After backing Ricketts 4 years ago, Nebraska troopers union now endorses Bob Krist for governor

LINCOLN — Lingering vacancies in the ranks of the Nebraska State Patrol and anger over what many of them considered an unjust firing last year prompted the troopers union Thursday to endorse Bob Krist for governor.

“Our state troopers work hard in a dangerous, demanding job,” said Brian Petersen, president of the State Troopers Association of Nebraska. “They deserve leadership that is accountable and responsible, not a governor who passes the buck and tries to place the blame on rank and file.”

The same union endorsed Gov. Pete Ricketts four years ago when he was the Republican nominee for the post. The association president announced this year’s endorsement at a State Capitol press conference.

Petersen, who is a sergeant in the patrol, expressed deep concern about staffing shortages that have gone on for years. The agency’s efforts to recruit more troopers haven’t kept pace with the number of those retiring.

Read more: https://www.omaha.com/news/politics/after-backing-ricketts-years-ago-nebraska-troopers-union-now-endorses/article_db77b5f5-8259-5360-8302-eacf9757c073.html