In a significant political development, State Senator Mike McDonnell of Omaha has announced his opposition to changing how Nebraska awards its Electoral College votes, a proposal aimed at boosting former President Donald Trump’s chances in upcoming elections. McDonnell stated that, despite hearing passionate opinions from constituents in the Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District, he did not receive enough support to alter his initial stance against the switch.
In his statement, McDonnell emphasized the importance of ensuring that elections allow all voters to be heard, regardless of their background or party affiliation. He concluded that, with just 43 days remaining until Election Day, this is not the appropriate time to implement such a change. Instead, he suggested putting the winner-take-all proposal to a public vote as a constitutional amendment, allowing Nebraskans to decide the matter.
Nebraska, alongside Maine, currently awards one Electoral College vote to the winner in each congressional district, in addition to two votes for the statewide winner. Historically, Nebraska has split its votes in four presidential elections, with President Joe Biden winning the 2nd District in 2020.
Republican leaders have long argued for a shift to a winner-take-all system, claiming it would better reflect the majority’s voice in the Electoral College. Although Republicans maintain a two-to-one voter registration advantage statewide, the 2nd District presents a more balanced demographic, making it competitive in national elections. Governor Jim Pillen had pledged to call a special session if he could secure the necessary votes to pass the measure.
McDonnell’s announcement leaves Republicans without a clear path to overcome a potential filibuster in Nebraska’s officially nonpartisan Legislature, as no Democrats or nonpartisan senators have indicated support for the change. The stakes are high for the upcoming elections, especially as national polling indicates a tight race between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.
While many Republicans expressed disappointment in McDonnell’s decision, he highlighted the importance of maintaining Nebraska’s unique electoral system, which brings significant national attention to the state. Nebraska Democratic Party Chair Jane Kleeb praised McDonnell for resisting pressure from out-of-state interests, emphasizing the need to protect the voices of Nebraskans in the electoral process.
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