Story perspectives

Petersen Wins Secretary-of-State Primary; Powell Leads 2nd District

5/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

On May 13 2026, Republican Scott Petersen won the Nebraska secretary-of-state primary with about 55% of the vote.
Democrat Denise Powell led the 2nd district primary by roughly two points and will face Republican Brinker Harding in November.
Petersen campaigned on hand-counting ballots and restricting mail voting.
Evnen received endorsements from Governor Jim Pillen, Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts, and state congressional delegation.
President Donald Trump did not endorse Evnen.

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Story summary

On May 13 2026, Republican Scott Petersen won the Nebraska secretary-of-state primary with about 55% of the vote.
Democrat Denise Powell led the 2nd district primary by roughly two points and will face Republican Brinker Harding in November.
Petersen campaigned on hand-counting ballots and restricting mail voting.
Evnen received endorsements from Governor Jim Pillen, Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts, and state congressional delegation.
President Donald Trump did not endorse Evnen.