Phil Bruce
Phil Bruce ran for election to the Nebraska State Senate to represent District 29. He did not appear on the ballot for the primary on May 14, 2024.
Bruce completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Phil Bruce earned a bachelor's degree from Bellevue University in 2011 and a graduate degree from Peru State College in 2015. His career experience includes working as an information technology professional and nonprofit CEO.[1]
Bruce has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]
- Rotary Club #14
- US Global Leadership Coalition
- Lancaster County Extension Board
- Lincoln City Libraries Board
- Midlands African Chamber
- ISACA
- Shared Assessments
- NAM
Elections
2024
See also: Nebraska State Senate elections, 2024
General election
General election for Nebraska State Senate District 29
Incumbent Eliot Bostar won election in the general election for Nebraska State Senate District 29 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Eliot Bostar (Nonpartisan) | 100.0 | 14,084 |
| Total votes: 14,084 | |||
 = 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. | ||||
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Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for Nebraska State Senate District 29
Incumbent Eliot Bostar advanced from the primary for Nebraska State Senate District 29 on May 14, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Eliot Bostar (Nonpartisan) | 100.0 | 6,531 |
| Total votes: 6,531 | |||
| = 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. | ||||
Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Phil Bruce (Nonpartisan)
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Bruce in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Phil Bruce completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Bruce's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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My passion lies in fostering environmental sustainability, public health, and equitable economic development. I believe in proactive, inclusive policymaking that improves everyone's well-being. Despite being new to public office, my active engagement in community projects has equipped me with the skills to analyze complex issues, collaborate effectively, and advocate for transparent, evidence-based policies.
I am committed to governance that listens, community engagement that empowers, and forward-thinking policies. Having rooted my life in District 29, I am dedicated to our collective prosperity and envisioning a future that reflects our shared values.
Thank you for your interest. I’m eager to contribute to District 29’s growth and work towards a future we all believe in.- Community-Driven Leadership: My journey has been one of community service and understanding diverse needs. I'm committed to bringing a fresh, inclusive perspective to address the challenges and opportunities in District 29, emphasizing the importance of listening to and actively engaging with all community members.
- Passion for Sustainable Development: With extensive volunteer work and a deep commitment to our community, I advocate for environmental sustainability, public health, and equitable economic growth. My vision is to create a resilient, thriving District 29 that prioritizes the well-being and prosperity of every resident.
- Proactive and Inclusive Policymaking: Leveraging my unique background and community involvement, I aim to introduce proactive, evidence-based policies that anticipate our future needs. I stand for governance that not only listens but acts, ensuring that every voice in District 29 is heard and valued.
Public Health
Economic Development
Community Engagement and Representation
Throughout his life, Mandela demonstrated extraordinary leadership, integrity, and resilience. Despite spending 27 years in prison for his anti-apartheid activism, he emerged with a vision of a united, democratic South Africa where all citizens, regardless of race, could live in equality and dignity.
Mandela's ability to transcend bitterness and embrace forgiveness played a pivotal role in South Africa's peaceful transition from apartheid to democracy. His commitment to reconciliation and his willingness to work with former adversaries to build a new, inclusive nation serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of forgiveness and compassion.
Moreover, Mandela's dedication to social justice extended beyond South Africa's borders. He remained a global advocate for peace, human rights, and equality until his passing, inspiring millions around the world to strive for a better future.
"The Third Pillar: How Markets and the State Leave the Community Behind" by Raghuram Rajan: A compelling analysis on the importance of strengthening community roles in our globalized society, aligning with my belief in balanced economic development and community engagement.
"This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate" by Naomi Klein: Essential reading on the critical intersection of environmental sustainability and our economic practices, advocating for systemic change to combat climate change.
"Becoming" by Michelle Obama: While not strictly about politics, Obama's memoir highlights the impact of education, community service, and leading with empathy—values that resonate deeply with my approach to governance.
Film: "An Inconvenient Truth" and its sequel: These documentaries provide a visual and impactful understanding of the urgent need for policies that address climate change, emphasizing the role of leadership in environmental stewardship.
Essay: "Consider the Lobster" by David Foster Wallace: This thought-provoking essay, beyond its immediate subject, encourages reflection on ethical considerations in policy-making, a reminder of the nuanced impacts our decisions have on society and the environment.
Empathy: I deeply empathize with the experiences and struggles of others, which enables me to understand and address the diverse needs of my constituents with compassion and sensitivity.
Communication skills: I excel in articulating complex ideas, listening attentively to diverse perspectives, and fostering open dialogue, facilitating effective communication with constituents, colleagues, and stakeholders.
Problem-solving abilities: I am adept at analyzing complex issues, identifying root causes, and developing innovative solutions, enabling me to tackle challenges and achieve positive outcomes for my constituents.
Integrity: I uphold the highest ethical standards and demonstrate honesty, transparency, and accountability in all my actions, earning the trust and respect of those I serve.
Collaboration: I value collaboration and teamwork, recognizing the importance of building coalitions, bridging divides, and working across party lines to achieve common goals for the greater good.
