LINCOLN–Gov. Pete Ricketts announced former Sen. Groene’s replacement in a Feb. 23 press conference.
Ricketts appointed Michael “Mike” Jacobson of North Platte, founder and president of NebraskaLand National Bank, to represent Legislative District 42. He will complete Groene’s term in the Legislature, which ends January 2023 and plans to run for reelection in May’s primary.
“Mike is a Nebraska native who exemplifies our state’s entrepreneurialism and hard work,” Ricketts said. “He will be a champion for efficient and effective government, responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, and our state’s strong family values. His successful leadership as a community banker has given him valuable insights that will help to grow Nebraska.”
Groene was term-limited and wouldn’t have been able run for reelection. Three North Platte residents filed to replace him: Brenda Fourtner, an independent provider who works with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; Lincoln County Commissioner Chris Bruns; and retired Great Plains Health CEO Mel McNea.
Jacobson has been active in the North Platte Community, serving as the chair of the North Platte Redevelopment Authority and the North Platte Airport Authority, sitting on the Great Plains Health Board of Directors. In the past, he also served as the president of both the North Platte Development Corporation and North Platte Public Schools Foundation Board.
Additionally, Jacobson has held several leadership positions in statewide associations including the Nebraska Bankers Association, the Agriculture Builders of Nebraska Inc., Nebraska Independent Community Bankers and the American Bankers Association.
“It is an honor to represent the citizens of District 42 in the Legislature,” Jacobson said. “I share Nebraska’s traditional values, work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. As a State Senator, I’ll advocate for limited government and conservative fiscal policy. I’ve built a community-minded culture in my business, and I look forward to strengthening Nebraska by creating more opportunities to live and work in the good life.”
The 42nd District includes all of Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Thomas and Hooker counties and a large part of Perkins County.
Jacobson said he is a fiscal and social conservative who is against raising taxes and is pro-life. He said he has studied up on the priority bills and understands the political process but will be relying on others in the Legislature to help guide him while he learns.
“I see this as an opportunity to give back, continue to promote conservative values in the legislature and to continue to work with all my colleagues to work together to make Nebraska an even better place to live and work,” Jacobson said.
