On Thursday, March 19, BigTentUSA convened a TentTalk discussion highlighting the political stakes in Nebraska ahead of the 2026 midterms.
With Aaron Parnas as moderator, independent candidate for U.S. Senate Dan Osborn pointed to rising living costs and a worsening economic outlook for farmers—driven by flawed economic policies and tariffs—as the defining pressures shaping voter sentiment. He made clear that these challenges are fueling a growing demand for change—and that voters have the power to demand better.
Osborn called for meaningful campaign finance reform, arguing that local races should not require massive sums of money and that elected officials must remain accountable to constituents, not special interests. As a longtime registered Independent, he also urged participants to think beyond party lines and actively support candidates based on their ideas, integrity, and experience. The conversation positioned Nebraska as a critical proving ground for a broader movement toward accountability and reform.
Osborn closed with a powerful call to action, encouraging immediate support for Nebraskans affected by the largest wildfire in the state’s history—and reminding everyone that showing up for one another is where real change begins.
Support Nebraskans affected by the wildfires:
- Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund
- Nebraska Sandhills Rancher Fire Relief Fund
- United Way of Western Nebraska
- American Red Cross Nebraska Region
- The Salvation Army
- Nebraska Wildfire Recovery Fund
ABOUT THE SPEAKERS:
Dan Osborn is a steamfitter and former union leader who gained national attention leading the 77-day Kellogg’s strike in Omaha in 2021. As president of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union Local 50G, he successfully negotiated wage increases and prevented implementation of a two-tier wage system for over 1,400 workers. A U.S. Navy veteran and father of three, Osborn has spent the last 20 years punching a clock as a steamfitter and industrial engineer, work that he continues to do while campaigning for Senate. He is running as an independent candidate focused on economic issues affecting working families.
Aaron Parnas is one of the leading Gen Z voices shaping how news is consumed today. An independent journalist, political commentator, strategist, and attorney, Aaron has quickly become a key figure in the national political conversation, offering sharp insights at the intersection of law, media, and policy.
He first gained widespread attention through viral, educational content that breaks down complex political issues in a fast, accessible way—particularly resonating with younger, highly engaged audiences. His rapid-response analysis of major court decisions, legislative battles, and election narratives has made him a trusted voice for millions across platforms.
