Gov. Jim Pillen makes two appointments to Nebraska Liquor Control Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Gov. Jim Pillen on Monday made two appointments to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission after the seats were vacant for nearly two months.

Robert “Bud” Synhorst of Lincoln has been selected to represent the 1st Congressional District, while James Elworth of Nebraska City will represent the 3rd Congressional District.

SEE ALSO: Gov. Jim Pillen accepts two resignations from Nebraska Liquor Control Commission

Synhorst is the owner of RobNik Strategies and the former president/CEO of the Lincoln Independent Business Association.

He was also the executive director of the Alpaca Owners Association and has served on the Nebraska State Board of Health.

Synhorst has a master’s degree in education administration from the University of Nebraska-Kearney.

Elworth is retired, having served as a former state assistant attorney and a county prosecutor in both Lancaster and Dodge counties.

He was also involved in investigating, interpreting and enforcing rule violations in athletics, including for the NCAA.

Elworth received both his undergraduate degree and his juris doctor from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

SEE ALSO: Nebraska Liquor Control Commission suspends executive director amid federal investigation

Appointments are subject to confirmation by the Nebraska Legislature.

Newly appointed commissioners serve six-year terms. In this instance, Elworth and Synhorst are filling vacancies resulting from resignations in their respective districts.

Elworth’s term will expire in May of 2027, and  Synhorst’s term will expire in May of 2029.

Three members serve on the Liquor Control Commission, each representing one of Nebraska’s congressional districts.

Michael Coffey, the commissioner for the 2nd Congressional District, was appointed in June 2025.