1988 United States Senate election in Nebraska

The 1988 United States Senate election in Nebraska was held on November 8, 1988 to select the U.S. Senator from the state. Incumbent Republican Senator David Karnes, who was appointed to the Senate in 1987 upon the death of Democratic Senator Edward Zorinsky, sought election to his first full term. After beating back a challenge from Congressman Hal Daub in the Republican primary, Karnes advanced to the general election, where he faced former Governor Bob Kerrey, the Democratic nominee. Though Vice President George H. W. Bush, the Republican nominee for President, won Nebraska in a landslide, Karnes was ultimately defeated by Kerrey by a wide margin. This is the last time a Senator from Nebraska lost re-election.

Quick facts Nominee, Party ...

1988 United States Senate election in Nebraska

← 1982 November 8, 1988 1994 →

Nominee Bob Kerrey David Karnes Party Democratic Republican Popular vote 378,717 278,250 Percentage 56.71% 41.66%

County results Kerrey:      40–50%      50–60%      60–70%      70–80% Karnes:      40–50%      50–60%      60–70%      70–80% Tie:      40–50%

U.S. senator before election David Karnes Republican Elected U.S. Senator Bob Kerrey Democratic

Close