John Ewing Set to Become Omaha’s First Black Mayor After Defeating Longtime Incumbent

John Ewing Wins Historic Race in Omaha

Omaha is making history. John Ewing Jr. has defeated longtime Mayor Jean Stothert and is set to become the city’s first Black mayor.

Stothert, who was seeking a rare fourth term, conceded the race on Tuesday night after unofficial results showed Ewing ahead by nearly 11,000 votes. Her concession marks the end of her 12-year leadership in Nebraska’s largest city.

“I called John Ewing, and I congratulated him,” she said during her speech. “He is inheriting a great city with a strong foundation.”

Omaha Elects a New Kind of Leader

Ewing’s win is more than a political victory—it’s a powerful moment for representation. He will be the first Black mayor to lead Omaha, a city that makes up nearly one-fourth of Nebraska’s population.

The race between the candidates focused on key local issues, including street repairs, public safety, and affordable housing. Ewing, the county treasurer, argued that the city needed a fresh focus on community needs.

“People just feel like she’s had her time, and it’s time for somebody new,” Ewing said during his campaign.

Race Focused on Local Needs, National Themes

Although Omaha’s mayoral race is nonpartisan, both candidates leaned into party identities. Stothert is a Republican, while Ewing is a Democrat.

Their campaigns also touched on national debates. In her ads, Stothert claimed Ewing supported controversial policies on transgender sports. Ewing fired back by linking Stothert to former President Donald Trump.

Despite the national noise, Omaha voters seemed more concerned with basics—potholes, police staffing, and better housing options.

A New Chapter for Omaha

Ewing’s win marks a turning point for Omaha. He brings years of public service as Douglas County Treasurer and a fresh voice to City Hall.

Many see his victory as not just a political change, but a reflection of Omaha’s growing diversity and evolving values.

Fun fact: This race was also a rare case where voters could’ve re-elected the city’s first female mayor or elected its first Black mayor. Either way, history was bound to be made.

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