Nebraska Legislature Likely to End Conservative Filibuster-Proof Majority

“And quite frankly, when one party doesn’t have the super majority, I think you can get more done because now we’re going to get bills that are less controversial and bills that we can kind of agree upon up front,” Mike Jacobson said regarding the prospect of a more divided government, as early results suggest the conservative filibuster-proof majority in the Nebraska Legislature may end. According to reporting from KOLN, seats across the state, including the Omaha area, appear likely to go to progressives.

The 110th Legislature is scheduled to convene on Jan. 6, 2027. The incoming body will likely face a property tax crisis and a budget hole, issues that received significant attention during this election cycle.

Potential Leadership Changes

The 49 senators must first determine who will serve as their leader. In west Omaha, incumbent Senator Brad von Gillern appears likely to lose his seat to Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek. Von Gillern had been a potential candidate to succeed Speaker John Arch of La Vista. While it is not yet known who all will run for the position, Omaha Senator Kathleen Kauth has stated for months that she intends to ask her colleagues for their vote to become the next speaker.

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Kauth said her pitch for the leadership role is to treat everyone “as if we are the independent, nonpartisan body that we are supposed to be on paper.” She noted plans to ensure priority bills are heard while working on her own legislation, which includes mental health, building codes, a coercive control bill, and gender issues. Kauth noted that some of her topics “should be very bipartisan.”

Legislative Priorities and Policy

Senator Jacobson, who is rumored to be interested in the speaker position, also intends to leave the Banking Committee to chair the Revenue Committee. Jacobson told 10/11 on Tuesday night that he intends to take the position previously held by von Gillern. Jacobson suggested that senators should focus on delivering a balanced budget and reducing property taxes. He stated that spending reductions and a review of sales tax exemptions should be considered, noting, “I favor examining discretionary services, such as outdoor pool cleaning, while protecting necessities for lower-income families.”

Nebraska Legislature Likely to End Conservative Filibuster-Proof Majority — Photo: apnews.com

Regarding other policy matters, Jacobson noted that voters have settled the issue of trans student athletes via Initiative 442. He said that because LB89 already established athletic requirements based on biological sex, “the amendment can take effect without another implementing bill, and covered schools will be responsible for complying once it takes effect.”