District details

Bolinger is from Alliance. He has run for office eight times over the past 20 years and said he has worked on more than 50 policies, including the “State Meat Inspector Policy.” He also is a disabled veteran and the author of several books about property management, self defense and politics. According to his resume, he has taught kickboxing for more than 30 years. He told the Flatwater Free Press, “a vote for me will ensure that the people have someone in office that will put our district and State first.” 

Strommen is a member of the Sidney City Council. During his time on council, he has focused on economic development, affordable housing and reducing the tax burden, according to his website. He also is a member of Nebraska’s Oil and Gas Conservation Commission and an executive for Mid America Bio Energy and Commodities. The Nebraska Farm Bureau endorsed Strommen. 

On the issues

Bolinger said he’d work to improve health programs and prioritize using Nebraska contractors and services rather than utilizing out-of-state services. He expressed concerns about the lack of land conservation in the state and would work to reduce energy costs by 60%. He believes his energy bill will help Nebraska lower taxes.

Strommen did not complete the Flatwater Free Press questionnaire. According to his website, he’s an adamant supporter of the ethanol industry. Additionally, he said he will work to manage “invasive wild game species” that threaten Nebraska agriculture. 

Bolinger differs from most Democrats as he supports Nebraska’s current abortion law. Strommen, who believes life begins at conception, believes the state must do more to limit abortions. “I will always vote to protect life,” his website states. 

Bolinger said he opposes the Sports and Spaces Act, which sought to restrict bathroom access and sports participation of transgender K-12 students, and he strongly opposes school choice. “The way to fix the problem is making those private schools public,” he said. On his website, Strommen said he supports “education freedom,” adding that parents should always have access to the education setting that is best for them. He also said local school boards and parents should determine education policy, not the state or federal government.

Location

The district covers most of the Nebraska Panhandle. It includes Arthur, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Keith, Morrill and Sioux counties. 

In the primary

Of the 7,343 votes, Strommen received 77% and Bolinger received the remaining 23%.