Nebraska gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial election, 2022 (May 10 Republican primary)

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2026
2018
Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Nebraska
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Democratic primary
Republican primary
General election
Election details
Filing deadline: February 15, 2022/March 1, 2022
Primary: May 10, 2022
General: November 8, 2022

Pre-election incumbent(s):
Gov. Pete Ricketts (Republican)
Lt. Gov. Mike Foley (Republican)
How to vote
Poll times: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Central time zone); 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Mountain time zone)
Voting in Nebraska
Ballotpedia analysis
Federal and state primary competitiveness
State executive elections in 2022
Impact of term limits in 2022
State government trifectas
State government triplexes
Ballotpedia's Election Analysis Hub, 2022
Nebraska
executive elections
Governor

Lieutenant Governor
Attorney General
Secretary of State
Treasurer
Auditor
State Board of Education (4 seats)
State Board of Regents (2 seats)
Public Service Commissioner (2 seats)

Jim Pillen defeated eight other candidates in the Republican Party primary for governor of Nebraska on May 10, 2022.[1] Incumbent Gov. Pete Ricketts (R) was term-limited.

Charles Herbster, Brett Lindstrom, and Pillen led in endorsements, funding, and media attention.[2][3][4] On May 1, 2022, the Lincoln Journal Star's Don Walton wrote that the primary had "developed into a fluid and unpredictable [race]," which he said "[appeared] to be tightening with three candidates moving within grasp of victory."[5]

Herbster, who chaired former President Donald Trump's (R) Agriculture and Rural Advisory Committee, described himself as a "political outsider, businessman, and fifth-generation farmer and rancher" and said it was "time for a Nebraska farmer and rancher to lead our great state toward successful solutions."[6][7] Herbster said, "America is in trouble, and if America is in trouble, Nebraska is in trouble. ... Governors moving forward will have two jobs: to lead their state and to pushback against government overreach that’s coming out of Washington like a tsunami."[8] Trump endorsed Herbster in October 2021.[9] Nebraska Lt. Gov. Mike Foley (R) endorsed Herbster in March 2022.[10]

At the time of the election, Lindstrom was a member of the Nebraska Senate. Lindstrom said he had "been at the forefront of tax reform, economic development and family issues" and had "passed legislation to make college more affordable for Nebraskans, defended the unborn, and led the fight against the opioid epidemic."[11] According to Walton, Lindstrom "suggested he has the ability to connect with the next generation of leadership while also bringing valuable legislative experience to the governor's office."[12] Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert and the Nebraska State Education Association endorsed Lindstrom in April 2022.[13][14]

Pillen, a University of Nebraska Regent, veterinarian, and the owner of Pillen Family Farms, said, "I will work to grow our economy and give every child the chance to pursue their dreams right here in Nebraska. We have to fix our broken property tax system and cut taxes. We need to modernize our tax structure, expand broadband access, and improve infrastructure across our state."[15] Ricketts endorsed Pillen in January 2022, and the Nebraska Farm Bureau endorsed Pillen in February.[16][17]

On April 14, 2022, the Nebraska Examiner's Aaron Sanderford reported that eight women had accused Herbster of sexual misconduct occurring between 2017 and 2022.[18] Herbster denied the allegations.[19] Click here for more information about the allegations and candidates' responses.

Also running in the primary were Donna Nicole Carpenter, Michael Connely, Lela McNinch, Breland Ridenour, Theresa Thibodeau, and Troy Wentz.

As of May 2022, major independent observers rated the general election as Solid/Safe Republican. Rickets was first elected in 2014 and won re-election in 2018, defeating state Sen. Bob Krist (D) 59%-41%. At the time of the election, Republicans had held trifecta control of Nebraska state government since 1999.

Michael Connely (R), Lela McNinch (R), and Breland Ridenour (R) completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Click on a candidate's name to view that candidate's responses.

This page focuses on Nebraska's Republican Party gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial primary. For more in-depth information on Nebraska's Democratic gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial primary and the general election, see the following pages:

Election news

Click below to view a timeline leading up to the election, including polling, debates, and other noteworthy events.

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Candidates and election results

Governor

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Governor of Nebraska

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Jim Pillen
Jim Pillen
 
33.9
 
91,555
Image of Charles Herbster
Charles Herbster
 
29.9
 
80,771
Image of Brett Lindstrom
Brett Lindstrom
 
26.1
 
70,554
Image of Theresa Thibodeau
Theresa Thibodeau
 
6.1
 
16,432
Image of Breland Ridenour
Breland Ridenour Candidate Connection
 
1.7
 
4,685
Image of Michael Connely
Michael Connely Candidate Connection
 
1.1
 
2,838
Donna Nicole Carpenter
 
0.6
 
1,536
Image of Lela McNinch
Lela McNinch Candidate Connection
 
0.4
 
1,192
Troy Wentz
 
0.3
 
708

Total votes: 270,271
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Lieutenant governor

According to Nebraska law, each party's gubernatorial nominee must select a running mate for lieutenant governor by September 1 of the election year.[25]

Candidate comparison

Candidate profiles

This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.

Image of Michael Connely

WebsiteFacebookTwitter

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "WHO AM I? I am a patriotic, aggressive Maine Corp Sgt who is not politically correct. My youthful choice of stupidity included, jumping off corn quonsets into hay stacks (painful), jumping over our house with a 125 Kawasaki motorcycle (successful), going water skiing when there was still ice on the water (bad idea), and ripping flesh from my shin bone trying to show off how high I could jump, and then sewing it back up (you need pliers, needle +thread). ​ I have cleaned pigsties, loaded iron, stacked concrete, detasseled corn, stacked hay, been a driver, a store clerk, a waiter, a newspaper boy, and a worker on an assembly line. I have worn most hats. In the military I have walked through machine gun nests, been blown down runways, and have huddled half frozen on the Korean plains during operation Team Spirit. I am just an average Nebraskan, originally from Broken Bow. My family has been in Nebraska for 7 generations. I know what Nebraska was, and what we have lost. I want it back. WORK EXPERIENCE Military Helicopter Communications/Navigation Military Intelligence Security NBC Disaster Preparation Military Medical Laboratory Military Police Government Department of Defense (Testing Administrator) US Census State Quality Assurance Director (Nebraska) Foreign Advisor (Japanese Ministry of Education) Civilian Mechanical and Electrical Assembly Residential Construction Agriculture (Seed Corn, Ranching, Agroforestry) "


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


Precinct by precinct, computer manipulation in our election will be investigated. If guilty, the computer executives will be arrested and prosecuted.


Wasteful bureaucratic independent agencies SHALL be brought under control and dramatically scaled back.


Eroded rights SHALL be restored.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Nebraska in 2022.

