Trump Campaigns in Nebraska to Boost Ricketts in Tight Senate Race
President Donald Trump is set to campaign in Grand Island, Nebraska, on Monday, amidst a tight Senate race between incumbent Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and independent candidate Dan Osborn, who is supported by many Democratic leaders. The race is currently rated "Likely Republican" by the Cook Political Report. Osborn previously ran against Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE) in 2024, securing over 46% of the vote. Trump won the state with nearly 59% support in the 2024 election, compared to just under 39% for then-Vice President Kamala Harris.
Max Oberg, deputy campaign manager for Ricketts, stated that the senator looks forward to welcoming Trump to Nebraska. The rally is part of Trump's broader effort to boost turnout ahead of the midterm elections, focusing on states he won. Oberg highlighted Ricketts' collaboration with Trump on key issues, including year-round E15 for Nebraska's corn growers and ethanol producers, banning stock trading by members of Congress, codifying ratepayer protections, and delivering a Farm Bill for farmers and ranchers.
The Nebraska Republican Party noted that this is the first presidential visit to Grand Island in two decades and expressed confidence that Nebraskans will reject the Democrats' agenda in the midterm elections. The Republican National Committee criticized Osborn, claiming he would align with Chuck Schumer to raise taxes, provide benefits to undocumented immigrants, and allow men in women's locker rooms if elected, dubbing him "Democrat Dan."
Democrats and the Osborn campaign, however, view Trump's visit differently. Osborn stated that Trump's 2024 campaign platform included no forever wars, standing up to China, lowering grocery costs, and securing the border, principles he claimed Ricketts has abandoned. Osborn also referenced a critical post from Trump about the Ricketts family from 2016, suggesting those issues might resurface during the rally. The Nebraska Democratic Party plans to protest Trump's visit, with Chair Jane Kleeb stating that Trump's appearance indicates Republicans are in trouble, even in Nebraska.