2/16/2022,11:26pm, emailed questionnaire as pre-contact
2/16/2022, 11:08am, texted to alert email sent
3/16/2022, 4:02pm, Emailed access code
4/1/2022, 12:22pm, left phone message
4/5/2022, 11:37pm, sent deadline email reminder
4/18/2022, 8:49pm, texted code & reminder
9/29/2022, 12:50pm, left voice message
10/2/22, 8:38pm, emailed reminder for answering before early voting begins (candidate opened email)
See https://nebraskavoterguide.com/candidates/carol-blood
See https://www.vote411.org/
9/2/22, 12:45pm. Candidate emailed to ask to provide responses
9/2/22, 5:18pm, informed he had to be an official write-in candidate for VIP to accept answers
10/2/22, 11:58am, texted to ask if official candidate
10/2/22, 12:01pm, reported the fees had been paid,
10/2/22, 12:23pm, texted access code
10/2/22, 8:38pm, emailed reminder for answering before early voting begins (candidate opened email)
Answers submitted online Oct. 7, 2022, 7:25 p.m.
2/14/2022, 2:45 AM, emailed questionnaire before code availability
3/17/2022, 8:42pm, texted access code and notice of email
4/1/2022, 12:34pm, left phone message mentioning previous contact attempts
4/1/2022, 12:42pm, campaign called back - provided new email
4/1/2022, 12:47pm, emailed access code and info
4/5/2022, 11:37pm, sent deadline email reminder
4/18/2022, 8:51pm, texted code & reminder
9/29/2022, 12:50pm, left voice message
10/2/22, 8:38pm, emailed reminder for answering before early voting begins
10/3/2022, 11:29am, candidate opened the email
10/8/2022, 9:12pm, emailed copy of contact attempts
10/1/22, 9:52pm, email asking for response before Oct 10th event
See https://nebraskavoterguide.com/candidates/jim-pillen
See https://www.vote411.org/
2/14/2022, left message requesting email address
2/14/2022, 6:18 PM, candidate sent email address
2/14/2022, 6:24 PM, emailed questionnaire
2/22/2022, 11:31am, texting conversation
3/16/2022, 4:15 PM, access code emailed
3/16/2022, 4:16 pm, texted code and alerted email had been sent
Answers submitted online March 17, 2022, 3:09 p.m.
Job Description
How office affects the voter
The governor is essentially the CEO of the state, working in concert with the Legislature. The governor appoints (and Legislature approves) the department heads for the Departments of Agriculture, Labor, Transportation, Natural Resources, Banking and Finance, Insurance, Motor Vehicles, Administrative Servies, Economic Development, Correctional Services, Nebraska State Patrol, and Health and Human Services. (Department of Education is handled by the Nebraska State Board of Education.)
Duties and Responsibilities
Bills passed by the Legislature require the governor’s signature to become law. The governor can stop a bill from becoming law with a veto, but the veto can be overridden with 33 votes. The governor may not veto a law enacted by a vote of the people. Besides appointing all the Department heads, the Governor appoints members of commissions (like Game and Parks), some also with Legislature approval. There are approximately 250 Commissions. The governor is responsible for presenting a 2-year budget to the Legislature that can be amended at the beginning of the next legislative session. The Legislature can add ideas, but the governor has line-item veto power. Some governor appointees can be fired by the governor, but civil service protections prevent firing unless for cause, not for changing political party, for example. A major appointment responsibility is working with the judge nominating committee – which the governor also appoints according to requirements in statutes. (Chapter 24, starting with paragraph 801.
WHY? Name the top three reasons motivating you to run for this office.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
1) To restore government to its primary role of securing and protecting the God-given rights of our people.
2) To restore constitutional and representative government, i.e., government of, by and for the people, in oppostion to government of, by and for special interests.
3) To restore state sovereignty by restraining the federal government.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
Life: Everyone has the right to life no matter what stage of life they are in.
