On the surface, the Democratic primary in Nebraska’s 2nd District had the makings of a bitter intraparty battle, with a moderate onetime congressman facing off against a liberal, female political newcomer.

But the contest between former Rep. Brad Ashford and nonprofit CEO Kara Eastman hasn’t gotten the same attention as some other primaries that have morphed into proxy fights for the soul of the Democratic Party.

That could be because “Nebraska Nice,” the state’s now defunct tourism motto, has extended to Tuesday’s primary.

“Maybe it hasn’t been as exciting because we’re not attacking each other,” Eastman said, when asked why the race hasn’t developed into a fierce fight.

Eastman and Ashford have known each other for some time, she said. Her daughter is close friends with Ashford’s niece, and Eastman sat down with the former congressman before launching her campaign in May of last year. Ashford jumped into the race for his old seat the following month.