The 2024 Senate race in Nebraska is heating up, with Democrats eyeing a potential pickup opportunity in the state. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, during a virtual rally with the Jewish Democratic Council of America, suggested Democrats were close to winning the seat. He specifically mentioned Nebraska Independent candidate Dan Osborn as a possible Democrat caucus member. This suggestion has sparked controversy, as Osborn has repeatedly denied any intention to caucus with either party, emphasizing his commitment to independence.
Osborn, a union leader and mechanic, is challenging incumbent Republican Senator Deb Fischer. He has consistently declared his stance as a true independent, stating that he will not be beholden to any party directives. This declaration, however, has been complicated by the actions and statements of prominent Democrats.
Besides Schumer’s comments hinting at a potential Democrat caucus switch, a PAC associated with former Capitol Police officer and ex-congressional candidate Harry Dunn sent out a fundraising text claiming Osborn would caucus with Democrats. Osborn’s campaign refuted this claim, stating that the text was incorrect and not coordinated with their team.
These incidents have also raised scrutiny over Osborn’s campaign financing. Multiple outside groups, some with ties to Democratic donors and a controversial dark money group linked to billionaire George Soros, have been pouring funds into Osborn’s campaign. One of the primary groups supporting Osborn is Retire Career Politicians, which received $800,000 in just a few months from the Sixteen Thirty Fund, a notoriously secretive dark money group. Notably, the Sixteen Thirty Fund has received over $75 million in grants from Soros’ Open Society Foundations between 2016 and 2022, according to the Open Society Foundations’ website.
The influx of outside funding raises questions about Osborn’s independence and fuels speculation about a possible future caucus change. While Osborn continues to insist on his independence, the actions of Democrats and the financial support from Democratic-linked groups cast doubt on his claims. With the race tightening, and a potential shift in the Senate balance at stake, the outcome of the Nebraska Senate race promises to be a closely watched battle.
