By Robert B. Evnen, Nebraska Secretary of State
Ahead of the 2026 election season, Secretary of State Bob Evnen reminds candidates that the use of the Great Seal of the State of Nebraska for political campaign purposes is strictly prohibited. The Secretary of State is the official keeper of the Great Seal, tasked with determining how it is used and by whom.
“Using the state seal is like having a stamp of state endorsement, which is a wholly inaccurate message if being conveyed by political campaigns or product marketing,” Secretary Evnen said. “As a recognized icon and honored symbol of the state, the Great Seal should be treated with integrity and respect.”
It is a common misconception that the state seal is available for public use. Anyone wishing to utilize the state seal must request written permission from the Secretary of State. Each request is evaluated individually, and Secretary Evnen grants permission only for official state business or for educational purposes. There is only one official and correct image. Images that are available on the internet are frequently inaccurate.
Candidate filing begins Jan. 5, 2026. Candidate filing forms received by the Secretary of State's office prior to Jan. 5, 2026, will be rejected. Individuals interested in running for office in Nebraska can find more information on filing deadlines, forms and resources on the Secretary of State’s website here.