Liberty: Everyone is responsible for the choices they make. Whether the consequences are good or bad.
Property: Everyone is entitled to the fruits of their labor both, manual and non manual, and the assets they produce or purchase with these forms of labor.
Representations: Return to citizen representation in the state before 1964. Return the state senate.
Scott Zimmermann
1. I believe that Nebraska deserves better!
2. I want better for the future of Nebraska.
3. I want to serve ALL Nebraskans.
BIOGRAPHICAL: What from your biographical information will help you address your reasons?
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
1) Courage is the number one ingredient here, and tenacity, beyond common sense. I'm not afraid to tackle a problem, nor to assert myself with logic and facts.
See https://www.robertjborer.com/about .
2) Critical thinking skill is essential as well.
3) Also the ability to listen.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
I have been self employed most of my life. Ranching for 40 yrs. Owning a newspaper business for 16 yrs.
Scott Zimmermann
I am a Master Certified Educator, husband, father and grandfather. I am a 6th Generation Nebraskan who will be laid to rest in the same cemetery as my Nebraska ancestors. I have a vested interest in Nebraska and a strong desire to see Nebraska emerge as a leader in our Nation. I am a true servant leader. I excel at building highly effective teams and retaining talented individuals. I build coalitions to accomplish tasks and believe that state leadership must make serving the people their only priority.
EXPERIENCE-Governor: Please detail professional and/or volunteer experience you have that will help you successfully serve in this position. (See job description.)
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
Professional?
Seven years in pastoral and counseling work.
27 years in public safety.
https://www.robertjborer.com/about
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
Self employed.
Service: Parish Council and Knights of Columbus
Nebraska Beef Council 8 yrs
Congressman Tom Osborne’s Ag Advisory Committee 3 yrs.
Neligh Chamber of Commerce
Founding member of Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska, Vice President 4 yrs, President 10 yrs
Cattlemen’s Beef Board 6 yrs
Neligh-Oakdale School Board, President 4 yrs
Organization of Competitive Markets board of directors, currently.
Scott Zimmermann
I have over 25 years of leadership experience working with all demographics. I put the right people, in the right places, at the right time, to do the best job that can possibly be done. I have been politicly active for 40 years and have served in leadership roles within including, Executive Director, Chairman of the Board, and State Director. These organizations continue to thrive based on structures I helped to implement.
PERSONAL STORY: Please briefly describe a situation where you had to stand alone for what you thought was right when the momentum was pushing the other way.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
I stood firm against the "covid" tyranny. The unconstitutional mandates were a collosal infringement on our God-given rights. I worked day and night at my own expense to hold those in government accountable for their gross, unconstitutional misconduct.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
Many time on the Beef Council over monetary spending. Many times on Osborne’s Ag Committee over policy issues usually free trade issues.
Scott Zimmermann
I have been a Libertarian for the last 25 years, because I found that the other two political parties did not represent who I truly am. I have been outspoken about my desire to have less government involvement in my daily life and how I believe that Nebraska residents are best suited to manage their own estates and should be free to do so with minimal interaction with a government. While, I have and will continue to, cast my vote for those whom I believe will do the best job, I historically have chosen to vote for a "long shot" candidate. Some have claimed that this is like throwing my vote away or that I am stealing votes from the other two parties. I remain steadfast to my commitment to my community, my state, and my nation to vote for the candidate I believe in, not just the candidate I believe will win.
CONSTITUENTS RELATIONSHIPS - Governor:(Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. I am always available to talk with residents. ---B. I will travel across the state to listen to residents. ---C. Voters trust me to make good decisions, so I would tend to lead according to my conscience. ---D. The majority voted for me, so in general I will lead according to their preferences. ---E. Other ways I would engage with constituents could include…(please specify.)
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
A. True. I love talking to, asking questions of, and listening to, people.
B. True. Doing that right now, and I will continue to do that throughout my term. We stand for government of, by and for the people.
