Moderate U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., won his toughest primary challenge with 70.2% of the vote, defeating a right-wing populist supported by the Nebraska state GOP and a colleague in Congress. The election tested the impact of the GOP’s wave of populism on Republican voters in swing districts, with Bacon’s general election race expected to be closely watched in November as Democrats target the GOP’s House majority. Bacon’s opponent, businessman David Frei, was backed by the state GOP and House Freedom Caucus Chairman Bob Good, while Bacon had support from numerous Nebraska officials, including Senators and the Governor. Bacon will face Democrat Tony Vargas in the upcoming election, after defeating him by less than 3% in 2022, and has a history of bipartisanship and support for Trump’s re-election.
Bacon, a retired Air Force brigadier general, has demonstrated a willingness to work across the aisle, particularly on foreign aid issues, setting him apart from many of his Republican colleagues. He has endorsed Trump for re-election and has also criticized GOP rebels within his own party who have obstructed the party’s agenda in protest of House leadership decisions. Bacon’s bipartisan approach has earned him praise as well as criticism from lawmakers and activists on the right flank. He was ranked the eighth-most bipartisan House lawmaker in a new index released by the Lugar Center and Georgetown University’s McCourt School, making him the fifth-most bipartisan House Republican.
Bacon’s victory in the primary signals a potential shift in the Republican Party, with moderate candidates like him facing challenges from more right-wing populists. It also reflects the ongoing debate within the GOP about the direction of the party and how to appeal to a broader range of voters. Bacon’s ability to win in a swing district like Omaha, which President Biden won in 2020, showcases his appeal across party lines and his potential to retain his seat in the upcoming election. His race against Democrat Tony Vargas will be closely watched as Democrats aim to flip Republican-held seats in their quest to regain the House majority.
As Bacon gears up for the general election, his track record of bipartisan cooperation and support for Trump could be a winning combination in a district that leans Democrat. His ability to work with both parties on key issues like foreign aid and his willingness to engage with Republicans and Democrats alike have positioned him as a centrist voice in a polarized political landscape. Bacon’s success in navigating the challenges within his own party while maintaining his support in a swing district highlights his political acumen and potential to continue representing Nebraska in Congress. The upcoming election will test Bacon’s appeal to voters across the political spectrum and his ability to bridge the divide in a divided Congress.
In conclusion, Bacon’s victory in the primary and his subsequent campaign for re-election demonstrate the complex dynamics within the Republican Party and the broader political landscape. His ability to navigate the challenges of a swing district and work across party lines have positioned him as a key player in the upcoming House election. Bacon’s bipartisan approach, support for Trump, and willingness to engage with both Republicans and Democrats highlight his political versatility and potential to continue serving as a representative for Nebraska. The upcoming general election will be a test of Bacon’s appeal to a diverse electorate and his ability to bridge partisan divisions in Congress.
