Fresh off Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) announcing his retirement plans, Democrat Denise Powell sees a strong chance for Democrats to finally flip Nebraska’s 2nd District.
The Omaha-area business owner and political activist is running her campaign as a “fired up mom” who wants to bring a new face to the district that’s been held by Bacon since 2017.
Powell is centering her campaign on economic issues, highlighting the rising cost of living and paying bills.
“I hate seeing people feel like nobody’s listening to them, and they’re not getting a call back from their representative and there’s no one listening to them,” Powell told us. “I feel that way too, so I think it’s time for someone like me to stand up and speak up.”
Blue Dot target. Powell could face a crowded primary after Bacon’s retirement announcement. Vice President Kamala Harris won the seat last year.
Bacon was first elected to the House in 2016 when he beat former Democratic Rep. Brad Ashford. Building a brand as a pragmatic Republican, Bacon successfully fended off four Democratic challengers in subsequent election cycles.
But with the NRCC scrambling to find a suitable candidate, Democrats are viewing this seat as one of its top pickup opportunities. The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter moved Nebraska’s 2nd District from a “Toss Up” to “Lean Democrat.”
Powell is already facing several other contenders in the race, including state Sen. John Cavanaugh, who announced his campaign last week.
Yet Powell has picked up some early endorsements, including Tony Vargas, who narrowly lost to Bacon last cycle.
Powell is also hopeful for a sea change in Nebraska after the Omaha mayoral race, in which Democrat John Ewing Jr. beat GOP incumbent Jean Stothert.
“Winds of change are blowing through Nebraska,” Powell said. “We had some incredible results in our Omaha mayoral race that I think is a good sign of things to come.”
The Nebraska Democratic primary will be in May 2026.
