Photo: JIM WATSON / AFP / Getty Images
(Lincoln, NE) -- Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has officially announced his candidacy for re-election in the 2026 gubernatorial race. The announcement was delivered at the Nebraska State Capitol. The Republican governor seeks a second term to continue what he called “a mission of conservative reform and Nebraska-first leadership.”
“Serving as your governor has been the honor of my life,” Pillen said, joined by his family and key members of his administration. “But we’re not done yet. There’s more work to do to cut property taxes, protect our values, and ensure that Nebraska remains the best place in America to live, work, and raise a family.”
Pillen, a veterinarian and former University of Nebraska regent, was first elected in 2022 after a victory over Democrat Carol Blood. Since taking office, he has focused on fiscal conservatism, education reform, and public safety. His administration recently celebrated the passage of a balanced biennial budget that addressed a projected $432-Million shortfall without raising taxes.
In his speech, Pillen highlighted achievements from his first term, including efforts to overhaul the state’s property tax system, expand broadband access in rural communities, and strengthen law enforcement. He also reaffirmed his commitment to banning cell phones in schools, a policy he says will “restore focus and discipline in the classroom.”
While Pillen had previously hinted at a second term, today’s announcement confirms his intentions. “As long as Nebraska needs strong leadership, I’ll be here to serve,” he said. “Let’s finish what we started.”
The governor’s re-election bid is expected to draw national attention, especially as Nebraska remains a key state in the 2026 midterms. With a Republican supermajority in the officially nonpartisan legislature, Pillen enters the race with strong institutional support.
His campaign is expected to focus on rural outreach, economic development, and continuing to push for a winner-take-all electoral vote system in presidential elections—a move that has stirred debate across party lines.
Pillen concluded, “Let’s keep Nebraska moving forward—together.”