AGP Executive Report

Nebraska Politics: A new Public Policy Polling survey finds the Nebraska governor’s race in a dead heat: Gov. Jim Pillen at 32% and Democrat Lynne Walz at 31%, with 17% undecided. Elections & Voting Rights: After a mail-ballot court fight, voting-rights groups are ramping up “voter protection” efforts, warning of possible intimidation ahead of November. Campaign Fallout: Independent Senate candidate Dan Osborn is facing renewed backlash after leaked audio mocking rural Trump supporters, saying their lives “probably suck so f—king bad,” while Osborn says the recording “sure sounds like me.” State Budget Process: Cuming County property owners will get pink postcards for a Sept. 21 joint Truth in Taxation hearing on proposed local tax requests. Public Assistance: Nebraska SNAP participation keeps dropping, with July showing about 7,600 fewer people than June and nearly 33,000 fewer than a year ago, drawing concern at a legislative hearing. Courts & Public Safety: The Nebraska Court of Appeals reversed a judge’s decision in a Hastings fatal crash case and sent it back for further proceedings. Local Spotlight: Omaha landed a major sports win—hosting 2027 women’s volleyball World Cup matches at CHI Health Center.

Nebraska Election & Governance: Gov. Jim Pillen reshuffled the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board, replacing three members with allies and raising questions about whether the October revenue outlook will look rosier for budget writers. University of Nebraska: UNL launched a national search for the next dean of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications, and also kicked off a search for the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Ag & Innovation: UNL unveiled the Nebraska Digital Ag Hub to help producers test and scale digital agriculture tools, with research, Extension, and training all in the mix. Public Safety & Accountability: A state auditor report says Lancaster County’s treasurer’s office has nearly $1 billion in accounting errors, renewing scrutiny of county financial controls. Policy Watch: Nebraska’s online voter registration system rollout continues ahead of the 2026 midterms, with Secretary of State Evnen highlighting the new platform. National Politics (with Nebraska ties): A new poll roundup shows Senate races tightening in deep-red states, while coverage notes Nebraska’s own fall scramble includes fresh political spending efforts. Community & Housing: UNL and partners celebrated the first OurStory Small Houses in Omaha, aiming to expand affordable, “aging-ready” housing.

Online Sports Betting Push: Nebraska’s ballot fight over legalizing online sports betting is set for Nov. 3, with campaign filings due Oct. 5 and major sportsbooks already pouring money into the signature effort. U.S. Senate Race Fallout: Independent Dan Osborn is apologizing after leaked audio mocked rural Trump voters, escalating a tight Nebraska Senate contest against Sen. Pete Ricketts. State Budget & Forecasting: Gov. Jim Pillen reshuffled the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board, replacing three members with familiar allies—moves critics fear could tilt the October revenue outlook. Ag & Energy Pressure: Ricketts says high diesel prices are squeezing Nebraska farmers and ranchers ahead of harvest, while also pointing to renewable diesel and biodiesel as relief. NU-LPS Partnership: UNL President Jeffrey Gold highlighted college-preparedness and teacher pipeline efforts through a partnership with Lincoln Public Schools. Wildfire Readiness: Nebraska Forest Service announced its first Wildland Fire Engine Academy to train volunteer firefighters on engine maintenance and operations. Local Culture & Community: Husker Harvest Days featured a forum honoring women in agriculture, and Nebraska’s Constitution Week outreach sent UNL law students into Lincoln middle schools.

Nebraska Elections: Secretary of State Bob Evnen certified Nebraska’s Nov. 3 general election ballot after a lawsuit-heavy summer, and he also unveiled a redesigned online voter tool that combines registration, updates, party changes, and ballot/polling-site tracking. Medicaid & Immigration: DHHS says new federal requirements will change Medicaid eligibility for certain noncitizens starting Oct. 1, with some groups losing coverage while others (like certain green-card holders, COFA migrants, and pregnant or under-19 lawfully present people) remain eligible. State Government Accountability: Nebraska State Auditor Mike Foley released findings alleging nearly $1 billion in accounting “blunders” in the Lancaster County Treasurer’s office, calling it sloppy accounting rather than theft, while the treasurer disputes that taxpayer money was misallocated. Local Governance: Sarpy County and the City of Gretna approved a new 3-year deal keeping the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office policing Gretna as the city grows. Public Safety: ICE announced arrests of commercial drivers at travel stops and inspection checkpoints, including cases tied to driving-while-intoxicated convictions. Agriculture & Cost Pressure: At Husker Harvest Days, Nebraska Farm Bureau and UNL experts flagged rising diesel costs and the strain they could add to harvest and farm program payments. Federal Policy Watch: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked Trump’s bid to restrict mail-in voting before the election, keeping states’ existing options in place.

