Daniel McKeon

This page was current at the end of the official's last term in office covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.

Daniel McKeon

Republican Party

Prior offices:

Nebraska State Senate District 41

Years in office: 2025 - 2026

Predecessor: Fred Meyer (R)

Successor: Fred Meyer (R)

Elections and appointments

Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

High school

Ravenna High School, 1984

Bachelor's

University of Nebraska, Lincoln, 1989

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Army National Guard

Years of service

1986 - 1992

Personal

Birthplace

Nebraska

Religion

Christian

Profession

Agribusinessman

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Daniel McKeon (Republican Party) was a member of the Nebraska State Senate, representing District 41. He assumed office on January 8, 2025. He left office on January 15, 2026.

McKeon ran for election to the Nebraska State Senate to represent District 41. He won in the general election on November 5, 2024.

McKeon completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Daniel McKeon was born in Sweetwater, Nebraska. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1986 to 1992. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln in 1989. His career experience includes working in agriculture. McKeon has been affiliated with the Nebraska LEAD Program, Fellow Boy Scouts of America, Eagle Scouts, and has served as a troop leader.

Sponsored legislation

The following table lists bills this person sponsored as a legislator, according to BillTrack50 and sorted by action history. Bills are sorted by the date of their last action. The following list may not be comprehensive. To see all bills this legislator sponsored, click on the legislator's name in the title of the table.

Committee assignments

2025-2026

McKeon was assigned to the following committees:

• Agriculture Committee
• Business and Labor Committee
• Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee

Elections

2024

See also: Nebraska State Senate elections, 2024

General election

General election for Nebraska State Senate District 41

Daniel McKeon defeated Ethan Clark in the general election for Nebraska State Senate District 41 on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Daniel McKeon (Nonpartisan)	52.0	9,311
		Ethan Clark (Nonpartisan)	48.0	8,581

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	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 17,892
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Nebraska State Senate District 41

Daniel McKeon and Ethan Clark defeated Nadine Bane in the primary for Nebraska State Senate District 41 on May 14, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Daniel McKeon (Nonpartisan)	45.2	3,378
✔		Ethan Clark (Nonpartisan)	39.2	2,931
	Submit photo	Nadine Bane (Nonpartisan)	15.6	1,166

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	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 7,475
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for McKeon in this election.

Pledges

McKeon signed the following pledges.

• U.S. Term Limits

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Daniel McKeon completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by McKeon's responses.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm Dan McKeon, a proud Nebraskan rooted in Central Nebraska's agricultural heritage. With 30+ years in agribusiness, I understand the challenges facing our farmers. As a husband, father of four, and proud Army National Guard veteran, family values guide me. I'm a Constitutional Conservative, Nebraska LEAD Program Fellow, and Eagle Scout dedicated to serving District 41 with integrity.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Championing Conservative Values: I am dedicated to upholding conservative principles and defending the Constitution, including protecting the sanctity of life, promoting fiscal responsibility, and preserving our Second Amendment rights.
• Strengthening Agriculture and Rural Communities: With over 30 years of experience in agribusiness, I understand the challenges facing farmers and ranchers in Central Nebraska. I will fight to support agriculture, promote rural economic development, and preserve our way of life for future generations.
• Prioritizing Education and Family Values: As a father and former high school wrestling official (30+ years), I know the importance of quality education and strong family values. I will work to ensure every child has access to a top-notch education and support policies that strengthen families and communities.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am personally passionate about several areas of public policy, including:

Agriculture and Rural Development: With over 30 years in agribusiness, I'll advocate for policies supporting farmers and ranchers, rural economic growth, and sustainable agricultural practices.

Education: Every child deserves a quality education. I'll prioritize funding for schools, empower parents with school choice options, and promote innovative approaches to learning.

Constitutional Rights: I'll defend our Constitution, including protecting religious liberty, free speech, and Second Amendment rights, ensuring our fundamental freedoms are preserved for future generations.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to individuals like my parents, who have always been a source of inspiration for me. They instilled in me the values of hard work, integrity, and service from a young age, and their example continues to guide me in everything I do. Their dedication to their family and community, as well as their unwavering commitment to doing what is right, serves as a constant reminder of the kind of person I strive to be. I also admire leaders who have made a positive impact on their communities and have shown the courage to stand up for their beliefs, even in the face of adversity. As an aspiring officeholder, I aim to follow in the footsteps of those who have demonstrated integrity, empathy, and a genuine commitment to serving others.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

I recommend reading "The Federalist Papers." These essays, written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, provide insights into the principles of limited government, individual liberty, and the importance of checks and balances. They offer timeless wisdom that continues to shape my beliefs as a Constitutional Conservative.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

One of the most important characteristics for an elected official is integrity. Transparency, honesty, and a commitment to serving the people's interests are essential. Additionally, a dedication to upholding constitutional principles and representing constituents' values is paramount. Financial transparency and government accountability are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. I believe in strong oversight to prevent waste and corruption.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I believe my strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to conservative principles are qualities that would make me a successful officeholder. With over 30 years of experience in agribusiness, I have a deep understanding of the issues facing our community and the determination to find solutions that benefit all residents. My background as a Nebraska LEAD Program Fellow and Army National Guard veteran has equipped me with the leadership skills and dedication to serve the people of District 41 with honesty and integrity. I am passionate about advocating for our farmers, promoting economic growth, and preserving our way of life for future generations. With these qualities and values guiding me, I am confident in my ability to effectively represent the interests of our community and make a positive difference as an officeholder.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

It's vital to enact legislation that addresses the needs and concerns of our state's communities, promotes economic growth, and enhances the overall well-being of constituents. Collaboration with fellow legislators, effective communication with constituents, and prudent fiscal management are essential aspects of serving in this capacity.

