The role, responsibilities of the NE Secretary of State

As in most states, the Nebraska Secretary of State serves as the state’s chief elections officer and performs a variety of administrative functions essential to government operations.

Showing up still matters

There are days when I question how long I can keep up this schedule.Too many miles. Too many nights away from my family. Too many evenings when coming home after bedtime has become the norm instead of the exception.But then I remind myself why I do what I do.

State lawmakers have a $471-million budget shortfall to close, and an expulsion effort to consider

The first time I walked into the State Capitol, I wondered “what is making all these people walk like Olympic racers down these halls?”I almost got run over by some walkers; the new guy needed to get out of the way.

2025 Year in Review: Record results for Nebraskans

The start of a new year invites more than resolutions; it invites reflection. As I look back on 2025, I do so with an eye toward what effective governing should mean at a time when Americans are stretched by costs, uncertainty, and rapid change.

Let the players play — and the fans behave

One of the highlights of my job is getting to see a lot of high school sports.In my short time in Nebraska, I’ve had the privilege of covering state playoffs in football, volleyball, softball, and basketball. I’ve watched athletes compete at state in cross country, wrestling, and track.

Against all enemies foreign and domestic

Living in Germany while serving in the U.S. Air Force in the 1980s and then flying worldwide for Delta from 1990 until 2020 gave me a front row seat to the transformation that has taken place over the last 40 years in many places around the world, including many of our own larger cities.

Former state senator tries again to help Ukraine win war

A former Nebraska state senator, once again, is calling on the United States to do more to help Ukraine win its war with Russia.

Christmas creatures invade our front yards

When did dinosaurs and aliens become Christmas decorations?I ask because I’m kind of stunned (my natural condition) at some of the strange, weird and downright odd things you see in people’s yards this time of year.

A look to the upcoming legislative session

The 109th session of the Nebraska Legislature begins Jan. 7 for a 60-day run. Due to the brevity of the session, nearly half the bills introduced in committee hearings may not make it to the floor this year.

Keeping Us in Balance: The Work of the Kidneys

Picture a man crawling through the desert in tattered clothing, whispering “water” as he nears an oasis. He isn’t thinking about his kidneys, yet they may be the main organ still keeping him alive.