Senator Charlie Janssen to announce for NE Governor's race on Monday

By Deena Winter | Nebraska Watchdog

LINCOLN – Fremont Sen. Charlie Janssen confirmed today that he will be making an announcement on Monday – likely announcing his decision to run for governor in 2014.

Janssen has been “seriously considering” a gubernatorial race for some time, saying recently he’s leaning toward running. Janssen said he’ll be making an announcement atMidland University at noon on Monday.

Janssen, a Republican, is known for his tough stance on illegal immigration and has pushed for legislation requiring people to present identification before voting. Janssen served in the Navy and was a member of the Fremont City Councilbefore being elected to the Legislature in 2008.

Janssen has said his decision wouldn’t be affected by the departure of two leading Republicans from the race – former Speaker Mike Flood, whose wife is battling breast cancer, and Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy, who recently resigned after his use of his state phone to call women (not his wife) was made public by the media.