Nebraska attorney general kicks off speaker series

Bruning, a Republican who has announced his intent to run for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Chuck Hagel, spoke to a crowd of about 120 students for 20 minutes before answering questions. The attorney general’s presentation was scheduled in conjunction with CSC’s Constitution Week activities, and was the first installment of the Justice Studies Department’s Fall Speaker Series.

Bruning, who was elected in 2002 at age 33 to become the youngest attorney general in Nebraska history, said some of his decisions since taking office have not been popular with other Republicans – notably his firm stance against a pair of former embattled officeholders, University of Nebraska Regent Dave Hergert and Treasurer Lorelee Byrd. He said that following the Constitution is more important than pleasing his political party.

Bruning encouraged students to be wary of legislative efforts coming from out-of-state “big money” interests such as the recent gambling initiatives, and said matters of the Constitution should be held to a “higher level” than most other matters of government.

He also told the students that democracy and the lawmaking process allows for each American to make a difference.

“This is your state government,” he said. “Guys like me are elected to represent you.”

The next Justice Studies speaker will be Col. Bryan Tuma of the Nebraska State Patrol. His presentaton will be Thursday, Nov. 1, at 11 a.m. in the Student Center.