DR. HAROLD 'HAL' MAURER, WHO HELPED TRANSFORM UNMC, HAS DIED

OMAHA— Dr. Harold M. “Hal” Maurer, the longest-serving chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), died Saturday at age 89. Maurer led UNMC from 1998 to 2014, overseeing major growth that helped elevate the medical center’s national and international reputation. During his tenure, he raised hundreds of millions of dollars and helped develop facilities including the Durham Research Center towers, Sorrell Center for Health Science Education and Center for Nursing Science while expanding UNMC’s research programs, enrollment and faculty.

Before becoming an administrator, Maurer was a prominent pediatric oncologist who helped develop treatments for a rare childhood cancer that reduced amputations and improved survival. After stepping down as chancellor, he continued working in pediatrics and helped raise funds for UNMC’s cancer center. Current UNMC Chancellor Dr. H. Dele Davies and NU President Dr. Jeffrey Gold credited Maurer with laying the foundation for UNMC’s growth and research prominence. His contributions earned numerous honors, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Children’s Oncology Group and recognition as the 2004 Midlander of the Year.

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NU CONSIDERING DEGREE ELIMINATIONS, INCLUDING ETHNIC STUDIES AND MEDICAL SPECIALTIES, AT CAMPUSES

LINCOLN— The University of Nebraska Board of Regents will consider eliminating nine low-enrollment degree and certificate programs across UNL, UNMC, UNK, and UNO. The proposed cuts include programs in ethnic studies, insect science, medical nutrition, infectious disease epidemiology, exercise science, long-term care management, business analytics, industrial and organizational psychology, and urban studies. Unlike previous program cuts, the eliminations would produce little direct financial savings, with only UNO projecting savings of about $42,000.

The proposals come as the NU system faces approximately $29 million in budget cuts following Gov. Jim Pillen’s directive to withhold at least 5% of monthly allocations to state-funded entities. University officials say eliminating low-enrollment programs can still free faculty and staff to focus on higher-demand programs, research and student services. At the same meeting, regents will review NU’s request for a 4.25% increase in state funding in each of the next two years, though Nebraska’s growing budget deficit could make securing the additional funding difficult.

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NU REGENTS WILL CONSIDER $166M INCREASE IN STATE TAX DOLLARS IN PROPOSED 2027-29 BUDGET REQUEST

LINCOLN— The University of Nebraska is proposing a significant increase in state funding for the 2027-29 budget cycle, seeking about $91 million more in taxpayer support compared with its current annual budget. The proposal calls for a 4.25% increase in state appropriations each year, largely to keep pace with inflation and rising costs. NU is also requesting additional funding for biomedical research, scholarships for top ACT scorers, expanded research capacity and $55 million to replace aging university-wide administrative software. 

The request comes as Nebraska faces a projected nearly $850 million budget deficit for the 2027-29 cycle and Gov. Jim Pillen pushes state agencies to reduce spending. Pillen argues NU should help address the state's financial challenges and provide measurable justification for additional funding. NU President Jeffrey Gold, however, says years of budget reductions have reached the point where further cuts could harm the university's teaching, research and economic contributions. 

The proposal could face significant resistance in the Legislature. Appropriations Committee Chair Sen. Rob Clements called the requested increases unlikely to be fully approved, particularly while other state agencies are being asked to cut expenses. The NU Board of Regents will consider the proposal before it ultimately goes to state lawmakers, who will determine funding during the next budget process.

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MORE THAN HALF OF NEBRASKA'S FEDERAL RURAL HEALTHCARE FUNDS HAVE BEEN AWARDED TO HOSPITALS, PARTNERS

LINCOLN—Nebraska has awarded about $136 million of its $218.5 million in first-year federal Rural Health Transformation Program funding through nearly 200 agreements aimed at improving health care in rural communities. The funding comes from the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which is providing Nebraska $218.5 million annually for five years. Projects include hospital technology upgrades, workforce incentives, EMS training, oral and behavioral health services, chronic disease programs, and efforts to improve access to healthy foods.

One of the largest recipients is the Nebraska High Value Network, a partnership of 22 rural hospitals that received about $18 million to expand remote patient monitoring. The project will use technology such as wearable BioButtons to monitor patients and connect rural hospitals through centralized data systems. State officials say the program could help rural facilities improve care, reduce emergency room visits and recruit or retain health care professionals.

Nebraska must allocate the remainder of its first-year funding by October 30 or risk having unused money redistributed to other states. DHHS officials expect currently available grant opportunities to account for the full $218.5 million and say the funding represents a major opportunity to strengthen rural health care and keep medical services accessible in Nebraska communities.

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NEBRASKA'S FEDERAL REPRESENTATIVES TALK ENERGY, CHINESE COMPETITION AND IRAN AT SUMMIT

ASHLAND— Nebraska’s congressional delegation highlighted artificial intelligence, data centers, energy independence, housing affordability and national security during the Federal Legislative Summit at the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum. Sen. Pete Ricketts and Reps. Mike Flood and Adrian Smith argued that expanding AI and data center development is important for economic growth and for competing with China, despite concerns in several Nebraska counties about data centers’ water and electricity demands. They acknowledged that AI needs regulation but emphasized that existing laws should continue to hold companies accountable for discrimination and other violations.

The delegation also discussed efforts to address housing and energy costs, highlighting the recently enacted 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which expands housing investment and reduces some regulatory barriers. Ricketts, Flood and Smith defended U.S. military action against Iran while acknowledging concerns about higher fuel prices. On energy, they advocated for greater U.S. independence through nuclear power, biofuels and expanded year-round E15 ethanol sales, which Smith and Flood said would particularly benefit Nebraska’s agricultural economy.

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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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