Progressive challenger complicates Democrat path in House fight to unseat GOP incumbent Rep Mike Flood

Progressive journalist Austin Ahlman announced he is running for Congress in Nebraska's first congressional district as a nonpartisan independent on Thursday, challenging incumbent Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb., and Democratic nominee Chris Backemeyer.

Ahlman, a journalist for the progressive left-wing outlet The Intercept, entered the fray Thursday, two days after his opponents advanced in their respective primaries.

Flood has held his seat since winning a special election in 2022. Democratic...