Nebraska Senator Rejects Last-Ditch Effort To Change Election Law

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen speaks during a news conference, Jan. 12, 2023, at the state Capitol in Lincoln, Neb. On Tuesday, April 2, 2024, Nebraska’s Republican governor called on state lawmaker

A pressure campaign led by Donald Trump and Republican allies to alter Nebraska's election law faced a significant setback as State Sen. Mike McDonnell announced he would not support a last-minute attempt to overturn the state's 30-year-old law. The law currently awards electoral votes by congressional district rather than a statewide winner-take-all system.

McDonnell, a former Democrat who recently switched to the GOP, stated that he would not vote to change the law before the upcoming November election. He emphasized that the decision to maintain the current system was crucial, especially so close to Election Day.

He highlighted the importance of letting Nebraska voters, rather than politicians, determine how the President is elected. McDonnell expressed gratitude to the voters who engaged in the democratic process and showcased Nebraska's independent spirit and commitment to American democracy.

McDonnell, a former Democrat turned GOP, prioritizes voters' voices.

Nebraska's 30-year-old electoral vote law remains unchanged.

Nebraska's unique electoral system awards votes by congressional district.

The battle over a single electoral vote from Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District, known as Omaha's blue dot, has become a focal point in the closely contested race between Trump and Kamala Harris. The outcome of this district could be pivotal in securing the 270 electoral votes needed to win the White House.

Trump, who won all five of Nebraska's electoral votes in 2016 but only four in 2020, has been concerned about losing the crucial fifth vote. His efforts, along with Republican allies, to change the state's election law were met with resistance from McDonnell and others.

Nebraska Democratic chairwoman Jane Kleeb commended McDonnell's decision, emphasizing the state's tradition of independence and the importance of protecting Nebraskans' voice in the democratic process.

Despite Governor Pillen's willingness to convene a special session of the Nebraska Legislature to alter the law, McDonnell's stance appears to have halted any immediate changes. The unique electoral system of Nebraska, which is shared only with Maine, remains unchanged for now.

The Trump campaign and Governor Pillen have not yet responded to McDonnell's decision.