COLUMBUS- University Regent Jim Pillen announced today that he will seek the Republican nomination for governor in 2022. He was elected as regent in 2012 and re-elected in 2018.

Pillen is expected to attract the support of key conservative elements in the Nebraska Republican Party, emerging immediately as a front-line contender for the GOP nomination to succeed Gov. Pete Ricketts when he completes his second term in office in January 2023.

Already on the campaign trail is Charles Herbster, who operates Herbster Angus Farms in Falls City. Herbster has longstanding ties with former President Donald Trump as an agricultural adviser. Sen. Brett Lindstrom of Omaha has announced his intention to seek the Republican nomination as he completes his second and final term in the Legislature.

Pillen expressed strong support for gun rights, law enforcement, pro-life protections and a "demand (for) order on the southern border" in a statement posted on jimpillen.com.

"We have to fix our broken property tax system and cut taxes," he said. "We need to modernize our tax structure, expand broadband access and improve infrastructure across our state." In a campaign video which can be viewed by clicking HERE, Pillen said he would "work to grow our economy and give every child the chance to pursue their dreams right here in Nebraska."

Pillen is a pork producer operating as Pillen Farms.

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