Gov. Pillen calls controversy over comments about reporter a ‘sideshow’

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Gov. Jim Pillen responded to national backlash on Friday over comments he made about a reporter’s nationality.

Yanqi Xu, who grew up in China, works as a reporter for the Flatwater Free Press.

She was investigating nitrate levels in Nebraska and wrote an article about the environmental impact of Pillen Family Farms, the governor’s company.

According to her research, 16 Pillen hog farms have recorded high nitrate levels.

Soon after her story was published, Pillen was on KFAB radio and was asked to comment on Xu’s article.

“No. 1, I didn’t read it. And I won’t,” Pillen said. “No. 2, all you got to do is look at the author. The author is from Communist China. What more do you need to know?”

Pillen’s comments have since garnered national attention.

Xu responded to what he said.

“I had really hoped that the governor would respond to us and that could help the story and tell the full story in a way,” she said. “But I was not expecting him to only address one thing, that’s where I’m from.”

On Friday, Channel 8 approached Pillen after a press conference and asked about his comment.

“I am 100% focused on the state of Nebraska, the people of Nebraska, and defending agriculture, growing agriculture, selling it all over the country,” Pillen said. “And that’s what I keep focused on. I focus on the task at hand and don’t get caught up in the sideshows.”

Channel 8’s Veronica Barreto then pushed for a further response.

“Governor, what do you think those comments mean not only for Asian-Americans, but also for other minorities here in Nebraska?” Barreto asked.

“My comments were my comments,” Pillen said. “That’s what I have to say about it.”

Xu said her friends in Nebraska who are also from China found the comments hurtful and unacceptable.

“That’s why I think there is value in holding those in power to account,” Xu said.