In 1986, Ashford considered running for the Democratic nomination in Nebraska's 2nd congressional district against incumbent Republican Hal Daub. However, on January 15, he announced that he would run in the 6th district in the state legislature as more important decisions occurred at the state level and it would cost less than a congressional campaign. On February 3, he formally announced his campaign. In the general election he received the support of the Democratic Party and defeated Republican-backed nominee Robert G. Cunningham.