Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., suggested Democrats were close to picking up a Senate seat in Nebraska, apparently referring to Nebraska Independent Dan Osborn as a likely Democrat caucus member. However, Osborn has continuously denied any plans to join the Democratic party, asserting his independence and unwillingness to take orders from party leaders in Washington.

Defying Party Expectations: Nebraska's Independent Candidate Stands Firm

Schumer's Optimistic Outlook Challenged

During a virtual rally with the Jewish Democratic Council of America, Schumer expressed confidence in the party's chances of gaining Senate seats, including in Nebraska. "We're a point or two behind in Nebraska," the New York Democrat stated, suggesting Osborn as a potential pickup for the Democrats. However, Osborn has firmly rejected any notion of caucusing with the Democrats, emphasizing his commitment to independence and his refusal to be beholden to party leaders in Washington.

Osborn's Unwavering Independence

Osborn, a union leader and mechanic, has repeatedly stated that he has never spoken to Schumer and has no plans to caucus with either party. "I'm a true Independent, and I've said over and over again that I do not plan to caucus with either party," Osborn said in a statement. He criticized his opponent, incumbent Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., for being beholden to Mitch McConnell, the Senate Minority Leader, and vowed to stand up to the party bosses in Washington.

Navigating the Partisan Landscape

The situation has been further complicated by the actions and remarks of Democrats who have signaled their expectation that Osborn will join their caucus. A PAC associated with Democrat Harry Dunn, a former Capitol Police officer, recently sent a fundraising text claiming that "Dan is an independent who will caucus with the Democrats." Osborn's campaign has disputed this claim, and the PAC has acknowledged that the message was "incorrect" and not coordinated with Osborn's team.

Scrutiny over Osborn's Funding

Osborn's challenge to Fischer's re-election bid has gained momentum, attracting significant outside spending. Multiple groups, some with ties to Democrats and a controversial dark money group linked to billionaire George Soros, have poured money into the Nebraska race. One of the main groups spending on Osborn's behalf, Retire Career Politicians, has received $800,000 from the Sixteen Thirty Fund, a secretive dark money organization that has received substantial funding from Soros' Open Society Foundations.

Tight Race and Shifting Dynamics

Despite the Democratic overtures and outside spending, Osborn remains steadfast in his independence. A recent New York Times/Siena College poll showed Fischer leading Osborn by only two points, 48% to 46%, indicating a tight race. The shifting dynamics in Nebraska's Senate race highlight the challenges faced by both parties as they navigate the complex political landscape and the growing influence of independent candidates.