Representative Don Bacon, a moderate Republican from Nevada, expressed his concerns regarding the US economy, noting that his state experienced a 6% annual decline in real gross product (GDP) during the first quarter of 2025.
In a conversation with CNN’s Phil Mattingly, Bacon cited recent employment statistics and new tariffs as indicators of economic trouble.
“In Nebraska, we’re facing a bit of a problematic economic situation, or I guess you could say trouble,” he stated.
“GDP in Nebraska dropped 6% last year. It’s really all tied to trade—getting our corn and soybeans moving,” Bacon added. “So, what I’m hearing is that there’s a shortage of jobs, particularly in Nebraska right now.”
A report from the Ministry of Commerce’s Economic Analysis Bureau indicated that in late June, 39 states experienced a decreased GDP in the first quarter of 2025. Nebraska and Iowa recorded the most significant decline at -6.1% due largely to agricultural setbacks.
Bacon, who is one of three House Republicans re-elected in a district that backed former Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024, has been critical of President Trump’s trade policies in the past.
He reiterated his support for free trade, stating, “Free trade offers the best products at the best prices in the most efficient manner.”
“However, implementing tariffs on 80 countries doesn’t seem like a healthy approach,” Bacon remarked. “Ultimately, I think American consumers will end up paying higher prices for their goods. Tariffs act like taxes on consumers, and we’re already starting to see this effect.”
The lawmaker, who plans to resign at the end of his term, expressed concern about “losing market share now” from both Fortune 500 companies and farmers.
“But if the president continues to respond to these numbers, I believe those 25% tariffs will heavily impact the prices of products he buys from those countries,” Bacon concluded.
