Nebraska holds a U.S. Senate race and the governorship in 2026, on the ballot November 3, 2026, in a reliably Republican state with one nationally-watched swing district. Here's a nonpartisan guide.
What's on the 2026 ballot in Nebraska?
The U.S. Senate seat held by Republican Pete Ricketts is up. The governorship is on the ballot, with Republican incumbent Jim Pillen. Below them: all of Nebraska's U.S. House seats, including the competitive Omaha-area district, its unique unicameral legislature, state offices, and local contests.
What makes Nebraska's races matter?
Nebraska votes reliably Republican statewide, but it splits its electoral votes by district, and its Omaha-based 2nd District, the famous "blue dot," is one of the most genuinely competitive U.S. House seats in the country. So while the statewide races lean red, that single swing district can matter to national House control, and it draws outsized attention and resources.
Why turnout decides Nebraska
In the competitive Omaha district, a midterm lowering turnout can flip the seat, so mobilization at the margins decides it. Statewide, safe-seat primaries often carry the real contest. Nebraska's early and mail voting spreads turnout across weeks.
Frequently asked questions
What are the big races in Nebraska in 2026?
A U.S. Senate race, the seat held by Republican Pete Ricketts, the governorship with Republican incumbent Jim Pillen, and all U.S. House seats, including the competitive Omaha-area 2nd District.
Why does Nebraska's Omaha district matter?
Nebraska splits its electoral votes by district, and its Omaha-based 2nd, the "blue dot," is one of the most competitive U.S. House seats in the country, so it can matter to national House control.
Why does turnout matter in Nebraska?
Because a midterm lowering turnout can flip the competitive Omaha district, decided by mobilization at the margins, while safe-seat primaries carry the statewide contests.
This reflects the cycle as of the date above. Facts drawn from nonpartisan sources including Ballotpedia. Confirm voting details at Vote.org.
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