Moderate U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, a three-term Republican representing Omaha, Nebraska, won a tough primary challenge by defeating right-wing populist David Frei with 70.2% of the vote. Frei was backed by the Nebraska state GOP and House Freedom Caucus Chairman Bob Good, making this race a test of how the GOP’s populist wave has affected Republican voters in swing districts. Bacon’s victory sets the stage for a closely watched general election in November as Democrats aim to take back control of the House from Republicans.
Bacon, a retired Air Force brigadier general, has been more open to working across party lines, particularly on foreign aid issues. Despite his moderate stance, Bacon has faced criticism from GOP rebels in his conference who have opposed House leadership decisions. His bipartisan approach has earned him both praise and scorn, placing him as the eighth-most bipartisan House lawmaker in a recent index released by the Lugar Center & Georgetown University’s McCourt School. Bacon’s support from over 100 Nebraska officials, including the state’s GOP senators and governor, highlights his strong backing within the party.
In the upcoming general election, Bacon will face Nebraska state Sen. Tony Vargas, whom he narrowly defeated in 2022 by less than 3%. The district, which President Biden won by over 6% in 2020, is expected to be a key battleground as Democrats seek to flip Republican-held seats. Bacon’s ability to appeal to a broad range of voters, including independents and moderate Republicans, will be crucial in securing victory in November. His endorsement of Trump for re-election this year aligns him with many Republican officials but also distinguishes him from the more extreme elements of his party.
Bacon’s victory over Frei, who received backing from prominent GOP figures such as Bob Good, demonstrates the ongoing tensions within the Republican Party between moderate and populist factions. Bacon’s ability to navigate these divisions and maintain his bipartisan approach has solidified his position as a leading voice within the party. As a vocal critic of rebels in his own party who have impeded the GOP’s legislative agenda, Bacon has positioned himself as a pragmatic lawmaker willing to work towards solutions rather than engaging in partisan gridlock.
The outcome of Bacon’s general election race will be closely monitored by both political parties as they vie for control of the House of Representatives. With Democrats looking to flip Republican-held seats in swing districts, Bacon’s ability to appeal to a broad coalition of voters will be paramount. His willingness to work with Democrats on key issues while maintaining his conservative principles has garnered both support and opposition, underscoring the challenges faced by moderate Republicans in navigating the current political landscape. As the election draws closer, Bacon’s bipartisan record and pragmatic approach will likely play a key role in determining the outcome of this closely watched House race.
