Nebraska voters narrowed the field Tuesday in several statewide races as unofficial primary election results set the stage for the November general election.
Republican U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts advanced in his bid for another term after defeating multiple challengers in the GOP primary. Democrat Cindy Burbank won the Democratic Senate primary. ()
In the governor’s race, incumbent Republican Jim Pillen secured the GOP nomination and will move on to face Democrat Lynne Walz in November. ()
One of the biggest statewide surprises Tuesday night came in the Republican primary for Nebraska secretary of state, where challenger Scott Petersen defeated incumbent Bob Evnen. ()
Nebraska voters also decided several congressional primaries.
In Nebraska’s 3rd Congressional District, Republican incumbent Adrian Smith advanced despite facing a challenge from David P. Huebner. Democrat Becky Kelly Stille secured the Democratic nomination. ()
The race for Nebraska’s open 2nd Congressional District seat drew national attention after longtime Congressman Don Bacon announced he would not seek reelection. Democratic State Sen. John Cavanaugh and Denise Powell remained in a close race Tuesday night, while Republican Brinker Harding advanced on the GOP side. ()
Several statewide constitutional offices were also decided in Tuesday’s primary election, including races for attorney general, state auditor and treasurer. ()
Unofficial results will remain subject to canvassing by election officials.