Douglas County Democrats Sweep Key Races as Midterms Deliver Blue Wave

Democratic forces dominated the 2026 midterm elections in Douglas County, Nebraska, flipping two major offices from Republican control.

Denise Powell defeated Brinker Harding by 14 points to win Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District. The victory ends a decade of Republican dominance in that seat. Powell held her first press conference as congresswoman-elect on Wednesday morning. She described the transition as moving from a fire into a frying pan. Her immediate priorities include managing tariffs to lower consumer prices and ending the war in Iran.

Powell identified health care access as her central concern. She cited conversations with constituents across the district who are struggling with coverage. Powell said her first goal in Congress is reversing Medicaid cuts and restoring ACA subsidies. She aims to stabilize the system before making further changes.

Makayla Danner won the Douglas County attorney race, ending the tenure of Don Kleine. Kleine served in that position for 19 years. Danner told reporters that voters are ready for new leadership and a different vision for the county. She said the community is prepared for new people to make a difference.

Kleine expressed disappointment but called his service a privilege. He wished the people of Omaha the best in their new direction. The results align with a national trend where Democrats regained control of both the House and Senate.

Founders of The Blue Dot, an Omaha-based political group, said the local results reflect a national tipping point. One founder stated that voters have reached a limit on their reaction to events in Washington. He described the outcome as a blue wave that is finally materializing in their own community.

Powell is scheduled to attend new member orientation in the coming weeks. Danner will assume the duties of county attorney following the official certification of the results.