Staff Reports
In a closely watched congressional race, U.S. Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska is facing a tough primary election as he seeks reelection. Despite representing the state’s largest city of Omaha, Bacon is not receiving support from the state Republican Party, which has thrown its weight behind his primary challenger. The state party has also declined to endorse any of the other Republican incumbents holding congressional seats in Nebraska.
The divide between Trump loyalists who now control the Nebraska GOP and the more establishment-type Republicans who were previously in charge is becoming more evident. This divide is creating tension within the party and is causing concern for some political observers. Despite the voting records and campaign rhetoric of the incumbents, the state party’s decision stands firm, leading to questions about the party’s unity.
The Nebraska GOP is rejecting all Republican congressional incumbents in Tuesday's primary election https://t.co/GJjaIXsiew
— The Associated Press (@AP) May 14, 2024
The rejection of the state party is expected to impact Bacon’s reelection campaign the most, as he faces a challenge from a candidate positioning himself as more conservative than Bacon. Bacon has defended his record as a “common-sense conservative” who can work across party lines. His campaign believes the party’s decision will not harm his chances for a successful campaign.
The state party explained its decision by stating that the Republican incumbents did not seek their endorsement, while the challengers who received the endorsement did ask for it. A party official emphasized that the move was not solely related to Trump but was a reflection of frustration among Nebraska Republicans with what they perceive as attacks on Trump and the state party’s new direction.
However, not everyone agrees with the state party’s approach. A former state Republican Party official criticized the party’s alignment with Trump, arguing that a political party loyal to one candidate cannot effectively fulfill its purpose of electing candidates with a shared political philosophy. On the other hand, a current party official defended their stance, stating that the party’s goal is to elect Republicans who are committed to upholding the Constitution and advancing conservative principles.
The primary election will test the strength of the Nebraska Republican Party, as its divided endorsements and loyalty to Trump continue to shape the party’s direction and influence the outcome of key races in the state.
