Harding and Powell Will Compete for Nebraska District
Candidates will face off for the second congressional district seat in the November 2026 election.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Elections
Live Poll
Is the local economy currently making your own household finances feel more or less stable?
Brinker Harding and Denise Powell are vying to represent Nebraska's second congressional district in the November 2026 election. The seat is open after Representative Don Bacon, who secured 50.9% of the vote in 2024, decided not to seek reelection.
Why it matters
Democrats are looking to flip this district, with candidates from both parties focusing their platforms on rising costs and the broader affordability crisis. The race represents a significant shift in leadership for a district previously held by Bacon.
Denise Powell reports $997,000 in cash on hand, while Brinker Harding holds more than $1 million. Both campaigns have received $5,000 in support from political action committees, specifically the American Postal Workers Union and SEAL PAC.
The players
Brinker Harding
He is a commercial real estate professional who is running for the seat in Nebraska's second congressional district.
Denise Powell
She is a small business owner who is running for the seat in Nebraska's second congressional district.
Don Bacon
He is the incumbent who secured 50.9% of the vote in the 2024 election and is not seeking reelection.
The details
Brinker Harding, a commercial real estate professional, and small business owner Denise Powell are campaigning to address voter concerns regarding the affordability crisis. The district, which includes Omaha, is a focal point for Democrats aiming to capture the congressional seat in the upcoming election.
Timeline
September 18, 2026: Military and overseas ballots were sent in Nebraska.
October 5, 2026: Early in-person voting begins across the state.
November 2, 2026: Early in-person voting concludes.
November 2026: The congressional election will take place.
Political Context
The opposition party continues to challenge the economic platforms of both candidates, citing concerns over the feasibility of their proposed solutions to the affordability crisis. This debate highlights the structural divide in how each campaign intends to address inflation and rising costs.
Voters should prepare for the election by reviewing the early voting schedule which runs from October 5 to November 2. Residents in the second congressional district will determine which candidate will address their financial concerns, including the rising cost of living.
The takeaway
Voters in the district face a choice between two candidates with distinct professional backgrounds and financial backing. Tracking campaign finance filings provides insight into the resources each campaign has to reach voters before the polls close.
Further reading
For more information on the upcoming races, visit Nebraska Elections.
More information
Find official election details on the Nebraska Secretary of State website.
Live Poll
Is the local economy currently making your own household finances feel more or less stable?