Image of Charles Herbster

WebsiteFacebookTwitterYouTube

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography:  Herbster was born in Falls City, Nebraska. At the time of the election, he was the president and chief executive officer of Carico Farms, Herbster Angus Farms, and the Conklin Company.



Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.


Herbster said, “As a fifth-generation farmer and rancher, I understand that agriculture lies at the heart of Nebraska. It is time for a Nebraska farmer and rancher to lead our great state toward successful solutions.”


Herbster said, “It is time for Nebraska to completely rehaul the [tax] system. States like South Dakota have implemented a fair tax system that works for everyone. The creation of a new consumption-based tax system will rebuild those forgotten communities and restore the heart of our state.”


Herbster said, "America is in trouble, and if America is in trouble, Nebraska is in trouble. ... Governors moving forward will have two jobs: to lead their state and to pushback against government overreach that’s coming out of Washington like a tsunami."


Show sources

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Nebraska in 2022.

Image of Brett Lindstrom

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Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: 

Biography:  Lindstrom was born in Lincoln, Nebraska. He received a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His professional experience includes working as a wealth strategy associate.



Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.


Lindstrom highlighted his experience as a state senator, saying he had “been at the forefront of tax reform, economic development and family issues” and had “passed legislation to make college more affordable for Nebraskans, defended the unborn, and led the fight against the opioid epidemic.” 


Lindstrom said, “My bill to eliminate taxes on social security income passed the legislature unanimously, and it was just the first step. We badly need tax reform in Nebraska. We have to fix the property tax situation."


Lindstrom said, “Look, we need a new generation of leadership and I've never been afraid to step up in the pocket. That's why I'm running for governor of the great state of Nebraska.”


Show sources

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Nebraska in 2022.

Image of Lela McNinch

WebsiteFacebookTwitterYouTube

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "Born in the sandhills of Custer County, NE, to Jack and Clara (Clang) Connely, I am a lifelong Nebraskan and Moderate Conservative who has served Nebraskans behind the scenes for over 28 years. At an early age I moved to York, NE with my family where I lived and worked for 42 years before moving to Grand Island and eventually to Lincoln, where I reside with my husband Jerry. Raised in a strong Christian family, and later a graduate of York College, a private Christian College helped set the foundation of my life, beliefs, and service to society. I receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the UNK, Advanced Homeland Security Certification from Tel Aviv University, Israel, and Emergency Management Certifications from FEMA, NEMA and LETRA. Began substitute teaching before landing a full-time job at the Nebraska Department of Correctional, working at NCCW, LCC, Airpark Treatment Center and NSP. for 12 years. Then to Nebraska Emergency Management, Nebraska Department of Education, School Security Services and now Adjunct Professor for UNO. Together my husband Jerry and I have five children and seven grandchildren making a total of seven generations of Nebraskans in my family. "


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


Mental Health/Depression/Suicide. Nebraska is above the nation average for the completion of suicide. For our children it is the second leading cause of death in the state.People filled with such despair and anguish and only wanting relief from that pain but stigmatized by the fear of “mental illness” labels, that they will not reach out for help. Every person I know have felt the effects of suicide. It is something we can prevent. We must help one another.


Creating an inclusive Nebraska which embraces diversity for the growth and betterment of the State. If we truly want to encourage individuals and families to help grow our state, we must be open minded and accepting of all others who want to be part of the community we have here in Nebraska. Accepting and embracing diversity in race, religion, culture, gender or identity, age, language and capabilities are essential to our state's success.


Taxes are killing all of us. It is past due to correct the problem. Creating a flat tax levels the playing field for all Nebraskans. Individuals and business will pay equally a tax percentage of what they purchase. There will be no exceptions for any individual, group of people, business type or service of the state. If you make a purchase, you pay the tax. The goal is to eliminate property taxes.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Nebraska in 2022.

Image of Jim Pillen

WebsiteFacebookTwitterYouTube

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: 

Biography:  Pillen was born in Columbus, Nebraska. He graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a bachelor’s degree in animal science and from Kansas State University with a doctor of veterinary medicine. Pillen’s professional experience includes working as a veterinarian and hog producer.



Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.


Pillen said, “We have to fix our broken property tax system. … We need to limit the growth in spending by local taxing entities and modernize our tax structure to address property taxes once and for all.”


Pillen said, "Half of our kids are graduating from high schools in the state of Nebraska and not getting any skill set. ... We need to break through in K-12 and start engaging business, farmers and ranchers with our kids, in sophomores and juniors in high schools and then we need to scholarship them. Keep them here. Get them educated, pay them through trade school."


Pillen said, “Critical Race Theory has no place in our state, and that’s why I’ve worked with Governor Pete Ricketts to lead the fight against it in Nebraska. Anybody who’s telling you differently isn’t telling you the truth.” 


Show sources

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Nebraska in 2022.

Image of Breland Ridenour

WebsiteFacebookTwitter

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "A middle-class, working Nebraskan that stands firm on two documents of principle - the Holy Bible and the U.S. Constitution. A leader by nature and training, a manager through professional experience, a father and husband."


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


As a Constitutionalist, the rights and liberties of the people must be protected, first and foremost.


I will fight diligently against abortion with the intent to ban it completely. Abortion equals murder. Period.


Our tax structure is crippling our state. I have a solution to the problem and a strategy to get it fixed once and for all.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Governor of Nebraska in 2022.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Precinct by precinct, computer manipulation in our election will be investigated. If guilty, the computer executives will be arrested and prosecuted.

Wasteful bureaucratic independent agencies SHALL be brought under control and dramatically scaled back.

Eroded rights SHALL be restored.
Mental Health/Depression/Suicide. Nebraska is above the nation average for the completion of suicide. For our children it is the second leading cause of death in the state.People filled with such despair and anguish and only wanting relief from that pain but stigmatized by the fear of “mental illness” labels, that they will not reach out for help. Every person I know have felt the effects of suicide. It is something we can prevent. We must help one another.

Creating an inclusive Nebraska which embraces diversity for the growth and betterment of the State. If we truly want to encourage individuals and families to help grow our state, we must be open minded and accepting of all others who want to be part of the community we have here in Nebraska. Accepting and embracing diversity in race, religion, culture, gender or identity, age, language and capabilities are essential to our state's success.

Taxes are killing all of us. It is past due to correct the problem. Creating a flat tax levels the playing field for all Nebraskans. Individuals and business will pay equally a tax percentage of what they purchase. There will be no exceptions for any individual, group of people, business type or service of the state. If you make a purchase, you pay the tax. The goal is to eliminate property taxes.
As a Constitutionalist, the rights and liberties of the people must be protected, first and foremost.

I will fight diligently against abortion with the intent to ban it completely. Abortion equals murder. Period.