C. I don't expect unearned trust. I will definitely follow my conscience. But I realize the power resides in the sentiment of the people, and they may need to be convinced. A good governor must be a good communicator.
D. I will lead acccording to what is right. The majority may not always be right, at which point I will have to make my case.
E. I will keep my constituents informed, not only about what I myself am doing, but also about what others in government are doing. Together we will put a check on misconduct. I will keep the great people of this state informed through various forms of communication, including a daily newsletter and a website dedicated to communcating with them.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
The only way to make an informed decision is by listening, to all sides of the issues, then relying on your experiences of success and failures.
Scott Zimmermann
A. I am always available to talk with residents. ---B. I will travel across the state to listen to residents.
I will listen to understand and I will learn from individuals with experiences and expertise. I love to travel the state of Nebraska. I will spend as much time as possible in the public forum and allow those whom I serve to be the driving voices in my decision making processes.
1st AMENDMENT – Religion:Click here for full reading of 1st Amendment. Regarding freedom of religion, my thoughts are: (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. Personally held religious beliefs in operating a business should be protected. ---B. Traditional religious practices can be overridden by public safety policies when necessary. --- C. Religious activity that is against the law should not be prosecuted. ---D. Churches and other faith groups should be able to meet according to their traditions without government interference. ---E. Residents who do not have a faith tradition, and are offended by those who do, have priority over those who wish to practice their faith.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
Regarding freedom of religion... The 1st Amendment must be kept in its historical Christian context. True religion serves the great interests of mankind, under the worship of our benevolent Creator. It doesn't destroy those interests. A. We don't give special privileges to one form of "worship" over another. B. If we're talking "pandemics," no. We're begging the question of whether the "safety policies" were really safety policies. C. Not all laws are just. No all religious activity is religious. I need more information. D. Traditional Christian churches that meet the spiritual (and other) needs of their members, must be left alone. E. False.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
A and D
1) There should not be a State dictated religion
2) The State cannot prohibit the free exercise of religion
3) No religion should call for the taking of another’s Life, Liberty or Property.
Scott Zimmermann
--D. Churches and other faith groups should be able to meet according to their traditions without government interference.
I support the separation of church and state. We are a nation of many religions and everyone should be free to live according to their own deeply held beliefs. It is not the responsibility of the government to ensure that individuals live according the standards of any one religious base. It is only the responsibility of the government to ensure that all individuals are able to freely exercise this constitutional right.
1st AMENDMENT – Speech, etc.: Regarding 'speech/press/assembly', I would work for laws that support the statement: (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. Social media companies who limit individual expression should be prosecuted. ---B. Nebraska should have no say in how the social media companies operate locally, because social media is worldwide. ---C. Peaceful freedom of assembly must not be infringed upon. ---D. I want to hear from the people directly if they disagree with what I’m proposing or doing. ---E. The press should be held accountable if it is proven that laws governing the media have been violated.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
Regarding 'speech/press/assembly', I would work for laws that support the statement:
A. Social media companies who limit individual expression should be prosecuted. Not all expression is created equal. Profanity and vulgarity can be policed.
C. Peaceful freedom of assembly must not be infringed upon.
D. I want to hear from the people directly if they disagree with what I’m proposing or doing.
E. The press should be held accountable if it is proven that laws governing the media have been violated (assuming those laws are just).
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
C, D, E
Social media should be held to the same libel standard that print and radio are held to.
Scott Zimmermann
---C. Peaceful freedom of assembly must not be infringed upon.
---D. I want to hear from the people directly if they disagree with what I’m proposing or doing.
---E. The press should be held accountable if it is proven that laws governing the media have been violated.
Our constitutional right to assemble and speak our minds is a critical component for maintaining that our government is for the people, by the people and of the people. Journalists have a responsibility to report unbiased facts and provide truth in evidence to allow citizens to make their own judgements on issues being addressed.
