In a sign that Republicans are coalescing around the candidacy of frontrunner Mike Johanns in the primary to replace retiring Sen. Chuck Hagel (R-NE), former Omaha Mayor Hal Daub has dropped out of the race, only 11 days after entering. Daub said that by leaving the race, he will help to avoid a contentious primary that could prevent Republicans from retaining the seat.

Just this week, Daub launched the first tv ad of the race.