Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen is recovering in hospital after being thrown from a horse on Sunday. The 68-year-old was riding with his family when the incident occurred, involving a new horse. He was initially taken to Columbus Community Hospital in Columbus, Nebraska, and later transferred to the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha as a precautionary measure.

While Governor Pillen's office confirmed he is alert and in contact with his team, the specific nature and extent of his injuries remain undisclosed. He is anticipated to stay in the hospital for several days.

Pillen, a Republican, was elected governor in 2022, succeeding term-limited Governor Pete Ricketts. Interestingly, Pillen subsequently appointed Ricketts to the U.S. Senate to fill the vacancy left by Ben Sasse's resignation. Sasse later stepped down from his role as president of the University of Florida.

Prior to entering politics, Governor Pillen had a career as a veterinarian and owned a livestock operation.