2nd AMENDMENT:Click here for full reading of 2nd Amendment. What approaches to gun laws do you believe the state of Nebraska should take, beyond what is already mandated at the federal level? (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. Mentally ill persons (please define) should be prevented from having guns in their home or on their person. ---B. Nebraska should be declared a sanctuary state for the 2nd Amendment. ---C. The state should have access to a national registry of gun owners. ---D. Constitutional carry should be legal at the state level.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
We don't need help from the federal government over gun laws. We can manage on our own.
We already have sovereignty on this issue if we follow the Constitution.
Constitutional carry is already legal at the state level, per our State Constitution.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
B, C, and D
The Governor signed a proclamation for Nebraska to be a Second Amendment Sanctuary. Now the Legislature needs to preserve it.
Scott Zimmermann
A. Mentally ill persons (an individual who suffers a mental illness where, owing to that illness, there are reasonable grounds for believing control of the person is necessary, for their own or others' protection.) should be prevented from having guns on their person. B. Nebraska should be declared a sanctuary state for the 2nd Amendment. D. Constitutional carry should be legal at the state level.
The right to protect and defend your person or property is a right which shall not be infringed, until said right has been legally revoked due to conviction of violent offenses or mental incompetency.
APPOINTMENTS: Since the governor is responsible to make hundreds of appointments, discuss your philosophy for how you will appoint non-elected commission members/ department heads and judges whose decision-making ability affects residents’ lives and livelihood. (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. For judges, I will lean heavily on the judge nominating committee who I will appoint according to state statute. ---B. I know lots of people in a variety of occupations so I’ll be able to find the right people for those jobs. ---C. People apply for those positions; my staff will pre-screen them for me. ---D. I will look through applications searching for people not only with the right skill-sets for the jobs but also the heart to serve. ---E. Other: Use the box below for additional comments or clarification.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
Appointments will be made based on their understanding of our Constitution, their larger philosophy, their character, their honesty, their skill set and their desire to serve.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
A, B, C, and D
I will utilize all of the opinion available to the Governor
Scott Zimmermann
--A. For judges, I will lean heavily on the judge nominating committee who I will appoint according to state statute. -D. I will look through applications searching for people not only with the right skill-sets for the jobs but also the heart to serve.
I will work to build coalitions and blur party lines to ensure that the right people find an opportunity to serve the people of Nebraska. I will look past party lines and make hiring and appointment decisions based on skill sets and an ability to do the best job, rather than political affiliation.
FINANCIAL ISSUES: With regard to state finances, I will...(Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. support the concept of the Consumption Tax (EPIC Consumption tax) ---B. support property tax relief in a phased in gradual arrangement like Blueprint Nebraska ---C. recommend a better 'school formula' so that all school districts will have equivalent income. ---D. recommend the school formula be designed to meet individual district’s unique needs. ---E. present a budget that maintains all the current services the state supplies ---F. present a budget that removes funding to no longer needed commissions/activities
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
We need tax reform badly.
I support a consumption tax.
I support actual ownership of home and personal property (i.e., no annual tax).
I support competition in education, to restore integrity to education and drastically reduce cost.
I support reduction in government bureacracy to reduce the cost of government.
We must support our single family farms.
We must take into consideration the income of a family farm when assessing the tax on real estate used for commerce.
I would create a task force of stakeholders to come up with the best solutions and plan.
We need to make sure we are taking a 30,000 foot view, and looking at everything.
Context, context, context.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
A
Consumption tax is the only way to treat Nebraskan’s equally. Blueprint Nebraska is a flawed system that only benefits the three highest populated countries.
The schools need equity base on what it cost to teach the curriculum, not cost per student.
