the opportunity zone designation will help attract new businesses, stimulate housing development, and support the community's economic recovery. Gov. Pillen said the program will encourage public-private partnerships and investment throughout Nebraska.

The updated Opportunity Zones 2.0 program, established under the 2025 federal tax law, expands incentives for long-term investment, particularly in rural communities, while adding stronger reporting and accountability requirements. State officials said Nebraska selected the final 28 zones based on investment readiness, economic need, and the potential to generate lasting community benefits.

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NU STILL GRAPPLING WITH HOW TO FOLLOW JUDGE'S ORDER BANNING IN-STATE TUITION FOR ILLEGALS

LINCOLN— The University of Nebraska is working to comply with a federal court ruling requiring it to charge out-of-state tuition to students who are in the U.S. without legal status. In June, U.S. District Judge Brian Buescher ruled that Nebraska's law allowing those students to receive in-state tuition violates federal law. Although the decision is being appealed, the ruling remains in effect, requiring the university to change its residency verification process.

University officials are developing a system to verify students' U.S. citizenship or other qualifying legal status, potentially using federal financial aid records, passports, or birth certificates. Previously, the university did not collect students' immigration status and only required proof of Nebraska residency. With fall tuition deadlines approaching, it remains unclear whether the new verification procedures will be fully implemented before tuition bills are issued and payments are due.

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PILLEN ADDRESSES COST CONCERNS IN UPDATE ON NEBRASKA TRADE MISSION TO JAPAN, PHILIPPINES

LINCOLN—Gov. Jim Pillen said Nebraska's four-day trade mission to Japan and the Philippines is a strategic investment in the state's economy that costs taxpayers little, despite the state's ongoing budget-cutting efforts. During the trip, Pillen promoted Nebraska exports, including beef, pork, wheat, and ethanol, highlighting Japan's plan to expand E10 fuel by 2030 and opportunities to increase ethanol exports to the Philippines. The delegation also met with U.S. Ambassador Lee Lipton and visited the Manila American Cemetery to honor American service members.

The trade mission drew criticism after Pillen recently directed state agencies to reduce spending by at least 5%, with former State Sen. Julie Slama questioning the timing and cost of the trip. Pillen responded that private industry partners, including agricultural organizations and businesses, cover most of the travel expenses, leaving only minimal costs to the state. He argued the mission is an investment in expanding Nebraska's international trade relationships and creating long-term economic opportunities rather than unnecessary government spending.

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RECALL PETITIONS FILED FOLLOWING LINCOLN COUNTY DATA CENTER VOTE

LINCOLN COUNTY—Three Lincoln County commissioners are facing potential recall elections after voting against a proposed six-month moratorium on new data center developments. The moratorium, supported by many residents, was intended to give the county time to develop regulations addressing concerns over water use, electricity demand, and land development. Commissioners Kent Weems and Micaela Wuehler voted in favor of the moratorium, while Commissioners Joseph Hewgley, Christopher Bruns, and Jerry Woodruff voted against it, prompting recall petitions.

County officials argued that drafting regulations without a moratorium would allow the county to move more quickly and avoid limiting its regulatory options. Commissioner Joseph Hewgley said his vote was procedural and intended to accelerate the development of meaningful regulations while still protecting the county's natural resources. Petitioners must collect more than 2,900 signatures across the affected districts to trigger recall elections, which, due to state election laws, are not expected to take place until January 2027.

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NEBRASKA'S U.S. HOUSE DELEGATION SPLIT OVER GOP AG TEMPORARY WORKER BILL

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Nebraska's U.S. House delegation is divided over the Republican-backed Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act, which would grant temporary legal status through the H-2A visa program to undocumented agricultural workers already in the U.S. who meet work history requirements, while expanding the guest worker program for year-round agricultural operations. Rep. Don Bacon continues to support the bill, arguing it addresses critical labor shortages without providing a pathway to citizenship, while Reps. Mike Flood and Adrian Smith oppose the legislation over concerns that it could reward illegal immigration.

Flood announced he will withdraw as a cosponsor when the House returns to session, citing concerns raised by Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and conservative leaders. Smith also said he cannot support the bill in its current form because it allows individuals who entered the country illegally to apply for legal work status. Bacon defended the legislation as a long-overdue update to the agricultural workforce system, maintaining that it strengthens legal oversight while helping address labor shortages facing producers.

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MIKE FLOOD FACES FURY AT LINCOLN TOWN HALL

LINCOLN—U.S. Rep. Mike Flood faced a large and often hostile crowd during his final Lincoln town hall of the year at Nebraska Wesleyan University, where protesters gathered outside the event, criticizing his votes on Medicaid, SNAP, tariffs, and other federal policies. Inside the packed auditorium, attendees frequently interrupted the 90-minute event with heckling and shouted responses as Flood answered questions on topics including healthcare, immigration, voting rights, and the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Flood opened the town hall by highlighting bipartisan housing legislation he helped pass, calling it the most significant federal housing reform in more than three decades. He defended the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, arguing it provides major tax relief for working Americans while tightening eligibility for Medicaid and other federal benefits. Flood also reaffirmed his support for the SAVE Act, saying that proof-of-citizenship and voter-identification requirements would strengthen confidence in U.S. elections.

Outside the event, Democratic congressional candidate Chris Backemeyer met with attendees and said he hopes to debate Flood during the campaign. The two briefly spoke before the town hall, with Backemeyer saying their teams are working to schedule a debate ahead of the 2026 election.

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TWO NEBRASKA COUNTIES TURN TO GAMING AND KENO REVENUE TO HELP REDUCE PROPERTY TAX INCREASES

LINCOLN—Lancaster County officials are proposing a 3.6% property tax increase for the upcoming budget year, using $2 million in keno and gaming tax revenue to help limit additional tax increases. Rising employee salaries and benefits, including higher health insurance costs, have created a budget shortfall of about $1 million. County officials said using gaming-related revenue allows them to stay within the state's property tax limits and avoid deeper service cuts.

County leaders said gaming and keno funds provide an important source of property tax relief, a strategy also used by Hall County, where casino revenue helps reduce the county's property tax request each year. However, local officials cautioned that state budget pressures and efforts to reduce property taxes are making it more difficult for counties to balance their budgets while maintaining essential public services. Lancaster County is expected to hold a budget hearing in late August before adopting its final budget in early September.

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NEBRASKA AG LEADERS AND CONGRESSMAN BACON DISCUSS TRADE WITH MEXICO AND CANADA AS THE HIGH-DOLLAR DEAL IS RENEGOTIATED

OMAHA— Nebraska agriculture leaders joined U.S. Rep. Don Bacon to discuss the ongoing renegotiation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), emphasizing the importance of maintaining stable trade relationships with the state's two largest agricultural export markets. Industry representatives said the agreement supports billions of dollars in Nebraska exports, thousands of jobs, and provides the certainty farmers need as they face high input costs and low commodity prices.

Participants urged the Trump administration to preserve the agreement's long-term stability rather than rely on annual renegotiations or expanded tariffs. Bacon said tariffs have hurt Midwestern agriculture by shifting export business to countries like Brazil and argued that trade disputes with Canada and Mexico should be resolved through the USMCA's existing legal process. Agricultural leaders warned that continued uncertainty could negatively affect Nebraska producers, manufacturers, and rural communities that depend on international trade.

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