OMAHA, Neb. – In a Tuesday afternoon press call, Rep. Don Bacon, who is preparing to leave the U.S. House after ten years of service, said he may entertain a presidential run in 2028 if no other candidate emerges.
Message Focused on National Issues
When KMTV’s Mary Nelson asked whether he was still weighing a bid for the nation’s highest office, Bacon responded that he is not announcing a campaign but will use an upcoming speech at the Press Club to lay out an agenda for America. He said the agenda would center on four core ideas: immigration, health care, national security and the national debt.
“I am convinced in my heart that if we want to remain the superpower of the world, the economic engine of the world, we have to solve this debt crisis and make tough decisions,” Bacon said. “I want to see leadership stand in this country. I am an American, and I want to ensure America is prepared for the next ten, twenty, thirty years.”
Willingness to Work Across the Aisle
Bacon stressed his willingness to work with both parties to address what he called “looming issues.” He added that he feels a growing public demand for decisive action, noting, “I talk with people and they’re like, why is nobody dealing with this stuff? We’re too busy beating each other up and we’ll end up in second or third place in the world.”
He clarified his stance on a potential campaign, saying, “That’s not a no, but that’s not a yes. If Americans like this message and I sense a demand for it, and nobody else steps up, I’m an American patriot and I want our country to succeed.”
Historical Context and Personal Decision
Bacon acknowledged that a sitting member of the House rarely runs for president, noting that the last successful example was James Garfield in 1880. He also reminded listeners that he has represented Nebraska’s 2nd District since 2017 and announced earlier this year that he will not seek a sixth term.
While he did not commit to a campaign, Bacon’s remarks suggest he is positioning himself as a potential alternative for voters who feel current leadership is insufficient on key issues.
Local Reaction
Local constituents and political observers in Omaha and across Nebraska have expressed curiosity about the possibility of a Nebraska‑born candidate on the national stage. Some see Bacon’s willingness to consider a run as a sign of confidence in the state’s conservative values and its tradition of strong, faith‑centered leadership.
As the 2028 election cycle unfolds, Bacon’s comments will likely be monitored by both supporters and critics, especially as the nation grapples with rising prices, ongoing foreign conflicts, and debates over fiscal responsibility.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
