A new contender might soon join the race for governor. Lynne Walz, a former state senator from Fremont, has declared the formation of a “gubernatorial exploratory committee.”
In a statement, Walz expressed her concerns about the current political climate. “Our political system is broken. It’s no longer Republican versus Democrat, it’s top versus bottom,” she highlighted. “That’s dangerous. Politicians on both sides are no longer interested in fighting for the average person, and we’re suffering because of that. I’m exploring a run because we need change. We need leaders who are more interested in working for common-sense solutions and people, not political parties and self-serving billionaires.”
Walz, who represented District 15 in the Nebraska Legislature from 2017 to 2025, includes areas within Dodge County and parts of western Douglas County. Her victory in the 2016 elections marked a significant win for Democrats in a predominantly conservative area.
As part of her exploratory efforts, Walz intends to engage with citizens across the state. She plans a listening tour targeting business and community leaders, farmers, ranchers, educators, and health care professionals, along with everyday citizens of Nebraska.
Sharing her background, Walz stated, “I understand the struggles most people face because I’ve lived them – from working on a farm, teaching in the classroom, and raising our family,” in her news release. She added, “I’ve had many conversations with Nebraskans who tell me that they are tired of the corruption, finger pointing, and self-serving policies that enrich politicians and their billionaire friends. We need to elect average people who truly understand what the real world actually looks like for most people and will work to create opportunity and improve the quality of life for individuals and families.”
However, Walz faces significant challenges, as no Democrat has been elected governor in Nebraska since Ben Nelson’s re-election in 1996.
Current Governor Jim Pillen, seeking a second term, secured his position with a substantial 60% of the vote in 2022. Nevertheless, Pillen might encounter opposition from within his party. Businessman Charles Herbster, who was defeated by Pillen in the 2022 GOP primary, has hinted at a potential run, as reported by the Nebraska Examiner. Herbster plans to announce his decision later this year.
In recent developments, Herbster has not shied away from criticizing Pillen on social media and has also declared his support for medical marijuana, a stance he shared earlier this month.
