After three days of counting, The Associated Press declared liberal activist Denise Powell the winner of the hard-fought Democratic primary in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District (Omaha) on Wednesday morning.
Powell — who has been likened to progressive Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y. — will face Republican Brinker Harding in a race that is sure to be watched nationally.
In five trips to the ballot, retiring GOP Rep. Don Bacon never managed to win with a greater margin than 51%. The race to succeed him is being watched nationwide as one of a handful of House contests considered truly competitive.
Along with the progressive EMILYs List (which supports women running for Congress who support abortion access), Powell raised more money than five rival Democrats with support from teachers unions and other labor organizations.
With nearly all votes counted, Powell edged out state Sen. Jack Cavanaugh, whose father, John J. Cavanaugh, represented the 2nd Congressional District from 1977 to 1981.
In contrast to the tumultuous Democratic primary, Republicans in Nebraska’s 2nd District selected Brinker Harding, vice chair of the Omaha City Council.
President Donald Trump gave Harding his support early in the campaign.
Former Omaha Mayor Hal Daub described the contentious primary as beneficial for Harding, characterizing him as “a center-right, well-spoken, and mild-mannered official who served as my chief of staff.”
