In a notable verdict exposing internal fractures within the Nebraska Republican Party, a Lancaster County jury ruled that the state GOP defamed longtime Republican Janet Palmtag during a contentious 2020 legislative primary and awarded her $500,000 in damages.
Palmtag, once a loyal Republican and real estate professional, was targeted by the Nebraska GOP through misleading campaign mailers while challenging then-State Senator Julie Slama, a political ally of former Governor Pete Ricketts. Palmtag had the backing of former Gov. Dave Heineman, highlighting what the article described as “a growing schism within the state GOP.”
The mailers — sent to roughly 3,200 registered voters — falsely stated that Palmtag “broke the law and lost her real estate license,” and labeled her “too irresponsible to keep her license.” These claims were rooted in a 2018 disciplinary case, but the truth, as the jury heard, was far different. The issue involved a clerical error by a different agent at Palmtag’s brokerage, resulting in a $500 fine — not a revoked license or criminal charge. In fact, Palmtag voluntarily canceled her Iowa license in 2020, citing a lack of business.
Despite Palmtag’s requests for the party to correct the record, the Nebraska GOP refused. She subsequently filed a $4 million lawsuit, alleging the defamation not only cost her the election but caused personal and professional harm.
Initially dismissed by a lower court, Palmtag’s case was revived by the Nebraska Supreme Court, which ruled it should go before a jury. That jury sided with her, delivering a verdict that Palmtag’s attorney, David Domina, called highly uncommon: “I think it’s about as scarce as hen’s teeth.”
Palmtag has since left the Republican Party in protest over the ordeal. Nebraska GOP Chair Mary Jane Truemper, newly elected, acknowledged the party is still reviewing its options: “We’re in the investigative phase right now.”
The state GOP has 30 days to decide on an appeal, with an additional 10 days to request a new trial. If they do neither, Palmtag may begin collection procedures.
