District details
Cavanaugh is an attorney and father of four. He said he is running to “make Nebraska a welcoming place” where people can find opportunity and live. He highlighted his legislative record, specifically bills to repeal the tax on diapers, ensure previously incarcerated people continue to receive mental health and drug treatment and protect victims of domestic violence from home loss. He is endorsed by the state teachers union, Nebraska AFL-CIO and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska.
Palzer is a managing partner and practicing attorney at Kellogg & Palzer, according to her campaign website. She previously served as the dean of admissions at Creighton University’s School of Law. Her website states she’s running to be a real voice for midtown. She wants to fight for the community’s values in the Unicameral. Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert, U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer and the Nebraska GOP endorsed Palzer.
On the issues
Cavanaugh opposed the state’s current 12-week abortion ban and a bill to restrict K-12 students’ sports participation and bathroom access to their gender assigned at birth. Palzer did not respond to Flatwater Free Press’ questionnaire. According to the Nebraska Family Alliance’s voter guide, she supports the sports and bathroom legislation and would not expand abortion.
Palzer’s website states that she prioritizes keeping neighborhoods safe, lowering the tax burden, identifying affordable housing solutions and improving access to mental health treatment. She supports law enforcement and high quality education for children.
On property taxes, Cavanaugh told the Flatwater Free Press that he would like the state to provide more aid to schools and local governments. He also said property tax relief should be more accessible. He also said that increasing the number of new homes built will help relieve the problem of runaway home valuations.
Location
The Omaha district covers midtown, including the College of Saint Mary, University of Nebraska Medical Center and University of Nebraska at Omaha. Its northernmost border is Cunning Street, and its southernmost border is Grover Street. From east to west, it stretches from 24th to 72nd streets.
In the primary
Cavanaugh earned more than double the number of votes Palzer received.
