Nebraska 3rd District Congressman Adrian Smith of Gering will apparently have at least one opponent in next year’s Republican primary.
Hastings businessman John Walz announced in a news release that he plans to run for the seat Smith has held since 2006, but neither man has formally filed yet. Smith has until February 14 and Walz until March 15.
Walz, owner of the Food Cupboard discount grocery stores in Hastings and Grand Island, says he’s a Marine Corps veteran, seasoned engineer and successful entrepreneur.
He also describes himself as a MAGA candidate and a devoted Christian with unwavering commitment to God, family, and country. Walz and his wife have 10 children.
Walz says he has “a firm grasp on the overt intentions of America’s adversaries – be it the communists, radical Islam, or global elites – who openly plot the downfall of the nation.”
Smith hasn’t had a close election, primary or general, since winning his first term. Walz said in his release that he was “many volunteers and contributions ASAP because the runway is short,” referring to his late entry into the race.