Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen hospitalized after he was bucked off a horse

Nebraska’s Republican Governor Jim Pillen was injured on Sunday after being bucked off a horse while riding with his family. The 68-year-old governor is expected to be hospitalized for several days following the incident.

According to the governor’s office, Pillen was thrown off a new horse while riding with his family. He was rushed to Columbus Community Hospital in Columbus, Nebraska, before being transferred to the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha for further treatment.

Although the severity of his injuries was not disclosed, Pillen’s office confirmed that he is alert and in continuous contact with his team. The governor’s office did not provide specific details regarding the injuries sustained by Pillen.

Governor Pillen, who was elected in 2022, succeeded former Governor Pete Ricketts after he was term-limited. Pillen then appointed Ricketts to the U.S. Senate to fill the seat left vacant by former Senator Ben Sasse, who resigned to become the president of the University of Florida before stepping down from the position.

Prior to his political career, Pillen worked as a veterinarian and owned a livestock operation. His background in agriculture and animal care has informed his policies as governor, particularly in issues related to rural communities and farming.

The incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with horseback riding, even for experienced riders like Governor Pillen. As he recovers in the hospital, Nebraskans and supporters are sending their well wishes for a speedy recovery.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

[Image credit: Kenneth Ferriera/Lincoln Journal Star via AP, File] [Image credit: AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack, File] [Image credit: Getty Images]