Flood Withdraws From Governor's Race

Speaker of the Nebraska Legislature Mike Flood is withdrawing from the 2014 governor's race. Flood made the decision after his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer this week.

Less than a month ago, Flood, a Republican, said he would be a candidate for governor after he spent several months touring the state and talking with citizens. Term limits are forcing him to leave the Legislature.

In an emotional news conference this morning, Flood said he wants to focus on caring for his family. Governor Dave Heineman and Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy, as well as numerous state senators and political officials, have issued statements of support for Flood and his wife.

“Mike and Mandi are personal friends, and my support and prayers go to their entire family as they face this challenge," Gov. Heineman said.

“Mike and Mandi have been friends of mine for a number of years and I am saddened by this news," Sheehy said. "My thoughts and prayers go out to them as they go through a difficult and personal time."

Sheehy, a Republican, has already declared he is a candidate for governor in 2014. Gov. Heineman cannot seek re-election due to term limits.