Omaha Mayoral Election 2025: A Historic Shift in Leadership
Introduction
On May 13, 2025, Omaha witnessed a landmark political event as John Ewing Jr. defeated incumbent Jean Stothert in the mayoral election, becoming the city's first Black mayor. This election not only marked a significant moment in Omaha's history but also signaled a shift in the city's political landscape. The race, while officially nonpartisan, featured clear partisan undertones, with Ewing, a Democrat, challenging Stothert, a Republican, who was seeking a fourth term.
Election Overview
Candidates and Campaigns
The 2025 Omaha mayoral race featured a diverse field of candidates:
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John Ewing Jr.: Douglas County Treasurer and former Omaha Police Department officer.
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Jean Stothert: Incumbent mayor since 2013, seeking a fourth term.
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Mike McDonnell: State senator and former chief of the Omaha Fire Department.
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Jasmine Harris: Public health official and previous mayoral candidate.
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Terry Brewer: Community organizer.
In the April 1 primary, Stothert led with 37% of the vote, followed closely by Ewing with 33%, advancing both to the general election.
Key Issues
The campaign centered on several pressing local issues:
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Infrastructure: Debates over street repairs and the proposed streetcar project.
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Public Safety: Discussions on police staffing and community safety initiatives.
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Affordable Housing: Strategies to address housing shortages and affordability.
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City Services: Concerns about garbage collection and other municipal services.
While these local concerns dominated early discussions, the race took on a more national tone in its final weeks, touching on topics like transgender rights and associations with former President Donald Trump.
Election Results
Vote Totals
| Candidate | Party Affiliation | Popular Vote | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Ewing Jr. | Democrat | 48,693 | 56.17% |
| Jean Stothert | Republican | 37,758 | 43.55% |
Historical Significance
Ewing's election is historic for several reasons:
First Black Mayor: Ewing becomes the first Black individual to hold the mayoral office in Omaha.
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End of a 12-Year Tenure: Stothert's defeat concludes her three-term, 12-year tenure as mayor.
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Democratic Victory: Ewing's win marks a significant achievement for Democrats in a predominantly Republican state.
Campaign Dynamics
Fundraising and Endorsement
| Candidate | Funds Raised | Funds Spent | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jean Stothert | $423,487 | $772,831 | $264,907 |
| John Ewing Jr. | $81,026 | $89,804 | $66,514 |
Political Climate
The race, though officially nonpartisan, reflected broader national political divides. Stothert's campaign linked Ewing to progressive policies, while Ewing criticized Stothert's alignment with Trump-era politics. These dynamics highlighted the increasing influence of national issues on local elections.
Voter Engagement
The election saw heightened voter engagement, with key dates including:
April 1: Primary Election.
May 13: General Election.
Efforts to mobilize voters were evident across both campaigns, emphasizing the importance of civic participation in shaping Omaha's future.
Conclusion
The 2025 Omaha mayoral election represents a pivotal moment in the city's history, reflecting both a desire for new leadership and the evolving political landscape. John Ewing Jr.'s victory not only breaks historical barriers but also sets the stage for a renewed focus on addressing Omaha's pressing challenges. As the city looks ahead, the election serves as a testament to the power of civic engagement and the ongoing journey toward inclusive governance.
