Biography

Robert Barnett Evnen, born on September 29, 1952, in Sioux City, Iowa, is the 27th Secretary of State of Nebraska, a position he has held since January 10, 2019. A member of the Republican Party, Evnen has been re-elected twice, serving consecutive terms in office. He resides in Lincoln, Nebraska, with his wife, Debra; together, they have three adult children and three grandchildren.

Education and Political Experience

• Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from Michigan State University
  • Juris Doctor from the University of Southern California's Gould School of Law

• Political Experience:

  • Served on the Nebraska State Board of Education for eight years
  • Elected as Nebraska's Secretary of State in 2018 and re-elected in 2022

Notable Achievements and Positions

• Election Security:

  • Implemented Nebraska's Voter ID law, enhancing the security and accuracy of state elections
  • Testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on election security, advocating for increased public participation to bolster election integrity

• International Relations and Trade:

  • Serves as Nebraska's chief protocol officer, promoting international relations and trade
  • Led trade missions to countries including Kenya, Bulgaria, Tanzania, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, aiming to expand Nebraska's agricultural exports and foster global partnerships

• Business and Licensing Oversight:

  • Oversees business services, elections, licensing, rules and regulations, records management, and youth services
  • Serves on various state boards, including the Pardons Board, Real Estate Commission, State Records Board, Board of State Canvassers, and the Accountability and Disclosure Commission

Evnen's extensive background in law and public service underscores his commitment to enhancing Nebraska's governance and international presence.