Why are there so many independent Nebraska candidates running for office this year?

Why are there so many independent Nebraska candidates running for office this year?

Registered nonpartisan U.S. Senate candidate Dan Osborn speaking in Lincoln on June 11, 2026. (Juan Salinas II/Nebraska Examiner)LINCOLN — Nebraska might have nonpartisan fever.  This midterm cycle has seen an increase in nonpartisan — independent — candidates running in partisan races across the state. Four candidates have gathered enough signatures – or are openly trying to get enough signatures – to be on the November ballot. Lindstrom explai…