Changes in Nebraska Senate Race as Candidate Withdraws Due to Health Concerns
The political landscape for Nebraska’s U.S. Senate seat has shifted significantly following the withdrawal of one of its candidates. On Friday, Mike Marvin announced his departure from the race, leaving the contest primarily between incumbent Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts and Independent candidate Dan Osborn.
Marvin, who has been an advocate for marijuana legalization, cited health issues as the reason for his withdrawal. In his statement, he emphasized his campaign’s focus on defeating Ricketts and expressed support for Osborn. “I know I cannot put in the effort this race requires,” Marvin stated in a press release. He further highlighted that, unlike Ricketts, Osborn is supportive of protecting medical marijuana in Nebraska.
Initially, Marvin’s campaign prioritized the legalization of both medical and recreational marijuana, as outlined on his campaign website. Although medical marijuana was approved by voters in 2024, Marvin’s broader platform included other issues such as repealing the PATRIOT Act, reducing political action committee and foreign lobbying influence, and expanding healthcare programs like Medicare and Medicaid.
Despite missing the Secretary of State’s deadline for withdrawal, Marvin’s name will still appear on the ballot, although he has stated he will not actively campaign.
Marvin’s candidacy under the Legal Marijuana NOW party had sparked controversy, with accusations from some Republicans that he was a political “plant” supporting Osborn—a claim Osborn has denied. Ed Williams, NOW party chair, confirmed to the Nebraska Examiner that Marvin had no interactions with party leadership.
The Democratic ticket for the Senate seat has also seen upheaval. Cindy Burbank, the Democratic primary winner, exited the race shortly after Osborn qualified for the general election ballot. Prior to her withdrawal, Burbank was engaged in a legal battle to remain on the ballot after being removed by Secretary of State Bob Evnen, who argued against candidates temporarily filling nominations.
On her campaign site, Burbank expressed her commitment to defeating Ricketts and described Osborn as deserving a fair contest. Meanwhile, William Forbes, an anti-abortion pastor and registered Democrat, is legally contesting to replace Burbank, despite receiving only 10% of the primary vote. Jane Kleeb, chair of the Nebraska Democratic Party, opposed Forbes’ candidacy, calling it a sham in an affidavit.
Currently, the race is set between Osborn and Ricketts for the six-year Senate term. Ricketts, who was appointed in 2023 by Governor Jim Pillen and subsequently won a special election in 2024, is backed by former President Donald Trump’s endorsement. Osborn, who previously ran a close race against Deb Fischer in 2024, is once again challenging for a Senate seat.
