KEARNEY, Neb.— A state senator from Sumner will be running for re-election in the Nebraska Legislature. 

State Senator Teresa Ibach is planning to continue her work in District 44. The rural Nebraska native is finishing her first term in the Unicameral. She says in a news release that she believes she can continue the fight for the future of a district that covers eight counties across central and southwest Nebraska. 

“As a farmer and rancher, I live the same challenges facing rural families every day,” said Ibach. “In the Legislature, I’ve worked hard to bring common-sense leadership, build consensus across the aisle, and ensure rural voices are heard.”

Ibach graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and, alongside her husband and three children, has dedicated a large portion of her life to agriculture and public service. 

In 2022, Ibach ran against Edward Dunn for the position she now holds. She earned 76% of the vote in the primary and Dunn withdrew ahead of the general election.

Ibach is currently the vice chair of the Agriculture Committee. She has also taken on national leadership responsibilities as co-chair of the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee for the Midwest Legislative Council. 

“My focus will continue to be the issues that matter most to rural Nebraska - supporting family farms and ranches, promoting fair tax policy, expanding economic opportunities in small towns, improving access to early childhood education and childcare, strengthening housing and healthcare access, and investing in infrastructure,” said Ibach. 

Ibach’s current term will expire at the end of 2026.