Voters in Legislative District 36 will pick between incumbent state Sen. Rick Holdcroft and challenger Darin Tompkins in the Nov. 3 election for one of the fastest-growing districts in the state.
Two candidates, shared priorities
Holdcroft, the Republican incumbent and a retired U.S. Navy officer, is campaigning on conservative social positions, fiscal restraint and renewed efforts on a so-called “baby box” safe-haven law he has previously pursued. A 28-year military veteran with degrees in electrical engineering and computer science, Holdcroft said his public service background informs his approach to policy and constituent outreach.
“Service is really my forte,” Holdcroft said.
Tompkins, a Democrat from Papillion and a retired manufacturing executive, framed his candidacy around affordability, workforce retention and reforming business incentives. He identified property taxes and the outflow of younger workers as central concerns for his campaign and said he wants policies that keep more families and employees in Nebraska.
Policy differences and local focus
Both candidates said reducing property taxes is a top priority. Beyond that, they outlined distinct emphases:
- Holdcroft emphasized social conservative positions, including a pro-life stance and opposition to marijuana; he said his views are shaped in part by observing substance-related problems among young sailors during his military service.
- Tompkins focused on economic development and changing how business incentives are awarded, saying the state should do more to spur growth and retain workforce talent.
Tompkins said concerns about property taxes, workforce retention and economic opportunities motivated his run; he also noted a personal stake in the issue because several adult children live and work in Nebraska. Holdcroft, who lives in Bellevue and keeps bees as a hobby, has cited previous legislative efforts he plans to revive if reelected.
District and campaign context
Legislative District 36 covers parts of western and southern Sarpy County, an area experiencing population growth and suburban development. The race pits a candidate with a long public-service résumé against one with private-sector experience and a focus on workforce and economic issues.
Voters in District 36 will cast ballots on Nov. 3; polls will close in the state's final time zone that day. Campaign finance reports, endorsements and official filing records are available through the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission and the Secretary of State.
