HASTINGS, Neb. – Three Nebraska Senator hopefuls took questions from Adams, Phelps, and Kearney County residents, and made their case to become the next representative of District 33 in the Nebraska Legislature. 

The public forum was held Friday afternoon at the Hastings YWCA by the League of Women Voters of Hastings. 

Dozens of people in attendance wrote questions to the three candidates in attendance, who then had one minute to answer each question.

Paul Hamelink is a small business owner of Paul's Cigar Bar and Lounge in Hastings and Norfolk, and has served on several committees and advisory boards with leadership roles.

Dan Lonowski currently works as the project coordinator for ASAAP (Area Substance & Alcohol Abuse Prevention,) and was a teacher in the Adams Central School District for 29 years.

Michelle Smith is a mental health therapist and owner of Sunrise Inspirations PC in Hastings. 

According to the event organizers, the 4th registered candidate Joshua Frederick declined their invitation to attend.

Senator Steve Halloran has represented the three-county Legislative 33 District since being appointed in 2016, but is term-limited after this year.

Each candidate was asked why they feel the are the best option to represent the district of roughly 40,000 people. View their responses in the video player above.

Primary elections are on May 14, and the two candidates with the most votes will advance to the general election in November. 

For more information about the candidates, visit their websites via the links below.