Ricketts and Smith urge Hastings voters to back Republican ticket before Tuesday vote

Nebraska voters prepare to cast ballots Tuesday, Nov. 3, in a state election that will decide the fate of two Republican incumbents. U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts and U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith concluded their campaign schedules with a joint appearance at Hastings Municipal Airport on Monday.

The two officials addressed reporters after participating in the "Hold Defend the Good Life Tour," a series of events designed to promote Republican candidates and key ballot issues across the state. This stop in Hastings marked the final public event for the pair before Election Day.

Ricketts faces independent challenger Dan Osborn in the U.S. Senate race. During the interview, Ricketts contrasted his 12 years in office as governor and senator with his opponent's approach. He described Osborn as someone who says whatever voters want to hear to secure their support. Ricketts told KSNB that voters know his position on issues, whereas they cannot predict how his opponent will act.

Smith, who is seeking re-election in the House, thanked supporters for allowing him to represent Nebraska in Washington. He highlighted specific local issues, such as wildfires affecting agricultural producers. Smith argued that Congress must protect recent tax cuts, warning that Democratic efforts to reverse them would harm the economy and reduce economic opportunity.

The candidates outlined several legislative priorities for the next session of Congress. Ricketts called for the passage of government funding bills and a new farm bill that permits year-round sales of E15, a higher ethanol blend. He stated that E15 would boost demand for farm products. Smith noted that the E15 measure originated as his bill in the House and is now pending in the Senate.

Ricketts also advocated for changes to permitting rules to streamline the construction of housing, roads, and oil refineries. He cited the "Working Families Tax Cut" as a key Republican achievement that ended taxes on tips and overtime, raised the child tax credit, and made the estate tax exemption permanent. Additionally, he pointed to the Road to Housing Act and the need for more domestic refineries and fertilizer plants.

When asked about polling data showing a close race against an independent candidate, Ricketts said he campaigns the same way in every election by asking for votes directly. He emphasized that his campaign funding comes from Nebraska, while his opponent relies on money from New York and California. Smith agreed that getting the message out is expensive and noted the difference between local support and outside financial backing.

Ricketts credited President Donald Trump with helping the Republican ticket this season, pointing to the president's recent visit to Grand Island and Vice President JD Vance's stop in North Platte. The candidates will wait for results as Nebraskans head to the polls Tuesday.