Doug Ricks and Pete Ricketts win Idaho and Nebraska Senate races

Republican Pete Ricketts won Nebraska's U.S. Senate race over independent Dan Osborn, AP called early Wednesday. At his Tuesday watch party while votes were still out, Ricketts said, "The Democrat Social America found out tonight that socialism does not work in Nebraska," and accused opponents of "fake labels" and "fake candidates." Osborn told Omaha supporters there was a "5% chance" and said they "must continue to demand better from our government." Call time and tallies are contested across outlets. Hastings Tribune reported AP at 2:27 a.m. with Ricketts 50.2% and Osborn 43.9%. Washington Examiner reported 3:27 a.m., 50.2% to 43.8% with 87% counted. Decision Desk HQ projected Ricketts 49% to 45% at about 71% counted. Robin Richards (Working People Party) took 2.6% and Chuck Conboy (America First Party) 1.2%. Osborn lost to Sen. Deb Fischer in 2024 by about 6-7 points. Ricketts, appointed in 2023 after Ben Sasse resigned and winner of a 2024 special, will serve his first full six-year term. In Idaho, Doug Ricks beat Ethan Sanford in District 34 roughly 81% to 19%.