JD Vance Nebraska Rally Interrupted by Medical Incident Behind VP on Stage

Vice President JD Vance led an audience in Nebraska in prayer Thursday, after his rally speech was interrupted when a woman behind him collapsed.

The woman appeared to pass out in the stand behind the vice president as he spoke to the audience in North Platte, where he was rallying for Republican Senator Pete Ricketts and Governor Jim Pillen, who are both up for reelection.

"While they're working on her, maybe those who are of the praying type will join me in a prayer," Vance said, before praying the Lord's Prayer, with several in the crowd joining him.

The woman appeared to recover, with Vance heading into the crowd to check on her while people around her used signs as fans.

Why Vance is in Nebraska

While Nebraska has been long viewed as a Republican stronghold, the 2026 Senate race between Ricketts and Democrat Dan Osborn has seen predictions shift from "Likely Republican" to "Leans Republican," reflecting the more competitive environment across the U.S.

The state has seen visits from other high-level Republicans in recent weeks, including President Donald Trump in Grand Island earlier in October, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and Republican National Committee (RNC) Chair Joe Gruters, all seeking to make sure enough Republican voters head to the polls.

"We have got somebody who has an amazing work ethic and amazing fight and amazing love for the state of Nebraska, and unfortunately, not the best hairdo. But he's my dear friend and he is a person who has made all the victories in Washington possible. He's already your senator and we're going to reelect him," Vance said of Ricketts Thursday.

"He's been fighting for your farms. He's been fighting for your ranches. He's been fighting for American energy, and he's been fighting to lower your taxes," he added.

This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.