Despite expectations that Senator Deb Fischer, R-Nebraska, would easily secure reelection—having enjoyed significant victories in previous elections where Trump garnered about 58% of the vote—things have shifted with Dan Osborn, a former union leader, entering the race as an independent candidate.

In what is typically a Republican stronghold, Nebraska’s Senate race has become one of the most closely watched contests leading up to the Nov. 5 election. The result could significantly influence which party retains control of the Senate.

According to a recent poll from New York Times/Siena College, Osborn trails Fischer by only two percentage points, at 46% to 48%, while 5% of likely voters remain undecided or refuse to state their preference. Furthermore, analytical groups like the nonpartisan Cook Political Report have categorized the race as “leaning” rather than “solidly” Republican.

Osborn, a veteran who served in both the U.S. Navy and the Nebraska Army National Guard, has rejected an endorsement from the Nebraska Democratic Party. As an independent, he combines elements from different political perspectives in his platform: he champions the Second Amendment, advocates for reproductive rights, and seeks to facilitate union organization.

This race marks Osborn’s first entry into politics, which he considers a key advantage.

“It’s an age-old narrative; division leads to conquest. Right now, our society feels incredibly divided,” Osborn expressed at a recent gathering at his campaign office in Lincoln, where he highlighted his backing from conservative Nebraskans.

“If Nebraska were to elect an independent candidate, it would send shockwaves across the country. People would say, ‘Wow, did you see what Nebraska did?’ It would demonstrate that you don’t need to be a wealthy self-funder to run for office.”

In this election marked by notable political division, Osborn promotes himself as a candidate free from party ties, highlighting his frustrations with the ongoing partisan stalemates and inefficiency in Congress.

One significant point of consideration for both parties is whether Osborn will align with a particular party in the Senate. When asked about his plans, Osborn referenced former Senator George Norris, I-Nebraska, the last independent senator from Nebraska, who didn’t affiliate with either party and was influential in establishing the state’s unique Unicameral legislature.

“We take pride in being independent and distinct from others,” remarked Elizabeth Theiss-Morse, a political science professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

A Focus on Inclusivity

Initially a less prominent competitor, Fischer’s campaign has ramped up efforts to energize her Republican base, thanks to substantial funding from national Republican entities and a boost from former President Donald Trump’s endorsement.

The GOP is heavily investing in the race to maintain its foothold in the Senate, including a recent $3 million injection from a political action committee linked to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky. This financial support has enabled a flurry of costly TV advertisements that frame Osborn as a hidden Democrat.

“My opponent endorses amnesty for illegal immigrants, supports Social Security for them, and admires Bernie Sanders—he’s simply too liberal for our state,” Fischer asserted in a statement to YSL News.

“Nebraska folks back me because I’ve delivered real results: from advocating for robust national security and securing our borders to funding essential infrastructure and facilitating paid family medical leave. My strong conservative track record has been vital in building Nebraska’s success and upholding America’s strength.”

Fischer’s ties to the broader Nebraska community are deep-rooted, arising from her background in ranching.

In Valentine, a town located near Nebraska’s northern border, there is a candidate with a history of holding various public offices. This includes roles in the Nebraska Legislature and on the Valentine Rural High School Board of Education. She is now aiming for her third term in office.

On the flip side, Osborn is working to connect with voters from all political backgrounds but is currently appealing to Fischer’s conservative supporters by emphasizing his shared views with Trump.

“I tell everyone, whether I’m in Lincoln surrounded by Democrats or in Hastings in a room full of Republicans or a mixed group, my message remains the same,” Osborn stated in an interview with YSL News. “Republicans aren’t the enemy, Democrats aren’t the enemy, it’s the corporations that pose a threat.”

Both candidates have been rigorously contesting each other’s sincerity while also emphasizing their support from unions, which is a key issue in this election.

Fischer has highlighted her support from various unions statewide, such as police and firefighting organizations, alongside the Nebraska Farmers Union, which is endorsing several Democrats for national positions.

John Hansen, President of the Farmers Union, praised Fischer, noting that she has always prioritized the interests of farmers and ranchers during her tenure in both the state legislature and the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee.

“Fischer stands out as one of the few Republicans in Congress willing to reach across the aisle to garner bipartisan support for her initiatives, aiming to attach them to the Farm Bill,” Hansen explained. “We know each other well, and we have a productive working relationship.”

Osborn, on his part, has garnered support from numerous unions and worker organizations including the Nebraska AFL-CIO, United Auto Workers, and Communications Workers of America, as well as Nebraska Railroaders for Public Safety.

Notably, the NRPS’s support for Osborn was largely sparked by the difficulties they encountered in reaching Fischer’s office during a labor dispute involving railroads in Nebraska back in 2022, according to Mike Helmink, co-founder and treasurer of the group.

“The race has gained considerable attention because he poses a serious challenge,” Helmink remarked. “The Republicans were caught off guard by this and hoped it would fizzle out, but it’s only gaining momentum. He is a strong candidate with a compelling message that resonates with many.”