Scott Zimmermann
---A. support the concept of the Consumption Tax (EPIC Consumption tax) ---B. support property tax relief in a phased in gradual arrangement like Blueprint Nebraska ---C. recommend a better 'school formula' so that all school districts will have equivalent income. ---D. recommend the school formula be designed to meet individual district’s unique needs. F. present a budget that removes funding to no longer needed commissions/activities
Reduction of dependency on state funded programs will be a top priority. This not a process that will easily be accomplished. The tax burden in Nebraska must be reduced and in order to do that, I will work diligently to make cuts and streamline programs to meet the needs of the people with minimal costs. I will start by eliminating the state income tax and eliminating property tax obligations for those who are of retirement age and who have paid their mortgages in full.
ELECTION INTEGRITY-Specific: The election integrity issue is: (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. a conspiracy theory. Effort should be made to silence the rhetoric. ---B. resolved by returning to paper ballots, hand-counting - no machines. ---C. helped by allowing mail-in voting for specific reasons, only. ---D. Suppressed by requiring Voter ID. ---E. worth making election day a federal holiday. ---F. no big deal. We have secure voting systems in Nebraska. ---G. critical. I support vote audits in every precinct to insure 2022 works right. ---H. important. Investigations should be allowed but not forced.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
I agree with:
B.
C.
Perhaps E.
G...I support manual handcounts in every precinct to insure 2022 works right.
Right now, Nebraska's voting system has no transparency or verifiability, which is a crime.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
B, E, G and H
Precincts could be lowered to 1200 registered voters per precincts. This would help reduce the time in count the ballots.
Scott Zimmermann
E. worth making election day a federal holiday. G. critical. I support vote audits in every precinct to insure 2022 works right. ---H. important. Investigations should be allowed but not forced.
Voting is one of the most powerful things a citizen can do. These votes should be valued and treated with the utmost integrity. All individuals involved in the ballot process should be non-partisan and independent from government interference. When integrity is questioned, audits should occur and violators should be prosecuted for fraud.
AGRICULTURAL PROCESSING: Nebraska lags behind neighboring states in economic value through processing of agricultural products. Click here. How would you bolster our agriculture processing? (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. Encourage local government to allow new industries using agricultural products. ---B. Authorize state creation of incentives for economic development of finished and semi-finished agricultural products. ---C. Involve the Nebraska Department of Economic Development in working with private industry. ---D. Remove regulations that limit the development of usage of agricultural products.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
To answer this requires seriously engaging our stakeholders, to come up with the best solutions. Helping our agriculture community will be an urgent top priority of mine.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
A, B, C and D
Nebraska has a law that bans Packers for owing livestock, it has not been enforced since 1999. This and real estate taxes, and a lack of representation in the legislature are killing rural Nebraska and small rural communities.
Scott Zimmermann
A. Encourage local government to allow new industries using agricultural products. ---B. Authorize state creation of incentives for economic development of finished and semi-finished agricultural products. ---D. Remove regulations that limit the development of usage of agricultural products.
Farmers and Ranchers need to lead the charge on ag growth and stability in Nebraska. I will listen to understand their needs and do all that I can to ensure those needs are met.
POLICIES – Marijuana: I support medical marijuana. (Indicate if you agree or disagree with this statement, adding clarification as needed.)
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
I don't support it at this time. This isn't to say that I'm not open to a good argument, if such a thing exists. We need to look at what has happened in other states before we take that leap. If the results aren't good there, they won't be good here, either.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
Yes
Scott Zimmermann
I support Medical Cannabis in Nebraska. The medical professionals in Nebraska deserve access to all possible medical solutions to ensure patients are given the best opportunities to live well.
POLICIES – Prison Population: I believe the solution to the prison population crisis lies in redefining mental health solutions. (Indicate if you agree or disagree with this statement, adding clarification as needed.)
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
The solution is multi-faceted, and includes keeping inmates productive and providing for moral and spiritual development.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
Yes mental health has been a problem since the 1950’s when the United States started to deinstitutionalization mental health.