Lancaster County Audit: Nebraska State Auditor Mike Foley released a 37-page report alleging nearly $1 billion in accounting “blunders” and “gross mishandling” by the Lancaster County Treasurer’s Office, with Treasurer Rachel Garver saying errors were corrected and no taxpayer money was lost. Elections & Voting Rules: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked the Trump administration’s push to tighten mail voting, easing immediate ballot disruption fears while election officials warn about lingering confusion and delivery delays. Medicaid Work Requirements: A new Urban Institute simulation estimates up to 2.3 million young adults (19–24) could lose Medicaid coverage under federal work rules, with paperwork and eligibility rechecks flagged as key risks. Disaster Response: DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin visited Nebraska for a FEMA roundtable and met with the family of Sarah Root, focusing on speeding disaster relief and cutting red tape. Flood-Control Planning: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is partnering with local governments to study upgrades to flood protection for the lower Big Sioux River, including the McCook Lake area hit in 2024. Energy Costs: Nebraska gas prices dipped in the week ending Sept. 5, with multiple county-level “lowest” reports from GasBuddy, while Husker Harvest Days panelists pointed to rising diesel costs and farm bill uncertainty. USC Lawsuit: Former USC forward Chad Baker-Mazara sued the university, alleging coach Eric Musselman’s dismissal involved a “racially charged” locker-room tirade and NIL payment issues. State Fiscal Watch: Gov. Jim Pillen highlighted that August General Fund receipts beat forecast, with sales tax stronger than projected but income tax refunds lagging prior years.

Lancaster County Treasurer Audit: Nebraska State Auditor Mike Foley says his office found nearly $1 billion in accounting errors in the Lancaster County Treasurer’s Office, including major misstatements in 2025 and improper distribution of state property tax credit funds from 2023-2025 that overpaid local entities and underpaid the state by about $1.27 million. Election Integrity Prep: Nebraska Democrats and allied groups are launching a “New Battlefield Project” to recruit 10,000 volunteers to monitor polling places amid fears of federal interference, with activists also planning protests and legal guidance for judges. Medical Cannabis Court Ruling: The Nebraska Supreme Court rejected a bid by former state Sen. John Kuehn to overturn Nebraska’s voter-approved medical cannabis laws, citing lack of standing. Public Safety in Schools: Nebraska Public Media reports Omaha-area school resource officers used electric shock “gloves” (G.L.O.V.E.) at least twice, with backlash leading to bans at some schools. Local Government & Infrastructure: Kearney Public Schools discussed a roughly $5.08 million road project near KHS to connect 27th Ave. South to 6th St. to ease congestion. Policy & Politics: Rep. Mike Flood (R-Neb.) and Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.) launched a Weather Enterprise Caucus to push weather-related legislation and support forecasting jobs. Campaign Watch: Independent Senate candidate Dan Osborn released a new ad attacking Trump’s proposed beef import plan, arguing it won’t deliver lower prices.

Health Care & Consumer Relief: The White House says it will issue about $500 Obamacare refunds to nearly 1 million people in 30 states, including Nebraska, tied to alleged federal “user fee” overcharges from the Biden era. Immigration & Disaster Response: DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin visited Omaha, touting disaster aid and pushing back on FEMA staffing cuts after a judge challenged them, while also spotlighting immigration enforcement at an event tied to the Sarah Root case. Courts & Public Safety: Nebraska’s Supreme Court again upheld medical marijuana legalization, rejecting another challenge. Elections & Ballot Integrity: Lancaster County arrested a 7th out-of-state petition circulator in a fraud investigation, and Lincoln City Council advanced competing charter amendments for the Nov. 3 ballot. Law Enforcement: Nebraska State Patrol seized nearly 20,000 pounds of drugs in Dawson County and recovered a semi-trailer of stolen electronics. Politics on the Ground: Sen. Pete Ricketts continued campaign travel across eastern Nebraska, while Democrats plan to train large numbers of volunteers to monitor polling amid election-interference fears. Local Government: Lincoln’s charter fight and North Platte’s port lease/fee changes show how local rules are shaping development and elections.

Obamacare Refunds: President Trump says the federal government will return hundreds of millions in Obamacare “overcharges” with $500 refunds to nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Nebraska, tied to Biden-era federal exchange “user fees.” Election Security: Democrats are launching the “New Battlefield Project,” training 10,000 volunteers to monitor polling places and prepare for possible election interference, with plans for visible presence and rapid response. Online Sports Betting Fight: Nebraska lawmakers are clashing over ballot measures that could shape the state’s iGaming rules, with opponents warning money would flow to big sportsbooks while supporters pitch revenue and property tax relief. DOJ Tuition Lawsuits: The Justice Department continues a multi-state push against in-state tuition for undocumented students, with Nebraska among states previously affected. Nebraska Courts & Ballot Access: Nebraska Supreme Court rulings are highlighted as affecting November ballot issues, including a measure that won’t appear after court action. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports Nebraska fuel prices easing in the week ending Sept. 5, with multiple county “lowest price” spotlights for regular, E15, midgrade, premium, E85, and diesel. Local Governance & Community: North Omaha’s Visitors Center is positioning the district as a tourism destination, while a Grand Island student representative role expands student input into school board discussions.

