In the upcoming primary elections for Nebraska’s 3rd District, incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith is facing challenges from within his own party. Two Republicans, John Walz and Robert McCuiston, are vying for the chance to unseat Smith, who has held the position for nine terms.
The primary race has taken on a national trend in Republican politics, with a shift towards populism. Walz, a discount-store owner from Hastings, has secured endorsements from the state party and many county GOPs, positioning himself as a “MAGA Republican” loyal to former President Donald Trump.
McCuiston, a welder from Holdrege, criticizes Smith for not representing the common man and working more for corporate interests. He advocates for term limits and a fairer tax system that places less burden on middle-class and small businesses.
On the Democratic side, Daniel Ebers and David Else are competing for the chance to challenge Smith in the general election. Ebers, a hotel manager from Lincoln, emphasizes the need for a representative who focuses on the people of Nebraska, rather than partisan politics.
Else, a farmer from Overton, highlights the impact of Trump’s tariff and trade policies on food prices and the importance of defending Obamacare for self-employed individuals. He also emphasizes the contributions of Latino neighbors to Nebraska’s agricultural economy.
As the primary election approaches, the candidates are focusing on key issues such as border security, the economy, and healthcare. Smith remains the favorite to advance, but the challengers are determined to offer voters an alternative to the incumbent’s long tenure in office.