Chair Report – Seward GOP Convention March 22, 2026

Good afternoon, fellow Republicans of Seward County. Thank you for being here today—it's great to see so many new faces stepping up to shape our party's future.

Before we dive into the business of the day, I want to address the “other” elephant in the room that's been on everyone's mind the last several days: the Sheriff's race and the two candidates who were removed from the primary ballot.

We all know how frustrating and disappointing this has been for many in our community—good people stepped up to serve, and technical filing issues derailed that. The facts are straightforward: Nebraska law requires candidates for county offices like sheriff to file their Statement of Financial Interests (Form C-1) with the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission by the March 2, deadline. When that deadline passes without the form, the law is clear: the name is removed from the ballot. This is handled by state authorities, not our county party. We did not withhold information, we did not plot against anyone, and we have no role in those decisions. Tim Huntington filed properly and is now our Republican nominee for sheriff. As a party, we have no obligation or plan to support write-in efforts for the others. Our focus remains on uniting behind the nominee we've got and winning in November.

That said, let's not let this overshadow everything else we’ve been building together. This moment is tough, but it doesn't define us. What defines us is the momentum we've gained over the last two years—and that's worth celebrating.

These aren't just activities—it’s the work of building a party rooted in conservative principles, strong families, limited government, and putting Nebraska first.

Let’s look at where we are!! For this primary, seven candidates have requested endorsement from our party. Seven! That's a clear sign of our growing relevance and the value people see in our support. We're in the game, and people are noticing.

Our own Vice Chair is stepping up big-time, running for State Board of Education in District 5. That's statewide impact—proof we're developing talent right here at home and engaging at higher levels.

I've personally taken on the role of statewide petition administrator for five key ballot initiatives on issues that matter to everyday Nebraskans. We're not just talking about change—we're helping drive it.

Several of our members are running for local offices this cycle. We're equipping leaders who share our values, to serve right here in Seward County.

We're raising money—and using it wisely—for real engagement: door-to-door conversations, events, and outreach that grows our party and earns respect in the community.

Folks are already asking about our slate cards and looking forward to the meet-and-greets we host. That's exciting—because we're connecting candidates directly to the people they want to serve.

Our members don’t just sit and talk. We’re out there testifying on bills at the Unicameral, interacting with senators, and engaging with local officials. Seward GOP is a party of action, not just words.

And today—right now—we're electing three representatives from each of our five commissioner districts to our County Central Committee, plus four executive board officers. That's 19 committed Republicans, spanning different ages and backgrounds, representing the full voice of Seward County. This is democracy in action, and it's powerful.

A few months ago, I wondered if it even made sense for me to keep going in this role. But after all the experience, the lessons, and the growth we've had, I believe we're finally figuring this Republican Party thing out. We're stronger, more organized, and more effective than ever.

That's why I'm running for re-election as Chair. I want to keep teaching others what I've learned and mentor the next generation of leaders. Just look at all these young people getting involved! We are positioned to guide this party into the next election cycle with boldness and intention.

So later today, when we vote, I'd be honored to have your support for another term as Chair so we can keep building, growing, and winning—for Seward County and for Nebraska.

Thank you—and let's get to work!