Sen. John Murante of Gretna on Monday announced his candidacy for state treasurer with a promise to be a conservative and dependable steward of taxpayer dollars.
Murante, who was re-elected in 2016 to a four-year term in the Legislature, is seeking the Republican nomination to succeed State Treasurer Don Stenberg, who will be term-limited out of office at the end of next year.
Murante's announcement in the Capitol Rotunda was accompanied by ample evidence that he is his party's choice to step into the treasurer's position.
Stenberg and State Auditor Charlie Janssen pledged their endorsements.
Attorney General Doug Peterson showed up for the event, as did Lincoln attorney Bob Evnen, who earlier announced his candidacy for secretary of state with an array of Republican leaders and officeholders, including Sen. Deb Fischer, on hand to pledge their support.
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As a member of the Legislature, Murante said, he has been focused "first and foremost on the reduction of taxes — property taxes, sales taxes and income taxes."
Murante, who will be term-limited out of the Legislature, said he's also been "a champion" of voter photo ID requirements and a fighter in the battle to "shrink the size and scope of government."
Stenberg described Murante as "a stalwart of conservative causes (with) a proven record as a solid conservative Republican."
Murante's legislative experience "will be helpful" in carrying out the duties of state treasurer, Stenberg said.
During his final year in the Legislature, Murante told reporters following the event, he will "continue to advocate for voter ID and apply a laser-like focus on tax reform."
With the 2020 federal census approaching, he said, "now is a great time" to also tackle the issue of redistricting reform. Murante has been working on a bipartisan effort to achieve reform for several years.
Murante said he has taken a leave from his duties as CEO of Big Fred's Pizza, a family-owned business in Omaha, to conduct a campaign that will take him to all 93 counties.Â