KOLN - Political - Headlnes

New Nebraska Lawmakers will Shrink Republican Edge

By: Associated Press
Posted: Wed 6:26 AM, Jan 09, 2013

Nebraska lawmakers are preparing for looming battles over taxes, spending and Medicaid this year with a smaller Republican majority in the officially nonpartisan Legislature.

The Legislature will convene on Wednesday with 11 freshman lawmakers -- nearly one fourth of all members. Democrats will see a net gain of two seats, plus one independent who frequently sides with them.

That brings the total to 30 Republicans, 17 Democrats and two independents.

Nebraska has long bucked traditional party politics, with lawmakers often joining forces based on issues, geography, or pressure from constituents. But the shake-up in the Legislature could lead to standoffs with Republican Gov. Dave Heineman.

Heineman has said a proposed Medicaid expansion is unaffordable, while supporters view it as a moral imperative that will save money in the long-term.


Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.
powered by Disqus

Poll Question

Did you buy a powerball lottery ticket?

Yes
No
The Powerball jackpot stands at $360 million, the third largest Powerball jackbot in history. Watch 10/11 News at Ten to see the winning numbers.

County Election Results for General Election

KOLN-TV Call: (402) 467-4321 Toll-free: 1-800-475-1011 840 North 40th Lincoln, NE 68503 Email: info@1011now.com KGIN-TV Call: (308) 382-6100 123 N Locust Street Grand Island, NE 68802 Email: kgin@1011now.com KSNB-TV Toll free 888-475-1011 123 N. Locust St. Grand Island, NE 68802 Email : ksnb@1011now.com
Gray Television, Inc. - Copyright © 2002-2013 - Designed by Gray Digital Media - Powered by Clickability
User Agent: CCBot/2.0 - 186149472