GOP Representative Don Bacon announced on Monday that he will not run for re-election next year, vacating Nebraska’s highly competitive congressional seat for the 2026 election cycle.
Bacon (R-Neb.), known for his candid criticisms of President Trump and opposition to certain Republican views on Ukraine, stated he wishes to dedicate more time to his family.
“When we began this journey in 2015, we had just one grandson. Now, Angie and I are fortunate to have eight grandchildren,” Bacon mentioned in his statement.
“After 30 years in the Air Force and a decade in Congress, it’s time for me to focus on the love of my life, our four children, and our wonderful grandchildren. Thank you, Nebraska!”
Bacon is among three sitting House Republicans from the district that was flipped by former Vice President Kamala Harris last November. There are also 13 House Democrats from areas that Trump won.
This five-term lawmaker represents Nebraska’s second congressional district, which includes Omaha and is known for closely contested races, such as the last election, which saw a narrow margin of 50.9% to 49.1%.
With the GOP holding a slim majority of 220-212 in the House, Bacon’s choice not to seek re-election further complicates the party’s chances of retaining control.
Had Bacon opted to run again, analysts suggest he would likely face another difficult election, as many expect a potential blue wave in the upcoming midterms.
“The signs have been evident for months. Residents of Nebraska are weary of empty promises from Republicans and are looking for real results,” said Madison Andras, a spokesperson for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.
“Don Bacon’s decision to step back from the race underscores a lack of confidence in House Republicans and their prospects for the election. Nebraskans seem poised to elect Democrats who will genuinely represent them.”
Bacon, who serves on the House Armed Services Committee, has been one of the Republican voices openly critical of Trump’s stance on Ukraine.
“I have strong feelings about this. It doesn’t matter to me,” Bacon told the Post in March, accusing Trump of echoing “Russian viewpoints” amid the conflict.
“He’s quite weak on Ukraine,” he added bluntly.
His announcement follows news that Senator Tom Tillis (R-NC) has also chosen not to run for re-election in 2026, leaving one of the GOP’s more vulnerable seats open.
