Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen Announces 2026 Reelection Bid

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen officially announced his bid for a second term, highlighting his conservative achievements including significant tax cuts, increased pay for state troopers, and support for constitutional carry laws. He emphasized his commitment to conservative values by backing restrictions on transgender participation in girls' sports, limiting gender-affirming care for minors, and opposing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in education. Pillen also touted his rural farming background and his administration's efforts to address border security and immigration, including deploying the Nebraska National Guard to the Texas-Mexico border. His campaign messaging aligns closely with former President Donald Trump's agenda, reinforcing his appeal to the Republican base. The governor's priorities also include balancing the state budget, reforming school funding to focus on students rather than systems, and supporting legislation like winner-take-all voting. While some lawmakers appreciate his focus on infrastructure and education, others criticize his emphasis on politically charged cultural issues.