(Picture credit John Gage)
LINCOLN — Congressman Mike Flood declared victory Wednesday morning at a press conference held at the Nebraska Republican Party. Flood was running against Democrat Chris Backemeyer, who called Flood ahead of his victory speech to concede.
Flood acknowledged the strong “headwinds” that had made his race closer than his previous two runs. He currently leads Backemeyer by 4 points, while last cycle he beat Democrat Carol Blood by over 20%. He told supporters that the GOP has “more work to do on affordability” after an election which saw Democrats win more seats in the House than they have had since 1992.
“I think this was a focus on affordability,” Flood told reporters on Wednesday. “While we’ve made some progress, the war in Iran, gas prices, diesel prices are certainly on the minds of a lot of Americans. That’s why I said to day when I made my remarks — we have more work to do on affordability”
Backemeyer issued a statement Tuesday morning conceding the race to Flood.
“I know this is not the outcome we hoped for, but it has been the honor of my lifetime to be your nominee. I will carry your stories and experiences with me every day,” he said. “Thank you for your support, and I wish Congressman Flood success in guiding Nebraska through the challenges facing our state and our country.”
Flood said that Backemeyer has “a bright future ahead of him” and thanked him for running a campaign focused on the issues.
After his victory speech, Flood was asked by reporters about House Speaker Mike Johnson announcing he would not run to be minority leader. Flood, who chairs the influential Republican Main Street Caucus, said he has no interest in throwing his name in to become minority leader.
— John Gage is the executive editor of The Plains Sentinel.