Resignation would be in best interest of the University

It may be too much to expect at this late date, but David Hergert would be serving the best interests of the University of Nebraska and the people of the state if he would resign as the regent representing Western Nebraska.

With all the questions being raised about Hergert's campaign -- including admissions by Hergert that he violated the campaign spending and reporting law -- it is questionable how his service on the board can be of any value.

What if a similar issue would come up about a university employee? What if a member of the university staff fudged on expense accounts, or failed to report spending that exceeded the employee's authority? Hergert's vote -- on whichever side of the issue -- would be tainted and questioned.

The seriousness of the issue is shown by the action Friday of the Nebraska Legislature's executive board. To show their displeasure with Hergert's conduct, the executive board sent a demand for Hergert's resignation to the full legislature. While admitting that a "a good deal of political pressure" is being applied, Hergert's attorney, W. Scott Davis of Lincoln, said Hergert had no intention to resign.

That's a shame. For one thing, the flap over Hergert is taking away from the importance of the work the regents do on behalf of higher education in Nebraska. The board should be inspiring the best this state has to offer, instead of setting a poor example of personal conduct.

Whatever happens, it is important that Nebraska strengthen its laws concerning campaign financing and reporting. It is simply wrong that a candidate, such as Hergert, can play fast and loose with the campaign laws, get elected and still be allowed to hold his office.

Hergert must have hoped that election as a regent would be a crowning touch for his career in business and industry. But it worked out just the opposite because of his win at all costs philosophy. It would be in the best interests of the state and the university for him to resign.