State Auditor Says Pillen Contract Probe Could Reach Governor’s Office

State auditor says Pillen contract probe could reach Governor’s Office

Nebraska’s auditor says his probe of a $2.5 million no-bid contract could reach the Governor’s Office, contradicting claims it targets only an agency.

Foley says contract probe could reach staff under governor's direct control

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, left, listens to his chief of staff, Dave Lopez. Jan. 28, 2026. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen and his administration have blamed problems with the state’s handling of an emergency no-bid bioeconomy contract on employees of a state agency. Yet Nebraska State Auditor Mike Foley says his referral to the attorney general also questions actions by some top staff under the governor’s direct contro…

Foley says investigation could include Pillen staffers

LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen and his administration have blamed problems with the state’s handling of an emergency no-bid bioeconomy contract on employees of a state agency. Yet Nebraska State Auditor Mike Foley says his referral to the attorney general also questions actions by some top staff under the governor’s direct control. Last weekend, some Pillen staff told legislative leaders and others around the Capitol that the auditor’s referral to Ne…