Osborn launches run against Ricketts, says he will give workers a ‘voice in government’

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Dan Osborn is taking another shot at a Senate seat in Nebraska.

Osborn, who ran as an independent in 2024 against Sen. Deb Fischer, announced on Tuesday that he will run against Sen. Pete Ricketts in the 2026 election.

“When working people need his help, it’s always the same old story: crickets from Ricketts,” Osborn said in his announcement video. “Bye, Pete.”

In an interview with Channel 8, Osborn said his campaign will docus on working-class issues.

“It’s always been about giving the working-class person, the wage earners and salary earners, a voice in government, which I don’t believe they have right now.”

Ricketts has held the Senate seat since 2023 after serving eight years as governor.

Gov. Jim Pillen appointed him after the resignation of Sen. Ben Sasse.

Ricketts then defeated Democratic candidate Preston Love Jr. in the 2024 special election to finish Sasse’s term.

He was not available for an interview on Tuesday, but Channel 8 will be sitting down with him on Wednesday.

Will Coup, a spokesman for Ricketts’ campaign, released a statement on Osborn’s announcement:

“Senator Ricketts has consistently worked for and voted to secure the border and cut taxes for Nebraska workers, families, and seniors. Dan Osborn is bought and paid for by his liberal, out-of-state, coastal donors. Dan Osborn will side with Chuck Schumer over Nebraska families and vote with Democrats to open the border, hike taxes, and stop the America First agenda.”

Osborn said this time around, he’s focused on three key things: getting elected, fighting for the working class and securing the financial future of younger generations.

He said he’s running as an independent — not tied to either major party.

The Navy veteran is an industrial mechanic who led a strike at the Omaha Kellogg’s plant in 2021.

Osborn received about 47% of the vote in the race against Fischer, losing by 7 points.

He was a political upstart in that race, submitting around 12,500 signatures to appear on the ballot.

But he said he’s learned from his mistakes and is ready for another fight.

“It’s about uplifting all Americans, all Nebraskans to be able to create a level playing field” Osborn said.

A campaign kickoff event at the Steamfitters Union Hall in Omaha is set for July 26.