Gov. Pillen accused of hiring undocumented workers at his family farms
The accusations come after years of Pillen aligning with anti-illegal immigration stances
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Today, the New York Times released an article alongside Flatwater Free Press regarding Gov. Jim Pillen, his stance on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and his family’s business.
The article, titled “As He Backs ICE Crackdown, Nebraska Governor Employs Undocumented Workers“, states that Pillen’s hog company, Pillen Family Farms, allegedly hired undocumented workers.
Over the past three years of Pillen’s term and as he runs for re-election, Pillen has spoke out against illegal immigration.
On Aug. 19 of last year, Pillen emphasized that arrests and deportations keep Nebraska safe.
“This is about keeping Nebraskans – and Americans across our country – safe,” Pillen said. “We want President Trump to know that Nebraska is supportive and grateful for his ongoing, critical work with Secretary Noem to arrest and deport criminal, illegal aliens.”
According to Flatwater Free Press and the New York Times, they interviewed more than 40 current and former employees, reviewed state and federal court records and spoke with immigration lawyers. Six former workers reported to have no legal status at the time of employment.
Lynne Walz, the Democratic governor candidate running against Pillen, released a statement after the publication of this article.
“When the cameras are off, the rules don’t seem to apply to him,” Walz said. “He’s built a career holding other people to standards he won’t keep himself. When it’s his farm, his business, his bottom line – suddenly the rules have a lot more flexibility.”
In the article, the New York Times reported a statement from Pillen’s campaign spokeswoman, Laura Strimple.
“Jim Pillen never knowingly hired an illegal immigrant and went above and beyond the legal requirements to verify the immigration status of his employees,” Strimple said.
