By Olivia McArthur
Low turnout in past primaries highlights the importance of registering and voting before May 12
With Nebraska’s primary election set for May 12, local leaders are encouraging residents to register and make a plan to vote—emphasizing the role primaries play in shaping the general election.
Key deadlines are quickly approaching. Voters must register online or by mail by April 27. The deadline for in-person registration and requesting a mail-in ballot is May 1.
Turnout remains significantly lower in primary elections than in general elections. In 2024, voter turnout in Douglas County was just 24 percent, according to Nebraska Public Media.
Jan McKenzie, president of the League of Women Voters of Greater Omaha, says every election gives voters a voice in who represents them.
“Every election is important because it’s the opportunity for you as an individual and as a voter to have a say in who is sent to represent you in that elected body,” McKenzie said.
McKenzie added that local elections—often decided during primaries—directly impact everyday issues like schools, infrastructure and taxes.
While general elections tend to draw more attention, experts say primaries are where voters have the most influence over which candidates advance.
Resources like the nonpartisan VOTE411 voter guide help voters research candidates and ballot issues ahead of time.
Toni Monette, assistant director of UNO’s Office of Engagement, said primary elections give voters an opportunity to directly influence outcomes.
“If you don’t make decisions in the primary election, you’re going to get whatever candidate you get for the general election,” Monette said.
Monette added that participation is one of the most effective ways individuals can shape their communities and hold leaders accountable. She believes it is important for everyone to do their part in creating positive change.
“Find your lane of advocacy, whatever that is. If you’re a writer, if you’re in journalism, if you’re a public speaker, if you’re an artist—there are so many ways to use your voice,” she said.
Nate Ostdiek, a political science graduate student at UNO, found his lane of advocacy: running for the Nebraska Legislature in District 6. He says civic engagement goes beyond voting and starts at the community level.
“Best way to get started is by meeting your neighbors and figuring out what your needs are in your very local community,” Ostdiek said. “Try to figure out what issues you’re all facing and where you find common cause, because that’s going to be the platform for higher change.”
The median age of the Nebraska Legislature members is about 58, according to Rutgers. But at 23 years old, Ostdiek says it’s time for a change in voices represented.
“We’re going to need to advocate for ourselves to have the problems that we’re facing get addressed because nobody’s going to come rescue us.”
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