Another Candidate Enters Race for District 32

This week, Crete attorney Shay Smith announced she will seek election in 2026 to the 32nd Legislative District in Southeast Nebraska.Smith is a registered nonpartisan. A press release touted her independent status, “Shay believes that her independence, her legal expertise, and her economic development experience would allow her to be a leader in the Legislature who can listen and work with everyone in our state Capitol.”Smith attended Doane University and was the first in her family to graduate from college. She received her law degree from the University of Nebraska Lincoln in 1994 and then returned to Crete to build a successful general practice law firm with her business partner, Bradley Kalkwarf, where she has practiced law for more than 30 years. Smith is married and has three children.When asked why she is running, Smith answered, “We all want a Nebraska where hardworking people can afford to support their families. As a small business owner, nonprofit leader, and community leader, I have worked tirelessly to redevelop main streets, revitalize public spaces, and bring economic investments to southeast Nebraska. I’m running to continue getting things done for our state in the Legislature.” “Rural Nebraskans should be able to live, work and play in their chosen communities. The rising costs of everyday goods, childcare, healthcare and prescription drugs, and housing are out of control and are threatening our way of life. I understand how to build economic opportunity and cut costs. I have already brought millions of dollars into southeast Nebraska to rebuild infrastructure, create jobs and strengthen our economy as a volunteer. As your next State Senator, I would do the hard work of balancing budgets and controlling spending without threatening the schools and medical facilities that are the backbone of our rural communities,” said Smith. Legislative District 32 includes Jefferson, Saline, Fillmore and Thayer counties, as well as parts of southwest Lancaster County. The district is currently represented by Senator Tom Brandt, who is not eligible for re-election due to term limits.Smith is the second District 32 candidate to throw her hat in the ring. Earlier this year, Jefferson County Commissioner Mark Schoenrock announced he would also be running for that seat.

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