Unofficial election results indicate that Republicans are likely to lose the supermajority they have held in the Nebraska Legislature, changing the vote threshold for advancing legislation when the 49-member body convenes in January 2027.
Republicans currently hold 33 seats, the minimum needed for the two-thirds majority that allows senators to overcome a filibuster. Results from several competitive races, including contests in Omaha and Sarpy County, show candidates challenging Republican incumbents with leads that could reduce the Republican caucus below that threshold.
In west Omaha's Legislative District 4, independent candidate Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek led state Sen. Brad von Gillern, with 56% of the vote to von Gillern's 44%, according to the unofficial results cited by 10/11 NOW. Von Gillern had been a potential candidate to succeed Speaker John Arch of La Vista.
The results also affect the contest for the next speaker and other leadership posts. State Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha has said she will seek the speakership. State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte also is interested in the position, according to 10/11 NOW. The 49 senators will decide their leader before beginning work in the next legislative session.
“And quite frankly, when one party doesn’t have the super majority, I think you can get more done because now we’re going to get bills that are less controversial and bills that we can kind of agree upon up front.” — Sen. Mike Jacobson
Jacobson said he is prepared to work with a Legislature that is more evenly divided. He also said he plans to leave the Banking Committee and seek the chairmanship of the Revenue Committee, a position previously held by von Gillern.
Kauth said her approach to the speaker's position would reflect the Legislature's official nonpartisan status while ensuring that priority bills receive consideration. She identified mental health, building codes and a coercive control bill among the issues she may pursue, along with legislation addressing gender-related questions.
Results shaping the next session
The apparent change in the Legislature's balance follows an election in which several seats across Nebraska, including in the Omaha area, were closely contested. The outcome will determine which senators return and how many votes will be available to advance measures over a filibuster.
- Republicans currently hold 33 of 49 seats, the threshold for a two-thirds majority.
- Results in District 4 show Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek leading Brad von Gillern, 56% to 44%.
- The 110th Legislature is scheduled to convene Jan. 6, 2027.
The incoming senators will first address legislative leadership, including the speakership. The balance of the chamber and the leadership decisions will establish the framework for committee assignments and floor action during the next two-year session.
