The 1942 United States Senate election in Nebraska was held on November 3, 1942. Incumbent George W. Norris, who was re-elected to his fifth term in 1936 as an independent, ran for a sixth term. He was challenged by Kenneth S. Wherry, the Chairman of the Nebraska Republican Party, and Democratic nominee Foster May, a prominent radio announcer. While Norris relied on Democratic support in his previous campaign, he did not receive it in 1942, and unlike in 1936, his Republican opponent largely consolidated the conservative vote. As a result, Norris lost re-election in a landslide, receiving just 29% of the vote to Wherry's 49%. In defeat, Norris remarks, "I would rather go down to my political grave with a clear conscience than ride in the chariot of victory." In part for his honesty with constituents even if it meant defeat. Norris was later featured in John F. Kennedy's Pulitzer Prize-winning Profiles in Courage.
Republican primary Candidates Kenneth S. Wherry, Chairman of the Nebraska Republican Party, Mayor of Pawnee City Hugh Ashmore, former State Senator Voyle Rector, businessman
Results
Democratic primary Candidates Foster May, Omaha radio announcer Harry B. Coffee, U.S. Representative from Terry Carpenter, former U.S. Representative from , 1936 Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate William Ritchie, Omaha attorney, 1932 Democratic candidate for Governor John C. Mullen, former Falls City Attorney George W. Olsen, 1940 Democratic candidate for Lawrence W. Moore, Omaha attorney
Results
General election Candidates
Results
See also 1942 United States Senate elections
References