Our tax structure is crippling our state. I have a solution to the problem and a strategy to get it fixed once and for all.
I do not believe in making idle promises. I believe in taking action. I have 10 legal initiatives out which are getting signatures every day across the state. I have 10 more waiting for the next initiative period.


These include:

  • Replacing the State Department of Education
  • Medical Freedom (No Mandates)
  • Election Judicial Panel
  • Stand Your Ground Gun Right Restoration and many other right restoration rules.
Government overreach in the attempt to mandate vaccines against the free will of the people.

Recognizing the Rule of Law in the State and Nation to ensure the safety of all citizens. Enforce the laws on the books.

Education proposals and standards to meet accreditation requirements must have representation by both parties in Nebraska. New education proposals must have checks and balance approval before passed. 

Legalizing medical marijuana. The use of THC products works to combat illness and alleviate or eliminate pain or side effects associated with cancer and cancer treatments or permanent medical disabilities such as RNA, Epilepsy, seizures, and Parkinson’s disease.
Restoring and protecting the constitutional rights of the people. Putting an end to abortion. Replacing our tax system with a more efficient and liberty-based one. Eliminating racial indoctrination and grotesque sexual education from our schools. Protecting the people's health freedoms from mandates such as masks and vaccines. Integrating broadband and building a ready-to-break-ground infrastructure. Cutting wasteful government spending and implementing a proper financial reporting system.
Teddy Roosevelt “Speak softly and carry a big stick”

Ronald Reagan “Government is not the solution to our problem, government is the problem”

Donald Trump “I do not have time to be politically correct and neither does America”

Brian Tracy “The act of taking the first step is what separates the winners from the losers.”
Diana, Princess of Wales is the person I look up to and whose example I will continue to follow. She was swept up into the spotlight of royalty but never lost sight of who she was. She remained kind and humble. Her love and care of all humanity remained unwavering through her fame and her fall from grace. Even when she divorced, the Royal Family ostracizing her, and royal titles removed, she continued to serve and care for others. Her true nature of humility and kindness were something that could never be taken from her. That speaks volumes of Her true character, grace, and kindness. Regardless of position, wealth, or title I earn, I strive to remain humble in all I say and do, to serve those around me and show kindness and acceptance to others.
I personally aspire to maintain the principles and characteristics of George Washington, Stonewall Jackson, Gen. George Patton, Ronald Reagan, and Edmund Burke. All these names are individuals that greatly affected meaningful, godly, and patriotic changes to our country. These men did not become great, they already were great. They were just given an opportunity to perform.
Look up my mentors.
A film “The Social Dilemma” a documentary by Netflix and the book “Stop Teaching our Kids to Kill” By Dave Grossman and Gloria Degaetano are both resources everyone should watch and read. I believe it will help provide a clear understanding of my approach to leading the State.
Already addressed this.
Elected officials must have common sense, honesty, transparency, inclusiveness, kindness, strength, confidence and remain humble. The safety and care of people should always be the priority. An elected official must consider the wishes of the constituents and be open to and acceptant of opinions other than their own. A great governor or any elected official must truly listen to what people are saying.
The qualities I possess that will make me a successful officer holder are that I am a positive person who strives to see the best in all people. My optimism serves to motivate and encourage people, even in the worst situations. I'm someone that people can relate to, which makes me approachable if any Nebraskan wants to discuss any issues. I am kind, smart, fierce and bold, which allows me not to be intimidated or easily influenced by others regardless of position. I'm not afraid to make the tough decisions for the good of the State and use critical thinking to make the decision, but also to be transparent to my constituents in why I made the decision. I have the integrity to do the right thing even when no one is looking.
I put God first in all things. This is a country founded on Christian principles. I will lead in maintaining recognition and appeal to God for all matters.

I am an individual that stands firm on principle . What's right is right, and what's wrong is wrong. Principle remains constant and does not change with perceived logic or statistics.

I am a manager by trade. I have experience in budgeting, hiring/firing, and making tough decisions.

I am a leader by nature and training. I will lead by example and not ask others to do what I won't do.

I am a full perspective thinker. I work hard to see the issue from all angles to ensure a complete understanding of the problem at hand.

I am a solution-finder. I look inside and outside the box to create and identify solutions that will fix the core issues and not violate the rights of the people.

I am a well-versed communicator. Nothing can be accomplished in government without working with others.

I am a middle-class citizen. I have no interest in clout, celebrity status, or money. I am here to make my our home a better place.
Already addressed this.
The core responsibility of the Governor is to keep its citizens safe, whether it is responding to natural disasters, health emergencies or manufactured crisis. Safety includes being able to keep more money in people's pockets for our basic human necessities. A Governor must always be bold enough to stand firm against the overreach of the federal government to our State.

Developing a budget together with the representative of the people and sticking to that budget with an unobstructed vision of long-term goals and needs for the State. Oversight of each State agency to ensure accountability to the citizens and to ensure spending is thrifty and not wasteful.

Reform and restructure the Nebraska Legislature...

Simplify and dramatically downsize the Nebraska Government...

Make Nebraska able to stand on its own as an independent state in emergency situations...
The legacy I would like to leave is to be the leader who truly broke down barriers and united the people. To be the leader who successfully revealed to society that we all are striving to achieve the same things. Safety for ourselves and families, enough food to eat, somewhere comfortable to call home. To have the opportunity to pursue our dreams without condemnation or belittlement by others. Our dreams and goals are OUR dreams and goals and no one should attempt to block them because the ideation does not match that of their own. I hope to guide people to focus on their own success rather than worrying or rising to contentious actions in situations or to people they cannot change. Find greatness in yourself.
November 22, 1963. Kennedy was shot. I had no idea who he was as I was not quite 3 years old, but I knew what getting shot meant.
The first historical event that happened in my lifetime was on July 20, 1969. I remember sitting in the living room in Bradshaw, NE with my family watching the black and white TV as Neil Armstrong stepped out of the rocket, down the ladder and onto the surface of the moon. “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” I was four and a half years old.
My first job was door to door sales of greeting cards when I was 7 years old.
The first Job I had was being a flag car driver for my dad, escorting oversized loads on the highways across the plains. Together we delivered mobile homes so people would have a warm place to live. I had the job for two years before I left for college.
Hog confinement worker at the age of 12.
One Second After. Read it and you will see why.
My favorite book is (NARNIA)The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. It is my favorite because all the people found themselves in new situation where they had to discover who was friend and who was foe. Each person is allowed to choose to serve good or evil. Although they were unsure and frightened of the opportunities presented to them, they did not allow fear to stop them. Even when they had to make choices that may cost them their life, they chose to serve for the good of the masses. The book impacted me as a young girl so much so, that even though there were opportunities that scared me, I took them because failure happens only by not trying.
Batman... Taking a mere human and doing great things with physical limitations.
OH, you will laugh at this one. My fictional character would be Jiminy Cricket. That tiny little powerful chirper who is always putting thoughts in your head to help you overcome your fear and make good decisions. Jiminy is small, strong, brave, honest and loyal. If you do not know who this is, watch Pinocchio.
I am a musician, no one song gets stuck in my head.
Turn The Page by Bob Segar
Sleep, it interferes with my work and study.
Asking for help from others. It's difficult to accept the humility in knowing that I cannot do it all by myself. It has always been very humbling for me to swallow my pride and say, "I need help."
Those with the greatest power have the responsibility to do the most good.
The Governor is the leader of the State and the face to which citizens look for guidance in all things. A Governor should demonstrate and represent unity for all citizens of the State regardless of color, religion, status, race, gender, or identity. A Governor will serve as the example to all individuals, in diplomacy, acceptance and equity. A Governor should serve to empower all citizens and encourage them to be their best. To challenge them to be more and to serve one another and the State for the goodness of all.
As governor, I am a leader, a role model, a representative of Nebraska, and a guardian. The governor interfaces with both, state affairs and federal affairs. A governor is a leader of the people - to use his resources to embolden, educate, motivate his constituents, and represent the needs of the people.
No comment, these questions are becoming trivial. There are other more pressing concerns.
The core responsibility of the Governor is to keep its citizens safe, whether it is responding to natural disasters, health emergencies or manufactured crisis.

