Vargas officially joins second district race

LINCOLN, Neb. – State Sen. Tony Vargas made his candidacy for Congress official today when he filed candidate paperwork with the Nebraska Secretary of State.

“Over the last decade in public office I’ve worked hard every day to make sure that people can have access to the same opportunities my parents gave me," Vargas said. "Nebraskans deserve affordable, quality health care. They deserve jobs with living wages that support a family and allow each generation to have a little bit more. And they deserve a world-class education no matter where they’re born, because as my family can attest firsthand: education is the key to improving your life.

Vargas raised over $700,000 in 2021, more than any first time candidate from any political party has raised in the year before the election. 

Vargas has also announced endorsements from national and local elected officials, including former Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Kerrey. 

“It’s going to take a broad coalition of supporters and voters to win this race and I am thrilled to have such a strong start to our campaign. It’s clearer than ever that Nebraskans are ready for strong, principled leadership that focuses on people first to represent them in Washington. That’s how I’ve led as a school board member and state senator, and it’s how I’ll represent Nebraska in Congress,” said Vargas. 

Vargas is seeking the seat currently held by Republican Don Bacon, who first assumed office after beating one-term Rep. Brad Ashford in 2016. Vargas is one of three Democrats who have announced their intentions to run, joining Alisha Shelton and Cornelius Williams.