Mayor John Ewing Jr.: Leading Omaha Into a New Era of Representation and Service
John Ewing Jr.
Legacy Maker | Omaha, Nebraska
Story by Aniya Porter
John Ewing Jr.’s election as Mayor of Omaha in 2025 marked a historic milestone in the city’s story of civic leadership, In the May 13, 2025 general election, Ewing defeated incumbent Republican mayor Jean Stothert, becoming the first African American elected mayor of Omaha and the first Democrat to hold the office since 2009.
Born on April 18, 1961, Ewing’s roots in the community run deep. A graduate of Omaha Northwest High School, he was active in football and basketball as a young athlete, lessons in teamwork and resilience that would carry into his long career in public service.
Ewing served for nearly 25 years with the Omaha Police Department, rising to the rank of deputy chief, before retiring from law enforcement. His work in provided firsthand insight into community needs and the complexities of leading large, mission-critical organizations.
In 2007, he was elected Douglas County Treasurer, a role he held for 18 years before becoming mayor. In that position, Ewing managed county finances with a reputation for transparency and steady stewardship, earning respect from both sides of the political aisle.
Ewing is also an associate minister at Salem Baptist Church, where his moral perspective informs his approach to leadership and service.
Ewing holds multiple degrees from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, including bachelor’s degrees in business administration and criminal justice and a master’s degree in urban studies, preparing him to navigate the intersection of policy, economics, and community development.
His victory in 2025 was celebrated not only as a symbolic first for Omaha but also as a reflection of deep community trust. As mayor, Ewing has outlined ambitious goals for police staffing, economic development, affordable housing, and growth strategy, emphasizing accountability and inclusive progress for the city’s future.
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