.webp)
Nebraska voters are seeking more independent and bipartisan representation, expressing dissatisfaction with the current political landscape, according to an exclusive survey conducted by the Independent Center. The survey, which polled 400 likely voters in Nebraska from September 27 to October 1, 2024, reveals a strong desire for change and a sense that voters' voices are not being heard in Washington, DC.
Independent Candidate Osborn Leads in Nebraska Senate Race
In the Nebraska Senate race, Independent candidate Dan Osborn holds a 5-point lead over Republican incumbent Deb Fischer, according to the survey (FS5A). When asked how they would vote if the election were held today, 47% of respondents chose Osborn, while 42% selected Fischer, with 10% remaining unsure.
This result suggests a significant shift in voter preferences, as Nebraska has traditionally been a reliably Republican state. The strong showing for an Independent candidate indicates that voters are looking beyond party labels and seeking fresh perspectives.
Trump Maintains Edge, but Independent Voters Could Swing Election
In the presidential race, Republican Donald Trump maintains a lead over Democrat Kamala Harris in Nebraska, but the margin narrows when a third-party option is introduced (GS3, GS4). In a head-to-head matchup, Trump garners 53% support compared to Harris's 42%. However, when an Independent candidate is added to the mix, Trump's lead shrinks to 48%, with Harris at 38% and the third-party candidate receiving 7% support.
Notably, 49% of Nebraska voters said they would consider voting for a viable, politically independent presidential candidate who is willing to work with both sides of the aisle (GS4A). This further underscores the desire for bipartisanship and the potential for an Independent candidate to make inroads in the state.
Overwhelming Demand for Bipartisan Representation
Nebraska voters express a clear preference for candidates who work across party lines. When asked what type of candidate would best represent them and their neighbors in Congress, 54% chose "a candidate who works and votes with both Republicans and Democrats in Congress" (PS1). In comparison, only 28% preferred a Republican-aligned candidate, and 14% favored a Democrat-aligned candidate.
Moreover, 65% of respondents believe it would be better if there were more options beyond just Republican or Democrat candidates (LA11A), indicating a strong appetite for political diversity and a break from the two-party system.
Voters Feel Unheard by Elected Officials
Despite the desire for bipartisan representation, a majority of Nebraska voters (56%) do not believe their voice and opinions are being heard in Washington, DC by their elected representatives (PS2). This sentiment is consistent with the broader trend of dissatisfaction with the current political system.
Interestingly, 31% of respondents think their voice would be more clearly heard if their elected representative was a moderate Independent, not aligned with either Republicans or Democrats (PS3). This suggests that voters see Independent candidates as a potential solution to the perceived lack of representation.
Looking Ahead: Voters Seek Change
As the 2024 elections approach, Nebraska voters are clearly seeking a departure from the status quo. When asked what type of elected officials are needed in Washington, DC to increase the federal government's job performance, 27% said more elected Independents, while 35% favored more Republicans and 22% preferred more Democrats (PS4).
Furthermore, 36% of respondents believe that at the close of this election cycle, more Republican elected officials will be needed in office, while 27% think more Independents are necessary, and 24% say more Democrats (LA5).
The Independent Center's survey paints a picture of a Nebraska electorate that is dissatisfied with the current state of politics and is actively seeking change. With a strong preference for bipartisan and Independent candidates, voters are signaling a desire for more collaborative and responsive representation in Washington, DC.
As the campaigns progress, candidates who can effectively address these sentiments and demonstrate a commitment to working across party lines may find a receptive audience in Nebraska. The state, often overlooked in national political discussions, could prove to be a key battleground in the 2024 elections, with Independent voters potentially playing a decisive role.
Want to dive deeper into the data? Download the complete toplines from the Independent Center's October 2024 Nebraska Survey and explore the full range of questions and responses. From the state of the economy to the most important issues facing the country, the toplines provide a comprehensive look at what's on the minds of voters in Nebraska.
