Dan Winter
Non-partisanQ12 In what ways, if any, would you incorporate scientific evidence when developing or evaluating public policy? How would you weigh scientific evidence alongside economic, ethical, and policy preferences when making decisions?
“I have a degree in Anthropology, the scientific study of human biology, culture, language, and technology. So I weigh scientific evidence heavily when making decisions. My first priority when determining my policy stance is if the policy is ethical, followed by research into scientific evidence to support the policy.”
KEYWORDS: Ethics, scientific support
Q13 What is your vision for science and research in the state over the next decade? What programs within state departments will you prioritize funding that relate to the state’s science strengths?
“My vision for scientific research in the state of Nebraska focuses on the current strengths we have while also expanding on battery and energy. Currently Nebraska’s research strength is focused on agriculture, biomedical/bioeconomic, and water management. As a farmer these research fields make sense for the “Cornhusker State”. But we need to also look to the future which is research into energy creation, storage (batteries) and transmission.”
KEYWORDS: current strengths, future technology
Q14 What opportunities, if any, do you see for partnerships between state government, universities, industry, and nonprofit organizations to strengthen scientific research?
“With our current strengths focusing funding on precision agriculture, making agriculture inputs more efficient, lessening nitrate pollution, and improving margins for our largest industry could help the rest of the state. Secondarily providing support for our public power to research energy production, delivery, and storage could incentivize businesses to come to our state. Energy research could also prepare us for the future.”
KEYWORDS: precision agriculture, energy research
Q15 Legislative appropriations for Nebraska’s public universities have not kept pace with inflation, and state universities are now being asked to further reduce their budgets (Peal, 2026). What role should the Legislature play in providing funding for higher education? What policies, if any, would you support to balance the state budget while also supporting Nebraska’s research capacity and student opportunities?
“The states general fund contribution to the university system is roughly $720 million which is currently around 20% of the $2.5 billion budget. Doctor Jeffery Gold, president of UNO has said that the return on investment for higher education is for every $1 the state can see $10. So investment in education should be a priority even if it requires a rework of the tax system.”
KEYWORDS: ROI $10, taxes
Q16 What role do you believe science, research, innovation, and STEM workforce development should play in Nebraska’s economy, state revenues, and accountable investments in the infrastructure and services that improve quality of life?
“To better prepare for the future of Nebraska and its residents, we must make investments into STEM fields. However, to better the lives of current residents and draw new business to the state and investment into childcare could provide a better return on investment. If the workforce has cheap and expansive childcare, this could provide opportunities for entrepreneurship or further training. Allowing our current residence to better utilize the research we are funding.”
KEYWORDS: future, childcare, entrepreneurship
Q17 Can you describe your approach to evaluating whether a policy is achieving its intended outcomes, and what evidence would prompt you to revise it?
“The first step is to observe or identify what the policy is for. Then I would ask if this policy is for the betterment of Nebraskans. I would then create a testable hypothesis to determine a measurable effect of the policy. I would then experiment and collect data supporting or disproving the affects of the policy according to my hypothesis. Finally I would bring my research to others to see if they agree with my assessment. Any policy is only a failure if it does not provide a betterment for Nebraskans.”
KEYWORDS: Scientific method, betterment