Russ Barger
Russ Barger did not respond to our invitation for an interview.
George Dungan
George Dungan was born and raised in Lincoln. After his undergraduate and law degrees, he moved back to work in the Lancaster County Public Defender’s office. As a public defender, he was exposed to a myriad of issues, and wanted to give back to his community and continue to advocate through the legislature. He states that he is often tasked with making many people come to a consensus, and considers himself a bridge builder. He further states that there isn’t enough bridge-building in the legislature, and wants to “get things done.”
The public services that George interacts with the most are those that he provides at the Public Defender’s office. He states that there is a need for funding for those who run services. He would like to see community corrections implemented across the state. George states that he will work to ensure that public services are fully funded.
When asked how federal infrastructure funding should be allocated, George stated that traditional infrastructure must be invested in, as well as broadband across the state for all parts of life, not just education.
George opposes the privatization of state services, and states that “going with the cheapest option is never good.” Moreover, he is hesitant when it comes to public/private partnerships, and states that they must be approached with scrutiny.
George supports the right of Nebraska State Employees to unionize, and further states that it’s important for worker safety and retention. Furthermore, he supports ensuring state employee wages are greater than inflation, and cites lack of pay as a driving force behind the labor shortage in Nebraska. George also supports paid parental leave.
To fill vacancies and end agency turnover, George states that agencies must be funded, and people within agencies must feel valued, both economically and personally.
George supports the election of committee chairs through secret ballot and current filibuster rules.
When asked what sets him apart from his opponent, George states that he wants to reach across the aisle, whereas his opponent is running a far-right leaning race. He states that this only creates hyperpartisanship, and he wants to listen and be a voice for everyone.
George believes he will win this election through knocking doors, vigorous mail campaigns, and face-to-face contact. He states that he’s feeling positive about his momentum and is endorsed by a number of other labor groups.