2018 MIDTERM ELECTIONS. Presented by Heartland Workers Center

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1 2018 MIDTERM ELECTIONS Candidate Profile Presented by Heartland Workers Center Through our Civic Engagement and Education Program, the Heartland Workers Center (HWC) offers you a brief description of the candidates and issues that will be on the ballot for the 2018 Midterm General Elections in SCHUYLER, NEBRASKA. These elections will be held on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 To create this profile, the HWC created a questionnaire and sent it to those running for office. You will find the responses from those who responded here in this candidate profile. As a non-profit, non-partisan organization, we cannot support or endorse any candidate or political party. Our only objective is to educate and inform voters so that they can make informed decisions at the time of voting. On behalf of HWC, thank you for making your voice heard by voting. Heartland Workers Center of Omaha SCHUYLER OFFICE: LATINO COMMITTEE OF SCHUYLER (CLS) 1119 B Street Ste. #1 Schuyler, NE For more information, call (402)

2 Table of Contents Voter Guide... 3 Important Dates... 5 Checklist... 6 Glossary... 6 R A C E S FEDERAL OFFICES U.S. Senate...7 U.S. House of Representatives-District Two...12 STATE OFFICES Nebraska Governor...13 Schuyler Community Schools Board of Education...36 University of Nebraska Board of Regents - District Medicaid Expansion...39 Nebraska Secretary of State...17 Nebraska State Treasurer...19 Nebraska Attorney General...20 Nebraska Auditor of Public Accounts...21 LOCAL OFFICES County Clerk...22 District Court Clerk...23 County Treasurer...24 County Sheriff...25 County Attorney...25 County Surveyor...27 Mayor Schuyler City Council CONTENTS

3 VOTER GUIDE 2018 Elections A Vote Step-by-Step Guide Information for Voters in Colfax County Voting can be confusing. This is an easy step-by-step guide that explains the voting process. It is your RIGHT and RESPONSIBILITY to vote. Each time that you vote in any election, you help yourself, your family, and your community. Join us on Election Day and VOTE FOR YOUR FAMILY! Who can vote in Nebraska? Anyone who: Is a United States citizen; Lives in Nebraska; Is 18 years of age or older can vote in state and federal elections. If you turn 18 before election day you can vote in both the Primary and General Elections. How can I vote? Register! You can register at: o The Latino Committee of Schuyler s (CLS) Office: 1119 B Street, Ste. 1 Schuyler, NE o Colfax County Clerk s Office: 411 E 11th St. Schuyler, NE o Heartland Workers Center: 4923 S. 24th St., Ste. 3A Omaha, NE o Any public assistance office or at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). o You can also download a registration form from the Secretary of State s website and send it in by mail. NEW! You can register online at: IMPORTANT! If you change your name, address, or want to change your political affiliation, you should re-register. VOTER GUIDE 3

4 How Can I Vote Early? You can vote prior to Election Day by voting in person at the County Clerk s Office or by requesting a ballot be sent to your home. If you are going to be out of the state or country or busy on Election Day, consider filling out an early voting ballot, so you may fulfill your right and responsibility to vote. How Do I Vote on Election Day? Colfax County is divided by precincts, and each precinct votes at a different polling place. When you register to vote, you will receive a Voter Information Card that will tell you where to vote on Election Day and information on the political districts in which you live. In Person You can vote at the County Clerk s Office 35 days prior to each Election Day. They are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can also have someone act as an agent to pick up a ballot for you at the County Clerk s Office. Voting from Home To receive an Early Voting Ballot by mail, you must request that one be sent to your home by sending a written request or filling out an early voting ballot request application, which is available online at Things to Know: o The polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. o If you do not know where to vote, you can: 1. Call the Colfax County Clerk s Office at Call the Latino Committe of Schuyler s Office at Call the Heartland Worker s Center Office at Visit the Secretary of State s Voter Check website at o If you end up at the wrong polling place, ask a poll worker for help. Make sure the form you send is signed. Double Check that your information is correct: - name - address where you are registered - address where you wish to have the ballot sent - your date of birth No phone or requests for early voting ballots will be accepted. Once you ve received your ballot in the mail, you must sign the envelope and be sure that your ballot is at the County Clerk s office by 8 p.m. on election day. o Once you arrive at your polling place, voting is easy: 1. Find the Sign-in Table You will see a group of poll workers sitting at a table. Approach them and tell them your name and address. You will need to sign your name as proof that you voted. 2. Receive your Ballot The poll workers will give you your ballot in a plastic privacy sleeve to you. Take it to a nearby voting booth. 3. Voting Make sure you follow the instructions on the ballot. If you have questions on how to mark your ballot properly, ask a poll worker. If you make a mistake and need a new ballot, write VOID across your ballot, fold it in half, and return it to the poll workers. They will give you a new ballot. 4. Return your Ballot Place your voted ballot in the privacy sleeve and return it to the poll workers. They will place it in the ballot box for you. 4 VOTER GUIDE

5 VOTER GUIDE Primary Elections April 9 Important Dates First day for Early Voting ballots to be mailed. General Elections Oct. 1 April 16 First day for in person Early Voting at the Election Commission s Office Oct. 9 April 30 Last day to register outside of the County Clerk s Office (i.e. at the HWC, DMV, library, voter registration event or online) Oct. 19 May 4 Last day to register at the Election Commission s Office Oct. 26 May 4 May 14 Last day to request an Early Voting Ballot Last day to vote in person at the Election Commission s Office Oct. 26 Nov. 5 May 15 Election Day! Nov. 6 An initiative of the Heartland Workers Center to promote Civic Participation and Education. For more information, contact us: VOTER GUIDE 5

6 j j j j j j j j CHECKLIST Confirm you are registered to vote. Update your registration if information such as address; name or political affiliation has changed. Know how and when to apply for an absentee ballot if you are unable to get to your polling place on Election Day. Know your options for early voting. Know if you need an ID; The only time voters are asked for their ID is if they were a first time Nebraska registrant who mailed in their registration application and didn t provide ID at that time. Know which polling place you are assigned to and how to get there. Learn what assistance is available in polling location. Know what time the polls open and close. Become acquainted with the candidates and issues on the ballot. GLOSSARY Throughout this Candidate Profile, you will find uncommon terms and acronyms. They are listed below, along with its meaning. ACA... Affordable Care Act CD2... Congressional District 2 CDC... Centers for Disease Control & Prevention CEO... Chief Executive Officer CHIP... Children s Health Insurance Program DACA... Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals DMV... Department of Motor Vehicles ER... Emergency Room FQHC... Federally Qualified Health Center GDP... Gross Domestic Product GED... General Educational Development/Equivalency Diploma HUD... U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development Incumbent... Currently holds the public position they are running for MCC... Metropolitan Community College NAACP... National Association for the Advancement of Colored People NEA... National Education Association NIH... National Institutes of Health Non-Incumbent.. Does not currently hold the public position they are running for NU... University of Nebraska OPS... Omaha Public Schools SBA... Small Business Administration SOBA... South Omaha Business Association SCORE... Service Corps of Retired Executives TPS... Temporary Protected Status UCC... Uniform Commercial Code UNL... University of Nebraska-Lincoln UNO... University of Nebraska-Omaha 6 CHECKLIST/GLOSSARY

