Although the Nebraska gubernatorial race was the first statewide race in which both candidates were women, women's issues were seldom raised--even though both candidates thought the women's movement had helped to make their previous campaigns successful. Because each candidate opposed abortion, neither was endorsed by any of the major women's organizations. Both Kay Orr (Republican) and Helen Boosalis (Democrat) were politically experienced nominees who won decisively in their respective primaries and were considered highly competent by the traditionally conservative Nebraska voters. The Republican camp lost no time in trying to brand the moderate Boosalis a liberal--a charge she denied. Polls usually showed the candidates nearly even, although a greater percentage of men favored Orr while more women polled chose Boosalis. In the early stages of the race, the important issues seemed to be agriculture and its impact on the economy, education, and the role of state government. Economic issues dominated the latter part of the campaign, with the probable increase in state taxes becoming the single most important concern. In three televised debates between the candidates, neither candidate made any serious mistakes, but Orr was seen as more organized and direct with her answers. The Republican Orr was the eventual winner in an election that differed minimally from a typical race between two male candidates--the dominant issue turned out to be the voter's pocketbook. (Extensive notes are appended.) (NKA)