Resilience: I possess the resilience to persevere in the face of obstacles and setbacks, remaining steadfast in my commitment to serving my constituents and advancing their interests.
Vision and leadership: I have a clear vision for the future and the ability to inspire others to share in that vision, providing effective leadership and direction in pursuit of shared goals.
Specifically, I hope to be remembered as a champion for:
Social justice and equality: I aim to advance policies and initiatives that promote fairness, equity, and opportunity for all, regardless of background or circumstance.
Sustainable development: I strive to leave a legacy of environmental stewardship, working towards a greener, more sustainable future that preserves our planet for generations to come.
Empowering others: I seek to empower individuals and communities to reach their full potential, providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed.
Unity and collaboration: I aspire to foster a culture of unity, collaboration, and mutual respect, bridging divides and bringing people together to address shared challenges.
Transparency and accountability: I am committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in public service, ensuring that the trust placed in me by my constituents is well-founded and deserved.
Inspiring future leaders: I hope to inspire and mentor future leaders, encouraging them to embrace their roles as agents of positive change and to carry forward the values of compassion, empathy, and service.
During the two months I worked there before the factory shut down, I gained invaluable insights into the manufacturing sector, the critical importance of workplace safety, and the profound impact of economic changes on workers and communities.
This experience, occurring at a pivotal time of transition in my life, taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and adaptability in the face of uncertainty. Witnessing the effects of the factory's closure on my colleagues—many of whom had devoted years to their jobs—deepened my understanding of economic vulnerability and the necessity of supportive policies to safeguard workers' livelihoods.
This timeless classic resonates with me for several reasons. First and foremost, it tackles important themes of racial injustice, moral integrity, and empathy, which are as relevant today as they were when the book was first published. The character of Atticus Finch serves as a powerful moral compass, embodying principles of courage, compassion, and standing up for what is right in the face of adversity.
"To Kill a Mockingbird" is beautifully written, with vivid imagery, richly drawn characters, and evocative storytelling that transports readers to the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama. It's a book that captivates from the first page to the last, leaving a profound impression on anyone who reads it.
"To Kill a Mockingbird" holds personal significance for me because it was one of the first novels that sparked my love for literature and inspired me to explore the complexities of the human experience through storytelling. It's a book that I return to time and time again, finding new layers of meaning and insight with each reading.
Navigating these challenges has required introspection, self-awareness, and resilience. I have learned to recognize and challenge negative thought patterns, cultivate self-compassion, and embrace a growth mindset that acknowledges failure as a natural part of the learning process. Surrounding myself with supportive mentors, friends, and colleagues who believe in my potential has also been instrumental in overcoming these struggles.
This relationship should be built on transparent dialogue, where both parties actively listen to each other's perspectives and work together to find common ground on policy issues. The governor, as the state's executive leader, should provide clear policy direction and be open to legislative input, ensuring that laws reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of our constituents. Meanwhile, the legislature should exercise its lawmaking and oversight roles with the aim of enacting policies that are in the best interest of the state, keeping the executive branch informed and engaged in the process.
Collaboration is key. When the governor and legislature collaborate effectively, they can craft comprehensive and sustainable solutions to the challenges facing our state. This includes jointly prioritizing issues, coordinating on budget matters, and addressing emergencies or crises with a unified approach.
Moreover, a healthy relationship between these branches involves constructive debate and disagreement. Such dynamics are natural and can lead to more robust and well-considered policies. However, it's crucial that these debates are conducted with civility and a focus on policy outcomes rather than personal or political gains.
Economic Diversification: Beyond agriculture and manufacturing, emphasizing renewable energy and technology is vital for sustainable job creation and investment attraction.
Healthcare Access: Expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas, through telehealth and Medicaid expansion, is crucial for equitable healthcare.
Education and Workforce Development: Preparing students for the future job market with investments in STEM and vocational training is essential for a skilled workforce.
Environmental Sustainability: Embracing renewable energy and sustainable farming practices will address climate change and ensure Nebraska’s ecological balance.
Infrastructure Modernization: Upgrading infrastructure, including broadband in rural areas, enhances economic opportunities and life quality.
Social Equity: Addressing disparities in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities is vital for an inclusive society, especially for marginalized and rural communities.
Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform: Focusing on reducing recidivism and promoting fair treatment is key to a just and safe Nebraska.
Individuals with experience in business, education, healthcare, or community service possess unique skills and knowledge that are equally beneficial. They understand the practical implications of policies on everyday life and can bridge gaps between government and the communities they serve. Their outsider perspective can challenge the status quo, leading to more comprehensive and inclusive policymaking.
What's most important is a legislator's commitment to serving their constituents, ability to listen and learn, and dedication to transparent and ethical governance. Skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial. These can be honed in various fields outside traditional political pathways.
However, a blend of experiences can enrich the legislative process. Seasoned politicians offer procedural knowledge and a nuanced understanding of governance, while those from non-traditional backgrounds contribute fresh ideas and perspectives. Ideally, a legislative body should mirror the diversity of its constituents, combining various professional backgrounds, life experiences, and areas of expertise to create well-rounded and effective governance.
