Democratic voters in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District will select their nominee for the U.S. House on Tuesday, in a primary that could influence the balance of power in Congress and the allocation of a single electoral vote in the presidential election. The district, centered on Omaha, is often called the “blue dot” because it is a Democratic-leaning area within a state that otherwise consistently votes Republican.
The two candidates on the ballot are State Senator Tony Vargas and mental health practitioner Alisha Shelton. Vargas previously ran for the seat in 2022, losing to incumbent Republican Representative Don Bacon by roughly three percentage points. Shelton, a union member, is emphasizing her background in mental health care and her connection to working families.
According to PBS NewsHour, the 2nd District is one of the most competitive House races in the country. The district’s electoral vote, awarded separately under Nebraska’s system of allocating presidential electors by congressional district, went to Joe Biden in 2020 and could again be decisive in a close national contest.
The Washington Times reported that the primary outcome will determine who faces Bacon in November, with the “blue dot” representing a small but significant factor in presidential politics. Both outlets noted that the Democratic nominee will need to appeal to a district that has alternated between parties in recent cycles.
Vargas has highlighted his legislative experience and his previous campaign’s near-success. “We came really close last time, and we’re going to finish the job this year,” he said, as quoted by PBS NewsHour. Shelton has pointed to her work as a mental health provider and her union membership, stating, “I’m not a career politician. I’m someone who has been serving this community in a different way,” according to the same report.
The Washington Times quoted Shelton saying, “We need someone who understands the struggles of everyday people, not just political insiders.” Vargas, in turn, told the outlet that his experience in the legislature has prepared him to “deliver real results on health care, jobs, and protecting our democracy.”
No center-leaning sources reported on this story. The primary winner will advance to challenge Bacon, who is seeking a fifth term. The general election is expected to be closely watched, as control of the House could hinge on a small number of swing districts.
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