Senator Ricketts Backs Democratic Wife’s Bid for University of Nebraska Board of Regents

In a rare display of bipartisan support, Republican Senator Pete Ricketts is endorsing his wife, Susanne Shore, as she runs for a seat on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents as a Democrat. This unusual political alignment has drawn attention in Nebraska, highlighting the couple’s ability to maintain a strong family bond despite differing political views.

Susanne Shore’s Campaign and Platform

Susanne Shore, the former First Lady of Nebraska during her husband’s governorship from 2015 to 2023, is seeking to represent Omaha on the NU Board of Regents. Her campaign focuses on fostering collaboration and innovation within the University of Nebraska system. She aims to help the university overcome recent internal conflicts and establish a clear vision for its future [Nebraska Examiner].

Shore has emphasized the importance of learning from successful programs across the NU system. She specifically cited the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s (UNO) success in addressing math preparation deficiencies among students, suggesting that other campuses—like the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska at Kearney—could benefit from similar data-driven approaches to student support [Nebraska Examiner]. She as well highlighted the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s (UNMC) commitment to becoming a leading academic medical center as a model for other campuses.

A Bipartisan Partnership

Senator Pete Ricketts, currently serving as Nebraska’s junior U.S. Senator since January 2023, previously served as the state’s 40th governor [Wikipedia]. Despite their differing political affiliations, Ricketts is publicly supporting his wife’s campaign. This endorsement, reported just four days ago, demonstrates a willingness to put family unity above party lines [Politico].

Shore and Ricketts have acknowledged their regular political disagreements, but maintain a strong family connection. Their ability to navigate these differences publicly underscores a commitment to mutual respect and support.

Backgrounds of Pete Ricketts and Susanne Shore

Pete Ricketts is a businessman and politician, the eldest son of TD Ameritrade founder Joe Ricketts. He is also a part owner of the Chicago Cubs [Wikipedia]. Prior to his Senate career, he served as Governor of Nebraska from 2015 to 2023 and was Chair of the Republican Governors Association [Wikipedia].

Susanne Shore holds degrees from Oklahoma State University and Creighton University, including a nursing degree. She previously worked as a nurse at St. Joseph’s Hospital and has been actively involved in child welfare advocacy, serving on the board of the Child Saving Institute and as a court-appointed special advocate [National Governors Association].