Powell secures Democrat nomination in key swing district

By Andrew Rice
The Center Square

Denise Powell won the Democratic nomination in Nebraska’s second congressional district, according to projections from multiple media outlets.

Powell edged out state Sen. John Cavanaugh in the closely watched race. Democrats view Nebraska’s second congressional district as key to flipping control of the U.S. House of Representatives in November.

Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., announced he would not run for reelection. In his place, Brinker Harding, an Omaha City Council member, secured the uncontested Republican nomination.

“I’m so proud of this history-making campaign,” Powell said. “Proud to have been the first Latina to ever file to run for federal office in the history of our state.”

Harding has advocated for lowering taxes and reducing the national debt.

“I will fight to cut your taxes, bring down gas and grocery prices, lower interest rates, create good-paying jobs and ensure America is the global leader in cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence,” Harding wrote.

Powell spent her campaign highlighting the risk electing Cavanaugh would have posed. She said Cavanaugh’s election to the seat could hurt Democratic makeup in the state Senate since Republican Gov. Jim Pillen would select his replacement.

The Healthcare for Action political action committee endorsed Powell for the Democratic nomination. Anahita Dua, founder of Healthcare for Action, said Powell would defend abortion rights, expand healthcare options and fight insurance companies.

“Denise is a tireless champion for public health and a fearless advocate for working families,” Dua said. “Healthcare will be central to Democrats’ path to retaking the House in 2026 and Healthcare for Action remains committed to supporting strong public health advocates like Denise Powell in communities across the country.”

The Cook Political Report ranks Nebraska’s second congressional district as leaning in favor of Democrats. It highlights the district as a prime opportunity for Democrats to flip in 2026.

Voters in the Cornhusker State will return to the polls in November as Powell and Harding face off in the key district.