7 United States Senator Salary: $174,000 The Senate is the upper chamber of Congress and part of the Legislative Branch of the federal government. It consists of 100 members, and each state is equally represented by two U.S. Senators, who serve on staggering six-year terms. The Senate shares with the House of Representatives responsibility for all lawmaking within the United States. For an act of Congress to be valid, both houses must approve an identical document. The Senate has the power to advise and consent certain decisions which include: the ratification of treaties and the confirmation of Cabinet secretaries, Supreme Court justices, federal judges, other federal executive officials, flag officers, regulatory officials, ambassadors, and other federal uniformed officers. Jim Schultz - Libertarian (Non-Incumbent) Lincoln, NE Age: 54 Retired Previous Public Positions: None Bachelor of Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln jimschultz-lpne.nationbuilder.com Deb Fischer - Republican (Incumbent) Age: 67 Lincoln, NE U.S. Senator (2013-Present) Previous Public Positions: Valentine Rural High School Board of Education ( ); State Senator for 43rd District ( ) Bachelor of Science in Education, University of Nebraska-Lincoln FischerForNebraska.com Jane Raybould - Democrat (Non-Incumbent) Age: 59 Lincoln, NE Grocer Previous Public Positions: Lincoln City Council District 3 (2015-Present); Lancaster County Commissioner ( ) Master s, Georgetown University 1985;Bachelor s, Creighton University 1981 JaneRaybould.com FEDERAL OFFICES 7

8 United States Senator 1. What actions will you take to expand access to high-quality public pre-k-12 education? Schultz: Voluntary Pre-K programs frequently become a point of privilege. Those with means send their children; those without don t. I believe a better approach is to target the parents with educational materials for both them and their children at places where they frequent most such as doctors and public service facilities. We also need to reevaluate programs and policies which have been detrimental to families, such as the War on Drugs. EDUCATION Early childhood learning is done in the home and anything we can do to stabilize and enrich that early environment will be much more effective than trying to fix problems later on when the children are in school. Fischer: No response received. Raybould: Education is one the greatest equalizers of our society. We need to make sure we invest in our public education system, because investing in our schools means we are investing in our next generation of Nebraska s leaders. My opponent, Senator Deb Fischer, was the deciding vote for a grossly unqualified Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos--even when Nebraskans overwhelmingly spoke up against her. Unlike my opponent, I will fight for our public schools and teachers because we need to invest in them today because they are shaping tomorrow s leaders. 2. What actions will you take to ensure that post-secondary education is accessible and affordable to all? Schultz: We need to move beyond the cliché that college is the desired outcome for all students. Nationwide, more than 15% of students will not graduate from high school. In some locations, that number is much higher. Only 65% of those high school graduates will go on to college. Only 60% of those attending college will graduate. Altogether, only about one-third of students will complete the academic track from high school to college. We are leaving the other two-thirds out in the cold and perpetuating the myth that you can t be successful in life without attending college. I would like to see more trade classes offered in high schools and a relaxation of regulations that make apprenticeship programs difficult to implement. We need to recognize that college is not everyone s answer and employer those alternative paths. Fischer: No response received. Raybould: We need to find solutions to make postsecondary education more affordable--from traditional college and universities to community colleges and trade schools. For any person who wants to continue his or her education after high school, the cost for this education should be affordable enough that they can continue learning without incurring overwhelming student loan debt. 3. What is your position on charter schools? Schultz: Competition drives excellence. I am not terribly concerned with issues about the quality of education at some charter schools. Parents who send their children to charter schools do so by choice. Charter schools in a district forces the public schools to address and defend their own record of success and honestly face any shortcomings. I believe that charter schools have a positive effect on public schools by breaking the monopoly hold school districts have. Monopolies rarely operate for the benefit of their customers. Fischer: No response received. Raybould: Nebraskans are fiercely proud of our public schools--and rightfully so. Nebraska schools should be a model for states across America of how to do public education correctly. Nebraskans tax dollars are already stretched too thin--we should not create a second school system of charter schools on the taxpayers dime. JOBS & EMPLOYMENT 1. What actions will you take to support working families, particularly policies that will increase wages and expand rights for all workers in Nebraska, including those who were formerly incarcerated? Schultz: First and foremost, we need to quit incarcerating so many people. End the War on Drugs and decriminalize drug use, legalize intimate activities between consenting adults, end restrictions on gambling, and abolish victimless crimes. Enforcement of these laws falls disproportionately on the poor and working class. Supporting families also requires a deep re-evaluation of our Family Law system. Far too often, involvement with Family Courts accelerates the breakdown of families instead of getting them the help they need. This frequently results in a spiral of accusations, arrests, loss of residence, loss of privileges such as drivers licence, and loss of income and loss of jobs. It is in the best interests of all involved - but especially minor children - to put as much effort into keeping families together as we currently do in breaking them apart. A vibrant economy is the best source of good wages and good working conditions for the working class. We need to remove barriers to entry which keep new business. 8 FEDERAL OFFICES

9 United States Senator JOBS & EMPLOYMENT Fischer: No response received. Raybould: I will fight to make sure funding is available for job training which is critical to securing and keeping a job--with proper job training, the skills gained make for a better worker, and will help increase one s competitiveness to increase his or her wages. Additionally, we need to make sure community college tuition is affordable, so that it is available to everyone. For those Nebraskans who are, or have been incarcerated, we need to focus on continuity of programming, so when they re released they have the proper skills to apply for a job, get a job and keep that job. 2. What actions will you take to provide assistance for small business development? Schultz: The biggest obstacle to small business is simply getting started. We need to reduce or eliminate many of the fees and licenses businesses need to start, reduce or eliminate many of the reporting requirements for business that have no employees (owner run businesses), and streamline the process for required reporting and paying taxes. I ran a small consulting business for a while. It was a closed, one-to- one relationship between me and one client. There would never be any other employees and never any other client. The reporting requirements were simply ridiculous. Fischer: No response received. HEALTH Raybould: The recently-passed tax bill gives tax cuts to the wealthiest Americans and to corporations, but not to small businesses or hard-working Nebraska families. When I m in the Senate, I will work across the aisle to find tax relief that will help stimulate Nebraska s economy by allowing small businesses to thrive. And small businesses need a strong, diverse workforce to keep growing -- a reason to support immigration reform. 1. What actions will you take to ensure access to healthcare for all, particularly for minority communities? Schultz: Improving healthcare in any community - minority, rural, First Nations - is best achieved by increasing the number of providers coming from those communities. I believe that programs which pay tuition in exchange for a set period of working in those communities are one of the best programs to empower both those communities and individuals from those communities while also improving services. Fischer: No response received. Raybould: Access to healthcare is a right, not a privilege. Illness doesn t discriminate against someone s race, where he or she lives, nor how much money he or she makes. Washington republicans have eliminated the individual mandate, which spikes premiums for everyone. We need to mend, not end the Affordable Care Act while working to reduce the cost of premiums and prescription drugs. 2. What actions will you take to increase funding for community health centers? Schultz: The rise of private urgent care clinics shows that the model of smaller, distributed healthcare works. These centers reduce healthcare costs and increase accessibility so that issues can be addressed before they become more serious. But it must be understood that there is simply no money laying around to be given to community health centers. The US government is already running on credit. We are over $21 trillion in debt with projections to add another $1 trillion this year alone. Over 25% of the entire output of the US goes to support the government. Expansion of community health centers is, I believe, a good investment. To increase support for community health, we are going to have to make hard choices elsewhere. Fischer: No response received. Raybould: Increasing funding for community health centers starts with Medicaid Expansion. By not adopting Medicaid Expansion, Nebraska tax dollars were being sent to other states. Health care is too expensive and we need to find ways to make it affordable and accessible to everyone. I will fight to support community health centers and Medicaid Expansion because no family should have to choose between healthcare or paying their bills or putting food on their family s table. FEDERAL OFFICES 9