To be the Governor means to be the voice of the people and for the people with clear communications in listening and speaking to the legislature in the development of new laws and enforcement of current rules. A Governor's responsibility is to develop a budget together with the representative of the people and stick to that budget with an unobstructed vision of long-term goals and needs for the State. But to also be flexible enough with funds to address unforeseen crisis in the State in order to lift burdens from the citizens.

A Governor is responsible for the oversight of each State agency to ensure accountability to the citizens and to ensure spending is thrifty and not wasteful.
The governor is the watchdog for the people. His first objective should be to protect them from bad state and federal policies, especially those that infringe on the rights of the people.
No comment, these questions are becoming trivial. There are other more pressing concerns.
I believe the Governor should have input in the creation of the States budgeting process. The Governor should have the authority to access funds to respond to unforeseen needs of the State. The Legislative Representative should play a large part in the creation of the state budget, since they are the people who have a clearer understanding of the needs of their districts. The Governor should be flexible enough to work with all involved to create a sound, sustainable annual or multi-year budget.
No comment, these questions are becoming trivial. There are other more pressing concerns.
My philosophy in making line-item vetoes is to ensure fairness and representation to everyone. No person, group of people, special interest groups, small or large businesses would be preferably included or exempt from the requirement of the law. 
No comment, these questions are becoming trivial. There are other more pressing concerns.
No comment, these questions are becoming trivial. There are other more pressing concerns.
The ideal relationship between Governor and State Legislature is one of open, honest communication with the understanding that they have a shared responsibility to the people of the State. It is important to have checks and balances. It is important to understand where people are coming from as they present proposals for laws. Learning about their life and experiences will clarify the importance of the issues that they find important.
The governor must have a healthy and working relationship with the legislature if he is to accomplish meaningful change. This relationship is achieved with active listening, common respect, and astute communication.
My family has been in Nebraska for 7 generations. It is my home.
I love the people most of all. Nebraska is unique in that we can have a big city life or the peace and solitude of nature in our rural areas. It does not matter where you go, the people in the State are genuinely and sincerely kind. They will help you when you need help, hold and support you when you grieve, celebrate the joys of life as a community and cheer together in the boisterous amusement of competition. We have our differences and conflicts like all society, but ultimately, we have each other's back.
We will not last a decade at this rate.
In the next decade I believe the states greatest challenge will be civil unrest and natural disasters. Contentious acts and words by people, now have a platform with instantaneous call to action by those who are bad players. A person can choose any topic, find like-minded individuals, and ignite arguments and a call to violent actions.

I believe society will reach a tipping point where people who work long and hard for what they have will fight back against those for whom believe they should just receive what others have worked for. Whoever is in charge should have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to collaborate with all responders in a seamless coordinated fashion for the protection of people across the State, and the clarity to de-escalate the violence and listen to all involved to provide a viable solution. There is no doubt that our weather and climate is changing in Nebraska. I foresee the current natural disasters we face each year will amplify in their intensity. This is something we cannot control but will need to adapt and have a solid understanding of the mitigation, response, and recovery for citizens to keep them alive, safe, and well cared for.

It is DEFINITELY not politically correct.
My dog got over the fence and I found him with my neighbor's prize rabbit in his mouth. I was mortified, brought the rabbit inside and cleaned him up, fluffed him to make him look like the blue-ribbon winner he was and placed him back on the neighbors back steps. I heard the neighbor scream in horror when he got home. So, I went out to check on him and asked what was wrong. He said " I buried that thing four days ago and I came home to find him sitting on my back steps.
No comment, these questions are becoming trivial. There are other more pressing concerns.
The Governor should be able to use emergency powers in the event of State or National disasters or manufactured emergencies that threaten the life and well-being of citizens. When the crisis goes above and beyond the capability of agencies or individuals to respond safely or make a decision without clear and full knowledge of the crisis, it is the responsibility of the Governor to shoulder the full weight of decisions and carry the responsibility of any and all consequences for the people. It is an enormous responsibility and each Nebraskan needs to weigh the trust of a person they select to represent, guide and protect them.
To protect the life and liberties of the people.



Campaign advertisements

This section includes a selection of up to three campaign advertisements per candidate released in this race, as well as links to candidates' YouTube, Vimeo, and/or Facebook video pages. If you are aware of other links that should be included, please email us.

Republican Party Donna Nicole Carpenter

Have a link to Carpenter's campaign ads? Email us.

Republican Party Michael Connely

Have a link to Connely's campaign ads? Email us.

Republican Party Charles Herbster

April 27, 2022
April 16, 2022
April 25, 2021

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Republican Party Brett Lindstrom

April 27, 2022
April 27, 2022
July 19, 2021

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Republican Party Lela McNinch

February 4, 2022

View more ads here:

Republican Party Jim Pillen

May 8, 2022
May 6, 2022
April 9, 2021

View more ads here:


Republican Party Breland Ridenour

Have a link to Ridenour's campaign ads? Email us.

Republican Party Theresa Thibodeau

February 14, 2022

View more ads here:

Republican Party Troy Wentz

Have a link to Wentz's campaign ads? Email us.

Satellite ads

This section includes a selection of campaign advertisements released by satellite groups. If you are aware of other satellite ads that should be included, please email us.

