Brad Ashford dies; Nebraska politicians offer condolences, remembrances to family of former Congressman

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - The family of former Nebraska Congressman Brad Ashford revealed the heartbreaking news that Ashford passed away Tuesday morning. He was 72 years old.

In February, Ashford told 6 News that he had been diagnosed with brain cancer, saying at the time that he had started to lose control of his left side and couldn’t walk well. “I didn’t think it was a tumor. I had some heart issues impacted by pulmonary hypertension,” he said then, about to undergo treatment.

In a statement on Ashford’s Facebook page, his family said he was “positive through the end” and called his passing “peaceful though much too premature,” encouraging Nebraskans to take the day to “tell your loved ones you love them, read some history to learn something, and reach out to lift up your fellow human.”

The family said details about memorial services would be shared soon.

In the last Facebook post Ashford wrote on Easter Sunday that he was “grateful for so many things like family, excellent healthcare, and the new hope this season brings. I hope you all find joy with family and friends and that we continue to care for one another.”

Ashford, a Democrat, served as Nebraska’s 2nd Congressman from 2015 until 2017 and served 16 years in the state legislature.

CONDOLENCES & REMEMBRANCES

Reaction from Bradford’s fellow Nebraskans was swift.

Ashford lost his Congressional seat to Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., whom he later endorsed for the office — twice.

Kara Eastman unsuccessfully campaigned against Republican Rep. Don Bacon, who unseated Ashford, lost Ashford’s endorsement to her opponent.

Sara Kohen ran against incumbent City Councilwoman Aimee Melton, who represents Omaha’s 7th District, in May 2021.

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