The Nebraska Senate race has garnered attention with an independent candidate, Dan Osborn, challenging incumbent Sen. Debbie Fischer. Political handicappers recently changed their ratings of the race, indicating increased competition and placing it in the “Likely Republican” category. Osborn is supported by two outside PACs, Retire Career Politicians and Nebraska Railroaders for Public Safety, which have spent significant amounts on his campaign. However, these PACs have faced scrutiny for their controversial backers, including Democrat megadonor Reid Hoffman and the Sixteen Thirty Fund, which is linked to billionaire George Soros.
Mike Helmink, co-founder of Nebraska Railroaders for Public Safety, stated that they aimed to involve people from both progressive and Democratic sides in promoting railroad safety issues. Fischer has criticized the dark money funding Osborn’s campaign, alleging that Democrat groups are backing him because of his radical views such as supporting amnesty for illegal immigrants and giving them Social Security benefits. Fischer’s campaign highlighted Osborn’s attacks on her donations from lobbyists and special interest groups in campaign ads.
Osborn has emphasized his independence from political parties, although reports have surfaced indicating that he was previously affiliated with the Democratic Party before becoming an independent in 2016. Despite this, his campaign has disputed these claims, stating that he has been an independent for longer than reported. Retire Career Politicians and Osborn’s campaign did not provide comment on these allegations. The Nebraska Senate race has become a focal point as Osborn challenges Fischer, with outside PACs and controversial fundraising sources playing a significant role in the competition.
The involvement of outside PACs and wealthy donors in the Nebraska Senate race has raised concerns about the influence of dark money in political campaigns. Fischer has criticized the support Osborn has received from groups linked to progressive and Democrat supporters, characterizing him as a radical candidate. Osborn’s campaign has highlighted his independent stance and rejection of traditional party politics, despite reports suggesting past ties to the Democratic Party. The race between Fischer and Osborn has become more competitive, with both candidates seeking to distinguish themselves and appeal to Nebraska voters.
The Nebraska Railroaders for Public Safety PAC, co-founded by Mike Helmink, has emphasized the importance of bipartisan support for railroad safety issues and independent politics. The visibility of the Nebraska Senate race has increased, with Osborn challenging Fischer and receiving significant financial backing from PACs with controversial funding sources. Fischer has raised concerns about the influx of dark money into the campaign, while Osborn’s ads criticize her ties to special interest groups. The race remains closely watched as the November election approaches, with both candidates vying for voter support and attempting to address allegations of political affiliations and fundraising controversies.
