Nebraska’s gubernatorial candidates raking in fundraising ahead of general election

Gov. Jim Pillen and Democratic challenger Lynne Walz are vying for voter support, each claiming to carry it in back-to-back statements released to reporters on Tuesday.

Pillen released a statement Tuesday morning claiming historic fundraising levels and boasting $9.5 million cash in the bank. His staff said no other campaign comes close and that his success is record breaking.

“This campaign has always been about serving Nebraskans,” Pillen wrote in the release. “I’m extraordinarily honored that we’ve seen such historic support from across this great state.”

Pillen cited cutting income taxes as a reason for the support, adding that his campaign is all about protecting Nebraska values. A spokesperson for the campaign said almost 6,000 donors have supported Pillen since he won in 2022, adding that 94% of those donors are from Nebraska.

Just two hours later, Walz released a statement saying her campaign has outraised Pillen’s since the primary election in May. Her campaign claims to have raised more than $292,400 in the weeks since, compared to Pillen raising $163,700 over the same period.

"Our latest finance report demonstrates the growing momentum behind Lynne Walz's campaign to bring new leadership to Nebraska," Bridget Ryan, campaign manager for Lynne Walz wrote.

Ryan added that Walz will respect Nebraskans and address affordability should she win the general election in November. The campaign touted a recent internal poll, showing Walz and Pillen almost neck-and-neck in popularity.