KEARNEY, Neb. - Senator Pete Ricketts kicking off his re-election campaign surrounded by supporters and fellow Republicans in Kearney.

He told the crowd the race will be competitive, but he believes his conservative record will resonate with Nebraska voters.

“This is going to be a tough campaign,” Ricketts said. “But I’m going to do what I always do- get out, earn it, and talk to Nebraskans about the work we’ve been doing and the concerns they have.”

Ricketts pointed to his record as governor, highlighting tax relief, property tax cuts, and slowing the growth of government.

In Washington, he said his priorities remain focused on lowering the cost of living.

“We’ve got to get our spending under control, and that will help bring down inflation,” he said. “We just passed the Road to Housing Act to make housing more affordable, and we’re working to get it to the President’s desk.”

Farmers remain a key focus, Ricketts added. He said expanding year-round access to E15 ethanol and securing new trade deals would both boost agriculture and lower costs for families.

“When people buy E15, they’re able to save money at the pump and help our farmers. And doubling trade promotion funding will open more markets for Nebraska products overseas,” he said.

The senator also weighed in on foreign policy by criticizing the United Nations over its recent announcement that the Human Rights Council has labeled Israel's action in the Middle East as a genocide.

“The UN is a grossly anti-Semitic organization. Hamas could end this tomorrow by surrendering. That’s what people should be focused on,” said Ricketts.

Much of Ricketts’ message targeted his opponent Dan Osborn.

Ricketts labeled Osborn as a “fake independent,” accusing him of taking millions in Democratic money while also opposing President Trump.

With more than a year until Election Day, Ricketts urged supporters to make a commitment, to not only vote, but to get other people to do the same.

Ricketts was appointed to the Senate in 2023 by Governor Pillen, and later won a special election.

He is now seeking his first full six-year term in the Senate.