Hilgers and Brasher Will Compete for Attorney General
Nebraska voters will head to the polls on November 3 to decide the next state attorney general.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Elections
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Incumbent Attorney General Mike Hilgers faces challenger Jocelyn Brasher in the upcoming November 3, 2026, election. The two candidates offer competing visions for the direction of the state's top legal office.
Why it matters
The election determines leadership for ongoing legal actions against major tech firms and disputes over water rights. Candidates are split on whether the office should prioritize national lawsuits or state-specific regulatory issues.
Nebraska is set to receive $200 million from a Meta settlement, with payments distributed over 10 years. The Attorney General currently manages legal actions against tech entities and a water rights lawsuit against Colorado.
The players
Mike Hilgers
Mike Hilgers is the incumbent Nebraska Attorney General who previously served six years as a state senator.
Jocelyn Brasher
Jocelyn Brasher is a former deputy Dodge County attorney who spent five years working in the Nebraska Attorney General's Office.
The details
Mike Hilgers, a former state senator, is campaigning to continue his work on active litigation, while Jocelyn Brasher, a former deputy county attorney, argues for a shift in focus. Brasher intends to pursue medical cannabis regulations if elected, contrasting with Hilgers' plan to expand the solicitor general team.
Timeline
November 3, 2026 is the scheduled election date.
10 years is the duration for the Meta settlement payout period.
2024 saw the successful medical cannabis ballot initiative.
Political Context
The debate reflects divergent views on the state's role in consumer protection and social policy, specifically regarding the medical cannabis framework established by the 2024 initiative. Supporters of the incumbent prioritize established litigation, while the opposition seeks to pivot toward new regulatory priorities.
The outcome will dictate how the state manages $200 million in settlement funds and shapes future regulations on medical cannabis. Residents will see direct effects on how Nebraska handles legal disputes involving major tech platforms and regional water rights.
The takeaway
Voters are choosing between a continuity-focused approach to current legal battles and a potential shift toward new regulatory initiatives. Evaluating each candidate's stance on state-level consumer protections provides the clearest indicator of their future legal priorities.
Further reading
For more background on state contests, visit Nebraska elections.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wowt.
Live Poll
Should your state's attorney general prioritize local legal issues over participation in national political lawsuits?
