David Kemp Karnes

David Kemp Karnes (December 12, 1948 – October 25, 2020) was an American politician, businessman, and attorney who served as a United States Senator from Nebraska from 1987 to 1989. A member of the Republican Party, he contributed to the legislative process during one term in office, participating in the democratic process and representing the interests of his Nebraska constituents during a significant period in American history. In addition to his public service, he pursued a substantial career in law, finance, and civic affairs at both the state and national levels.

Karnes was born on December 12, 1948, and grew up in Nebraska, where he developed early ties to the civic and political life of the state that he would later represent in the United States Senate. His upbringing in the Midwest helped shape his understanding of agricultural, business, and community issues that were central to Nebraska’s economy and culture. These formative experiences informed his later work as an attorney, businessman, and public official.

After completing his early education, Karnes pursued higher education and legal training, preparing for a professional career that combined law, business, and public policy. He studied law and was admitted to the bar, beginning a legal career that would eventually intersect with national politics and high-level corporate and financial work. His legal background provided the foundation for his later roles as counsel to major law firms and as an executive in the private sector.

Karnes’s professional career included significant work in both law and finance. He served in an “of counsel” capacity to the national law firm of Kutak Rock, practicing out of the firm’s Omaha, Nebraska, and Washington, D.C., offices. In this role, he drew on his legal expertise and his understanding of federal policy and regulation. He was also president and chief executive officer of The Fairmont Group Incorporated, a merchant banking and consulting company with offices in Omaha and the District of Columbia. Through The Fairmont Group, he engaged in financial consulting and investment-related activities, reflecting his broader interest in economic development and business growth.

Karnes entered national public life when he was appointed to the United States Senate from Nebraska, serving from 1987 to 1989. As a Republican senator during the late 1980s, he participated in the legislative work of the Senate at a time marked by debates over federal spending, agricultural policy, and the direction of the national economy. During his tenure, he represented Nebraska’s interests in Washington, D.C., contributing to committee work and floor deliberations and engaging with issues important to his constituents, including rural development, business regulation, and national policy affecting the Midwest. His service in Congress, though limited to a single term, placed him at the center of federal decision-making during a consequential period in American political history.

Following his service in the Senate, Karnes returned to the private sector while maintaining a strong presence in public and civic life. He continued his leadership of The Fairmont Group Incorporated and his association with Kutak Rock, dividing his professional activities between Omaha and Washington, D.C. In these roles he combined legal practice, financial consulting, and public policy insight, often working at the intersection of government and business. His experience as a former senator enhanced his capacity to advise clients on regulatory and legislative matters.

Throughout his career, Karnes was actively involved in numerous civic, educational, and charitable organizations both in Nebraska and nationally. He lent his time and expertise to boards, community initiatives, and philanthropic efforts, reflecting a sustained commitment to public service beyond elective office. His work with these organizations underscored his interest in education, community development, and charitable causes, and extended his influence well beyond his formal roles in law, business, and government.

David Kemp Karnes died on October 25, 2020. His life encompassed service as a United States senator, leadership in the legal and financial sectors, and extensive involvement in civic and charitable activities. Through his work in Congress, his professional endeavors, and his engagement with public and nonprofit institutions, he played a notable role in the political and civic life of Nebraska and contributed to national public affairs during his years of active service.