10 United States Senator HEALTH 3. What actions will you take to increase access to mental health care, particularly in minority communities? Schultz: The answers to the previous two questions can equally be applied to mental health care. Increasing the number of practicions from and in underrepresented communities is a good start. Greater expansion will require cuts elsewhere. In addition to these points, mental health suffers from a quality problem as well. Far too much research into mental health is agenda-driven. The journal ; determined that up to 80% of published research in the field of psychology is not reproducible. We need to start demanding accountability of outcomes from mental health services. Fischer: No response received. IMMIGRATION Raybould: I was on the Lancaster County Community Mental Health Advisory board and recognize the importance of investing in mental health care to ensure access to care and to attract the best providers to our communities. There s a stigma associated with mental health and we need to work hard as a society to help chip away at this stigma--that starts with properly funding mental health programs. I will fight to make sure we see health parity with health insurance reimbursements and for public-private partnerships, to help those whose mental health is suffering succeed and live healthy, productive lives. 1. What actions will you take to protect recipients of both the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS), as well as refugees? Schultz: The tracking down and criminal prosecution of individuals for status violations is a waste of resources whether it is under the failed War on Drugs, or our equally failed immigration system. I will oppose any and all legislation and funding for programs which seek out otherwise law abiding citizens for criminal prosecution for status violations. The role of government is to aid, assist and protect the people it governs. When we start viewing the government as our punisher, it is just a short step away from tyranny. Fischer: No response received. 2. What steps will you take to push for comprehensive immigration reform? What would your proposal look like? Raybould: Those young people who are DACA qualified are Nebraskans--we ve invested in them as they ve attended our schools and contributed to society and will be great members of our community. We should provide them a pathway to citizenship. Many of those with TPS status came to our country decades ago and started a family here--i do not support ripping those families apart. Refugees have long settled in Nebraska to become a part of the fabric of our communities. After they are thoroughly vetted and scrutinized, we should welcome them. Schultz: Our current immigration system is in shambles. The fault of that failure and responsibility for cleaning it up lies with us - the US citizens. Immigrants should not bear the brunt of our failures. The borders should be secured as a national security priority. My immigration proposal would include: Legal status for minor children. School aged children must be enrolled in an accredited educational program. Upon graduation from an accredited US high school or receiving a GED, this status may be converted to a permanent resident status. The elimination of dead-end statuses which require a person to leave the country and apply for a new status after being legally admitted such as the current TPS program. Any immigration status that allows entry should have a clear and simple path to permanent legal status. Automatic granting of work permits if an immigrant secures employment. Like every other permit, these should have a clear path to permanent resident status such as maintaining employment for a set period. I support tying government assistance eligibility to status. Low or improper status individuals should not be eligible for most government assistance programs but as the status increases, eligibility would increase as well. This is a passive form of immigration enforcement which puts the burden on the individual to take the steps necessary for success rather than spending government resources tracking down good, productive individuals who are not able to achieve a legal status under our current system. I support the deportation of any non-citizen who is convicted of a felony crime against a person or property. Any individual who served honorably in our military should be granted full citizenship. Persons found to be out-of- status should be assisted in correcting their status rather than considered criminals. Fischer: No response received. Raybould: A fair system begins with creating a transparent process to allow for the legal immigration that our economy depends upon. This is an issue in which there is a clear contrast between myself and Senator Fischer. 10 FEDERAL OFFICES

11 United States Senator PUBLIC SERVICES 1. What actions will you take to increase and/or appropriate funding to improve local infrastructures, particularly in communities with large minority populations and/or older infrastructure? Schultz: Local infrastructures are best handled at the local level. In 2007, the Secretary of Transportation revealed that only about 60% of the federal gas tax revenue is spent on infrastructure projects. The remaining 40% was spent on over 6,000 special earmark projects. There are numerous taxes which were established to meet specific infrastructure needs but wind up funding unrelated pet projects. 2. How will you work with diverse community leaders to improve funding for public services? Schultz: Much the same as with infrastructure, public services typically suffer under a top-heavy management from Washington. Solutions which may be appropriate for one community are rarely the best choice for every community. We need to foster a belief in community-based solutions and keep our resources and control at the local level. As pointed out with the infrastructure question, when we send resources to Washington, we may only see 60% return. Fischer: No response received. CIVIC PARTICIPATION We need a full accounting of this revenue and safeguards put in place to ensure that the money paid by the public is used for the purposes stated. These revenues need to be distributed locally in proportion to what was paid so that denser populated areas with higher infrastructure demands receive comparable funding. One of the simplest ways to achieve much of this is to simply remove the federal government altogether and have the states collect the revenue directly. Fischer: No response received. Raybould: Much of this is handled at the state or local level, but at the federal level, I will support continuing grant programs such as the Community Development Block Grant to help communities grow and modernize. Raybould: Improving public services starts with partnering with our community leaders to listen to their concerns, to hear what the community needs, so that we can truly understand what issues are impacting them and their neighbors 1. How will you work to preserve the voter protections outlined in the Voting Rights Act of 1965? Schultz: Voting rights complaints typically fall under one of two categories - voter identification laws and Gerrymandering. Voter identification laws are statistically unnecessary. Despite widespread claims of various degrees of voter fraud, there is little evidence that the outcome of even one single election has been affected. The concept of voter identification is far less discriminatory than the actual implementations we have seen. If an identification is required, they should be easy to obtain without cost. What has actually happened has been cases where concealed carry permits were accepted but student identifications were not. This is a clear attempt to exclude certain demographics and has been rightly thrown out by the courts. Gerrymandering is a more delicate issue. Both major parties use gerrymandering to their own advantage. In many cases where gerrymandering is charged, one district is set up as a majority- minority district. Altering those districts to be more geographically based could have the effect of diluting the minority vote resulting in even less representation. I would rather see true minority representation in Congress than a political party that simply claims to represent minorities. Fischer: No response received. Raybould: As I run for the U.S. Senate, I am keenly concerned about the future of the Supreme Court and the potential for the far-right to grow its toehold in that chamber. I promise to stand up and fight for the rights of all Americans to fully participate in our democracy. 2. What actions will you take to engage more with social institutions and community members working with minority communities across Nebraska in order to better understand their issues and to develop collective ways to address them? Schultz: There are many groups and institutions that simply don t make it into everyday conversations. I was unaware that Lincoln had a sizable population of Burmese immigrants until I was introduced to them while working with Community CROPS. One of the best ways to find these communities and institutions is when speaking with one group, simply ask them to name three other organizations that I should be talking to. Fischer: No response received. Raybould: As I ve done throughout my political career, I make it a point to get to know my constituents, so I can listen to the issues that matter to them. As an elected official, it is my duty to make sure I am representing what matters to Nebraskans--and fight for these issues in Washington. Nebraska s fabric is woven of people from many different cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds--and I pride myself on getting to know these community members so I can listen to what s on their mind, and find solutions to problems they re faced with. FEDERAL OFFICES 11

12 United States House of Representatives Salary: $174,000 The House of Representatives is the lower House of Congress and part of the Legislative Branch of the Federal government. It consists of 435 members. The number of representatives is based on a state s population. Nebraska has three congressional districts; South Omaha and much of the Omaha Metropolitan area is part of Congressional District 2. According to the Constitution of the United States, the House of Representatives has the power to pass bills that impact areas such as education, immigration, and healthcare. The House of Representatives works with the Senate to draft and pass laws. The two chambers write proposals for laws and then send them to the President, who can either sign the bill, making it law or veto it. Members of the House of Representatives serve 2-year terms. Jeff Fortenberry - Republican (Incumbent) Age: 57 Party: Home: Public offices held: Republican Lincoln, NE. U.S. Representative for Nebraska District 1 (2005 Present) Bachelor s degree, Louisiana State University: Master s degrees, Georgetown l University and Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio. supportfort.com Jessica McClure - Democrat (Non-Incumbent) Age: 36 Party: Home: Public offices held: Republican Lincoln, NE. None Bachelor s degree in chemistry, Grand Valley State University: Juris Doctor, Florida Coastal School of law: Graduate certificate in pharmaceutical chemistry, University of Florida, Undergraduate certificate in accounting technology. *** Questionnaires were not sent out to the candidates below but you will find a brief summary obtained through their websites: For more information visit their respected website which are listed above. 12 FEDERAL OFFICES