Conservative Nebraska

As of April 25, 2022, independent political action committee Conservative Nebraska had spent $569,694 opposing Herbster and $561,977 opposing Lindstrom, according to records filed with the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission. Incumbent Pete Ricketts (R) had contributed $1,275,000 to the PAC.[26] According to the Nebraska Examiner's Aaron Sanderford, Ricketts said, "I want Nebraska Republicans to have the facts when they head to the polls."[27]

A selection of Conservative Nebraska ads are included below:

May 5, 2022
April 30, 2022
April 1, 2022

View more ads here:

Restore the Good Life

Restore the Good Life spent $150,000 on March 18 to run an ad opposing Lindstrom in Omaha.[27][28] According to the Omaha World-Herald's Sara Gentzler, the group also contributed $100,000 to Conservative Nebraska and $150,000 to Say No to RINOs.[29] As of May 8, 2022, Ballotpedia had not located the group's filings with the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission.

As of May 8, Restore the Good Life had released the following ads:

April 6, 2022
March 19, 2022
Say No to RINOs

According to Sanderford, the group Say No to RINOs "started running TV ads [the week of April 7] in Scottsbluff, Lincoln and Grand Island attacking Lindstrom’s record."[30] Gentzler wrote on April 13, "Andrew La Grone, a former state senator, is listed as its treasurer. Public records show property at the group’s listed address is owned by La Grone and Sen. Julie Slama, who are married."[28]

As of April 25, 2022, Say No to RINOs had spent $149,400 opposing Lindstrom, according to records filed with the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission.[31]

As of May 8, Say No to RINOs had released the following ads:

May 3, 2022
April 8, 2022

Debates and forums

This section includes links to debates, forums, and other similar events where multiple candidates in this race participated. If you are aware of any debates or forums that should be included, please email us.

April 6 forum

On April 6, 2022, Herbster, Lindstrom, and Thibodeau participated in a forum hosted by the Greater Omaha Chamber.[21]

Click on the links below for summaries of the event:

March 24 debate

On March 24, 2022, Herbster, Lindstrom, Ridenour, and Thibodeau participated in a debate hosted by Nebraska Public Media.[22]

Click on the links below for summaries of the event:

February 3 forum

On February 3, 2022, Herbster, Lindstrom, Pillen, Ridenour, and Thibodeau participated in a forum hosted by the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce. Democratic candidate Carol Blood also participated in the event.[23]

Click on the links below for summaries of the event:

December 5 forum

On December 5, 2021, Connely, Herbster, Lindstrom, Pillen, Ridenour, and Thibodeau participated in a forum hosted by the Nebraska Farm Bureau.[24]

Click on the links below for summaries of the event:

News and conflicts

This race was featured in The Heart of the Primaries, a newsletter capturing stories related to conflicts within each major party. Click here to read more about conflict in this and other 2022 Republican gubernatorial primaries. Click here to subscribe to the newsletter.

Noteworthy endorsements

See also: Ballotpedia: Our approach to covering endorsements

This section lists noteworthy endorsements issued in this election, including those made by high-profile individuals and organizations, cross-party endorsements, and endorsements made by newspaper editorial boards. It also includes a bulleted list of links to official lists of endorsements for any candidates who published that information on their campaign websites. Please note that this list is not exhaustive. If you are aware of endorsements that should be included, please click here.


Republican primary endorsements
Endorser Republican Party Charles Herbster Republican Party Brett Lindstrom Republican Party Jim Pillen
Government officials
U.S. Sen. Rand Paul (R)  source    
Gov. Pete Ricketts (R)  source    
Mayor Jean Stothert  source    
Lt. Gov. Mike Foley (R)  source    
Individuals
Frmr. Gov. Kay Orr  source    
Frmr. President Donald Trump  source    
Organizations
Nebraska Farm Bureau  source    
Nebraska State Education Association  source    

Election competitiveness

Polls

See also: Ballotpedia's approach to covering polls

We provide results for polls that are included in polling aggregation from FiveThirtyEight and RealClearPolitics, when available. No polls were available for this election. To notify us of polls published in this election, please email us.

General election race ratings

See also: Race rating definitions and methods

Ballotpedia provides race ratings from four outlets: The Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, Sabato's Crystal Ball, and DDHQ/The Hill. Each race rating indicates if one party is perceived to have an advantage in the race and, if so, the degree of advantage:

  • Safe and Solid ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge and the race is not competitive.
  • Likely ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge, but an upset is possible.
  • Lean ratings indicate that one party has a small edge, but the race is competitive.[32]
  • Toss-up ratings indicate that neither party has an advantage.

Race ratings are informed by a number of factors, including polling, candidate quality, and election result history in the race's district or state.[33][34][35]

Race ratings: Nebraska gubernatorial election, 2022
Race trackerRace ratings
November 8, 2022November 1, 2022October 25, 2022October 18, 2022
The Cook Political Report with Amy WalterSolid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid Republican
Inside Elections with Nathan L. GonzalesSolid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid RepublicanSolid Republican
Larry J. Sabato's Crystal BallSafe RepublicanSafe RepublicanSafe RepublicanSafe Republican
Note: Ballotpedia reviews external race ratings every week throughout the election season and posts weekly updates even if the media outlets have not revised their ratings during that week.

Election spending

Campaign finance

This section contains campaign finance figures from candidates submitted to the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission in this election. It does not include information on spending by satellite groups. Click here to access the reports.

Satellite spending

See also: Satellite spending

Satellite spending describes political spending not controlled by candidates or their campaigns; that is, any political expenditures made by groups or individuals that are not directly affiliated with a candidate. This includes spending by political party committees, super PACs, trade associations, and 501(c)(4) nonprofit groups.[36][37][38]

If available, links to satellite spending reports by the Federal Election Commission and OpenSecrets.org are linked below. Any satellite spending reported in other resources is displayed in a table. This table may not represent the actual total amount spent by satellite groups in the election. Satellite spending for which specific amounts, dates, or purposes are not reported are marked "N/A." To help us complete this information, or to notify us of additional satellite spending, email us.

