From patrol car to power: Omaha elects former cop John Ewing as city’s first black Mayor

There was quiet emotion on the face of John Ewing as the final votes rolled in. A man who spent nearly 25 years walking Omaha’s streets in uniform, and another 17 managing county finances, had just earned the trust of the entire city.

The newly elected mayor of Omaha, its first Black mayor, embraced family, supporters, and the weight of history. Ewing’s win in Tuesday’s (May 13) general election unseated three-term incumbent Jean Stothert, closing the chapter on one of the city’s most transformative mayoralties and opening a new era rooted in access, equity, and efficiency.

A changing of the guard in Omaha

Jean Stothert’s 12-year tenure as Omaha’s mayor ended not with controversy, but with a ceremonial passing of the torch.


"I called John Ewing and I congratulated him," she said at her Election Night event. "John Ewing is inheriting tonight a great city, and we leave a strong foundation for the city that we love."

Stothert, a Republican who became Omaha’s first female mayor in 2013, leaves behind a legacy of economic development, urban revitalization, and stability. In 2021, she won her third term with more than 64% of the vote. This time, voters chose a new direction, one represented by a Democrat with deep roots in public service.

Nebraska’s Second Congressional District Representative Don Bacon lauded both leaders. “Mayor Jean Stothert has been an absolutely great mayor for Omaha... I congratulate John Ewing on his victory. We will work together to serve the great citizens of Omaha.”

Ewing’s path: from law enforcement to leadership

John Ewing’s story is distinctly Omahian. His career journey winding through the corridors of law enforcement and public finance.

After nearly 25 years with the Omaha Police Department, Ewing became Douglas County Treasurer, a position he held for 17 years. As a mayoral candidate, he ran on a platform focused on delivering city services effectively and making government more accessible to everyday residents.

His historic win earned praise from party leadership. Nebraska Democratic Party Chair Jane Kleeb called it a “new era for Omaha.” Ewing’s campaign was grounded in practicality rather than partisanship, pledging to bring city hall closer to its people.

Greater Omaha Chamber President Heath Mello also congratulated Ewing and honored Stothert. “Her dedication has put Omaha on a strong trajectory for the future. Congratulations to Mayor-Elect John Ewing on his election victory. We look forward to...collaborating on plans for Omaha’s bright future.”

The next chapter begins June 9

As Omaha prepares for Ewing’s swearing-in on June 9, the symbolism of this election cannot be overstated. A city that has long balanced its Midwestern traditions with changing demographics now has leadership that reflects both its past and its future.

The mayor-elect has not outlined sweeping overhauls, but rather a commitment to refinement: better services, stronger access to city government, and efficient municipal operations. His work starts not with promises of transformation, but with the methodical resolve of a public servant who knows the city from the sidewalk up.