13 United States House of Representatives CANDIDATE RESPONSE Jeff Fortenberry It s important for you to know where I stand. Governing requires many difficult decisions on complex matters. As your Representative, it is my solemn duty to analyze issues, weigh evidence and opinion, and ultimately make a judgment. I take this responsibility with the utmost seriousness in determining the future direction of our country. Today we face many challenges as a nation declining social institutions, reckless economic behavior, and a lack of federal spending discipline accompanied by an unprecedented expectation Jessica McClure Affordable Health Care: Advocate for Universal Health Care, Bring Simple Solutions to Congress, Stop Budget Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid, Push for a Medicare Public Option, Incentivizing Direct Primary Cares in Rural Areas, Modernizing Health Care Regulations, Lower the Cost of Prescription Drugs Better Policies for Working Americans: Save Medicare and Social Security, Support National Family Leave, Support Worker Protections, Disagree with Middle and Working Class Paying For Tax Cuts For Top 1%. that Washington can solve all problems. I believe Nebraska, with our unique cultural heritage of personal responsibility, hard work, and commitment to family and community, has much to give to our country by way of example. My core political philosophy is simple: The strength of our nation depends upon the strength of our nation s families and communities. In Congress, I have worked to address the most pressing matters before our nation. My priorities Renewable energy and climate change: Address Rising Global Temperatures, Phase Out Fossil Fuel Subsidies, Cut Down On Carbon Pollution, Create Energy Efficient Upgrades to Existing Power Plants Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): I support continuing the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), and I support Congressional action through immigration reform that helps provide clear pathways to citizenship for Dreamers. There are 3,000 Nebraskans who are DACA recipients (Dreamers). In order to qualify for DACA, children must have been brought to the US prior at age 15 or younger, and must be working are to promote economic opportunity and agricultural entrepreneurship, strengthen our national security, build a new energy vision, improve America s healthcare system the right way, and uphold strong family life and culture. At home, our work centers on assisting Nebraskans in their dealings with the federal government, particularly on veterans affairs, social security issues, and health care concerns. Thank you for entrusting me with the privilege of serving you in the United States Congress. toward graduation or have graduated, and have no disqualifying criminal convictions such as a felony, or significant misdemeanor. DACA recipients were given clear legal status by the United States, and now need Congressional action to help them remain in the United States. Congress must reauthorize DACA for these hard-working Nebraskans. Applicants have applied for this program, paid processing fees, and have be screened via background check, and they pay taxes into our economy. They deserve to continue living and working in Nebraska. FEDERAL OFFICES 13

14 Governor Salary: $105,000 The Nebraska State Governor is the head of the executive branch and is the highest state office in Nebraska. They are responsible for implementing state laws and overseeing the operation of the state executive branch. They advance and pursue new and revised policies and programs using a variety of tools, among them executive orders, executive budgets, and legislative proposals and vetoes. Governors serve 4-year terms. Pete Ricketts Republican (Incumbent) Age: 53 Omaha, NE Financial Executive Previous Public Positions: Nebraska Governor ( Present) Bachelor of Arts in Biology, University of Chicago; MBA in Marketing and Finance, University of Chicago PeteRicketts.com Bob Krist Democrat (Non-Incumbent) Age: 61 Military: Omaha, Nebraska Contract Manager and Chief Pilot United States Air Force, Retired as a Lieutenant Colonel ( ) Previous Public Positions: Nebraska Unicameral Legislature District 10 (2010-Present); Chairman of the Executive Board of the Legislative Council (2015) Bachelor s in Sociology, University of St. Thomas in St. Paul; Master s in Business Administration and Human Relations, Webster University in St. Louis KristForNebraska.com 14 STATE OFFICES

15 Governor 1. What actions will you take in the Legislature to ensure and expand access to high quality public pre-k-12 education? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: I think it takes a collaborative approach that includes teachers, administrators, parents, non-profits, and academia to develop and implement quality education. We must recognize from the beginning that children learn in different ways and at different speeds. A one-size-fits-all approach will not work. 2. What actions will you take to ensure post-secondary education is accessible and affordable to all? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: I believe the state of Nebraska must expand its commitment to post-secondary education, not reduce its support as the current administration has done. Cuts to our flagship university, for example, will force tuition costs to increase and make it less attractive for Nebraskans and non- Nebraskans alike. 1. What actions will you take to support working families, particularly policies that will increase wages and expand rights for all workers in Nebraska, including those who were formerly incarcerated? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: First, I believe we need to overhaul our tax system to reduce our over-reliance on property taxes and restore tax equity to our system. My opponent has focused his efforts on tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy, including a $13 million annual tax cut for his family business, TD Ameritrade. I will focus on tax cuts for working families. 2. What actions will you take to provide assistance for small business development? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: After I retired from the United States Air Force, I started a small business with a colleague and understand firsthand the challenges faced by those wanting to pursue their dream of starting their own business. State government can assist in a number of ways: starting with a quality public education system, the EDUCATION I believe that state of Nebraska must increase its funding commitment to public education so we may attract and retain excellent faculty and support staff, and provide our children with a quality and safe learning environment. I also believe we must strive to ensure that educational opportunity is afforded to all students no I also believe it is important to support and promote our community colleges as a means to obtain excellent job training skills that prepare students to enter the workforce. In addition, community colleges can serve as an affordable first step to a four year degree for those students wishing to do go that route. It s a great way to lower the cost of a four-year degree. I also believe we must work collaboratively with community and business leaders to help design JOBS & THE ECONOMY Second, I support the right of individuals to collectively bargain for fair wages. My opponent does not. Third, I believe we need to increase support for post-secondary education so we can educate and train our students to fully compete for the wellpaying jobs that drive our 21st century global economy. My opponent has cut funding for higher education. infrastructure required to attract and sustain small businesses, and a quality of life that makes people want to live in Nebraska. More specifically, state government should always look for ways to provide regulatory relief as appropriate, provide one-stop shopping for state filings, and offer tax incentives for small business job development. matter their race, origin or geographic location. Finally, I believe we should never be satisfied with status quo. We should celebrate our achievements, acknowledge our shortcomings, and always strive to give our children the quality education they need to compete in our global economy. and support educational and job training programs that match the needs of our 21st century economy. Finally, I think we need to recognize the additional challenges faced by minority and low income communities as they pursue post-secondary educational opportunities. Additional financial aid, mentoring programs, and one-on-one academic support can help students successfully pursue and achieve their post-secondary educational goals. Fourth, I believe our prison system is in desperate need of reforms. We must better prepare parolees and former prisoners with job training skills so they have the opportunity to find a decent paying job once they re-enter the workforce. The best way to reduce recidivism and uphold public safety is through employment. In addition, state government should proactively search for ways to offer assistance for small business development in emerging communities and minority populations. A vibrant locally owned, small business community is essential for the well-being of neighborhoods and their families. STATE OFFICES 15

