Campaigns note part of her haul is reserved for general election
OMAHA — Business owner and political action committee co-founder Denise Powell once again led fundraising in the crowded Democratic field for Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District.
Combined, the six Democrats running brought in $1.03 million this quarter, hinting at how expensive the primary election will be, and the general to follow.
The race to represent the Omaha-based 2nd District is typically competitive. But with Republican U.S. Rep. Don Bacon retiring, Democrats feel optimistic about picking up a win in the midterms, when the political party out of power typically gains ground. The open-seat race plays a major role in national Democrats’ hopes of regaining control of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Powell, State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha, Douglas County District Court Clerk Crystal Rhoades, Navy veteran Kishla Askins, former congressional staffer James Leuschen and Evangelos Argyrakis are vying to be the Democratic nominee.
Among the best-known local candidates, Powell raised $311,490 in the most recent quarter, Cavanaugh raised $200,164, and Rhoades raised $50,710. Most of the trio’s donations come from Nebraska, according to federal campaign finance reports.
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Powell, as expected, listed the most cash on hand with $481,169. Lesuschen had $211,055, Cavanaugh had $276,120, Askins had $171,394, and Rhoades had $23,112.
The Powell campaign pointed to her fundraising lead as an indicator of her viability and ability to win. Powell spokesperson Meg Mandy said she is the only candidate with the “resources to communicate effectively” and “win both the primary and the general election.”
“I feel very fortunate to have the support of so many hardworking Nebraskans who are central to this movement to win Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District,” Powell said.
Read the full article: https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/10/29/powell-leads-ne-02-dems-in-fundraising-chasing-name-id-of-elected-foes/
