Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen is currently recovering from serious injuries sustained during a horseback riding accident over the weekend. The first-term Republican governor, aged 68, was thrown from the horse he was riding with family members Sunday afternoon, December 22, making headlines statewide and prompting an outpouring of support from the public.
Pillen's office released details stating he was initially transported to Columbus Community Hospital after the incident, and later transferred to the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) for specialized care. Spokeswoman Laura Strimple confirmed on Sunday, December 22, he is expected to remain hospitalized for several days, possibly even through Christmas.
The exact nature of his injuries was not initially disclosed; his office emphasized his hospitalization was due to "an abundance of caution." According to subsequent updates, Governor Pillen suffered multiple injuries, including seven broken ribs, lacerations to his spleen, and a partially collapsed lung. Fortunately, doctors noted he sustained no significant injuries to his head, neck, or spine, which are often common with such falls.
On Christmas Day, the governor underwent surgery to stabilize his broken ribs using metal plates. This rib fixation procedure aimed to promote stronger long-term healing, pain management, and to help reduce complications during his recovery. The surgery was expected to last approximately four hours, during which Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly assumed the role of acting governor.
"The Governor has progressed well, and the procedure is intended to help his ribs heal over time," the governor's office stated. Doctors expressed satisfaction with the governor's overall condition following surgery, indicating he has been able to walk, highlighting his determination to recover quickly.
Originally from Platte County, Jim Pillen has deep familial ties to Nebraska's agricultural heritage, having established Pillen Family Farms alongside his family. The governor and his wife, Suzanne, are the proud parents of four children and have seven grandchildren. Following the accident, his family expressed gratitude for the supportive messages being relayed by the public.
Messages of kindness and support have poured in not just from family and friends, but also from fellow politicians. Former Governor Pete Ricketts took to X (formerly Twitter), urging Nebraskans to pray for Pillen's recovery. Ricketts wrote, "Nebraskans, please join Suzanne and I in praying tonight for a speedy recovery for Governor Pillen." Similarly, the Nebraska Republican Party issued their own statement extending prayers for his swift recovery.
After his first emergency surgery, which addressed the spleen laceration, Pillen's medical team advised he would continue to be monitored closely at UNMC for several days, with updates on his condition shared with the public. The doctors stated they were pleased with his recovery process and confirmed there were no new complications concerning the kidney and lung injuries.
Pillen, who has been active both physically and politically, urged his medical team to let him return home for the holidays to his family's operations. His doctors, valuing his active lifestyle, agreed to observe during his recovery to assess when he might return home safely.
Despite these challenges, Pillen remains optimistic, expressing gratitude for the exceptional medical care he is receiving. He conveyed well wishes for the festive season to Nebraskans, saying, "We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah." This sentiment reflects the deep connection he feels with his constituents, even during personal trials.
Overall, the incident not only highlights the importance of safety during recreational activities such as horseback riding but also emphasizes the caring nature of Nebraskans, who rally behind their leaders during moments of crisis. This event serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent to everyday life, no matter one's status or public duty.
