Governor Jim Pillen is taking action after Nebraska State Senator Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha recently removal of pictures in the Capitol. “I share Nebraskans’ profound disappointment in Senator Cavanaugh’s conduct in the State Capitol on Wednesday, January 7, Pillen said in a statement.
“As surveillance footage and observer pictures show, Senator Cavanaugh ripped down several of the State’s America 250 displays showcasing prominent figures and events throughout our Nation’s history and then stashed them in her office. As many Nebraskans and officials in the Capitol have expressed, if a private citizen had engaged in similar conduct, there would be a consequence for such misconduct.”
Pillen says he and his team carefully consulted with law enforcement and members of the Legislature. “I have concluded this warrants a criminal investigation by law enforcement. Due to the Nebraska State Patrol’s responsibility for Capitol and legislative security, I have directed that agency’s superintendent, Colonel Bryan Waugh, to refer this matter to the Lancaster County Sheriff for further investigation.”
As for any accountability Senator Cavanaugh should face as a Senator, Pillen says that is exclusively the responsibility of the Legislature as a separate branch of government.
(Photo: Governor’s Office)