The rematch for Legislative District 4 frames property taxes as the leading campaign issue as voters prepare to decide a Nov. 3 contest between incumbent state Sen. Brad von Gillern, who chairs the Unicameral’s Revenue Committee, and challenger Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek.
Election context and recent results
Von Gillern defeated Maxwell-Ostdiek by about five percentage points in 2022. The May primary this year saw Maxwell-Ostdiek finish nearly seven percentage points ahead of the incumbent, setting up a closely watched November rematch in Douglas County. Twenty-four of the Unicameral’s 49 seats are on the Nov. 3 ballot.
Where the candidates stand on taxes
Both candidates told KETV that property taxes are the most frequent concern raised on the campaign trail.
“Number one is property taxes,” Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek said.
Von Gillern said he supports further reforms to provide property tax relief and favors measures to limit spending growth by local taxing authorities.
“We’ve got to get to a place where we are doing property tax reform, not just backfilling,” von Gillern said.
- Von Gillern highlighted his legislative work and attendance record, saying he has “never missed a day of session” or a hearing in four years and that he collaborates across the Unicameral to advance bills.
- Maxwell-Ostdiek criticized lawmakers’ responsiveness and cited the state’s fiscal swing, saying it went from a roughly $1 billion surplus to a $1 billion deficit.
Fiscal arguments on the campaign trail
Maxwell-Ostdiek told KETV voters are dissatisfied with the Legislature and contended that fiscal mismanagement has produced the current budget strain. She said she would work to bridge partisan divides in the Unicameral.
Von Gillern emphasized his record on revenue and taxes, noting the need for additional reforms beyond measures aimed at short-term relief.
Both candidates’ statements on property taxes and state finances were part of wider campaign remarks on governing style and priorities; the contest could draw attention because the incumbent heads the Unicameral committee that oversees tax and revenue policy.
Next step: Voters in District 4 will cast ballots on Nov. 3; results will be certified according to the Secretary of State’s procedures following the election.