Scott Zimmermann
Incarceration in our state prisons should be a last resort and reserved for violent offenders and individuals who are a true threat to our safety and security. I will work to reduce the burden on this system by reducing or eliminating prison terms for offenders of victimless crimes, which is the majority of the system today. I will divert resources into rehabilitation and mental health programs in order to support these individuals transition to becoming better citizens of Nebraska. The Judicial system must be non-political and I will work to ensure equality before the law is the top priority in our state.
DEPARTMENT of EDUCATION: Currently, the Nebraska Department of Education is outside the direct oversight of the governor. (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. Give the Governor oversight over the Department of Education, with or without eliminating the State Board. ---B. The current State Board of Education directing the Department of Education works well. ---C. Charter Schools should be established under the oversight of parents. ---D. Eliminate the Department of Education so local school districts manage education. ---E. The Department of Education’s oversight should include both public and private Nebraska schools.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
The money should follow the child. The only way we will improve education in this state, and lower taxes, is through competition.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
A, C, and D
Education needs to get back to reading, writing and arithmetic. Children’s education should be the will of the parents and children not the school system.
Scott Zimmermann
D. Eliminate the Department of Education so local school districts manage education.
It's time to give the power back to parents regarding educating their children. While we do have a constitutional responsibility to provide access to public education, it is equally as vital to allow alternate paths to receiving education in our state. I will work to reduce or eliminate barriers which prevent qualified individuals from privatizing educational experiences and allowing parents the freedom to choose what is best for their children. The Department of Education holds control over all education in Nebraska and does not actively reflect the needs of our current learners.
IMMIGRATION - Governor: What do you see as the governor’s role in managing undocumented immigrants (not applying to refugees) who might live or work in Nebraska, now or in the future? (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. Nebraska should consider providing a “safe” place for undocumented immigrants. ---B. Nebraska should avoid the potential liability of providing for undocumented immigrants. ---C. Law Enforcement should cooperate with federal Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
We are a state and nation of laws. Those here unlawfully will be returned to the border.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
B and C
Undocumented means illegal.
Scott Zimmermann
--B. Nebraska should avoid the potential liability of providing for undocumented immigrants.
We are a nation of immigrants. The process to become a citizen needs to be overhauled, made easier to access, and attractive to those seeking this status. I will work with experts throughout our nation to ensure that Nebraska is a safe and secure state by incentivizing employers to aid in the immigration process and allow for those seeking to reside in Nebraska to do so readily and efficiently.
LAW ENFORCEMENT – State/Governor: What is your view on how law enforcement – State Patrol specifically – should be managed? (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. Troopers need to be better trained to deal with a wide variety of cultures. ---B. Because of current issues law enforcement is facing, there should be an increase in funding. ---C. Some Troopers need to be replaced with social workers who are better acquainted with mental health issues. ---D. There should be better racial equity and justice applied in police interactions. ---E. There should be a quota of Troopers reflecting the state racial diversity. ---F. Prison crowding issues can be decreased by allowing non-violent criminals to remain in the workforce and serve their sentence.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
My policy is to hire the best qualified people, best capable of doing the job, regardless of skin color. There's only one race—the human race.
I would have the State Patrol focus on human and drug trafficking, not ticketing people going 5 or 10 miles over the "speed limit."
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
B and F
1) The law is the law despite a wide variety of culture.
2) Will not replace Troopers with social workers. Troopers are first line law enforcement servants, social workers are not.
Scott Zimmermann
--D. There should be better racial equity and justice applied in police interactions. ---F. Prison crowding issues can be decreased by allowing non-violent criminals to remain in the workforce and serve their sentence.
Equality before the law!
We can eliminate the burden on Law Enforcement in our state by re-evaluating our laws which create needless and overwhelming responsibilities for the Nebraska State Patrol. By eliminating the burden on these Troopers, resources can be diverted to community service projects like, Firearm safety training programs. Incarceration in the state prison system should be reserved for violent offenders and those deemed a threat to society.