16 Governor HEALTH 1. What actions will you take to ensure access to affordable, quality healthcare for all Nebraskans, particularly in minority communities? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: I support the expansion of health care services under the Affordable Care Act adopted by Republican and Democratic governors across the country. This expansion would provide health insurance to more than 90,000 Nebraskans who now rely on emergency medical services (or no health care treatments at all). As a result, this would reduce or slow the growth rate of insurance premiums that must otherwise cover the cost of non-reimbursed medical expenditures. I also strongly support our public health care centers and believe they should service all communities. That is why in the legislature I supported prenatal health care services to low-income women, as well as funding for Title X. I also think we must acknowledge the critical problems with access to health care in rural Nebraska. The shortage of health care professionals, the closures of health care facilities, and the financial pressures faced by rural hospitals are serious concerns and will require a pro-active agenda to attract health care professionals to these regions and reimbursement rates for medical services that will sustain health care providers. 2. What actions will you take to increase access to affordable mental health care across the state, particularly in minority communities? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: Access to services is quite possibly the most important facet of improving healthcare outcomes in this area. This can be accomplished on a macro level by increasing overall levels of health care coverage and making sure that this coverage includes mental health parity for necessary services. In addition, increased education efforts are needed to demonstrate the importance and efficacy of mental health services and their correlations to overall physical well-being. We also most promote legislation like LB 998, sponsored by Senator Lynne Walz, which would have placed a social worker in each Education Service Unit to help coordinate and train school personnel to work with parents, schools, behavioral and mental health care providers and other community resources to provide timely, effective and family-centered services needed behavioral and mental health services for students. Sadly, Governor Ricketts vetoed this important legislation. IMMIGRATION 1. Immigration policy is largely set at the Federal level; however, decisions made at the state level affect refugees and immigrants in their day-to-day lives. What kinds of state legislation would you support or oppose that would impact the lives of these communities? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: There are three key pieces of legislation that I supported during my time as a state senator that I would highlight as examples of what to expect from me going forward. In each case, it was important to level the playing field so that immigrants and their families could have access to services so that they are able to be healthy and to be productive, law-abiding members of society. The three pieces of legislation were: LB 947 from 2016, which provided that Nebraska residents who are covered by the federal Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program may apply for professional or commercial licenses in order to practice their professions; LB 623 from 2015, which provided that Nebraska residents of driving age who are covered by the federal Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program may secure a driver s license or state identification card; and LB 599 from 2012, which established a program to offer prenatal services through the Children s Health Insurance Program for low-income women in Nebraska regardless of their immigration status. 16 STATE OFFICES

17 Governor 2. In your opinion, what role does local law enforcement play when it comes to immigration policy? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: It is not the responsibility of local law enforcement to try to enforce federal immigration policies. This too often has resulted instances of 3. What kind of practices and policies will you implement to ensure that Nebraska is a welcoming state for immigrant and minority communities? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: I will continue to fight for policies that are non-discriminatory and that provide opportunities 1. What actions will you take to increase and/or appropriate funding to improve local infrastructures, particularly in communities with large minority populations and/or older infrastructure? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: One of the exciting things about state government is its capacity to partner with federal and local government resources to spur renovation, redevelopment and economic growth in our older communities, including those with large minority communities. racial profiling in regular police work or other matters that would not serve in the best interests of our communities in Nebraska. We need local law enforcement to be leaders in our communities and help keep us all safe without placing immigration status at the forefront of their work. 2. How will you work with diverse community leaders to improve funding for public services? Ricketts: No response received. IMMIGRATION for those in Nebraska to contribute to make our communities thrive. This will be a continuation of the policies I have supported in the past that again make sure we are leveling the playing field PUBLIC SERVICES More than any other single factor, I believe it takes leadership at the top to make it happen. When you look, for example, at the redevelopment of the area between the airport and downtown Omaha, it took leadership and vision on the part of elected, business and community leaders at all levels to convert Krist: I think this is the only way you make real progress: an open door policy that invites and solicits active participation by a diverse and representative set of leadership from all fields and backgrounds. CIVIC PARTICIPATION as much as we can so that anyone in Nebraska who wants to work hard to make this state a better place is able to do so. an eyesore into an outstanding example of community renewal. That is what I will bring to the governor s office: a commitment to work in a bipartisan fashion to revitalize our urban core and surrounding communities. Exchange ideas, plan for the future, develop solid proposals, and then make our case to the Unicameral and the public. Working together we can do great things for the people of Nebraska. 1. What steps will you take to ensure fair and equal access to all Nebraska voters, upholding the Voting Rights act of 1965 and ensuring fair representation? Ricketts: No response received. Krist: I served for 21 years in the United States Air Force, including combat missions in Iraq and Kosovo. I served side by side with Americans of all races, color and creeds. We served and fought to protect America s freedom; not just some Americans but ALL Americans. Toward that end, it is critical that ALL Americans can exercise their right to vote without reservations or intimidation. I pledge to all that this right will be fundamental to my administration, and I will take all appropriate steps to ensure this fundamental right. I also believe it is important that our state government reflect the rich ethnic and cultural diversity we have in Nebraska. Towards that end, I will make certain my administration reflects the diversity that exists in our state. STATE OFFICES 17

18 Secretary of State Salary: $85,000 The Secretary of State serves as Nebraska s chief election officer. Working with election officials in the state s 93 counties, the Elections Division oversees election law, the conduct of elections in the state, election tabulation equipment, and the state voter registration system. The division accepts candidate filings and tabulates results for statewide, legislative, judicial retention and certain district elections. The division also oversees filings for statewide initiative and referendum petitions. The Secretary of State serves 4-year terms. The Secretary of State also oversees the Business Services Division, which provides the follow: registrations for corporations and a variety of companies, and trade names and trademarks. Further, they handle Uniform Commercial Code and other security interest records along with regulating notary public commissions and handles apostilles and authentications. The Secretary of State serves as the following: Real Estate Commission chair, Records Board chair, Collection Agency Licensing Board chair, Pardons Board secretary, Boards of State Canvassers secretary, and Accountability and Disclosure Commission member. Bob Evnen-Republican (Non-Incumbent) Age: 65 Lincoln, Nebraska Attorney Previous Public Positions: State Board of Education Member ( ) Bachelor of Arts, Social Science, Michigan State; Law degree, University of Southern California BobEvnen2018.com Spencer Danner-Democrat (Non-Incumbent) Age: 40 Military: Omaha, NE Program Director United States Air Force Previous Public Positions: City of Omaha Human Rights and Relations Department Director ( ) Bachelor s Business Management, Bellevue University DannerForNebraska.com 18 STATE OFFICES

19 1. Why are you running for this office? Secretary of State CANDIDATE RESPONSE Evnen: Voting is the foundation of our representative democracy. I want to assure that our elections remain fair and secure. I want to be sure that the voice of victims is heard on the State Pardons Board. I want to partner with the Governor to expand Nebraska s international trade, which will benefit all Nebraskans. Danner: I am running for Secretary of State because I could no longer sit around and do nothing while our republic continues to be divided and our democracy continues to be assaulted. Election integrity and security is the biggest issue facing our democracy. I believe I have the answer to not only secure Nebraska s future, but to lead with integrity and be an example for the entire country. 2. What are your top three priorities if elected to become Nebraska Secretary of State? Evnen: (1) Voting security, to assure that the ballot every properly registered voter counts; (2) public safety, as a member of the State Pardons Board; (3) economic security, but partnering with the Governor to use the status of the Secretary of State s office to negotiate trade export deals that benefit our state s economy. Danner: The number one responsibility of the Secretary of State is to guarantee the full integrity and security of the electoral system. My top three priorities are to maximize eligible voter registration and accessibility, protect the election results and the process, and ensure that the electoral process is not influenced by money or partisan affiliation. 3. What steps will you take to ensure fair and equal access to all Nebraska voters, upholding the Voting Rights act of 1965 and ensuring fair representation? Evnen: Properly registered Nebraska voters have good access to voting today. We will continue to assure that access. We must be sure that voters are fully informed in a timely way about their polling places, especially when their polling location has been changed. Danner: The current electoral U.S process is not what democracy looks like. Democracies around the world have in their constitutions an affirmative right to vote. The U.S does not have that guarantee in our Constitution. I will support measures that will uphold voting rights, expand access, simplify registration, and affirm our right to vote. I will support secure automatic voter registration. I will support an independent redistricting committee. I will support eliminating the two year waiting period to vote for individuals with a criminal history. I will improve voting access for individuals with disabilities. I will expand early voting and mail in balloting. I will remove Nebraska from the crosscheck system. I will authenticate vote rolls and not allow the purging of eligible voters from the rolls. I will safeguard voting data and voter information. All processes must be transparent and equitable to all eligible voters. STATE OFFICES 19