What legacy would you like to leave?

As an officeholder, I aim to leave a legacy of service, integrity, and positive impact. I want to be remembered as someone who stood up for the values and interests of the hardworking people of District 41. Whether it's fighting for our farmers, advocating for our children's education, or defending our constitutional rights, I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I represent. My hope is that my dedication to our community and unwavering commitment to conservative principles will leave a lasting and positive impact for generations to come.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event that I remember from my lifetime was when my family's house burned to the ground. I was five years old at the time, and it was a traumatic experience for our family. Thankfully, no one was home at the time, but it left a lasting impact on me and taught me the importance of resilience and gratitude for life's blessings.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My very first job was working on my family's farm near Ravenna, Nebraska. I started helping out as soon as I was old enough to walk and talk! From feeding animals to helping with chores around the farm, I learned the value of hard work and responsibility from a young age. I continued to work on the farm throughout my childhood and adolescence, gaining invaluable experience and laying the foundation for my future endeavors in agribusiness. Working on the farm instilled in me a deep appreciation for the land, a strong work ethic, and a sense of pride in contributing to my family's livelihood.

My entrepreneurial spirit was evident at an early age as I started my own mowing business at the age of 14. I worked diligently on the farm and also managed my mowing business, learning the values of hard work and responsibility from a young age.

My very first job out of college was as a crop scout at Servi-Tech Inc., where I gained valuable experience in agricultural practices and consulting.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is "The Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck. It's a powerful portrayal of the struggles and resilience of the American people during the Great Depression, particularly those in the farming community. Steinbeck's vivid storytelling and deep empathy for his characters resonate with me, and the book's themes of hardship, perseverance, and the strength of the human spirit have left a lasting impression on me.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

If I could be any fictional character, I'd choose to be John Galt from Ayn Rand's "Atlas Shrugged." Galt epitomizes the values of individualism, self-reliance, and integrity, qualities that resonate deeply with me. Like Galt, I believe in the power of free markets, personal responsibility, and the pursuit of excellence.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

The last song that got stuck in my head was "Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver. Every time I hear it, I can't help but sing along at the top of my lungs, much to the chagrin of my family and neighbors! But hey, who can resist belting out a classic like that when it comes on the radio? It's like a tractor beam for your ears!

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One struggle I've faced in my life is balancing the demands of work, family, and community involvement. It can be challenging to juggle multiple responsibilities, but I believe in the importance of prioritizing and making time for what matters most.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

An ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature involves mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared commitment to advancing the state's interests. While each branch has distinct roles, collaboration is necessary to achieve meaningful progress on key issues facing Nebraska.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Looking ahead, our state will face various challenges, including rural healthcare and broadband internet access in addition to infrastructure development. Addressing these challenges will require innovative solutions, bipartisan cooperation, and a focus on long-term sustainability.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

I strongly believe in building relationships with other legislators to foster cooperation, find common ground, and effectively advocate for constituents' interests. Collaboration across party lines is essential for achieving meaningful legislative outcomes and addressing the complex challenges facing our state.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

While I admire several past and present legislators for their dedication and leadership, I aim to bring my unique perspective and principles to the office, focusing on representing the people of District 41 to the best of my ability.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

As a candidate for this office, my immediate focus is on serving the needs of my constituents in District 41. However, I remain open to opportunities to serve at different levels of government in the future, depending on where I can make the greatest positive impact for the people of Nebraska.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Throughout my campaign, I've been moved by the personal stories shared by residents of District 41. Each story underscores the importance of effective representation and the profound impact that legislative decisions can have on people's lives.

Tell us your favorite joke.

Why did the scarecrow win an award?
Because he was outstanding in his field!

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

In terms of emergency powers, oversight by the legislature is essential to ensure that any use of emergency powers is necessary, proportionate, and subject to appropriate checks and balances. Maintaining legislative oversight helps safeguard against potential abuses of power and ensures accountability to the public.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

If elected, my first priority would be introducing legislation aimed at promoting economic development and job growth in District 41. This could include initiatives to support small businesses, attract investment, and create opportunities for local workers.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

We are honored to have received endorsements from various organizations and individuals who share our vision for a better Nebraska. Please visit our campaign website for a complete list of endorsements. Thank you for your support!

What committees interest you?