RANK THE VOTE: The ranked choice voting idea gives voters the option to rank candidates in order of preference (1st, 2nd, 3rd, … , regardless of party) and also requires candidates to win with more than 50% of voter support. Click here for more details. In my view, Ranked Choice Voting … (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. reduces waste. The ability to eliminate primary elections can save taxpayers time and money. ---B. is overly complex. It’s difficult to understand exactly how the process works. ---C. is easy. The process is simple and everyone knows how to rank things (or can still just vote for one candidate.) ---D. is unnecessary. The system we have already works. ---E. would diminish the design of the two-party nominating system in the Primary. ---F. is fairer and more representative by giving a clearer picture of who and what voters want.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
RCV is a non-starter. Too complicated.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
F
Scott Zimmermann
-E. would diminish the design of the two-party nominating system in the Primary. ---F. is fairer and more representative by giving a clearer picture of who and what voters want.
While, I do not believe that rank choice voting is the most efficient method to accomplish the desired outcome, something does need to change. It is nearly impossible for a candidate, not affiliated with the 2 largest political parties, to compete in the election process. This is less about ballots and more about the money flowing into these campaigns, which is the driving force behind who the the political parties select to be their candidates. All too often, these funds have strings attached and represent the social elites with little, to no, regard for the common person.
HOUSING: Although Nebraska reports the lowest unemployment in the country, many rural communities across the state suffer from a lack of housing. What would you recommend to create new housing opportunities while continuing to attract new laborers?
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
Obviously the tax and financing issues need to be addressed. Again, I would engage our stake holders for ideas. This is government of, by and for the people.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
We must go back to the unicameral Senate before 1964 and redistribute representation. Then rural communities will have a voice again.
Scott Zimmermann
I will remove unnecessary obstacles for developers to meet the needs of our population expansion. I plan to attract private sector organizations to our state and incentivize establishing a presence in locations throughout our state.
RACISM - Governor: Knowing the Governor doesn’t have authority over the education systems in the state, voters still want to know your view. In my view, teaching Critical Race Theory will ________ systemic racism in the state. (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. Increase ---B. Perpetuate ---C. Help relieve ---D. Have no effect on ---E. I don’t think we have a systemic racism issue in the state.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
CRT is junk theory. Just because the Governor doesn't have authority over the education system doesn't mean he can't speak about it and hold those responsible for it accountable.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
E.
In Nebraska people succeed on hard work and taking responsibility for their actions. We don’t need more identity politics.
Scott Zimmermann
---D. Have no effect on
CRT is a political wedge issue being used to divide the common people of Nebraska. Children in Nebraska schools deserve to be given facts and data regarding the history of our nation and should be taught to think critically about racism and the role it holds in our development as a nation. It is damaging to the future of America to focus on only one narrative being delivered in the classroom. In order to understand racism, we must first listen to those who have been victims. We need to understand the challenges which have been faced and provide the utmost support in eliminating racism throughout the entire system.
ABORTION STANCE: What is your stance on abortion? (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. OK in case of rape or incest ---B. Life begins at conception. ---C. OK in the first trimester - up to 12 weeks. ---D. I support Roe v Wade without limits. ---E. OK to preserve the life of the mother ---F. Not OK past viability - 24 weeks ---G. Not OK after heartbeat is detected - 6 weeks
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
My stance on abortion:
Life begins at conception. The image of God begins at conception. That Life has a God-given right to all the protections everyone else has a right to.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
B
Life begins at conception.
Scott Zimmermann
---A. OK in case of rape or incest ---E. OK to preserve the life of the mother
I am 100% against medical mandates regarding decisions made between a Doctor and Patient. I am personally Pro-Life and will work diligently to ensure that this medical procedure would be a last resort effort performed under the most extreme circumstances. I will advocate for easier access to over the counter birth control. I will focus on building up and supporting the foster care and adoption system. I support education and awareness efforts to make it easier for expectant mothers to consider other avenues other than the unthinkable. By regulating and placing limits on when and where the government intervenes in highly personal medical decisions, we limit the scope of medical professionals options to provide the necessary care for a patient.
