Pete Ricketts is an American businessman and Republican politician. He currently serves as the United States Senator from Nebraska. Before joining the Senate, he served two terms as Nebraska’s 40th governor. He has built a reputation around tax reform, economic growth, agriculture, and conservative policies.

Today, Ricketts remains one of Nebraska’s most influential political leaders. His business background and public service continue to shape his legislative priorities.

Pete Ricketts Biography at a Glance

Early Life and Family

Pete Ricketts was born on August 19, 1964, in Nebraska City, Nebraska. He grew up in Omaha with his family. His father, Joe Ricketts, founded Ameritrade, while his mother, Marlene, worked as a teacher.

Growing up, Ricketts learned the value of education, hard work, and entrepreneurship. Those lessons later influenced both his business career and political philosophy.

Although his family achieved financial success, Ricketts often emphasized personal responsibility and community involvement.

Education

Pete Ricketts attended Westside High School in Omaha.

Later, he enrolled at the University of Chicago. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology before completing an MBA in marketing and finance.

His education combined scientific thinking with business management. Consequently, he developed strong analytical and leadership skills.

Business Career

After graduation, Ricketts worked for Union Pacific.

Soon afterward, he joined his family’s brokerage company. The business eventually became TD Ameritrade, one of America’s leading online brokerage firms.

During his career, Ricketts held several executive positions, including:

• President
• Chief Operating Officer
• Senior Vice President of Marketing
• Senior Vice President of Product Development
• Senior Vice President of Strategy and Business Development

His leadership helped expand the company’s products and services.

Additionally, he founded Drakon LLC, an investment company that supports entrepreneurs and startup businesses throughout Nebraska.

Entry into Politics

Pete Ricketts entered politics because he wanted to improve Nebraska’s economy and government efficiency.

He first sought statewide office in 2006. Although he lost the Republican Senate primary, he remained active in public affairs.

Over the following years, he increased his involvement within the Republican Party.

Eventually, voters elected him governor in 2014.

Governor of Nebraska

Pete Ricketts became Nebraska’s 40th governor on January 8, 2015.

He later won reelection in 2018, serving until January 2023 because Nebraska limits governors to two consecutive terms.

During his administration, he focused on several priorities.

Tax Relief

One of Ricketts’ major achievements involved tax reductions.

His administration worked with the legislature to approve billions of dollars in tax relief. The package included significant property tax reductions and the elimination of state taxes on Social Security benefits by 2025.

Economic Development

Ricketts promoted Nebraska as a business-friendly state.

His administration encouraged investment, reduced regulations, and expanded workforce development programs.

Nebraska also earned multiple Governor’s Cup awards for economic development projects during his tenure.

Agriculture

Agriculture remained one of his top priorities.

He promoted Nebraska farmers and ranchers through international trade missions and export opportunities.

Consequently, agricultural exports became an important part of his economic agenda.

Government Efficiency

Ricketts supported reducing government spending growth.

He also encouraged modernization across state agencies to improve public services.

Appointment to the U.S. Senate

Following Senator Ben Sasse’s resignation, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen appointed Pete Ricketts to the U.S. Senate.

Ricketts officially took office on January 23, 2023.

He later won the 2024 special election to continue serving the remainder of the term. He is expected to seek a full six-year Senate term in 2026.

Pete Ricketts in the U.S. Senate

As a senator, Pete Ricketts serves on several important issues affecting Nebraska and the nation.

His legislative priorities include:

• Border security
• Agriculture
• Tax reform
• National defense
• Federal spending
• Energy independence
• Economic growth

He frequently introduces or supports legislation designed to strengthen American manufacturing and rural communities. Recent proposals have included measures supporting Nebraska farmers and ranchers.

Political Views

Pete Ricketts identifies as a conservative Republican.

His political positions generally include:

• Lower taxes
• Limited government
• Strong border security
• Pro-business policies
• Support for agriculture
• Religious liberty
• Second Amendment rights
• Fiscal responsibility

These positions remain central to his legislative agenda.

Leadership Style

Supporters describe Pete Ricketts as disciplined and data-driven.

They often praise his business experience and focus on budgeting.

Critics, however, have questioned some appointments and policy decisions during his governorship and Senate career. As with many national political figures, his record receives both support and criticism depending on the issue.

Personal Life

Pete Ricketts is married to Susanne Shore.

The couple has three children.

They live in Omaha, Nebraska, and remain active in community and charitable organizations.

Ricketts also participates in several civic and religious organizations, including the Knights of Columbus and the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation.

Pete Ricketts and the Chicago Cubs

The Ricketts family owns the Chicago Cubs through their family ownership group.

Pete Ricketts previously served on the team’s board.

Although he later entered public office, the family’s connection with the Major League Baseball franchise remains well known.

Pete Ricketts Net Worth

Pete Ricketts comes from one of Nebraska’s wealthiest families.

His wealth largely stems from investments and the family’s success with TD Ameritrade.

Public financial disclosures place his personal net worth in the tens of millions of dollars, although estimates vary by source and reporting period.

Awards and Community Service

Throughout his career, Pete Ricketts has supported numerous educational and nonprofit organizations.

His leadership roles include organizations focused on:

• Youth development
• Outdoor conservation
• Education
• Entrepreneurship
• Community service

These activities reflect his long-standing involvement beyond elected office.

Challenges and Public Scrutiny

Like many prominent politicians, Pete Ricketts has faced political criticism.

Some opponents questioned his Senate appointment because Governor Jim Pillen selected him after succeeding him as governor.

Others have challenged his policy positions on taxes, immigration, and federal spending.

Meanwhile, supporters argue that his experience and executive leadership prepared him well for federal office.

Legacy

Pete Ricketts has influenced Nebraska politics for more than a decade.

His governorship emphasized economic development, tax relief, and conservative fiscal policies.

Now, as a U.S. senator, he continues advocating for Nebraska’s agricultural economy, business community, and national security priorities.

His future political career will likely depend on legislative accomplishments and upcoming elections.