Omaha elects first Black mayor, ousting Republican leadership of Nebraska’s largest city

Omaha elected its first Black mayor, John Ewing Jr., ousting three-term Republican Mayor Jean Stothert in a race that is attracting attention far beyond city limits.

Stothert conceded the race late Tuesday night, ending over a decade of Republican leadership in a blue-leaning area of an otherwise solidly red state of Nebraska. Though an officially nonpartisan race, the Democrat-Republican matchup took on heavily partisan tones at the tail end, acting as a possible bellwether for 2026 midterm elections.

“Tonight, we embark on a new chapter,” Ewing said in an acceptance speech Tuesday. “I am deeply honored and humbled to stand before you today as your mayor-elect.”

Stothert said in her concession speech Tuesday night she called Ewing to offer her congratulations.

Ewing is Douglas County Treasurer and a former police officer, minister, and adjunct professor. He will become the first Black mayor of the state’s largest city, which is home to