Governor Jim Pillen announced Monday afternoon he has made two appointments to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. Robert “Bud” Synhorst of Lincoln has been selected to represent the 1st Congressional District and James Elworth of Nebraska City will represent the 3rd Congressional District.
Synhorst is the owner of RobNik Strategies and the former president/CEO of the Lincoln Independent Business Association. Elworth is retired, having served as a former state assistant attorney and a county prosecutor in both Lancaster and Dodge counties. He was also involved in investigating, interpreting and enforcing rule violations in athletics, including for the NCAA.
Three members serve on the Liquor Control Commission, each representing one of Nebraska’s congressional districts. Appointments are subject to confirmation by the Nebraska Legislature. Elworth and Synhorst are filling vacancies resulting from resignations in their respective districts.
In September, Pillen requested and received the resignations of Nebraska Liquor Control Commission Chairman Bruce Bailey and Commissioner Kim Lowe following the federal indictment of the commission’s former executive director, Hobert Rupe.
Elworth’s term will expire in May of 2027. Synhorst’s term will expire in May of 2029.