Ben Nelson (D)
First elected in 2000; seeking second full term; he ran unopposed in the primary.
- Born: May 17, 1941; McCook, Neb.
- Family: Married (Diane); four children.
- Education: University of Nebraska, LL.B., 1970; M.A., 1965; B.A., 1963.
- Professional career: Practicing attorney 1985-90; executive vice president, National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 1982-85; president and CEO, Central National Group Insurance, 1977-81; Nebraska insurance director, 1975-76; general counsel, Central National Group Insurance, 1972-74.
- Military career: None.
- Previous elective office: Governor, 1990-98.
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Pete Ricketts (R)
Ricketts, the former chief operating officer of Ameritrade, was nominated with 48 percent in a three-way primary.
- Born: Aug. 19, 1964; Nebraska City, Neb.
- Family: Married (Susanne); three children.
- Education: University of Chicago, MBA, 1991; A.B. 1986.
- Professional career: Board of directors, Ameritrade Holding Corp., 2005-06; chief operating officer, Ameritrade Holding Corp., 1993-2005; Woodward Clyde Consultants, 1992-93; Union Pacific Railroad, 1991-92; Lexecon Inc., 1987-89.
- Military career: None.
- Previous elective office: None.