Independent Candidate Funded by Progressive Group

Independent U.S. Senate candidate from Nebraska, Dan Osborn, has recently seen a significant boost in fundraising—nearly $9,000—thanks to a campaign promoted by Democratic Underground. This online progressive forum has a controversial history, with users expressing extreme views, such as wishing harm upon President Donald Trump and making dark jokes about political violence.

The fundraising initiative collected a total of $8,844, approaching its $9,000 target through an ActBlue page dedicated to Osborn. Democratic Underground, which generally adheres to a “Support Democrats” policy, made an exception for Osborn’s campaign, highlighting his 2026 Senate launch video alongside the fundraising progress on the page titled “Democratic Underground for Dan Osborn U.S. Senate Nebraska.”

As Osborn runs as an independent against incumbent Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE), the fundraising collaboration has raised eyebrows, particularly given Democratic Underground users’ harsh rhetoric about Trump. In one thread, titled “Is he dead yet?”, users shared morbid scenarios regarding Trump’s potential death, with some expressing disturbing enthusiasm for such an outcome.

One post questioned whether Trump had “just fucking died already for any reason at all?” while others echoed similar sentiments. Some users appear almost obsessed, with comments about hoping for his painful and humiliating demise. Another person stated they prayed for Trump’s death every day, presenting an unsettling picture of the forum’s atmosphere.

Interestingly, users on the platform also celebrated the death of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, with one referring to him as “worm food” and others indicating that his passing had rid society of his presence. Remarks from users ridiculing Christianity were also noted, with one comparing prayer to “a dog barking at the moon,” indicating a clear disdain for religious beliefs.

Osborn’s links to Democratic Underground further draw attention to his connections with Democratic organizations and figures. The Nebraska Democratic Party has openly endorsed him, and he previously ran against Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE), securing over 46% of the vote but ultimately losing. In an interview, Osborn claimed only two areas of disagreement with Democrats—on issues of border policy and industrialized hemp—though he insisted he did not fit neatly into any political box.

His campaign is focused on issues like campaign finance reform, which he deems critical for current and future generations, advocating for the end of corporate financing in politics. He has also criticized measures like the SAVE America Act, calling it unconstitutional, and has drawn parallels between it and historical injustices.

Additionally, Osborn’s fundraising has attracted significant financial backing from Democratic groups, with millions flowing into his campaign. The most substantial portions of his donations have come from outside Nebraska, and his support for gun control measures and immigration reform positions has caught the attention of various voter segments.

Reportedly, Osborn has indicated that he would caucus with Democrats if elected, leading to speculation about his true political alignment. His recruitment into the race involved support from Democratic Socialist operatives and connections to others who have campaigned for progressive causes in different states.