20 State Treasurer Salary: $85,000 Treasurer of the State of Nebraska is the chief financial officer of the government of Nebraska. They are responsible for maintaining the state funds by investing and maintaining the budget. The department s main purpose is to invest state funds and manage accurate records of transactions enacted by the state. The state office also disperses funds to local governments as needed, keeps track of unclaimed property and helps with investments. The State Treasurer serves 4-year terms. John Murante-Republican (Non-Incumbent) Gretna, Nebraska Age: 35 CEO, Big Fred s Pizza Previous Public Positions: Nebraska Legislature District 49 (2013-Present) BA Political Science, University Nebraska - Lincoln JohnMurante.com 1. Why are you running for this position? Murante: No response received. League of Women Voters of Greater Omaha- Douglas County Voters Guide (Primary): What will you do increase transparency and reduce corruption on issues related to political contributions and funding? The State Treasurer manages the Taxpayer Transparency website. I will work to update and modernize the website so that the people of Nebraska have a user friendly, one stop shop for analyzing all of state government s expenditures. Nebraskans deserve a State Treasurer with conservative values and respect for taxpayer dollars. I understand that tax dollars do not belong to politicians, they belong to the people. Too many politicians view tax dollars as their own private charity. That is wrong. As a State Senator, I have demonstrated a fundamental respect and appreciate for taxpayer dollars. They represent hard work and time spent away from families. If elected, I will continue fighting for conservative Republican values. That is why conservative leaders have united around my campaign. I am proud to be endorsed by Governor Pete Ricketts, Senator Ted Cruz, Lt. Gov. Mike Foley, fmr. Governor Kay Orr, Treasurer Don Stenberg and over 100 others. 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to become Nebraska State Treasurer? Murante: No response received. League of Women Voters of Greater Omaha- Douglas County Voters Guide (Primary): What qualifications and accomplishments make you the best candidate for this position? Nebraskans demand a State Treasurer with small business experience and a proven record of fighting for conservative values. Small business operators are well equipped to serve as State Treasurer. As fmr. President and CEO of Big Fred s Pizza, which was started by my grandfather Big Fred Bruning in 1965, I know how to manage money, develop a budget and lead a staff of employees. I also know that big government is an impediment to small business. As a State Senator and Chairman of the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, I have a proven record of reliable conservative leadership. In Republican primaries, every candidate claims to be conservative. Nebraska needs a State Treasurer who has walked the walked with a history of standing up and fighting for conservative values. I have fought to cut property taxes, enact common sense Voter ID laws, and abolish the learning community. As Treasurer, I will work with the Legislature to enact these conservative ideas. 20 STATE OFFICES

21 Attorney General Salary: $95,000 The attorney general provides legal representation on behalf of the state and actively prosecutes crimes in the state. These can range from consumer fraud cases to prosecuting murderers. The attorney general s office is separated into five bureaus: criminal; consumer protection; agriculture, environment and natural resources; legal services; and civil litigation. The Attorney General serves 4-year terms. Doug Peterson - Republican (Incumbent) Age: 59 Omaha,NE Attorney General Previous Public Positions: Attorney General (2014-Present) BA University of Nebraska at Lincoln; Law Degree from Pepperdine University DougPetersonAG.com 1. Why are you running for this position? Peterson: No response received. 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to be Nebraska s Attorney General? Peterson: No response received. 3. As Attorney General, what steps will you take to protect immigrants, refugees, and minorities? Peterson: No response received. STATE OFFICES 21

22 Auditor of Public Accounts Salary: $85,000 The main duty of the Auditor of Public Accounts office is to provide independent, accurate, and timely audits, reviews, and investigations of the financial operations of Nebraska State and local governments. The Auditor serves as a member of the following: Board of State Canvassers, State Records Board, and Suggestion Award Board. The State Auditor serves 4-year terms. Charlie Janssen-Republican (Incumbent) Fremont, NE Age: 47 Auditor of Public Accounts (2015-Present) Military: Rescue Swimmer, United States Navy Previous Public Positions: Nebraska Unicameral Legislature District 15 ( ) Bachelors Degree, Wayne State College VoteJanssen.com Jane Skinner-Democrat (Non-Incumbent) Omaha, NE Age: 33 Librarian Previous Public Positions: None Oakland-Craig Public School, Cottey College, Nevada, MO JaneForAuditor.com 1. Why are you running for this position? Janssen: No response received. Skinner: I m running because it needed to be done. In December, I discovered that Charlie Janssen, the incumbent, was running unopposed. Janssen was a man I had long been following politically, and had overall been very disappointed with his policies and his voting record as a state senator. Seeing that he was about to enter into office without a fair fight, I decided to run against him. 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Janssen: No response received. Skinner: -Innovate the office. I ve heard reports from around the state that the auditor s office is still using a lot of old-fashioned techniques, such as doing math by hand, or that they are not up-todate on the most recent regulations. There is simply no excuse, in this day and age, for doing things the hard way, and I think the auditor s office could use a person who has new ideas and experience working with databases and information science. -Depoliticize the office. I ve long felt that the incumbent is a Republican first and an auditor second. How can the office be an effective watchdog when he is under the thumb of the governor, and uses the office to execute the governor s pernicious agenda? Elected positions are not sinecures, and I would treat it with the seriousness and nonpartisanship that it deserves. -Restore dignity to the office. One of the most common questions I get asked on the campaign trail is, What exactly does the auditor do? I think that many people in our state had never even heard of the office until Janssen s most recent scandal. That is, frankly, an embarrassment. The work of an auditor is quiet, and right now, I think public trust is at a low. I want the auditor to be a position that carries respect and trust throughout the state of Nebraska. 22 STATE OFFICES

23 County Clerk The duties of this office include keeping a record of the proceeding of the Board by the Clerk or his or her designee, making a record of all the Board s decisions concerning the raising of money, countersigning all warrants for payment issued by the Board, preserving and filing all actions taken by the County Board and preparing and filing with the Board the annual inventory statement of county personal property in his or her custody. Rita Mundil - Republican - (Incumbent) Age: 57 Schuyler, NE Colfax County Clerk Previous Public Positions: Worked in the Clerk s office for 23 years; appointed Deputy County Clerk in December of then appointed County Clerk in May of Ran unopposed in 2010, 2014 and now in Why are you running for this position? Mundil: I enjoy working with the public and all the county officials to serve Colfax County to the best of my ability. CANDIDATE RESPONSES 2. What are your top 3 priorities if you are elected to this position? Mundil: 1) Register of Deeds - to have all Deeds eventually online. 2) Election to have all precincts become all mail voting. 3) Clerk keep the office updated with current technology. 22 LOCAL OFFICES

24 District Court Clerk The primary responsibility of the clerk of the district court is to keep a record of the proceedings of the district court, under the direction of the judge. The clerk of the district court must keep records that are called the appearance docket, the trial docket, the journal, the complete record, the execution docket, the fee book, the general index, and the judgment record. Mary K. Bailey - Republican - (Incumbent) Age: 66 Schuyler, NE District Court Clerk (2017- present) Previous Public Positions: I have served as Deputy Clerk of the District Court since January 2003 and was selected to serve as the Clerk of the District Court in March 2017 to complete the present 4 year term which concludes at the end of this year. Graduated from Schuyler Central High School and attend Platte College (known as Central Community College) in Columbus for 1 year obtaining a One-Year Secretarial Certificate.Also, have completed leadership in Family Ministry training through Creighton University in Omaha which was a threeyear program. 1. Why are you running for this position? CANDIDATE RESPONSES Bailey: Serving the people in Colfax County as Deputy Clerk and as the Clerk of the District Court has been a real privilege. I decided to run for this position because of my experience. 2. What are your top three priorities if you are elected to this position? Bailey: Priorities No.1 and 2: My goal is to do my little part to efficiently serve the needs of our judicial system, as well as serving the needs of the people of Colfax County. Priority No. 3: Customer service is an important part of what we do at District Court. I will do my best to maintain customer service that leaves our patrons with a feeling of being greeted, being hear and being helped. LOCAL OFFICES 23

