Joplin Neurosurgeon Enters Race for Missouri Senate Seat

Dr. Ellen Nichols aims to focus on fiscal responsibility and pro-life policies in 32nd District campaign.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Dr. Ellen Nichols, a longtime neurosurgeon in Joplin, Missouri, has announced her candidacy for the Missouri State Senate 32nd District seat. Nichols, a conservative Republican, plans to focus her campaign on balanced budgets, responsible spending, and supporting laws that protect the unborn and the sanctity of life.

Why it matters

The 32nd District Senate seat represents Jasper and Newton counties in Missouri, and the race will likely be a closely watched contest as Nichols challenges the incumbent, Sen. Jill Carter, in the Republican primary. Nichols' background as a medical professional and her stated policy priorities could resonate with voters in the district.

The details

Nichols has practiced neurosurgery in the Joplin area for over 30 years, treating traumatic brain injuries, neurological conditions, and spinal disorders. She is married to former 32nd District State Sen. Bill White, who was defeated by Carter in the 2022 primary.

  • Nichols announced her candidacy on February 24, 2026.
  • The Republican primary election for the 32nd District Senate seat is scheduled for August 2026.

The players

Dr. Ellen Nichols

A longtime neurosurgeon in Joplin, Missouri, who has announced her candidacy for the Missouri State Senate 32nd District seat.

Sen. Jill Carter

The incumbent State Senator for Missouri's 32nd District, who Nichols will face in the Republican primary.

Bill White

Nichols' husband, a former State Senator for the 32nd District who was defeated by Carter in the 2022 primary.

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What they’re saying

“I want to use my experience making high-stakes decisions to serve Missourians.”

— Dr. Ellen Nichols (fourstateshomepage.com)

What’s next

The Republican primary election for the 32nd District Senate seat is scheduled for August 2026, where Nichols will face off against incumbent Sen. Jill Carter.

The takeaway

Nichols' background as a medical professional and her stated policy priorities of fiscal responsibility and pro-life policies could resonate with voters in the 32nd District, setting up a potentially competitive Republican primary race against the incumbent senator.