Nelson stays true to roots

The Husker flag hangs proudly on his wall and numerous pictures displayed show he is more than a politician.

Senator Ben Nelson is a down-to-earth family man with a lighthearted outlook on life.

And a positive outlook on the nation’s future.

Nelson said he supported Barack Obama and thought the president-elect could fulfill the promises he’s made to America.

“He (Obama) hasn’t managed before but he’s bringing people in who are like-minded for change,” Nelson said. “If he’s able to keep them directed, he can get it done.”

Although some believe Obama has “bitten off more than he can chew,” Nelson is confident that Obama will uphold his end of the deal as president because of the people he’s appointed.

“He has other people to help him chew the bite he’s taken,” Nelson said.

While serving as senators Nelson and Obama have worked closely. In fact, they have been next door neighbors in the Hart Building.

This, among other reasons, is why Nelson feels comfortable directly questioning Obama about his policies and making sure Obama will follow through.

Even though Obama and Nelson have their similarities, they are different in many ways.

Especially in their campaigns.

Unlike Obama, Nelson said he waited until his children were in college before he ran for public office. For Nelson, it wasn't a matter of urgency, but rather a matter of family.

Nelson said he and his wife were widowed and each had two children. When their families merged it was important in terms of time for him to wait to run for office. He said he didn’t want his family to be subjected to public criticism because of his campaign.

“Running for office is like a jump ball,” Nelson said. “It’s pandemonium.”

Staying true to his roots has remained a priority for Nelson. He travels home nearly every weekend and when asked about his experiences as a politician he first includes his Nebraska background, optimism and work ethic.

“You can’t win if you don’t take the risk of losing,” Nelson said. “If you want to do it you have to put energy into it.”