### Populist Independent Dan Osborn Shakes Up Nebraska Senate Race, Worries Both Parties

In the heated Nebraska Senate race, Dan Osborn, an independent candidate with populist bent, poses a significant challenge to the Republican incumbent, Sen. Deb Fischer. With Osborn polling within 2 points of Fischer, according to a New York Times/Siena College poll, his unexpected rise threatens the GOP's stronghold in this deep-red state.

Osborn, originally a union leader, has campaigned as an anti-partisan and worker-friendly outsider. He has accused Fischer of being a career politician who prioritizes donor interests over those of constituents. Despite his nonpartisan stance, Osborn’s platform resonates with some Democratic policies on issues like abortion and labor rights, while aligning more closely with Republicans on border security and fiscal spending.

However, Senate Democrats have distanced themselves from Osborn, viewing him with uncertainty. Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer hasn't communicated with Osborn, and Sen. Gary Peters, head of the Senate Democrats' campaign committee, has openly stated that he is disengaging from the Nebraska race. This lack of support from Senate Dems is partially because Osborn has vowed not to caucus with either party, a stance that sets him apart from Senate independents like Angus King and Bernie Sanders, who work closely with Democrats.

Local Democratic party officials in Nebraska are similarly hesitant about Osborn. The state Democratic Party Chair, Jane Kleeb, expressed doubt about whether Democrats can trust him, fearing he could become a non-cooperative, unpredictable figure akin to Sen. Kyrsten Sinema. This skepticism extends to potential voter turnout, with some Democrats likely to leave the Senate candidate spot on the ballot blank.

Osborn's campaign strategy also includes outreach to disaffected Republicans, as evidenced by his "conservatives for Osborn" fundraising committee. This dual appeal to both Democrats and Republicans is essential for his strategy, given that he needs to secure votes from roughly 20 percent of Republican voters to win.

Despite the official Democratic cold shoulder, Osborn has garnered financial support from some Democratic donors and aligned super PACs. Significant contributions have come from figures like Tom Steyer and Rep. Don Beyer. Yet, Osborn has emphasized his independence, stating that he will reject any future demands from these backers should they seek favors in return.

Republicans are not taking Osborn's challenge lightly. Fischer has pointed out divisions between Osborn and some Democrats, suggesting that this tension could potentially benefit her campaign. She remains confident, stating that Democratic outreach to her office indicates internal strife on the opposition side.

As Election Day nears, Osborn remains steadfast in his choice to stay independent, believing that his unique position will provide him leverage in a closely divided Senate. Whether his strategy will reward him with a seat in Washington remains one of the most closely watched developments in this election cycle.