25 County Treasurer The office of the treasurer has the responsibility to collect all taxes on real and personal property and to distribute these tax monies for the county and governmental subdivisions within the county. The treasurer redeems the warrants owed by the county which are issued by the County Board. He or she may, with the consent of the County Board, invest the funds of the county in securities or in banks which have been designated as a depository of funds. The treasurer is also responsible for collecting taxes on automobiles, trucks, and other motor vehicles, and issuing licenses for the operation of these vehicles. Janis M. Kasik - Democrat - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 59 Colfax County treasurer and part-time manager at Didier s grocery store. Previous Public Positions: Colfax County Treasurer (1995-present) Graduated from Schuyler Central High School in 1976, continue to attend any education classes that NACT (NEBRASKA ASS N OF COUNTY TREA SURER S) offers. 1. Why are you running for this position? Kasik: I want to continue to serve the public. I have worked at the treasurer s office since I have serve all position s in my office- office clerk, deputy treas. And presently County treasurer. CANDIDATE RESPONSES 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Kasik: I plan to continue to keep abreast of the changes or developments that are being made. Also within this year my office will experience two new changes with our computer systems. I always strive to do my best in order to serve the public well to their needs and satisfaction. My motto is the customer is always right. LOCAL OFFICES 25

26 County Sheriff The one function most closely identified with the sheriff is that of a law enforcement officer whose responsibility is to keep the peace, prevent crime, and protect the property of citizens in the county. To assist in the performance of these duties, the sheriff has the authority to hire deputies, to call any other citizen to his or her aid, and to summon the power of the county. Paul Kruse - Republican - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 59 Sheriff Previous Public Positions: Sheriff County Attorney It is the duty of the county attorney to prosecute or defend, on behalf of the state and county, all suits, applications, or motions, civil or criminal, arising under the laws of the state in which the state or the county is a party or interested. The county attorney may be directed by the Attorney General to represent the state in any action or matter in which the state is interested or a party. Denise Kracl - Democrat - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 45 Colfax County Attorney. (2010-present), Schuyler City Prosecutor (2010- present) Previous Public Positions: Deputy Colfax and Butler County Attorney (August 2009-December 2010) Associates Degree from Central Community College, Columbus, Ne campus (1993), Bachelor s Degree in Education from Wayne State College (1996), Juris Doctorate Degree-University of South Dakota (2007) 26 LOCAL OFFICES

27 1. Why are you running for this position? County Attorney CANDIDATE RESPONSES Kracl: I have lived in Colfax County for almost 20 years. My daughter attends school here. I believe that I understand the values as well as the needs of people who live in Colfax County and I will continue to work towards keeping communities safe and keeping children out of detention and in the classroom. My job has allowed me to participate in leadership positions and volunteer efforts all over the state of Nebraska. With the support of the Colfax County Commissioners the Colfax County Sheriff s Department and the Colfax County Attorney s Office provided food and watch clothing to 65 families in need throughout Colfax County over the Christmas holiday. 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Kracl: 1. Keeping children out of the courtroom and in the classroom by maintaining and creating prevention programs. 2. To continue to work on the Northeast Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force to provide training opportunities in order to bring the issue of human trafficking out of the shadows in an effort to stop traffickers. 3. To represent Colfax County in a positive light throughout the state of Nebraska on boards and in appointed positions. County Assessor The county assessor has the primary responsibility of assessing all real estate and personal property in the county as of January 1. Assessment of motor vehicles and railroad property is made at the state level. The assessor administers the Homestead Law and other exemptions in the county, has the authority to examine and check all returns of personal and real property to determine if the proper value has been placed on this property, and has the power to change the reported valuation of the property of any taxpayer. Viola M. Bender - Democrat - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 62 Colfax County Assessor (1999-present) Prior public position: Working in Assessors office since Office Clerk and Deputy County Assessor. Schuyler Central High School graduate. Central Community College-Columbus NE Holds assessors Certificate since LOCAL OFFICES 27

28 1. Why are you running for this position? Bender: To continue to serve people in Colfax County. I enjoy working with with the public and other County officials. County Assessor CANDIDATE RESPONSES 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Bender: To continue to keep current with all State Statutes that pertain to this office. Implementing our GIS system online for public use. Will be doing a review of all agricultural property in Colfax County. County Surveyor The county surveyor has the responsibility of making all official surveys of the county, and of keeping a record of all land boundaries, plotted subdivisions, and public lands within the county. Marvin L. Svoboda - Republican - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 57 Previous Public Positions: 28 LOCAL OFFICES

29 County Commissioner Policymaking and legislative authority is vested in the Board of Commissioners, which consists of seven members. The Board of Commissioners is responsible, among other things, for passing resolutions, adopting the budget, appointing committees and hiring the county s chief administrative officer. The board is elected within their respective districts. Board members are elected to four-year terms, staggered, with three or four members elected every two years. District 2 Carl E. Grotelueschen - Republican - (Non-Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 61 Previous Public Positions: 1. Why are you running for this position? Grotelueschen: No response received 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Grotelueschen: No response received CANDIDATE RESPONSES 3. How will you work with community leaders to improve funding for public services? Grotelueschen: No response received 4. What actions will you take to engage more with social institutions and community members in Schuyler in order to better understand community issues and to develop collective ways to address them? Grotelueschen: No response received 5. If elected, what actions will you take towards ensuring the construction of a south levee in Schuyler? Grotelueschen: No response received 28 LOCAL OFFICES

30 District 2 Paul A. Mefford - Democrat - (Non-incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 66 Previous Public Positions: Over 30 years working with city and county construction 1. Why are you running for this position? Mefford: To get involved in the community and County projects to watch spending and promote common sense government. CANDIDATE RESPONSES 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Mefford: To ensure Colfax county get the best improvements for there tax money spent. Make sure the work that they get is quality work and efficient for the county. I will listen to all public concerns, ideas and recommendations and act accordingly. 3. How will you work with community leaders to improve funding for public services? Mefford: I will listen and ask questions, talk to people, do public relations ], use common sense on options available. 4. What actions will you take to engage more with social institutions and community members in Schuyler in order to better understand community issues and to develop collective ways to address them? Mefford: I would work with public relations, try to communicate and listen to what people have to say and act accordingly. 5. If elected, what actions will you take towards ensuring the construction of a south levee in Schuyler? Mefford: I will work to find out the best long term and cost effective way to proceed with this project and get it done. I will talk to all parties involved with this project and listen to what they say or recommend. LOCAL OFFICES 29

31 District 3 Jim Mejstrik - Republican - (Non-incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 64 Customer Service Manager at QC Supply - Schuyler Previous Public Positions: Schuyler Community School Board Member (12 years); St. Mary s Parish council member (8 years) Schuyler Central High School 1. Why are you running for this position? Mejstrik: I have been involved in my community for about 30 years and I felt this was a good way to continue my involvement. CANDIDATE RESPONSES 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Mejstrik: Schools. Roads. Fiscally responsible. 3. How will you work with community leaders to improve funding for public services? Mejstrik: Schuyler and Colfax county have been my home for almost 65 years. I want to make sure everyone is represented equally. 4. What actions will you take to engage more with social institutions and community members in Schuyler in order to better understand community issues and to develop collective ways to address them? Mejstrik: I consider myself to be a good listener and be honest and fair with everyone. 5. If elected, what actions will you take towards ensuring the construction of a south levee in Schuyler? Mejstrik: The south levee is a huge and expensive undertaking, until the maps are re-elevated the process would be on hold. LOCAL OFFICES 31

