Robynn Tysver has worked for the past eight years as the chief political reporter for the Omaha World-Herald. In addition to politics, she covered the Nebraska Legislature for five years. You can subscribe to updates on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.
The Joker
It's over. Or it will be soon.
The on-again, off-again speculation over whether Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman will rock the political world with a surprise Senate bid ends today.
Today is the deadline for incumbents, like Heineman, to file for office. He has said, and we believe him, that he's not running.
We've heard from various sources, however, that Heineman might take a long speculative stroll past the Nebraska Secretary of State's office later this afternoon, just to have a little fun with the Capitol wags.
If that's what rocks your boat, governor, go for it.
But, barring a surprise, it appears the Senate GOP field is set. Say hello to the Top Three: Attorney General Jon Bruning, State Treasurer Don Stenberg and State Sen. Deb Fischer. (It's not May 15 yet, and we could type these three names in our sleep.)
Chuck Hassebrook's GOP Challenge
Democrat Chuck Hassebrook attempted a throw-down Tuesday, releasing his tax return and challenging his Republican opponents to do the same.
For the record, Hassebrook made a modest $69,000 in 2010, and paid $2,749 in federal income tax. (Family of four.)
So far, none of the three major Republican candidates have taken Hassebrook up on his challenge.
Dan Parsons, a spokesman for State Treasurer Don Stenberg, called it a "political stunt."
"It makes it clear that he is a typical Obama liberal who wants to engage in class warfare instead of solving our country's problems."
Bruning also said "no," noting he had filed all the necessary financial paperwork with state and federal offices. No word back from Fischer.
But, here's the deal: Hassebrook is going to be talking taxes for a long time to come. That's our guess.
Some happenings this week and next
This just in: U.S. Rep. Lee Terry is running for re-election. OK. He actually filed for office Thursday. (We failed to mention it last week, so we're making amends now.)
Terry will hold his kickoff rally Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at the German American Society.
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