Denise Powell Wins Democratic Primary for Nebraska's 2nd District
Political activist Denise Powell has secured victory in the Democratic primary for Nebraska’s open 2nd Congressional District, a critical battleground seat for determining House control. Powell defeated state Senator John Cavanaugh with 39 percent of the vote to his 37 percent, while Crystal Rhoades and Kishla Askins trailed significantly. The primary was marked by intense competition and substantial outside spending, reflecting internal divisions within the Democratic Party. Powell, backed by EMILY’s List and the New Democrat Coalition, will now face Republican Omaha City Council Member Brinker Harding in the general election. Harding, who ran unopposed for the GOP nomination, aims to succeed retiring Representative Don Bacon. The district is considered a rare swing area, having voted for Kamala Harris in 2024 despite historically supporting moderate Republicans. Election analysts currently rate the upcoming general election as leaning toward the Democrats. Both parties have intensified their rhetoric, with Harding labeling Powell an out-of-touch progressive and Democratic leaders criticizing Harding as a puppet of former President Donald Trump.
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