OMAHA, Neb. -- Some political pundits are calling the race for Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District “round two” because it features the same candidates that ran in 2006.

Democrat Jim Esch said that the second time around could likely be tougher for him as a challenger but that his grassroots campaign is up to the task.

"I think it's going to be really close race. We've done the things we need in order to be in place to win,” Esch said.

He lost to Rep. Lee Terry (R) by a slim margin in 2006 that’s led some analysts to predict an even tighter finish this year.

Esch wasted no time in getting his message of change out, his campaign hit the airwaves, debates and other appearances with that central theme.

Among his legislative priorities if elected:

• An economic policy calling for job creation and greener industry.
• Efficiency standards and alternative energy development.
• System-wide health care reform.
• A directive to balance the federal budget.

Pundits said that questions remain as to whether Esch will be able to convey those priorities to the public.

Terry hit the airwaves early with television ads while Esch’s campaign had to hold back on sports until late September.

Esch said his team plans to expand those efforts.

"We're going to fight back and it's going be a hard-fought race to the end,” Esch said.

Terry said that he’s taking nothing for granted this time around.

"I am going to go out and run the single best race we've ever run,” Terry said.

He’s focusing his message on his experience in office. It’s something the five-term Republican said he believes resonates with voters.

Terry said his legislative record and promotion of bipartisanship on Capitol Hill speaks for itself.

The congressman also has a running list of things he wants to do if reelected:

• An energy policy demanding that the U.S. stop its dependence on foreign oil.
• Anti-terrorism laws that free up national intelligence assets.
• Earmark reform and lower taxes.

It’s a package Terry said represents the priorities of his constituents.

Terry and Esch are scheduled to debate at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Harper Center Ballroom at Creighton University.