Following an article published in the Nebraska Examiner on allegations of sexual misconduct and assault against Nebraska gubernatorial candidate Charles W. Herbster, a group of bipartisan Nebraska State Senators issued a joint statement.
“We commend the brave women who have stepped forward to tell the truth about what they endured at the hands of Charles Herbster, including our friend and colleague, Senator Julie Slama. Sexual assault is despicable and damaging. This is not a question of politics—it is an issue of character and basic human decency. Charles Herbster’s behavior is completely unacceptable for anyone, especially someone seeking a public office of authority and trust. Herbster’s actions as outlined by the Nebraska Examiner render him unfit to serve.”
Signed by the following Nebraska State Senators:
Senator Joni Albrecht
Senator Carol Blood
Senator Machaela Cavanaugh
Senator Jen Day
Senator Wendy DeBoer
Senator Suzanne Geist
Senator Megan Hunt
Senator Lou Ann Linehan
Senator Patty Pansing-Brooks
Senator Rita Sanders
Senator Julie Slama
Senator Lynne Walz
Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts issues this statement in response to accusations made against Herbster:
“This is beyond horrible. Charles W. Herbster should beg forgiveness of the women he has preyed upon and seek treatment. Sexual assault is criminal behavior and should disqualify anyone from elected leadership. I encourage my fellow Nebraskans to respect, support, and stand with these survivors, who had the courage to tell the truth about what happened to them. These brave women have Susanne’s and my full support.”
Republican candidate for governor Jim Pillen released this statement:
“All Nebraskans are called to be examples to our families, and Nebraska leaders are called to be examples to our families, communities, and the state of Nebraska,” said Pillen. “Sexually assaulting women should be disqualifying for anyone seeking to serve as a leader. Suzanne and I are praying for the women targeted by Charles W. Herbster.”
To see the complete story on the Nebraska Examiner, click here.