Education
Creighton University, Bachelor of Arts and University of Iowa, Juris Doctorate
Current Public Office
N/A
Past Public Office, dates held
N/A
Military experience
N/A
Volunteer experience
St. Cecilia School Board President, Buffett Middle PTO VP, Picotte Elementary PTO, Girl Scouts of Nebraska, YMCA and SOA Youth Sports Coach, Creighton University Alumni Advisory, Sacred Heart Mentoring Program, Open Door Mission, Omaha 360
Other Social Media
Instagram: makayladanner_
My approach to enforcing criminal law is grounded in one principle: justice requires both strength and restraint. It is a responsibility based on evidence, law and ethics, not pressure or politics. I respect due process and civil liberties at every step because people want to know that their voices matter, that they will be heard and that the system will treat them fairly, regardless of outcome. At the same time, I am committed to protecting victims and holding offenders accountable. Every decision, from charging to resolution, is deliberate, fair and transparent. This balance builds trust and strengthens public safety, which is why I am honored to be endorsed by Mayor Ewing. We will work together to ensure justice is done the right way.
Born and raised in Omaha, I understand that building community trust starts with transparency, consistency, and accountability. I would modernize case management and publish prosecution data. I will implement regular public reporting on charging decisions, case outcomes, and office performance so the community understands how decisions are made. I believe in open communication, holding community forums and engaging directly with residents. As County Attorney, I will investigate findings, require documentation for declined cases, and implement comprehensive ethics training. Trust is earned by being fair, accessible, and transparent and by ensuring our actions consistently reflect the values we expect from the justice system.
My approach to juvenile justice is focused on accountability, intervention, and long-term outcomes. I will ensure experienced prosecutors handle juvenile cases and prioritize early intervention to stop cycles of harm. For non-violent youth, I support evidence-based diversion, mental health resources, and community-based programs that address root causes. For serious offenses, there must be clear accountability. My administration will collaborate closely with law enforcement, educators, service providers, faith leaders, and residents, ensuring the County Attorney’s Office is responsive to the community. The goal is to protect public safety while giving young people the structure and support needed to change course and build a better future.
Education
Graduated from UNL College of Law and Current adjunct professor teaching trial practice at UNL College of Law
Current Public Office
N/A
Past Public Office, dates held
N/A
Military experience
N/A
Volunteer experience
I currently serve on the Child Death Review Team and Maternal Mortality Review Team. I volunteer weekly at the Stephen Center & I am an active member of the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks for nearly 20 years, which serves youth and Veterans
Other Social Media
amyjacobsenforca
Due process is under attack, and I will fight to make sure the office protects these rights. We have already seen how different communities across our nation have been unfairly targeted, and I am ready to stand up against government overreach. I’m the only primary candidate who has the felony trial experience needed to start on Day 1 and protect our civil liberties. I have tried over 150 Jury trials, holding violent criminals accountable and seeking justice for victims of sex and violent crimes. I will work to address the root causes of crime in our community and support more mental health and diversion programs to keep us safe. We need to consider an individual's background and circumstances to most effectively reduce recidivism.
As the County Attorney, I promise to be accountable and transparent to the people that I serve. Public perception and trust in the office have slipped. I will bring strong leadership that fights for what is right, not what is politically convenient. I will regularly attend community forums and encourage deputy county attorneys to do so as well. I will collaborate with local leaders and law enforcement to improve accessibility and re-establish trust in the office. It’s time to be proactive and not reactive. I will listen to residents and be open to community feedback every chance I get. Douglas County is stronger when we work together, and I’m prepared to stand up for all members of our community and fight for change.
I will bring a proactive approach to juvenile corrections that supports our youth before they can enter the system. Reaching kids at an early age is pivotal, and if they become involved in the justice system, we need to have diversion programs and other services ready for them. The best action we can take to reduce crime is through prevention efforts that address the root cause, which is often gang influence or housing and/or food insecurity. I will exhaust every option we have before turning to incarceration for non-violent juvenile offenders. They should have every opportunity and resource to make a change. As County Attorney, I plan to work towards common-sense solutions to curb juvenile crime before it begins and support our youth.