Gov. Gov.

Jim Pillen, the Governor-elect, opened applications for the seat Monday and will continue accepting applicants until Dec. 23. Ricketts, who was Pillen’s top endorser during his campaign, is widely believed to be the best candidate for the seat.

U.S. Rep. Don Bacon (Republican from Nebraska) confirmed via Twitter that he expected Ricketts to replace Sasse.

Bacon tweeted, “We look forwards to hazing junior member of delegation,”

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Ricketts spent more than $1 million in this year to support Pillen’s campaign and to fund attacks ads against his top rivals. He stated that he and Pillen are friends for more than 20 years but denied that Pillen’s appointment was a “done deal”.

Ricketts stated, “I’ll present my case why I believe I’m the most qualified applicant when I have a chance to speak to Gov.-elect Pillen.”

After being limited to eight years, Ricketts’ term will expire Jan. 5. Sasse’s resignation takes effect Jan. 8. Sasse will be the next President of the University of Florida.

Ricketts stated in a press release that “this decision was the result of many hours prayer and family discussions.” “It came down to one question for me: How can I best serve Nebraskans and promote our conservative values?” We are fighting for the future of this nation in Congress. It’s a battle we must win.

Ricketts claimed that he discovered Sasse’s plans to leave the Senate in October, just hours before the public was informed that he was the only finalist for the University of Florida job. Although he said that he didn’t intend to apply for a Senate seat this early, he did not confirm or deny the fact that submitting for the seat was his intention.

Ricketts stated that if appointed, he would continue to work on the same issues as he did as governor, including reducing taxes and improving public safety. Ricketts also promised to work for national security and protect our most sacred freedoms.

Ricketts previously sought a seat on the U.S. Senate. During the 2006 midterm elections he lost to incumbent Democrat Ben Nelson.

Jane Kleeb, Nebraska Democratic Party Chairwoman, criticised Ricketts’ Tuesday announcement and claimed Ricketts had “bought” the Senate seat.

Kleeb stated in an email that “He tried to win against Senator Ben Nelson with his parents’ money in 2006, but the voters rejected him two to one.” Ricketts will now be able to claim himself a senator in the most obvious case of pay-to-play in the state.

Those interested in Sasse’s seat or State Sen. Mike Hilgers seat in the Nebraska Legislature representing Legislative District 21 can submit their applications by mail to the Nebraska State Capitol Room 1315, 1445 K St., Lincoln, NE 68508, or online at nebraska.gov/appointments. Hilgers was just elected Nebraska’s next attorney-general.