Larry Bolinger
Larry Bolinger was raised in Alliance, Nebraska and is running for the legislature because he believes that Western Nebraska lacks strong representation in the legislature.
Bolinger stated that the most important issue facing Nebraskans is the high taxes. He also said that the legislature needs to address the loss of mental health and drug treatment facilities in Western Nebraska. These public services are important to him and the people in his district, and he would like to address the funding shortages that cause a lack of coverage across the state.
Bolinger said that he believes that public services and programs should be fully funded because there is a need for these services in our communities. He opposes the privatization of state services and stated that allocating the funding to ensure services stay within the government bolsters economic development.
Bolinger stated that he supports the right of Nebraska State Employees to unionize and collectively bargain the wages and conditions of employment because he recognizes that it gives employees a voice. He also stated that he would support a bill that expands public sector collective bargaining rights to include legislative and judicial branch employees.
Bolinger said that he would oppose any bill introduced to take away public sector collective bargaining rights in Nebraska.
When asked about legislative procedure, Bolinger stated that committee chairs in the legislature should be chosen more transparently by public vote. He said he supports the filibuster, but believes that the rules may need to be modified to make legislative sessions more efficient.
Paul Strommen
We were unable to reach Mr. Strommen for an interview.