Satellite spending in Nebraska gubernatorial election, 2022 (May 10 Republican primary)
Organization Amount Date Purpose
Conservative Nebraska[39]$554,000March 17, 2022Opposing Charles Herbster
Restore the Good Life[27]$150,000March 18, 2022Opposing Brett Lindstrom
Say No to RINOs[31]$87,550April 6, 2022Opposing Brett Lindstrom
Conservative Nebraska[26]$15,694April 7, 2022Opposing Charles Herbster
Say No to RINOs[31]$61,850April 14, 2022Opposing Brett Lindstrom
Conservative Nebraska[26]$561,977April 22, 2022Opposing Brett Lindstrom

Noteworthy events

Herbster accused of sexual misconduct by eight women, denies allegations and sues accuser

On April 14, 2022, the Nebraska Examiner's Aaron Sanderford reported that eight women, including state Sen. Julie Slama (R), said that Herbster had sexually assaulted them between 2017 and 2022. According to Sanderford, "Slama confirmed that as she walked by Herbster, he reached up her skirt, without her consent, and touched her inappropriately. ... [Six women] said Herbster groped them on their buttocks, outside of their clothes, during political events or beauty pageants. ... A seventh woman said Herbster once cornered her privately and kissed her forcibly."[18]

Sanderford said the Examiner corroborated each account with either at least one witness or at least one individual who was told of the alleged incident on the same day it was said to have occurred.[18][40]

Herbster first responded to the accusations reported by the Nebraska Examiner in a statement on April 14: "These libelous accusations are 100% false. ... It's only after I've threatened the stranglehold the establishment has on this state do they stoop to lies this large. This story is a ridiculous, unfounded dirty political trick being carried out by Pete Ricketts and Jim Pillen."[19]

Herbster filed a defamation lawsuit against Slama on April 22, 2022.[41] To view the lawsuit and read statements from Herbster and Slama's representatives, click here. Slama, who said Herbster's lawsuit was a "frivolous and bad-faith attempt to bully a sexual assault victim into silence," countersued Herbster for sexual battery on April 25.[42][43] Her lawsuit can be viewed here.

On April 26, the Herbster campaign released an ad that said: "Clarence Thomas. Then Brett Kavanaugh. Lies stacked up to ruin them. Now Pillen and Ricketts are doing it to Charles W. Herbster. The facts? Herbster's accuser was employed by Ricketts. Her husband and sister? Ricketts gave them jobs too. And even after the supposed incident, she kept contacting Herbster. Texts, calls, meetings, even invited Herbster to her destination wedding. Jim Pillen's attack on Herbster: built on lies."[44] Slama's attorney said the ad "[promoted] a far-ranging conspiracy theory that other people [were] behind well-corroborated reports of sexual assault and harassment of 8 women and at least 3 on-the-record witness accounts." He said, "Charles Herbster is solely responsible for the harm he inflicted against Senator Slama, and he will answer for it in court."[43]

On April 29, a second of the eight women, Elizabeth Todsen, allowed her name to be made public. Todsen said Herbster groped her at the same 2019 fundraiser at which he allegedly groped Slama. Todsen was a legislative assistant at the time.[45][46]

In response to Todsen's account, Herbster's campaign said on April 30, "Just 10 days before the Republican Primary for Governor, Charles W. Herbster’s political opponents with ties to Governor Ricketts have launched this disgusting smear attack on him. ... Charles W. Herbster has already filed legal action against one of the people named in reports and will be taking legal action against others. He will not stop fighting until his name is cleared and he is vindicated."[47]

Responses from other political figures

Other candidates in the primary responded to the allegations on April 14:

  • Pillen: "Sexually assaulting women should be disqualifying for anyone seeking to serve as a leader."[48]
  • Lindstrom: "I was disgusted reading the stories of my colleague, Senator Slama, and the other brave women who came forward today. ... We need to listen to and stand with the victims."[49]
  • Thibodeau: "The allegations outlined against Charles Herbster are morally repugnant and in stark contrast to the principles of basic human decency. ... I unequivocally support Senator Julie Slama and the seven brave young women who shared their stories."[50]

On April 15, Nebraska Republican Party Chairman Dan Welch said, "Without casting judgement in this matter, the NEGOP condemns all forms of sexual assault and believes any allegation must be investigated appropriately. … Per the NEGOP Constitution, the party remains neutral in the Governor’s primary. … The NEGOP will support our nominees for the general election."[51]

On April 19, Ricketts said, "It is ridiculous to suggest that I or anyone else conspired to talk eight women and even more witnesses to make up stories about Charles Herbster. ... It’s just not plausible." According to the Omaha World-Herald's Sara Gentzler, Pillen's campaign also "said in a statement that it was not behind the story."[52]

On May 1, former President Donald Trump (R) spoke at a rally for Herbster and responded to the allegations: "Charles is a fine man and he is innocent of these despicable charges, by the way Charles welcome to politics. ... These are malicious charges to derail him long enough that the election can go by before the proper defense can be put forward."[53] Trump said, "I defend people when I know they're good. He's a good man. He was with us from the beginning ... he's an innocent human being."[54]

Election context

Nebraska gubernatorial election history

2018

See also: Nebraska gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial election, 2018

General election

General election for Governor of Nebraska

Incumbent Pete Ricketts defeated Bob Krist in the general election for Governor of Nebraska on November 6, 2018.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Pete Ricketts
Pete Ricketts (R)
 
59.0
 
411,812
Image of Bob Krist
Bob Krist (D)
 
41.0
 
286,169

Total votes: 697,981
(100.00% precincts reporting)
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Governor of Nebraska

Bob Krist defeated Vanessa Ward and Tyler Davis in the Democratic primary for Governor of Nebraska on May 15, 2018.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Bob Krist
Bob Krist
 
59.8
 
54,992
Vanessa Ward
 
28.8
 
26,478
Tyler Davis
 
11.4
 
10,472

Total votes: 91,942
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Governor of Nebraska

Incumbent Pete Ricketts defeated Krystal Gabel in the Republican primary for Governor of Nebraska on May 15, 2018.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Pete Ricketts
Pete Ricketts
 
81.4
 
138,292
Image of Krystal Gabel
Krystal Gabel
 
18.6
 
31,568

Total votes: 169,860
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

2014

See also: Nebraska gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial election, 2014
Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Nebraska, 2014
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngPete Ricketts/Mike Foley 57.2% 308,751
     Democratic Chuck Hassebrook/Jane Raybould 39.3% 211,905
     Libertarian Mark G. Elworth Jr./Scott Zimmerman 3.5% 19,001
Total Votes 539,657
Election results via Nebraska Secretary of State

2010

On November 2, 2010, Dave Heineman won re-election to the office of Governor of Nebraska. He defeated Mike Meister in the general election.

Governor of Nebraska, 2010
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Republican Green check mark transparent.pngDave Heineman Incumbent 73.9% 360,645
     Democratic Mike Meister 26.1% 127,343
Total Votes 487,988
Election results via Nebraska office of the Secretary of State.


State profile

Demographic data for Nebraska
 NebraskaU.S.
Total population:1,893,765316,515,021
Land area (sq mi):76,8243,531,905
Race and ethnicity**
White:88.1%73.6%
Black/African American:4.7%12.6%
Asian:2%5.1%
Native American:0.9%0.8%
Pacific Islander:0.1%0.2%
Two or more:2.2%3%
Hispanic/Latino:10%17.1%
Education
High school graduation rate:90.7%86.7%
College graduation rate:29.3%29.8%
Income
Median household income:$52,997$53,889
Persons below poverty level:14.6%11.3%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2010-2015)
Click here for more information on the 2020 census and here for more on its impact on the redistricting process in Nebraska.
**Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.

