Democrats make big gains at state level, shifting balance of power in some battleground, historically GOP-leaning states

Democrats made sweeping gains in state governments in the midterm elections, taking control of several legislatures and shifting the balance of power across battleground and historically Republican-leaning states

November 4, 2026Updated: November 4, 2026

By SCOTT BAUER and GEOFF MULVIHILL

Regional

Representative Adrian Smith Earns 11th Term in Congress

Matt Rossow Steps Down After Two Seasons at St. Cecilia

City of Hastings Cuts Ribbon on Renovated City Hall

GOP leaders withdraw support for Tim Anderson over sports betting donation

Andy Interrupted Returns to Hastings Museum

Retired astronaut speaks at Hubble Telescope Exhibit

He's the lone Nebraskan who has spent time in space, and he has done so for nearly half a year, spending over 160 days orbiting the big, blue marble.

Democrats make big gains at state level, shifting balance of power in some battleground, historically GOP-leaning states

Regional

Representative Adrian Smith Earns 11th Term in Congress

Matt Rossow Steps Down After Two Seasons at St. Cecilia

City of Hastings Cuts Ribbon on Renovated City Hall

GOP leaders withdraw support for Tim Anderson over sports betting donation

Andy Interrupted Returns to Hastings Museum

Retired astronaut speaks at Hubble Telescope Exhibit

State

Flood discusses priorities after winning reelection in Nebraska’s 1st District

CCC-Columbus campus president to retire

Jury now deliberating the fate of 32-year-old Timothy Erks

Filmmaker, lead actor discuss impactful message of family drama film after screening in Kimball

Northeast Community College Board of Directors election results

Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District election results

Sports

Husker offense looking for quick turnaround, on short week

Rhule backs coaching staff, despite three game losing steak

Strong offensive showing helps Huskers dominate Le Moyne in season opener

Forgy sets record in Wayne State blowout

Despite multiple season highs on offense, Doane can’t keep pace with quick-strike Concordia

Emphatic EMF coasts past Elmwood-Murdock in first round of 2026 football postseason

Ag & Outdoor

Pillen issues executive orders pausing diesel tax, increasing grain and livestock hauling weight limits

Nebraska's congressional delegation critical of Trump plan to lower beef prices

Outdoor notes: Birding Bowl inspires generous next step

Outdoor notes: Tips for enjoying water safely this summer

Outdoor notes: Rare lake sturgeon made 681-mile swim

Outdoor notes: Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this summer