Former Senator Dan McKeon, District 41, (Nebraska Legislature, Courtesy)
LINCOLN — Senator Dan McKeon who represents District 41, resigned his position on Tuesday, Jan. 13 before the Nebraska Legislature was to move on a resolution to expel him.
According to an investigative report released last week, the Amherst lawmaker allegedly made lewd comments and touched the backside of a legislative staffer on May 29, 2025, at the Country Club of Lincoln.
While the investigation found his actions did not constitute an actionable violation under nondiscrimination law, it encouraged the unicameral to consider consequences for the District 41 representative—including, but not limited to, expulsion.
Lawmakers overwhelmingly voted to expedite Monday’s hearing, which was limited to testimony from McKeon’s attorney, Perry Pirsch, and the investigative report’s author, Tara Paulson.
McKeon’s resignation takes effect on the adjustment of the legislature on its fifth day of the 60 day session. If McKeon had been expelled, he would become the first senator in Nebraska history to be removed from the unicameral.
Gov. Jim Pillen will appoint a successor to fill the vacant District 41 seat.
A special election to fulfill the two-year remainder of McKeon’s term would be held in November 2026 on the general election ballot.
In relation to the allegation, McKeon was originally charged with misdemeanor public indecency in October 2025 following an investigation by the Nebraska State Patrol. His charges were later reduced to misdemeanor disturbing the peace, punishable by up to three months in jail, a $500 fine, or both.
McKeon initially intended to enter a no-contest plea, but later pleaded not guilty, vowing to fight the charge. McKeon’s next court date is set for Jan. 26.