Health Care Policy: The White House says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states—including Nebraska—will get $500 refunds tied to alleged Obamacare “user fee” overcharges collected under the Biden administration. State Politics & Elections: Nebraska’s fall 2026 ballot is reported as certified after a lawsuit-heavy summer, with the Nebraska Supreme Court also issuing rulings affecting what appears on the November ballot. Courts & Rights: Nebraska Supreme Court decisions are also highlighted for upholding voter-approved medical marijuana access and rejecting challenges tied to ballot and election disputes. Public Safety & Veterans: A Nation of Patriots “Patriot Tour” flag stop in Mitchell is tied to a 501(c)(3) mission supporting disabled veterans in hardship. Transportation & TSA: TSA’s new “Gateside” program is expanding gate-area access for some non-ticketed, trusted travelers at select airports, including Salt Lake City. Energy Prices (Nebraska): GasBuddy reports show E85 and diesel price snapshots across Nebraska counties, with multiple low-price points reported for the week ending Sept. 5. Agriculture Economy: A Federal Reserve Beige Book update says Corn Belt farm conditions improved slightly, with mixed signals on crops, prices, and livestock. Sports & Travel: Airlines are leaning into sports travel, including a rare nonstop flight between Indianapolis and Lincoln for an Indiana–Nebraska matchup.

Health Care & Taxes: The White House says it will issue $500 Obamacare refund checks to nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Nebraska, arguing Biden-era “user fees” overcharged consumers through federal exchange operations. Immigration & Higher Ed: A federal judge ended Kansas’s in-state tuition for undocumented students, siding with the federal government’s claim that federal law blocks the state benefit—part of a broader DOJ push affecting multiple states. Nebraska Courts & Ballot Access: Nebraska’s fall 2026 ballot was certified after a lawsuit-heavy summer, with the Secretary of State and Evnen certifying the measures for the Nov. 3 general election. Public Safety & Terrorism: A new look at terrorism cases highlights how rare recidivism is among convicted terror offenders, even as more releases raise concern. Outdoor Recreation Grants: Nebraska Game and Parks is accepting applications for 2026 Land and Water Conservation Fund grants, with letters of intent due Sept. 18 and applications due Oct. 30. Elections Watch: National coverage flags 2026 midterm Senate races to watch and ongoing fights over voting rules and mail ballot requirements.

Health Care Policy: President Trump says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Nebraska, will get $500 refunds for alleged Obamacare “overcharges” tied to federal exchange user fees collected during the Biden years. Federal Courts & Immigration: The Justice Department filed final lawsuits against Hawaii, Arkansas, Utah, and D.C. over in-state tuition and aid for immigrants, arguing the policies conflict with federal law and disadvantage U.S. citizens. Nebraska Elections: Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen certified the fall 2026 ballot after a lawsuit-heavy spring and summer, setting races for federal, state, judges, and statewide ballot measures including online sports betting and sex-based provisions. State Government & Policy: Nebraska Gov. Pillen signed a bill changing Medicaid payments for complex medical needs, while other coverage highlights ongoing fights over Medicaid eligibility for disabled Nebraskans. Public Safety & Community: A major Omaha-area project—Dunham House—aims to provide assisted living for combat-maimed veterans, with dedication held on the 9/11 anniversary. Outdoor Recreation Grants: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is accepting 2026 Land and Water Conservation Fund grant applications from local governments and others through Oct. 30, with a required letter of intent due Sept. 18.

Obamacare Refunds: President Trump says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Nebraska, will get $500 refunds for “overcharges” tied to federal HealthCare.gov user fees collected during the Biden years. Federal Immigration + Tuition: The Justice Department sued Hawaii, Arkansas, Utah and D.C. over in-state tuition and aid for immigrants, arguing it violates federal law and discriminates against U.S. citizens. Nebraska Elections: Secretary of State Bob Evnen certified Nebraska’s fall 2026 ballot after a lawsuit-heavy spring and summer, placing three initiatives on Nov. 3: online sports wagering authorization, regulation, and “Fairness for Girls.” Courts + Ballot Access: Nebraska Supreme Court rulings kept voter-approved medical cannabis access on track and rejected additional challenges affecting the November ballot. Outdoor Recreation Grants: Nebraska Game and Parks is accepting applications for 2026 Land and Water Conservation Fund grants, with a Sept. 18 letter of intent deadline and an Oct. 30 application cutoff.

