Artificial intelligence and data centers have become issues in Nebraska’s governor’s race, with campaign mailers discussing the technology and the infrastructure needed to support it. The three leading candidates — Gov. Jim Pillen, Lynne Walz and Brett Lindstrom — said data centers can benefit Nebraska but should be built only in communities that want them.
The candidates’ positions overlap on the need for local support, but their descriptions of artificial intelligence reflect their professional backgrounds and policy priorities. Pillen, who has worked in agribusiness and pork production, emphasized the value of data and technology to Nebraska businesses. Walz, a former teacher, focused on safeguards in classrooms and protections for children. Lindstrom, who has worked in the financial sector, said he has discussed artificial intelligence with prospective state legislators and wants a standing committee in Lincoln to address it.
“We are not losing jobs because of AI. No way.” — Gov. Jim Pillen
Pillen said artificial intelligence can make businesses more efficient and help Nebraska compete in manufacturing and other industries. He also connected the technology to agriculture and production, saying companies need more data to improve the speed, accuracy and effectiveness of their operations.
Walz said artificial intelligence may be useful in classrooms, while also calling for guidelines, policies and restrictions to protect students. She said she would not want the technology to take over classrooms or jobs and argued that Nebraska should approach its use carefully.
“So I know that AI can be very helpful in the classroom, but we also need to be very cautious about the guidelines and the policies and the restrictions and make sure those things are in place to protect our kids.” — Lynne Walz
Artificial intelligence has also raised broader questions about fraud, workplace changes and the technology’s use in health care and warfare. The campaign discussion included both potential benefits, such as earlier detection and diagnosis in health care, and concerns about how quickly the technology is developing.
Lindstrom said Nebraska should create a permanent legislative structure focused on artificial intelligence and technology. He compared the idea with standing oversight of retirement systems, drawing on his experience in the financial sector. He also said states can serve as testing grounds for policy and innovation.
- Pillen said artificial intelligence will improve business efficiency and that Nebraska is not losing jobs because of it.
- Walz said schools can use the technology but need rules and safeguards to protect students.
- Lindstrom proposed a standing committee in Lincoln to address artificial intelligence and technology.
Nebraska voters will choose the next governor on Nov. 3. The candidates’ comments place artificial intelligence and data-center development alongside other issues being discussed in the campaign, while leaving the candidates with different emphases on economic growth, education and state oversight.
