As Nebraska heads toward the 2026 election cycle, Secretary of State Bob Evnen is reminding candidates that use of the Great Seal of the State of Nebraska in political campaigns is prohibited.
Evnen, the official keeper of the state seal, said using the seal in campaign materials can falsely suggest government endorsement.
“Using the state seal is like having a stamp of state endorsement, which is a wholly inaccurate message if being conveyed by political campaigns or product marketing,” Evnen said. “As a recognized icon and honored symbol of the state, the Great Seal should be treated with integrity and respect.”
The Secretary of State’s office says it is a common misconception that the seal is available for public use. Any individual or organization wishing to use the seal must request written permission, which is granted only for official state business or educational purposes. Each request is reviewed individually, and there is only one official version of the seal; many images found online are inaccurate.
Candidate filing for the 2026 election begins January 5, 2026. Filing forms submitted before that date will be rejected.
Additional information on filing deadlines, forms and election resources is available on the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website.