Nebraska Governor Race Gets Another Twist Before It Starts

Posted: 04 February, 2013

LINCOLN (AP) - Nebraska's race for governor has been wildly unpredictable, and it hasn't even really started. The resignation Saturday of Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy, a Republican who had enjoyed the endorsement and fundraising muscle of Gov. Dave Heineman, is the latest surprising turn. It followed a decision by former Republican Speaker of the Legislature Mike Flood to withdraw last December after his wife, Mandi, was diagnosed with breast cancer. The list of possible Republican candidates includes Nebraska Regent Tim Clare, Sen. Beau McCoy of Omaha, Auditor Mike Foley, Attorney General Jon Bruning and former state Sen. Phil Erdman. Democratic candidates who have signaled an interest include Regent Chuck Hassebrook and state Sen. Steve Lathrop. Some activists are also encouraging state Sen. Annette Dubas of Fullerton to run.