Presidential voting pattern

See also: Presidential voting trends in Nebraska

Nebraska voted Republican in all seven presidential elections between 2000 and 2024.

Pivot Counties (2016)

Ballotpedia identified 206 counties that voted for Donald Trump (R) in 2016 after voting for Barack Obama (D) in 2008 and 2012. Collectively, Trump won these Pivot Counties by more than 580,000 votes. Of these 206 counties, one is located in Nebraska, accounting for 0.5 percent of the total pivot counties.[55]

Pivot Counties (2020)

In 2020, Ballotpedia re-examined the 206 Pivot Counties to view their voting patterns following that year's presidential election. Ballotpedia defined those won by Trump won as Retained Pivot Counties and those won by Joe Biden (D) as Boomerang Pivot Counties. Nationwide, there were 181 Retained Pivot Counties and 25 Boomerang Pivot Counties. Nebraska had one Retained Pivot County, 0.55 percent of all Retained Pivot Counties.

More Nebraska coverage on Ballotpedia

Election analysis

Click the tabs below to view information about demographics, past elections, and partisan control of the state.

  • Presidential elections - Information about presidential elections in the state.
  • Statewide elections - Information about recent U.S. Senate and gubernatorial elections in the state.
  • State partisanship - The partisan makeup of the state's congressional delegation and state government.
  • Demographics - Information about the state's demographics and how they compare to the country as a whole.

Presidential elections

See also: Presidential voting trends in Nebraska and The Cook Political Report's Partisan Voter Index

Cook PVI by congressional district

Cook Political Report's Partisan Voter Index for Nebraska, 2022
District Incumbent Party PVI
Nebraska's 1st Mike Flood Ends.png Republican R+9
Nebraska's 2nd Don Bacon Ends.png Republican Even
Nebraska's 3rd Adrian Smith Ends.png Republican R+29


2020 presidential results by 2022 congressional district lines

2020 presidential results in congressional districts based on 2022 district lines, Nebraska[56]
District Joe Biden Democratic Party Donald Trump Republican Party
Nebraska's 1st 43.3% 54.3%
Nebraska's 2nd 52.2% 45.8%
Nebraska's 3rd 23.1% 74.9%


2012-2020

How a state's counties vote in a presidential election and the size of those counties can provide additional insights into election outcomes at other levels of government including statewide and congressional races. Below, four categories are used to describe each county's voting pattern over the 2012, 2016, and 2020 presidential elections: Solid, Trending, Battleground, and New. Click [show] on the table below for examples:


Following the 2020 presidential election, 53.4% of Nebraskans lived in one of the state's 90 Solid Republican counties, which voted for the Republican presidential candidate in every election from 2012 to 2020, and 46.2% lived in one of two Trending Democratic counties: Douglas and Lancaster. Overall, Nebraska was Solid Republican, having voted for Mitt Romney (R) in 2012, Donald Trump (R) in 2016, and Donald Trump (R) in 2020. Use the table below to view the total number of each type of county in Nebraska following the 2020 election as well as the overall percentage of the state population located in each county type.

Historical voting trends

Nebraska presidential election results (1900-2020)

  • 6 Democratic wins
  • 25 Republican wins
Year 1900 1904 1908 1912 1916 1920 1924 1928 1932 1936 1940 1944 1948 1952 1956 1960 1964 1968 1972 1976 1980 1984 1988 1992 1996 2000 2004 2008 2012 2016 2020
Winning Party R R D D D R R R D D R R R R R R D R R R R R R R R R R R R R R

Statewide elections

This section details the results of the five most recent U.S. Senate and gubernatorial elections held in the state.

U.S. Senate elections

See also: List of United States Senators from Nebraska

The table below details the vote in the five most recent U.S. Senate races in Nebraska.

U.S. Senate election results in Nebraska
Race Winner Runner up
2020 62.7%Republican Party 24.4%Democratic Party
2018 57.7%Republican Party 38.6%Democratic Party
2014 64.4%Republican Party 31.5%Democratic Party
2012 57.8%Republican Party 42.2%Democratic Party
2008 57.5%Republican Party 40.1%Democratic Party
Average 60.0 35.4

Gubernatorial elections

See also: Governor of Nebraska

The table below details the vote in the five most recent gubernatorial elections in Nebraska.

Gubernatorial election results in Nebraska
Race Winner Runner up
2018 59.0%Republican Party 41.0%Democratic Party
2014 57.2%Republican Party 39.2%Democratic Party
2010 73.9%Republican Party 26.1%Democratic Party
2006 73.4%Republican Party 24.5%Democratic Party
2002 68.7%Republican Party 27.5%Democratic Party
Average 66.4 31.7

State partisanship

Congressional delegation

The table below displays the partisan composition of Nebraska's congressional delegation as of November 2022.

Congressional Partisan Breakdown from Nebraska, November 2022
Party U.S. Senate U.S. House Total
Democratic 0 0 0
Republican 2 3 5
Independent 0 0 0
Vacancies 0 0 0
Total 2 3 5

State executive

The table below displays the officeholders in Nebraska's top four state executive offices as of November 2022.

State executive officials in Nebraska, November 2022
Office Officeholder
Governor Republican Party Pete Ricketts
Lieutenant Governor Republican Party Mike Foley
Secretary of State Republican Party Bob Evnen
Attorney General Republican Party Doug Peterson

State legislature

The table below highlights the partisan composition of the Nebraska State Senate as of November 2022.

Nebraska State Senate

Party As of November 2022
     Democratic Party 17
     Republican Party 32
     Independent 0
     Vacancies 0
Total 49

Trifecta control

As of November 2022, Nebraska was a Republican trifecta, with a majority in the state legislature and control of the governorship. The table below displays the historical trifecta status of the state.

Nebraska Party Control: 1992-2022
Seven years of Democratic trifectas  •  Twenty-four years of Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Governor D D D D D D D R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R
Senate - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Demographics

The table below details demographic data in Nebraska and compares it to the broader United States as of 2019.

Demographic Data for Nebraska
Nebraska United States
Population 1,961,504 331,449,281
Land area (sq mi) 76,817 3,531,905
Race and ethnicity**
White 85.3% 70.4%
Black/African American 4.8% 12.6%
Asian 2.5% 5.6%
Native American 0.9% 0.8%
Pacific Islander 0.1% 0.2%
Other (single race) 2.5% 5.1%
Multiple 3.9% 5.2%
Hispanic/Latino 11.2% 18.2%
Education
High school graduation rate 91.6% 88.5%
College graduation rate 32.5% 32.9%
Income
Median household income $63,015 $64,994
Persons below poverty level 10.4% 12.8%
Source: population provided by U.S. Census Bureau, "Decennial Census" (2020). Other figures provided by U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2015-2020).
**Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.