Nebraska Elections: Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen certified the fall 2026 ballot after a lawsuit-heavy summer, setting the Nov. 3 ballot with 92 federal and state candidates, 48 judges, and three statewide initiative measures: #440 Online Sports Wagering Authorization, #441 Online Sports Wagering Regulation, and #442 Fairness for Girls. Online Sports Betting Fight: Nebraska officials are already gearing up for October hearings in each congressional district, while opponents—including State Auditor Mike Foley and Treasurer Joey Spellerberg—argue the measures could undermine college sports integrity. Statehouse Appointments: Gov. Jim Pillen named new members to the Nebraska Brand Committee and selected Jed Connealy as chairman, following an LB 1187 change to the board’s structure and eligibility rules. Federal Legal Pressure on Tuition: The U.S. DOJ sued Utah over in-state tuition for some undocumented students, echoing a broader federal push that has already hit multiple states, including Nebraska. Medicaid Policy: Nebraska Gov. Pillen signed a bill changing Medicaid payments for complex medical needs, as advocates warn about tightening coverage for vulnerable groups. 9/11 in Nebraska: Nebraska Panhandle responders say lessons from 9/11 communications failures are finally reshaping how they coordinate today.

Health Care & Elections: The White House says it will send $500 Obamacare refund checks to nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Nebraska, starting in October, framing them as returns of “user fees” that it says drove up premiums under the federal exchange. Nebraska Courts & Ballot Access: The Nebraska Supreme Court ruled Respect Nebraska Voters can’t appear on the Nov. 3 ballot, and also rejected a bid to force Democrats to replace a withdrawn U.S. Senate nominee. Sports Betting Fight: A new Nebraska coalition—featuring statewide officials and Husker football figures—kicked off a campaign against November ballot initiatives to legalize online sports betting. Medical Cannabis: The Nebraska Supreme Court tossed a medical cannabis opponent’s federal-preemption challenge for now, saying the challenger lacked standing. Medicaid & Autism: A report highlights how federal and state Medicaid fraud crackdowns are affecting autism therapy access in Nebraska, with providers warning legitimate clinics are getting squeezed. Public Safety: Nebraska’s counterterrorism role since 9/11 is highlighted, including Offutt’s early importance and Guard deployments.

Obamacare Refunds: The White House says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states will get $500 checks starting in October, claiming Biden-era “user fees” inflated premiums through Healthcare.gov. Immigration & Medicaid: Nebraska DHHS warns new federal eligibility rules starting Oct. 1 could strip Medicaid coverage from some non-citizens, and advocates say the changes could hit families hard. Gov. Pillen & ICE: Reporting highlights blowback on Pillen’s immigration stance, including claims his administration backs ICE crackdowns while his businesses have employed undocumented workers. Election Courts: The Nebraska Supreme Court rejected a bid to force the Democratic Party to replace its U.S. Senate nominee, and also struck down the “Respect Nebraska Voters” measure for violating the state’s single-subject rule. Local Governance: Cuming County property owners will soon get “pink postcard” notices for a joint Sept. 21 property tax hearing. Education: Nebraska parents are urging U.S. senators to oppose proposed special education funding cuts, warning of staffing shortages. TSA Policy: TSA’s “Gateside” program will let some non-flyers with PreCheck access airport gates at 13 airports, easing a post-9/11 restriction. School Board Race: North Platte’s Ward 2 board contest features Harlan Anderson vs. Val Hyde, with sharp differences on the board’s role and representation. Veterans Care: Nebraska’s Veterans Mission of Mercy dental event delivered more than $600,000 in free care to thousands of services.

Nebraska Supreme Court & City Governance: The Nebraska Supreme Court ordered Lincoln to put three Good Government Lincoln charter amendments on the Nov. 3 ballot, rejecting the city’s push to wait until May 2027; the proposals would shift election timing, expand who can vote in city elections (with a 3-mile buffer), and set term limits for City Council members. State Politics & Elections: The court fight also ties to Attorney General Mike Hilgers’ push to enforce when citizen-initiated measures must be submitted to voters. Campaign & Immigration: Gov. Jim Pillen is defending allegations that his hog farms employed undocumented workers, while also rolling out a “2.0 playbook” that includes eliminating tax incentives for data centers and emphasizing water protections. Public Safety & Justice: Norris School District is seeking a property tax levy increase after voters rejected a major bond issue, and a northeast Nebraska man is headed to trial in December on felony assault charges tied to an alleged pursuit and threats. National Policy Watch: TSA is bringing back “gateside” access for some PreCheck members without a plane ticket at select airports, and a ProPublica analysis finds ectopic pregnancy deaths have nearly doubled in states with abortion bans.