Governor's Columns

In the face of fire, Nebraskans – once again – proved our grit and came together to protect life, property, and livestock.

Getting to be your Governor has led to a lot of goosebump moments and last week had a few as Suzanne and I traveled to the annual Governor meetings in our nation’s capital.

I’m a farmer – the first Governor of Nebraska from agriculture in over 100 years – and a kid who grew up on a dirt lot in Platte County. Each day that I get to carry out this calling is an honor, and I wanted to share some recent highlights with you:

Bloat and waste have no place in your family’s budget, and they shouldn’t find a place in the state’s budget either. Nebraskans believe in a government that lives within its means – efficiently and effectively serving its people.

This country is the greatest in the history of the world – free, strong, resilient, a land of unending opportunity. The American people are blessed beyond measure, but the brazen, public assassination of Charlie Kirk just over a month ago knocked all of us back onto our heels.

Distracted driving and speeding are endangering and killing Nebraskans. So, here’s a challenge to everyone who gets behind the wheel: Let’s make our roads the safest in America.

As the school year kicks off, it’s a good time to tell Nebraska’s teachers thank you. They are difference makers, and the men and women who lead our classrooms are some of the biggest mentors and role models our kids will have in their lives.

Built by generations of hard work and innovation, Nebraska’s ranchers are known worldwide for raising the highest quality, most nutritious, safest, and best tasting protein in the world.

In Nebraska, serving our communities and helping those in need are not just traditions — they are foundational values, passed down from generation to generation.

Homeland security starts here at home. As I have traveled every bit of this extraordinary state, that's an approach I know Nebraskans believe in. It's fundamental to the job of government.

Below are Governor Jim Pillen’s remarks, as delivered to the 109th Nebraska Legislature (1st Regular Session) today...