Political activist Denise Powell has won the Democratic primary for Nebraska’s open 2nd District, a battleground seat that both parties say will be crucial to determining control of the House this fall.
Powell was leading state Sen. John Cavanaugh, 39 percent to 37 percent, in a crowded primary when The Associated Press called the race Wednesday at 8:12 p.m. Eastern time. Douglas County District Court Clerk Crystal Rhoades and Navy veteran Kishla Askins trailed with 14 percent and 6 percent respectively.
Powell will next face Omaha City Council Member Brinker Harding, who was unopposed for the Republican nomination in the race to succeed retiring GOP Rep. Don Bacon.
“This country and Nebraska are worth fighting for – and I’m ready to spend the next six months working for every vote and sharing my vision for Nebraska so we can finally have a representative in Congress who will serve us,’’ Powell, who led a political action committee supporting women seeking elective office, said in a statement. “It’s time to be brave.”
The Omaha-centered district is a rare swing district closely split between Republicans, Democrats and unaffiliated voters. Kamala Harris carried it by 5 points in 2024, yet voters here have repeatedly sent the moderate Bacon back to the House. (The Republican won a fifth term by less than 2 points in 2024 before announcing his retirement last year.)
