LYONS, Neb. — Nebraska Democrat Chuck Hassebrook fired off a populist blast Tuesday, saying he would stand up against “rich and powerful interests” if elected to the U.S. Senate.
Hassebrook argued that middle-class Americans were being ignored by politicians who he said appear more interested in protecting tax cuts for the rich, subsidizing large farmers and bailing out big banks.
He also argued in support of Democratic President Barack Obama's controversial health care law, saying that while it could be improved, it was a needed “first step” in ensuring all Americans have access to affordable health care.
“I am running so I can fight, not for government that protects the tax cuts of the rich, but for government that protects the retirement security of hard-working families,” said Hassebrook, 56.
Hassebrook then tried to burnish his middle-class credentials by releasing his tax return, which showed he made $69,000 in 2010.
He then called upon his Republican challengers to do the same.
Hassebrook is the first major Democrat to run for Nebraska's U.S. Senate seat, which opened after U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson decided not to seek a third term.
Hassebrook entered the race after former Nebraska U.S. Sen. Bob Kerrey stayed out.
Three major Republicans are vying for their party's nomination in a competitive May 15 GOP primary. The three: Attorney General Jon Bruning, State Treasurer Don Stenberg and State Sen. Deb Fischer of Valentine.
This is Hassebrook's first bid for statewide office. However, he has served for 17 years on the University of Nebraska's Board of Regents. He also is the longtime head of the Center for Rural Affairs, an advocacy group that supports small farmers and rural economic development.
Hassebrook made clear Tuesday that he expects his rural roots to be an asset in the campaign. He made his announcement on Main Street in Lyons — a small community of about 1,800 people in northeast Nebraska and Hassebrook's home of 13 years.
He was introduced to a crowd of about 100 supporters by Lyons Mayor Andy Fuston, a Republican who said he planned to support Hassebrook in November.
“I believe in Chuck and I believe in what he stands for, and that's more important to me than party affiliation,” said Fuston.
At times, Hassebrook gave mixed messages about his support for Obama.
When asked, he said he would not want Obama to campaign on his behalf. He acknowledged the president remains unpopular in the state and, he said, there were several issues about which he disagrees with the president, including continued subsidies for large farm operations.
But Hassebrook also stood staunchly in support of the health care law. He said the country had a “moral obligation” to see all Americans have access to affordable health care.
He also said the nation's current health care system is a “drag on the economy” and that something needed to be done.
“This was the kind of thing that was absolutely necessary to get us on the right path,” he said.
Contact the writer:
402-444-1309, robynn.tysver@owh.com
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