NEBRASKA CITY – Janet Palmtag kicked off her campaign for state Legislature with a lineup of endorsers that include former Gov. Dave Heineman, former State Sens. Dave Pankonin and Roger Wehrbein.

Palmtag was born and raised in Nebraska City where she founded J.J. Palmtag Realty. Her husband, Johns, owns the Best Western Hotel and other properties.

Palmtag: “It is new for me to get involved in politics. I’ve been involved in rural Nebraska my whole life and have a business here and feel like I can make a difference in Lincoln and represent rural Nebraska, southeast Nebraska.”

Pankonin and Wehrbein spoke at a campaign kickoff at the Lewis and Clark Center on Aug. 8.

They said Palmtag has the ability to work with others in the state Legislature.

Palmtag: “John and I have our businesses here and we understand the challenges and we understand the great joys of rural Nebraska, so we’re kind of in the thick of it.”

Former Gov. Dave Heineman called Palmtag a long-time friend and supporter who understands the negative affects of high taxes on business and farmers.

Heineman: “She’s got the skill set, the experience to be an outstanding state senator. She’s a leader. She’s a problem solver. She understands we’ve got to lower property and income taxes and she also understands that we need to invest in the education of our children.”

Palmtag said she is grateful for the endorsements and for an opportunity to help her state prosper.

Palmtag: “Well, I just want southeast Nebraska to know that if they hire me on the ballot, I will work tirelessly to represent southeast Nebraska and the rural communities.”

Palmtag also received the endorsement of Congressman Jeff Fortenberry, who noted that she leads clearly and with a big heart.