Scott Petersen prepares to challenge Bob Evnen for Nebraska Secretary of State
Before last Thursday, Scott Petersen considered himself retired. As an active member of the Republican Party for many years, Petersen has played many roles, including working for Congressman Don Bacon between 2016 and 2019 and then campaigning for his primary challenger, Dan Frei, in 2022.
Now, Petersen is preparing to formally launch a primary challenge against Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen. His official press release will go out next week, but Petersen had the chance to answer a few questions for me about his campaign.
1. What motivated you to run for Secretary of State this cycle, and why challenge the incumbent?
We deserve a Secretary of State who works hard and listens to the people of Nebraska. When a majority of people don’t trust our election systems, we have a problem. There have also been mistakes made and overreach errors with the other duties of the Secretary of State. We need to TRUST our Secretary of State. When elected, I will work hard and restore that trust.
2. What are your top 2-3 priorities if elected (e.g., election integrity, business services, voter access, or other areas under the office)?
Restoring Trust in our election systems and bringing back control of elections to the county level where it belongs (and used to be).
Modernizing business and records services to be more efficient, responsive, and user-friendly for Nebraska entrepreneurs and families.
Supporting our Governor in building relationships and promoting Nebraska Ag and Nebraska Businesses around the world.
3. How do you see your approach differing from the current administration in the office?
I will listen and communicate clearly with Nebraskans. I won’t use “lawyer speak” to avoid the issues. I will work hard to make sure the Secretary of State Office is run efficiently with transparency and accountability.
Cole Lumsden, Campaign Manager for Secretary of State Bob Evnen, responded to the news.
“Secretary of State Bob Evnen has been an ardent supporter and ally of President Trump’s, and has been a key partner with the administration on election integrity. Secretary Evnen is looking forward to once again earning the trust and support of Nebraskans on May 12th.”
While Petersen’s official announcement will not be until next week, he has already sent the filing paperwork for his campaign as of yesterday. Early in-person voting will begin April 13, and the primary election will be on May 12, 2026.