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Peter Ricketts on Principles & Values

Republican Senate Challenger

 


We remain the cornerstone of global peace and prosperity

[On America's role]: "In America, it doesn't matter where you start. With enough grit and hard work, you can go anywhere," Ricketts said. "That's why the world wants to come here. That's why they send their very best students to study and train here. It's why nearly every major innovation and breakthrough comes from America. It's why so many seek out better lives in America. Through our strength, we remain the cornerstone of global peace and prosperity."
Source: 2024 Nebraska Senate campaign website Ricketts.Senate.gov , Apr 17, 2023

I often say Nebraska is what America is supposed to be

Nebraska Gov Jim Pillen made the expected choice, appointing his predecessor and political benefactor, Pete Ricketts, to the U.S. Senate. Ricketts, who finished his second term as governor last week, fills the seat that Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Neb., vacated to lead the University of Florida.

Ricketts thanked [incoming Governor Jim] Pillen and said he was grateful for the "unexpected opportunity. … I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity that Governor Pillen has given me." He told those gathered in the room, including state senators and U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., "I often say Nebraska is what America is supposed to be, and it's never been truer at any point in our history."

Source: Nebraska Examiner on 2024 Nebraska Senate race , Jan 12, 2023

More faith-based practices in Nebraska schools

Gov. Pete Ricketts voiced support for allowing more faith-based practices in Nebraska schools during an event celebrating Religious Freedom Week. Ricketts' comments came in response to a question regarding a tweet by Republican gubernatorial candidate Jim Pillen. Ricketts, who cannot run for reelection because of term limits, has strongly supported Pillen's campaign for governor.

"We need to put God back into our schools," Pillen tweeted. "I strongly support efforts to put prayer back into our K-12 schools. We should be teaching the next generation to love God and our great country."

The tweet referenced the U.S. Supreme Court decision that determined a Washington high school football coach was within his rights to pray at midfield following football games.

Source: Omaha World-Herald on Twitter post:2024 Nebraska Senate race , Jun 29, 2022

Remember: Nebraska is what America is supposed to be

Thank you for your service to the people of Nebraska. Our work in the coming days will require a spirit of collaboration and cooperation and for each of us to do our part to keep Nebraska strong. I look forward to the challenge, opportunity, and honor of working with you. Remember: Nebraska is what America is supposed to be. God bless you all, and God bless the great State of Nebraska!
Source: 2022 State of the State Address to the Nebraska legislature , Jan 13, 2022

Family founded Ameritrade and has net worth of $4.5 billion

Ricketts is one of four children of J. Joe and Marlene Ricketts. His father is the founder of Ameritrade. The family had a net worth of $1.5 billion in 2004, according to Forbes magazine in its annual ranking of the wealthiest families.

Ricketts emphasized, however, the family's humble Nebraska origins. He noted that he is a fourth-generation Nebraskan whose maternal grandfather was a farmer and whose paternal grandfather was a carpenter.

Source: Press release, "Ricketts confirms GOP Senate bid" , Aug 12, 2005

Native Nebraskan and "typical Midwestern"

Ricketts said his childhood was a typical Midwestern experience. He was born in Nebraska City and graduated from Westside High School in 1982. He holds a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's degree in marketing and finance from the University of Chicago. Ricketts said his family did not live extravagantly when he was a boy [despite a net worth of $4.5 billion]. "I can remember when there were lots of meals when we ate macaroni and cheese and pancakes for dinner," said Ricketts.
Source: Press release, "Ricketts confirms GOP Senate bid" , Aug 12, 2005

Parents donated to Nelson; and will now vote for Ricketts

Interestingly enough, Ricketts' parents supported [Rickett's Democratic opponent, incumbent Senator Ben] Nelson in 2000. In fact, the couple gave $4,200 to Nelson's campaign in March. Asked about his parent's support of Nelson, Ricketts said: "I would encourage any voter who is supporting Ben Nelson, once they find out I'm in the race, to vote for me (like my parents)."
Source: Press release, "Ricketts confirms GOP Senate bid" , Aug 12, 2005

Wife is a registered Democrat and national party donor

Ricketts' wife, Susanne Shore, is a Democrat who has given $500 to the Democratic National Committee in the past year. He said she supports his campaign or he would not be running. "We have very lively conversations when it comes to politics," Ricketts said. Will he get his wife's vote? "She says there are some household duties I need to do before I get that vote, but I'm confident I will be able to fulfill those," he said, laughing.
Source: Press release, "Ricketts confirms GOP Senate bid" , Aug 12, 2005

Other candidates on Principles & Values: Peter Ricketts on other issues:
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Bob Krist
Brett Lindstrom
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Chuck Herbster
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