In a tight race for the District 13 seat in the Nebraska Legislature, Ashlei Spivey has emerged victorious. She is the first Black woman to be elected to the Legislature since 2017. Spivey, a nonprofit leader and advocate for Black women, femmes, and girls, won the seat by 148 votes, surpassing her opponent, Nick Batter, an Army veteran turned attorney.
Spivey’s win marks a significant moment in Nebraska’s political landscape, as she continues the legacy of Black women in the state’s Legislature. Her leadership promises a renewed focus on community investment and policies that support local growth.
A Win for Community-Focused Leadership
Ashlei Spivey, a longtime Omaha resident, is committed to representing her community. As the founder and executive director of I Be Black Girl, a nonprofit aimed at supporting Black women and girls, Spivey has demonstrated her dedication to making a positive change. Following her victory, she expressed excitement about implementing policies that will bring resources and investment to Nebraska’s communities.
“I look forward to passing policy that puts resources and investment back into our community and across the state — truly helping people have access and opportunity to the good life Nebraska has to offer,” Spivey said in a statement. She is ready to begin her work in the Legislature and is eager to address the needs of her constituents.
A Tight Race with Key Endorsements
The race for District 13 was highly competitive. Spivey, a Democrat, faced off against Nick Batter, a registered nonpartisan. Despite the state’s official nonpartisan stance in legislative races, the Nebraska Democratic Party strongly backed Spivey. She also received key endorsements from prominent state leaders, including State Senators Justin Wayne and Terrell McKinney.
In contrast, Batter garnered support from former top Democrats Bob Kerrey and Ben Nelson. Despite the divided endorsements, Spivey’s connection to working-class communities and her strong political platform helped secure her win. This victory represents the influence of local grassroots efforts and is seen as a testament to her deep roots in Omaha.
Continuing the Legacy of Black Women in Nebraska Politics
Spivey’s election holds historical significance, as she becomes the first Black woman to join the Nebraska Legislature since 2017. The Nebraska Democratic Party celebrated her win, recognizing the importance of her achievement in continuing the trailblazing efforts of past Black women leaders.
Former State Sen. Tanya Cook, who served until 2017, was the last Black woman in the Legislature. Before her, JoAnn Maxey became the first Black woman appointed to the Nebraska Legislature in 1977. Since then, other Black women, such as Cook and Brenda Council, have paved the way for Spivey’s victory. Spivey’s success is not just a personal achievement but also a significant step forward for diversity and representation in Nebraska politics.
A New Chapter for District 13
As Spivey begins her term, the residents of District 13 are hopeful for a leader who will fight for local issues and advance policies focused on improving the lives of their families. Spivey’s win has inspired many, showing that dedicated leadership can bring about real change.
“I’m excited to get to work and continue serving my community. It’s time to get to work,” Spivey said after her victory. With her leadership, District 13 will likely see an increased focus on policies that empower its residents, especially Black women and girls.