NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — David P. Huebner, a North Platte native, former Border Patrol agent, and agricultural producer, has officially announced his candidacy for Nebraska’s 3rd Congressional District. He will run as a conservative Republican, challenging longtime incumbent Rep. Adrian Smith of Gering, who has held the seat since 2007.
In an interview on Sandhills Spotlight On Eagle Media's Z 93.5 Country with Derek Beck this week, Huebner emphasized his deep local roots and hands-on experience in farming, law enforcement, and small business ownership as key qualifications for the role.
“I want someone in Congress who has skin in the game,” Huebner said. “Someone who knows what it’s like to get up in a snowstorm to check on calves or to put on a badge and a gun and serve on the southern border.”
LISTEN TO FULL INTERVIEW WITH HEUBNER
Huebner, 38, returned to western Nebraska five years ago to raise his family and operate a small ag business. He believes his background gives him a direct connection to issues central to the district, including agriculture and border security.
“Border security is national security,” he said, recounting his years of service under Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. “We need to codify policies that protect our borders and our citizens. That’s not partisan—it’s common sense.”
The 3rd Congressional District covers most of western and central Nebraska and is among the largest districts geographically in the country, with 80 counties. Huebner said he’s already begun a grassroots campaign, attending events in York and Buffalo counties in the days following his May 30 announcement.
“I’ve got 46 weeks to cover 80 counties before the primary. We’re hitting the road hard. Voters deserve to meet the person asking for their support,” he said.
In addition to agricultural and security issues, Huebner voiced concern about how undocumented immigration may impact future U.S. Census counts and congressional representation for Nebraska.
“If we don’t fix how illegal aliens are counted, we risk losing a House seat. That could mean losing the 3rd District entirely. We have to get ahead of that now,” he said.
Huebner said his campaign will be grounded in bold conservative values, including support for law enforcement, border security, Christian principles, and rural America.
For more information, voters can visit DavidPHuebner.com or follow his campaign on social media.
The Republican primary for Nebraska’s 3rd District will take place in May 2026.