Nebraska Governor | Elections | journalstar.com

Occupation: Adjunct professor, criminology and criminal justice, University of Nebraska at Omaha

Political party: Republican

What experiences qualify you for this office?

I have a strong understanding of state government and skills to manage people, projects, budgets and complex incidents. Effectively collaborating with teams in public and private sectors in education, emergency management, prisons, agriculture, power and energy, retail, religion, law enforcement and the health department. I bring sound leadership, organizational skills, advanced training and education, confidence, teamwork and vision to the office. FEMA certifications, NIMS, ICS, HSEEP, emergency management and preparedness, advanced Homeland Security, crisis negotiation, facilitator, adviser and educator.

Why do you want to be governor?

I want to be governor to continue to serve all Nebraskans. It is important for our leader to have as much experience throughout the state as possible to make sound decisions and I have that experience. I want Nebraskans to feel comfortable with leadership and feel as though they can approach our governor for any concerns they have. I want to help Nebraskans, keep us alive, safe, healthy and successful in our pursuits of work, education and retirement.

What would be your first-year priorities or agenda?

I will meet state agency leaders and their employees to address workplace needs and challenges, considering potential changes or funding issues. I will meet with each state representative and their cabinet to discuss our goals in working together for the good of all Nebraskans. I will travel to all counties and as many villages, towns and cities across Nebraska to meet everyone I can and listen to their hopes for our future.

What do you identify as Nebraska’s primary challenges or needs?

Our primary challenge is education. The core curriculum for proficiency must be revisited. Education should be apolitical, and all unfunded mandates and political agendas removed. Lack of foundational education and life skills lend themselves to increased crime, incarceration and burdens on society. Education is the foundation of our democracy and needs to be the focus to help Nebraskans compete nationally and internationally. We are graduating children without knowledge, skills, or capability to enter the workforce successfully as adults.

What qualities would you bring to the governor’s office?

I bring wisdom, patience, honesty, transparency and proven leadership to the office. Citizens trust me and know I am true to my word. I am approachable, which allows individuals to bring questions, concerns, or suggestions to me without threat or judgment. I listen to concerns of all residents and weigh the benefits or detriments to each decision or action. I bring motivation, encouragement, and hope. I bring kindness and strength to build unity and a great future for Nebraskans.

How would you address Nebraska’s workforce challenge and need to attract and retain young people?

* Create a database of prequalified, vetted immigrants for employers to quickly access without expenses of redundant paperwork. This expedites the hiring process, aiding immigrants in recurring employment if work visas are not violated.

* To grow Nebraska, we need to bring in more opportunities for well-paying jobs with benefits which are secure, engaging and promote advancement opportunities. Encourage entrepreneurs by making it simpler for business start-up. Lower taxes so we keep more money in our pockets.