Agriculture; Government, Military, and Veterans Affairs

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe in absolute financial transparency and government accountability. As an advocate for fiscal responsibility, I believe it's crucial for taxpayers to know how their hard-earned money is being spent. Government officials must be held accountable for every dollar they allocate and every decision they make. Transparency builds trust between the government and the people it serves, fostering a culture of integrity and responsible governance. As a legislator, I will prioritize measures to ensure transparency and accountability at every level of government.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign finance summary

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Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

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Daniel McKeon campaign contribution history

Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2024	Nebraska State Senate District 41	Won general	$59,920	$68,402
Grand total			$59,920	$68,402
Sources: OpenSecrets,  Federal Election Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).

Scorecards

See also: State legislative scorecards, State legislative scorecards in Nebraska

A scorecard evaluates a legislator’s voting record. Its purpose is to inform voters about the legislator’s political positions. Because scorecards have varying purposes and methodologies, each report should be considered on its own merits. For example, an advocacy group’s scorecard may assess a legislator’s voting record on one issue while a state newspaper’s scorecard may evaluate the voting record in its entirety.

Ballotpedia is in the process of developing an encyclopedic list of published scorecards. Some states have a limited number of available scorecards or scorecards produced only by select groups. It is Ballotpedia’s goal to incorporate all available scorecards regardless of ideology or number.

Click here for an overview of legislative scorecards in all 50 states. To contribute to the list of scorecards, email suggestions to editor@ballotpedia.org.

• 2025

Below you can find the scorecards found for the Nebraska State Senate (Unicameral) in 2025.

• Holland Children's Movement — Legislators are scored on children's issues.
• The Freedom Index — Legislators are scored on their adherence to the limited government principles of the U.S. Constitution.

Noteworthy events

Public indecency charge (2025)

On October 30, 2025, the Nebraska State Patrol issued McKeon a citation for public indecency, a class II misdemeanor in the state of Nebraska. The citation stems from an allegation that McKeon made inappropriate contact with a woman at a party on May 29, 2025, in Lincoln, Nebraska. McKeon was scheduled to make a court appearance related to the case in Lancaster County, Nebraska, on December 10, 2025.

On December 8, 2025, McKeon was charged with one count of misdemeanor public indecency.

Resignation (2026)

On January 15, 2026, McKeon resigned from the legislature ahead of the chamber's expulsion vote. The Nebraska Legislature's Executive Board unanimously recommended McKeon's expulsion on December 13, 2025 On January 26, 2026, McKeon pleaded not guilty at a procedural hearing on the misdemeanor charge of disturbing the peace, which carried a maximum penalty of three months in jail, a $500 fine, or both. A bench trial was set for March 19, 2026, but on March 16, 2026, McKeon filed a petition for a trial continuance to delay his court appearance so that he could complete a diversion program. Upon successful completion of the diversion program, charges will bewill be dismissed.

See also

2024 Elections

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Newsletters

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External links

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Candidate

Nebraska State Senate District 41

Website

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Footnotes

Political offices
Preceded by Fred Meyer (R)	Nebraska State Senate District 41 2025-2026	Succeeded by Fred Meyer (R)

[show]

Current members of the Nebraska State Senate

Leadership

Senate President:John Arch

Senators

District 1

Robert Hallstrom (R)

District 2

Robert Clements (R)

District 3

Victor Rountree (N)

District 4

R. von Gillern (R)

District 5

Margo Juarez (D)

District 6

Machaela Cavanaugh (D)

District 7

Dunixi Guereca (D)

District 8

Megan Hunt (N)

District 9

John Cavanaugh (D)

District 10

Wendy DeBoer (D)

District 11

Terrell McKinney (D)

District 12

Merv Riepe (R)

District 13

Ashlei Spivey (D)

District 14

John Arch (R)

District 15

Dave Wordekemper (R)

District 16

Ben Hansen (R)

District 17

Glen Meyer (R)

District 18

Christy Armendariz (R)

District 19

Rob Dover (R)

District 20

John Fredrickson (D)

District 21

Beau Ballard (R)

District 22

Mike Moser (R)

District 23

Jared Storm (R)

District 24

Jana Hughes (R)

District 25

Carolyn Bosn (R)

District 26

George Dungan (D)

District 27

Jason Prokop (D)

District 28

Jane Raybould (D)

District 29

Eliot Bostar (D)

District 30

Myron Dorn (R)

District 31

Kathleen Kauth (R)

District 32

Tom Brandt (R)

District 33

Dan Lonowski (R)

District 34

Loren Lippincott (R)

District 35

Dan Quick (D)

District 36

Rick Holdcroft (R)

District 37

Stanley Clouse (R)

District 38

Dave Murman (R)

District 39

Tony Sorrentino (R)

District 40

Barry DeKay (R)

District 41

Fred Meyer (R)

District 42

Michael Jacobson (R)

District 43

Tanya Storer (R)

District 44

Teresa Ibach (R)

District 45

Rita Sanders (R)

District 46

Danielle Conrad (D)

District 47

Paul Strommen (R)

District 48

Brian Hardin (R)

District 49

Bob Andersen (R)

Republican Party (33)

Democratic Party (14)

Nonpartisan (2)