Nebraska GOP Passes Expression of Disappointment Against Senator Ben Sasse

Feb. 27, 2021, 6:03 p.m. ·

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The resolution, passed Saturday at a party meeting in Columbus, expresses disappointment in Sasse, but does not censure him.

The final language in the resolution covers a wide range of issues, from Sasse's criticism of President Trump after receiving his endorsement for re-election in 2019 to not answering emails in a timely manner.

Ryan Hamilton is Executive Director of the State GOP.

“It is a pretty extensive list of disappointment, sadness, and includes a formal rebuke of Senator Sasse's term of office in Washington,” said Hamilton, “So, while it may not include the word censure, I certainly don't think it can be construed as letting him off light.”

Sasse released a video a few weeks ago expressing his indifference to news of a potential censure while insinuating some members of the party had fallen into a personality cult dedicated to the former president.

A charge Hamilton denies.

“There are widespread disagreements that we have with Senator Sasse, the party has with Senator Sasse...they’re not just about Donald Trump,” he said, “So to characterize it that way is just isn’t being fully honest with the situation at hand.”

Sasse won re-election in 2020 by a wide margin after being endorsed by Trump and after his general election opponent was engulfed in scandal.

Hamilton says he has heard rumors that Sasse could be gearing up for a presidential run in 2024 but insists the resolution was not meant to blunt his prospects.

He says Sasse does that on his own with his consistent criticisms of the former president, noting a majority of republicans nationally support Trump.

“The party happens to disagree with Ben on this issue,” said Hamilton.