In the legislative process, no one operates in a vacuum. The ability to work together, understand differing viewpoints, and find common ground is key to addressing the complex challenges facing our state. Strong relationships among legislators can lead to more productive discussions, reduce partisan gridlock, and enhance the legislative body's ability to enact meaningful change.
Moreover, these relationships are not limited to those within the same political party. Cross-party alliances are particularly valuable, as they underscore the commitment to serving all constituents' interests, beyond partisan lines. They enable legislators to bridge divides, understand the full spectrum of community needs, and craft legislation that benefits the widest possible range of people.
Building relationships also involves mutual respect, trust, and open communication, qualities that contribute to a positive and constructive legislative environment. It encourages a culture where debate and dissent are viewed as part of a healthy democratic process, leading to better decision-making.
Kennedy's ability to speak across divides, connecting with people from all walks of life, showcased the power of empathy in leadership. He demonstrated that understanding and addressing the root causes of societal issues poverty, inequality, and discrimination can lead to meaningful and lasting change. His advocacy for civil rights and his focus on lifting up the underprivileged are particularly inspiring.
Moreover, Kennedy's willingness to tackle complex problems, combined with his emphasis on moral courage and integrity, sets a benchmark for public service. He showed that being a public servant is about more than just passing legislation; it's about standing up for what is right, even when it is not popular or easy. His approach to governance driven by compassion, a sense of justice, and a commitment to the common good reflects the qualities I believe are essential for effective leadership.
The opportunity to serve in this capacity is both a privilege and a responsibility that I take seriously. It allows me to directly engage with the issues most relevant to our community and work collaboratively towards sustainable solutions. My current goal is to be as effective as possible in this role, leveraging my experiences, insights, and the trust placed in me by the voters.
This story vividly illustrates the broader issue of property tax increases and their impact on our community members, especially those on fixed incomes or in economically vulnerable positions. It underscores the urgent need for property tax reform that considers the ability of residents to pay, ensuring that our tax system is fair and does not disproportionately burden those least able to afford it.
Why don't scientists trust atoms?
Because they make up everything!
Legislative oversight ensures that emergency powers are used judiciously and only when absolutely necessary. It provides a system of checks and balances that is fundamental to our democratic governance. By requiring legislative approval for the declaration of emergencies or the extension of emergency powers, we ensure that multiple perspectives are considered, reflecting the diverse views of our constituents.
Furthermore, the legislature's involvement in granting emergency powers enables more transparent decision-making processes. It allows for public discourse and legislative debate, ensuring that emergency actions are understood and supported by the public and their elected representatives.
However, the process must be efficient to not impede the timely implementation of necessary measures during emergencies. Therefore, establishing clear criteria and procedures for the use of emergency powers in advance can help streamline decision-making when swift action is required.
The bill aims to achieve several key objectives:
Cap Increases: Implement a cap on annual property tax increases for primary residences, protecting homeowners from sudden and unmanageable hikes.
Expand Relief Programs: Broaden eligibility for property tax relief programs, ensuring more families, especially those most financially vulnerable, can benefit from rebates or credits.
Ensure Fair Assessments: Standardize property assessment practices to guarantee fairness, accuracy, and transparency, reflecting true market values and preventing disproportionate tax burdens.
This legislation is designed not just to alleviate the immediate financial pressure on homeowners but also to contribute to long-term housing stability and affordability across our state. By addressing property tax concerns head-on, we can ensure that our communities remain vibrant, diverse, and accessible to all, regardless of economic status.
Environmental and Natural Resources Committee: To champion policies that protect our environment, promote sustainable practices, and address climate change, aligning with my passion for environmental stewardship.
Public Health and Welfare Committee: Reflecting my dedication to enhancing public health, reducing health disparities, and ensuring accessible healthcare for all, I aim to contribute to meaningful healthcare reforms.
Economic Development and Business Affairs Committee: With a focus on fostering equitable economic growth, supporting small businesses, and driving innovation, I believe in creating opportunities that benefit every member of our community.
Education Committee: Given the foundational role of education in our society, I am eager to work on improving access to quality education, supporting educators, and ensuring our students are prepared for the future.
Ethics and Accountability Committee: My commitment to transparency and accountability in government guides my interest in ensuring that our public officials uphold the highest ethical standards.
Agriculture Committee: Recognizing the importance of agriculture to our community, I am interested in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and supporting our farming economy.
Technology and Innovation Committee: I advocate for leveraging technology to improve our community's infrastructure and accessibility, including expanding rural broadband access and fostering technological advancements.
Government accountability is equally critical. Elected officials and public servants must be answerable to the people they serve, with mechanisms in place to monitor, evaluate, and report their performance and decision-making processes. This includes clear channels for public feedback, stringent ethical standards for public officials, and robust oversight structures to prevent misuse of power.
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.
Campaign finance summary
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See also
2024 Elections
External links
Footnotes
