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Governor Pillen and Lieutenant Governor Kelly react to the announced resignation of Chief Justice Heavican

LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen and Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly commented on the announced retirement of Chief Justice Mike Heavican. Governor Pillen received a letter from Chief Justice Heavican of the Nebraska Supreme Court stating his intention to retire on October 31, 2024.

Governor Pillen said:

“I congratulate Chief Justice Heavican on his retirement and thank him for his great public service to the State of Nebraska. He has served the Nebraska Supreme Court with professionalism grounded in a deep respect for the rule of law. I have enjoyed getting to know Chief Justice Heavican, and I often tell others the comment he made to me as he entered the Supreme Court hall. He said that every time it felt like the first time — conveying wonder, love and appreciation for a career that has resulted in immense satisfaction and fulfillment. I wish Mike the very best in all his future endeavors.”

Lieutenant Governor Kelly served under Chief Judge Heavican during his time in the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office. He said:

“In various roles – in the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and as Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court – he was the perfect example of everything that makes a public servant.”

Under the law, the Judicial Nominating Commission will solicit the names of potential candidates and submit them to Governor Pillen for nomination consideration.