Democratic gubernatorial candidate Lynne Walz has announced Humboldt farmer and agricultural leader Ben Steffen as her running mate in the 2026 Nebraska governor’s race. Walz introduced Steffen during a news conference Tuesday at a farm north of Elkhorn, saying she wanted a partner who shares her vision for Nebraska and has a record of serving others.
“When I was thinking about who should walk side-by-side with me in the work ahead, I wanted a person who shares a vision for the future that I see,” Walz said. “Someone who also has a deep love for Nebraska and the people who live here.”
Steffen farms land that has been in his family for 130 years in Richardson County. Steffen said he was drawn to Walz’s leadership style and commitment to serving Nebraskans. “I want my governor to care enough, feel enough, to be human and relate to the people who she serves,” Steffen says.
“I want a governor who knows how hard we work and a governor who treats everyone with respect.” Steffen acknowledged leaving the farm to enter politics will be a challenge but says he felt called to serve. He pointed to rising costs for families, challenges facing rural healthcare and child care, and economic pressures on agriculture.
He also criticized the current administration’s handling of the state budget and property taxes, saying Nebraska has gone from a $1.2 billion surplus to a projected $1 billion deficit while promised property tax relief has not been delivered.
Steffen highlighted the Walz campaign’s recently released “Commitment to Nebraskans” agenda, saying the campaign will focus on bringing people together, finding common-sense solutions, and creating opportunities for workers, businesses, and farmers across the state.