Nebraska’s split electoral vote system is as unique as our state. It’s one of only two in the nation (along with Maine), and it signifies our state’s commitment to reflecting the diversity of our electorate. The process allows our state to allocate its five electoral votes by Congressional district rather than winner-take-all. It drives participation, enhances Nebraska’s relevance on the national stage, and gets us closer to the democratic ideal of every voter’s voice mattering.
However, this tradition is under threat – again. For the third time in less than a year, Nebraska politicians are making noise about abolishing the split system in favor of a winner-take-all model.
This push is partisan, not practical. Three times – in 2008, 2020, and 2024 – Nebraska has awarded a single electoral vote from its 2nd Congressional District to one presidential candidate and four to another. None of these instances changed the outcome of an election, but that’s beside the point. The split system isn’t about tipping the balance of power at 1600 Pennsylvania; it’s about edging Nebraska closer to the ideal of one person, one vote.
Regardless, we’re gearing up for legislative debate in January. While details of future legislation are yet to emerge, here’s what you can do now to defend our state’s longtime method of doing things in the Electoral College.
Share the real story.
Most Nebraskans know their communities well, but only some understand how the split system benefits them. Start by talking to neighbors, friends, and coworkers about what this system means for their voice in the electoral process.
For example, if you live in the Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District, explain how your district’s electoral vote reflects the unique political makeup of urban Nebraska and energizes you as a voter. If you’re in the more rural 1st or 3rd Districts, highlight how the split system ensures that your region’s values remain distinct rather than being overshadowed by Omaha.
Bring local issues into the discussion. How does the system help rural voters feel heard? How does it celebrate urban diversity? Real-life connections resonate far more than abstract principles. Then, share them.
Engage your state senator.
While broad civic engagement matters foundationally, direct communication with your state senator is one of the most immediate, effective ways to defend the split.
Write a concise, respectful email or make a phone call urging your senator to oppose any winner-take-all legislation in 2025. Need help? Here’s a sample script:
“Senator [Name], as your constituent, I strongly support Nebraska’s split electoral vote system. It allows every district to have its own voice, effectively reflecting our state’s different areas and local priorities. Abolishing it would remove a system that has uniquely benefited all Nebraskans, rural and urban alike, for decades. Please keep our electoral process fair and representative.”
Remember to personalize your message. Share why the system matters to you personally and how it aligns with Nebraska’s proud nonpartisan and unicameral traditions.
Attend legislative hearings in 2025.
When a bill is introduced in the Nebraska Legislature, it must have a public hearing before an appropriate committee. In this case, the Legislature’s Government, Military, and Veterans Affairs Committee would take up electoral vote allocation.
Testify in person or submit written testimony. This is a time to be specific. Share why you believe the split system is better for Nebraska than winner-take-all. For example, you might explain how it fosters political engagement in all corners of the state, not just where one party dominates.
Monitor announcements from the Legislature to know when hearings are scheduled. Sign up for our action alerts, and we’ll keep you in the loop. Even if you don’t testify, showing up demonstrates that Nebraskans care about this issue.
Highlight Nebraska’s pragmatic legacy.
Our state has a long tradition of valuing pragmatic, often nonpartisan, solutions. Unlike the partisan gridlock that dominates other states, Nebraska’s unique one-house Legislature and split electoral vote system are designed to prioritize fairness, collaboration, and citizen participation.
Share this history in conversations, letters to the editor, or social media posts. What works in Nebraska might not work everywhere, but what works everywhere isn’t always a good fit for Nebraska. In this case, local control is grounded in pride for our state’s independent nature.
Nebraska’s split electoral vote process is more than a method for allocating votes. It reflects who we are as a state. We value fairness, diversity, and pragmatism, which deserve a spirited defense. The push for winner-take-all is not about improving our democracy; it’s about consolidating power. Don’t let it happen.
