(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Mike Johanns submitted his resignation today after being confirmed by the U.S. Senate to become the Secretary of Agriculture. His resignation becomes effective at 3:00 p.m. today at which time Lt. Gov. Dave Heineman becomes governor by operation of law. Heineman will take the oath of office at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow, Friday, January 21 in the Legislative Chamber of the State Capitol.

Gov. Johanns said, "It has been an honor to serve this great state. I resign as Governor with great confidence that Lt. Gov. Dave Heineman is fully prepared to assume the office. Stephanie and I have enjoyed very much the opportunity to represent the citizens of Nebraska throughout our years in public service. We want to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for the many congratulatory cards, letters and phone calls we have received in recent weeks. Our love and prayers will always be with the people of Nebraska."

Lt. Governor Dave Heineman will be sworn in as Nebraska's 39th Governor by Chief Justice John Hendry of the Nebraska Supreme Court. Following the ceremony, the public is invited to attend a reception in the Governor's Office located on second floor in the northeast wing of the State Capitol.

Lt. Gov. Heineman said, "I am ready to accept the awesome responsibilities that come with the governorship. I will do everything in my power to earn the trust, respect and confidence of the citizens of this state. I am committed to making our state a better place in which to live, work and raise a family."

The public is also invited to attend a western Nebraska reception in the Governor's honor at 5:00 p.m. MT tomorrow, January 21, at the Gering Civic Center. Prior to the western reception, Gov. Heineman will meet with local officials from the region. Following the reception, he will deliver remarks at the Scottsbluff-Gering Chamber of Commerce banquet, which will also be held at the Gering Civic Center, and later at the Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce banquet at the Holiday Inn in Sidney.

Heineman will deliver the State of the State Address before the Legislature on Wednesday, January 26 at 10:00 a.m. Following the address, he will visit communities across the state. An itinerary will be announced at a later time.

CONTACT
Terri Teuber, 402-471-1967