32 Mayor City of Schuyler As administrative head of City government, the mayor works with the City Council in matters relating to legislation, including the City s annual budget. The mayor does not vote on issues before Council. Instead, the mayor signs or vetoes City Council legislation. Only emergency ordinances or enactments relating to emergency appropriations or borrowing cannot be vetoed. The City Council may pass an ordinance over the mayor s veto by an override vote of five of its members. Jon Knutson - Democrat - (Non-Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 61 Retired government teacher and coach. Now works for H&R Block, Pioneer Seed Corn as an inspector and Connealy Farms Previous Public Positions: City Council member from the 3rd ward (1999- present); Director on the Schuyler Community development board. Represented Schuyler on various regional boards. President of local teachers association 7 times, served as a negotiator and served on executive board numerous times. Political science and education degrees from the University of South Dakota (1979). Social Studies education Masters Degree from Wayne State College, (1992). 1. Why are you running for this position? CANDIDATE RESPONSES Knutson: Mayor Reinecke is not and since I have been on the council for over 19 years, I thought I would try a different chair to try and make Schuyler all it can be. This was a challenge that I thought about for quite awhile. I will now be in a position to help make Schuyler a better, safer city for all its residents. 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Knutson: I m not sure I have a top three but these will be priorities. A) To be an outspoken leader for the good of Schuyler. B) To continue to keep city departments staffed with good people and equipment. By doing that, our services to people will be improved. C) To try to help build positive relationships, for all individuals, groups and businesses that want to see Schuyler grow and prosper. 3. How will you work with community leaders to improve funding for public services? Knutson: First of all, I believe Schuyler is a welcoming community. But, I will help make sure it is by insisting that city personnel work and interact with people by being polite, showing respect and patience to all. I will continue to assist groups who are working for this goal. 32 LOCAL OFFICES

33 Mayor City of Schuyler CANDIDATE RESPONSES 4. What actions will you take to engage more with social institutions and community members in Schuyler in order to better understand community issues and to develop collective ways to address them? Knutson: First of all this undertaking would be very expensive and we do not have the $. I am open to ideas. We will continue to seek help through our federally elected officials. We will continue to assist homeowners with ideas that could make their burden less. We will continue to work with other communities on the Platte River that face the same situation. Sadly, I am not very positive that an immediate solution can be found. 5. If elected, what actions will you take towards ensuring the construction of a south levee in Schuyler? Knutson: Housing has seen a big lift because of a housing specialist and the Schuyler Community Development Board,programs are in place and partnerships have been formed. I sit in that board and I believe we are well in our way to see a growing housing stock. The city will continue to work with our Schools to make them safe and productive. The hospital has always been a key component to a thriving Schuyler. I will be a supporter of all three and the work these areas of Schuyler life attempt to make things better. Finally, we need and accurate count of all the people living in Schuyler. The National census will soon be here. Please answer your door and please give a accurate account of all people who live in your homes. No information will be used to make anyone s living situation a legal question. Accurate numbers will help assist Schuyler to secure loans and grants and other funding sources based on a city s population. To close: I will learn from Mayor Reinecke what it takes to help run a city government. I plan to have office hours and will listen to any resident and be open to their ideas and concerns. Thank you for undertaking this task of making information available to voters. Schuyler City Council The Council has the ability to pass ordinances and resolutions. The Mayor can veto any of these. The Council can override a mayoral veto if 5 out of the 7 members vote to do so. The legislative powers of the City are exclusively vested in the Council. The Council has the power to conduct investigations concerning any subject on which it may legislate, or the operation of a department, board or commission engaged in administrative affairs of the City. LOCAL OFFICES 33

34 Ward 1 Alden L. Kment - Republican - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 76 Insurance Agent - Agency One Insurance Previous Public Positions: 1st Ward Council Member 1. Why are you running for this position? Kment: No response received 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Kment: No response received CANDIDATE RESPONSES 3. Schuyler is a diverse community; how do you intend to ensure that it is a welcoming community for all? Kment: No response received 4. The new flood plain went into effect in April of 2016; what are your propositions in regards to building a south levee in order for the south side of Schuyler to not be in the flood zone? Kment: No response received 5.Schuyler is one of the few growing communities across the state; what steps will you take to ensure that the community continues to grow in areas such as housing, school system, and health care? Kment: No response received 34 LOCAL OFFICES

35 Ward 2 Antonio Rodriguez - Democrat - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 42 Employed at BD in Columbus Previous Public Positions: 2nd Ward Council Member Associate in electro-mechanicals from Central Community College 1. Why are you running for this position? CANDIDATE RESPONSES Rodriguez: I want to be a leader and be part of the decision that will impact my community in a positive or negative side, I want to help to make Schuyler a better place to live and work for all the people. 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Rodriguez: 1. Help to make Schuyler have better parks and streets. 2. Help my district to be a better vicinity. 3. Help clean Schuyler, make it more beautiful. 3. Schuyler is a diverse community; how do you intend to ensure that it is a welcoming community for all? Rodriguez: By voting for ordinance against racism and create centers for assistance and welcoming to all races. 4. The new flood plain went into effect in April of 2016; what are your propositions in regards to building a south levee in order for the south side of Schuyler to not be in the flood zone? Rodriguez: Work on obtaining grants to build a levee or look for extra solution to the issue. 5.Schuyler is one of the few growing communities across the state; what steps will you take to ensure that the community continues to grow in areas such as housing, school system, and health care? Rodriguez: Promote more housing, invite people to invest and create jobs in Schuyler. Support all existing small business and create a plan to build new homes every year. LOCAL OFFICES 35

36 Ward 3 Daryl Holmberg - Republican - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 72 Retired from Nebraska Games and Parks Previous Public Positions: 3rd Ward Council Member 1. Why are you running for this position? Holmberg: No response received. CANDIDATE RESPONSES 2. What are your top three priorities if you were elected to this position? Holmberg: No response received. 3. Schuyler is a diverse community; how do you intend to ensure that it is a welcoming community for all? Holmberg: No response received. 4. The new flood plain went into effect in April of 2016; what are your propositions in regards to building a south levee in order for the south side of Schuyler to not be in the flood zone? Holmberg: No response received. 5.Schuyler is one of the few growing communities across the state; what steps will you take to ensure that the community continues to grow in areas such as housing, school system, and health care? Holmberg: No response received. 36 LOCAL OFFICES

37 Schuyler Community Schools- Board of Education Board of Education members serve four-year terms and receive no compensation for their work. The board is responsible for establishing the policies under which the school system operates. They must also act within the framework of rules set forth by the Nebraska State Board of Education and Nebraska and federal laws. Board members must represent the unique needs of their ward and the community. Brian A. Vavricek - Republican - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 39 Farmer Previous Public Positions: Currently in the School Board of Education district #123 Holly Hild - Republican - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 36 Insurance Agent, Agri-City Insurance Previous Public Positions: School of Education district #123 (2014-present) Bachelors degree in Industrial Distribution University of Nebraska Kearney Richard A. Brabec - Republican - (Incumbent) Schuyler, NE Age: 57 Box distribution manager at Cargill Schuyler Previous Public Positions: Schuyler Elementary School Board 3 terms, Schuyler Community School Board 2 terms, CHI board of directors 3 terms Bachelors degree in Industrial Distribution University of Nebraska Kearney COUNTY OFFICES 37