2022 battleground elections

See also: Battlegrounds

This election was a battleground race. Other 2022 battleground elections included:

See also

Nebraska State Executive Elections News and Analysis
Seal of Nebraska.png
StateExecLogo.png
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Nebraska State Executive Offices
Nebraska State Legislature
Nebraska Courts
2025202420232022202120202019201820172016
Nebraska elections: 2025202420232022202120202019201820172016
Party control of state government
State government trifectas
State of the state addresses
Partisan composition of governors

External links

Footnotes

  1. According to Nebraska law, each party's gubernatorial nominee must select a running mate for lieutenant governor by September 1 of the election year.
  2. The Grand Island Independent, "Top three Republican gubernatorial candidates talk about campaign, their priorities," February 21, 2022
  3. Omaha World-Herald, "Nebraska governor primary heats up with 'dark money' ads; polling shows 3-way contest," March 21, 2022
  4. KETV, "Nebraska gubernatorial race is 'officially a three-person race,'" April 8, 2022
  5. Lincoln Journal Star, "Don Walton: Fluid Nebraska GOP governor race enters final days," May 1, 2022
  6. Charles Herbster 2022 campaign website, "About," accessed February 28, 2022
  7. Charles Herbster 2022 campaign website, "The Herbster Plan," accessed March 22, 2022
  8. Nebraska Public Media, "Meet Nebraska's Republican Candidates for Governor," April 22, 2022
  9. Save America, "Endorsement of Charles W. Herbster," October 26, 2021
  10. Huskeradio, "Nebraska Lieutenant Governor Mike Foley Endorses Charles Herbster for NE Governor," March 16, 2022
  11. Brett Lindstrom 2022 campaign website, "Bio," accessed February 28, 2022
  12. Lincoln Journal Star, "Gubernatorial candidates talk taxes, workforce, retention of young Nebraskans," February 3, 2022
  13. KMTV, "'The type of leadership we need': Mayor Stothert endorses Lindstrom in GOP primary for Neb. Governor," April 4, 2022
  14. Lincoln Journal Star, "State teachers union endorses primary election candidates," April 7, 2022
  15. Jim Pillen 2022 campaign website, "Home," accessed February 28, 2022
  16. Lincoln Journal Star, "Ricketts endorses Regent Jim Pillen in governor's race," January 18, 2022
  17. Lincoln Journal Star, "Farm Bureau endorses Pillen in GOP gubernatorial race," February 1, 2022
  18. 18.0 18.1 18.2 Nebraska Examiner, "GOP state senator, seven other women say Charles Herbster groped them; he denies allegations," April 14, 2022
  19. 19.0 19.1 Facebook, "Charles W. Herbster on April 14, 2022," accessed April 18, 2022
  20. 20.0 20.1 20.2 Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission, "View Campaign Filings," accessed February 28, 2022
  21. 21.0 21.1 WOWT, "Election 2022: Three Republican gubernatorial candidates participate in forum," April 6, 2022
  22. 22.0 22.1 KETV, "Four Nebraska gubernatorial candidates face off in debate," March 25, 2022
  23. 23.0 23.1 KOLN "Election 2022: Nebraska Governor’s Race candidates participate in forum," February 3, 2022
  24. 24.0 24.1 NTV News, "Agriculture forum shows where gubernatorial candidates stand," December 5, 2021
  25. Nebraska Legislature, "Nebraska Revised Statute 32-619.01," accessed February 22, 2022
  26. 26.0 26.1 26.2 Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission, "Filings for Conservative Nebraska: 2nd primary campaign statement (Form B-4)," May 2, 2022
  27. 27.0 27.1 27.2 Nebraska Examiner, "Dark money ads hit Herbster and Lindstrom in Nebraska governor’s race," March 19, 2022
  28. 28.0 28.1 Omaha World-Herald, "Another dark money group is funding Lindstrom attack ads," April 13, 2022
  29. KPVI, "Brad Ashford’s endorsement of Lindstrom highlighted in attack ads," May 3, 2022
  30. Nebraska Examiner, "NSEA endorses Blood and Lindstrom, spurring questions in Nebraska GOP governor’s race," April 7, 2022
  31. 31.0 31.1 31.2 Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission, "Filings for Say No to RINOs: 2nd primary campaign statement (Form B-4)," May 2, 2022
  32. Inside Elections also uses Tilt ratings to indicate an even smaller advantage and greater competitiveness.
  33. Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Nathan Gonzalez," April 19, 2018
  34. Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Kyle Kondik," April 19, 2018
  35. Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Charlie Cook," April 22, 2018
  36. OpenSecrets.org, "Outside Spending," accessed December 12, 2021
  37. OpenSecrets.org, "Total Outside Spending by Election Cycle, All Groups," accessed December 12, 2021
  38. National Review.com, "Why the Media Hate Super PACs," December 12, 2021
  39. Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission, "Filings for Conservative Nebraska: 1st primary campaign statement (Form B-4)," April 11 2022
  40. Nebraska Examiner, "Three people speak on the record to confirm allegations of groping by Charles Herbster," April 19, 2022
  41. WOWT, "Herbster files lawsuit against Nebraska State Sen. Julie Slama," April 22, 2022
  42. WOWT, "Nebraska State Sen. Julie Slama countersues candidate Herbster," April 25, 2022
  43. 43.0 43.1 KETV Omaha, "Slama's attorney alleges Herbster trying to 'bully sexual assault victims into silence' with new attack ad," April 26, 2022
  44. YouTube, "Pillen Attacks Built On Lies," April 27, 2022
  45. Nebraska Examiner, "A second woman steps forward by name to allege Charles Herbster groped her," April 30, 2022
  46. Omaha World-Herald, "Second woman accuses Herbster of 'groping' her at dinner event," April 30, 2022
  47. The Hill, "Second woman publicly accuses Trump-backed candidate of sexual misconduct," April 30, 2022
  48. Facebook, "Jim Pillen on April 14, 2022," accessed April 18, 2022
  49. Twitter, "Brett Lindstrom on April 14, 2022," accessed April 18, 2022
  50. Facebook, "Theresa Thibodeau on April 14, 2022," accessed April 18, 2022
  51. Omaha World-Herald, "What the allegations against Herbster mean for the governor's race," April 15, 2022
  52. Omaha World-Herald, "Herbster digs into denial as campaign prepares lawsuit," April 20, 2022
  53. KETV Omaha, "Charles Herbster and Donald Trump draw thousands to rally in Greenwood," May 1, 2022
  54. Lincoln Journal Star, "Trump defends, endorses Herbster at rescheduled Nebraska rally," May 1, 2022
  55. The raw data for this study was provided by Dave Leip of Atlas of U.S. Presidential Elections.
  56. Daily Kos, "Daily Kos Elections' presidential results by congressional district for 2020, 2016, and 2012," accessed September 9, 2022