Democratic candidate for Nebraska governor picks farmer as running mate

OMAHA, Neb. —

The Democratic nominee in Nebraska’s gubernatorial race has selected her running mate ahead of November’s general election.

Lynne Walz announced Ben Steffen, a farmer and ag leader from Humboldt, as her pick for lieutenant governor on Tuesday.

“When I was thinking about who should walk side-by-side with me in the work ahead, I wanted a person who shares a vision for the future that I see. Someone who also has a deep love for Nebraska and the people who live here. Someone who is compassionate and understands the challenges and tough decisions that need to be made. I wanted someone who knows hard-work and has a proven record of serving others,” Walz said in a statement.

Walz is joined in the race for governor by Republican incumbent Jim Pillen and Legalize Marijuana Now candidate Rick Beard. Former State Sen. Brett Lindstrom started a petition drive earlier this month to run as an independent candidate.

READ MORE: Brett Lindstrom’s independent bid for governor changes campaign dynamics, draws controversy

Steffen’s work in the agricultural community includes chair of the Richardson County Farm Bureau, former president of Ag Builders of Nebraska, former chairman of Nebraska Association of County Extension Boards, and board chairman for the Nebraska Rural Radio Association.

“I want my governor to care enough, feel enough, to be human and relate to the people who she serves. I want her to know the pains and struggles we face. I want a governor who knows how hard we work and a governor who treats everyone with respect,” Steffen said in a statement.

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