Omaha decides between electing its first Black mayor or reelecting its first female one
In Omaha's historic mayoral election, voters decide between reelecting the first female mayor, Jean Stothert, for an unprecedented fourth term, or electing the city's first Black mayor, John Ewing. The campaign has primarily focused on local issues like street repairs and garbage service, but has also touched on national topics such as transgender rights and the Trump administration. Stothert highlights her achievements in revitalizing Omaha, while Ewing criticizes her for neglecting essential city services and advocates for change. The nonpartisan nature of the mayoral office contrasts with the candidates' clear political affiliations, reflecting Omaha's unique position within conservative Nebraska. The election outcome will shape the leadership of Nebraska's largest city, home to nearly a quarter of the state's population.
Context:
In Omaha's historic mayoral election, voters decide between reelecting the first female mayor, Jean Stothert, for an unprecedented fourth term, or electing the city's first Black mayor, John Ewing. The campaign has primarily focused on local issues like street repairs and garbage service, but has also touched on national topics such as transgender rights and the Trump administration. Stothert highlights her achievements in revitalizing Omaha, while Ewing criticizes her for neglecting essential city services and advocates for change. The nonpartisan nature of the mayoral office contrasts with the candidates' clear political affiliations, reflecting Omaha's unique position within conservative Nebraska. The election outcome will shape the leadership of Nebraska's largest city, home to nearly a quarter of the state's population.
Dive Deeper:
The Omaha mayoral election presents a historic choice between reelecting Jean Stothert for a fourth term, making her the longest-serving mayor in over a century, or electing John Ewing as the city's first Black mayor.
Local issues such as street repairs, garbage service, and affordable housing have dominated the campaign, but national concerns including transgender rights and the Trump administration have also emerged.
Stothert campaigns on her record of revitalizing Omaha, citing achievements like the riverfront redevelopment and streetcar plans, portraying the city as thriving under her leadership.
Ewing criticizes Stothert for her lack of focus on core city issues like pothole repairs and public safety, arguing that her time in office has been sufficient and advocating for new leadership.
Although the mayoral office is officially nonpartisan, candidates have highlighted their political affiliations, with Stothert as a Republican and Ewing as a Democrat, reflecting the broader political landscape.
Omaha's political climate is unique within Nebraska, offering Democrats a rare opportunity to win elected offices in a predominantly conservative state.
The election will determine leadership for Nebraska's largest city, which holds significant influence as it comprises nearly a quarter of the state's population.