LGBTQ+ rights: On the topic of LGBTQ+ rights, a variety of opinions exist. (Indicate as many of the following as apply and add comments as desired.) ---A. I believe these individuals are discriminated against, in jobs, work benefits, housing. ---B. I believe that additional laws/policies should be passed to ensure all individuals are treated equally. ---C. LGBTQ+ people already have the same rights as anyone else; there should not be any special treatment for them. ---D. I have another perspective. (Please explain).
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
C is closest to my position.
What consenting adults do sexually in private is their business. Bringing it to the workplace, and/or to the public square, makes it everyone else's business. Business owners shouldn't be required to violate their conscience or moral values.
Obviously, not all sexual behavior is created equal.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
C
Work hard and be responsible for your actions. Identity politics just destroys unity.
Scott Zimmermann
---D. I have another perspective. (Please explain).
All citizens of Nebraska deserve equality before the law. As governor I will ensure those rights will not be infringed and that policies reflect the best interest of all Nebraskans, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or transgender status), age (over 40), or disability.
ANYTHING ELSE? Declare anything else you want voters to know about you or topics which concern you as it relates to the office you're running for.
Carol Blood
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Robert Borer (Write-in)
I intend to represent the security interests of all Nebraskans...so they can follow their God-given dreams.
Thank you for your time.
Robert J. Borer, official write-in candidate for Governor, and the only candidate standing for your God-given rights.
Jim Pillen
Candidate has not submitted an answer.
Dave Wright (Write-in)
Life, Liberty and Property. John Adams said ”If you can not secure property you will have no liberty.”
1) We need to get to one tax system. Sales tax or consumption tax.
2) With one taxing system it will much easier to discuss and debate spending. Because everyone will feel the weight of government.
3) We must get back to the pre 1964 unicameral. We are on a run away course to pure democracy, which leads to mob rule. 51% will enslave 49%.
Scott Zimmermann
As Governor, I will serve the people of Nebraska with integrity, compassion and respect for all. I will listen to understand and I will focus on being a representative of the people.
The governor is essentially the CEO of the state, working in concert with the Legislature. The governor appoints (and Legislature approves) the department heads for the Departments of Agriculture, Labor, Transportation, Natural Resources, Banking and Finance, Insurance, Motor Vehicles, Administrative Servies, Economic Development, Correctional Services, Nebraska State Patrol, and Health and Human Services. (Department of Education is handled by the Nebraska State Board of Education.)
Duties and Responsibilities
Bills passed by the Legislature require the governor’s signature to become law. The governor can stop a bill from becoming law with a veto, but the veto can be overridden with 33 votes. The governor may not veto a law enacted by a vote of the people. Besides appointing all the Department heads, the Governor appoints members of commissions (like Game and Parks), some also with Legislature approval. There are approximately 250 Commissions. The governor is responsible for presenting a 2-year budget to the Legislature that can be amended at the beginning of the next legislative session. The Legislature can add ideas, but the governor has line-item veto power. Some governor appointees can be fired by the governor, but civil service protections prevent firing unless for cause, not for changing political party, for example. A major appointment responsibility is working with the judge nominating committee – which the governor also appoints according to requirements in statutes. (Chapter 24, starting with paragraph 801.
Requirements for the position
The requirements for the position state that the candidate must be a registered voter, must be at least 30 years old, and must have been a resident and a citizen of the United States and of Nebraska for at least five (5) years next preceding his or her election.
Other information
The ideal gubernatorial candidate will have management skills, the ability to delegate while still maintaining accountability, a sense of ethics (for managing the public money and trust), political skills (for interacting with the Legislature), discernment for multitudes of appointments, and understanding of the Law for appointing judges. The governor sets the tone for the state.
Term of office
Term of office is 4 years, repeatable only once for a total of 8 years. A former governor can run again after being out of office for at least 4 years.
Partisan?
Candidates are nominated by their party in a primary election.
