In a stunning upset, Democrat John Ewing Jr. has unseated Republican incumbent Jean Stothert to become Omaha’s first Black mayor. Ewing, currently the Douglas County Treasurer and a former deputy chief of police, secured 56.17% of the vote, defeating Stothert, who garnered 43.55% .
Stothert, who had served as Omaha’s mayor since 2013, conceded the race with nearly 5,000 votes separating the candidates in early returns. She expressed confidence in the city’s future, stating, “John Ewing is inheriting tonight a great city, and we leave a strong foundation for the city that we love. We are grateful and we are hopeful” .
Ewing’s campaign focused on addressing local issues such as street repairs, garbage service, public safety, and affordable housing. He criticized Stothert for her handling of city development projects, including the stalled Civic Square and the delayed Crossroads redevelopment, which has faced numerous challenges over the years .
While the mayoral race was officially nonpartisan, both candidates engaged in partisan messaging. Stothert criticized Ewing over transgender rights, while Ewing linked Stothert to Trump politics, stating, “Let’s say no to the chaos and elect a mayor who will actually get things done” .
Ewing is set to be sworn in on June 9, marking a significant milestone in Omaha’s political history .
National Democrats quickly jumped on the win.
“From coast to coast, from blue to purple to even red states, Democrats are overwhelmingly outperforming Republicans in nearly every election held this year,” said Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin. “After tonight, vulnerable House Republicans like Don Bacon are on notice.”
Don Bacon, a Republican representing the area in Congress, has survived past challenges from Democrats, but the party is gearing up to try again in 2026.
Nebraska Democratic Party Chair Jane Kleeb called the victory a turning point: “We made historic progress tonight, and tomorrow, the hard work continues on as we look to 2026. Democrats are here to do the work for the people.”
Ewing’s win adds to a growing list of Democratic wins in tough races around the country. In recent months, Democrats have picked up a state Senate seat in Iowa, flipped another in Pennsylvania, and won a key state Supreme Court race in Wisconsin.
