Education
BA, Indiana University; MBA, Indiana University
Military experience
1994-2025 Retired Colonel, USAF
Volunteer experience
National Philanthropy Council, Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation; Board of Directors: Junior Achievement; BOD: Sci-Port (Louisiana's Science Museum); BOD: Boys and Girls Club; Sister City Lead for Shreveport, LA and Ostrava, Czech Republic
My top concern on education is the disparity in outcomes. I am a product of public schooling from K through 12. We have exemplary public schools and I will fight to keep them strong, but they are not the best fit for every single student. I am open to advocacy for charter schools in communities that have been asking for them for years.
The most effective policy tools for economic growth primarily include tax incentives. We can learn from other states that have higher yearly GDP growth by doing more to encourage business growth. We must be more competitive while ensuring we have the great life in Nebraska and a thriving economy.
The rural/urban divide is real. I do not believe there is one magic solution to resolve this divide, but I pledge to actively listen more than I speak as much as possible to help bridge the distance between rural and urban priorities.
A state senator is elected based on his or her vision and policy views. In office, the senator represents his or her district and should value constituent feedback incorporating this into decision-making.
Education
Columbia University; New York University; Skutt Catholic High School
Current Public Office, dates
State Senator, District 20, January 2023-Present
X and/or Bluesky Handle
@johnforne
Nebraska’s strong K–12 education system is both a source of pride and a key driver of our state’s economic success. Maintaining high quality public education statewide must remain a top priority, and that begins with ensuring school funding is stable, sustainable, and predictable. Attracting and retaining a talented workforce is another challenge. While the Legislature has made meaningful progress in this area, more work remains. Finally, preserving local control and school board autonomy is essential to keeping decision making close to home and ensuring each district’s unique needs are addressed at the local level.
Strengthening economic development is one of the most pressing issues facing Nebraska today. We know of evidence-based solutions, but too often they fail to be prioritized. Sustainable economic growth requires investing in Nebraskans through education, expanded opportunity, improved quality of life, and affordability. It also depends on robust infrastructure, including reliable transportation networks and expanded broadband access. Competitive and stable tax policy is equally important. Data consistently shows that broad-based, predictable tax systems outperform narrow, incentive-driven approaches. By balancing industry attraction with fiscal responsibility, we can secure Nebraska’s long-term economic stability.
One of the biggest challenges of serving in the Legislature is recognizing that every policy enacted affects the entire state, not just the district you represent. As a senator from Omaha, my perspective is shaped by the needs of an urban community. At the same time, I understand that what works in Omaha may not work elsewhere in Nebraska, and vice versa. My foremost responsibility is to the people of my district, and I have consistently legislated with their interests in mind. Equally important, I have built strong relationships with colleagues across the state to ensure that the policies we pass are as balanced as possible and mindful of unintended consequences.
A state senator's primary role is to represent the interests of their constituents in the Legislature. At times this is overlooked, as evidenced by policies that focus on the interests of industry over individuals. Constituent feedback is a key component of ensuring my votes are representative of the majority of my district, and to do this effectively, I have always prioritized constituent outreach and feedback when forming my legislative agenda and in determining how I vote on measures before me.
Education
BS Electrical Engineering, MS Electrical Engineering -- both from Iowa State University
Military experience
US Army ROTC/short Active Duty/Army Reserve Control Group/Discharged as Captain
Volunteer experience
Mary Our Queen Catholic School Board (Omaha)......Member 10 years, 5 years as President
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None
That sensitive topics (e.g. sexual issues, alternative lifestyles, moral decision-making, religion, politics) be addressed appropriately and carefully in the school setting.
Part of the solution is much parental involvement (School Board), and much oversight and review.
Aggressive economic development programs and efforts.
Incentives through tax policy, public power/energy offerings, and other favorable treatment.
Everyone gets an equal shake, where everybody's needs are balanced as fairly as possible. Priorities and values are weighted.
I see the role of a State Senator as being sort of an analyst/judge, who assists in equitably allocating State Government services.
Constituent feedback is one indicator of how well these efforts are working, and how well constituents feel I am doing.
