Midterm results: Rep. Don Bacon wins race for Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District
Juliegrace Brufke
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Rep. Don Bacon (R) prevailed in his race against state Sen. Tony Vargas (D) to represent Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District, a coveted swing seat.
Bacon, an Air Force veteran who was first elected in 2016, has faced tough races since coming to Congress, with the seat being just one of seven nonpartisan political handicapper Cook Political Report rates as being even in its Partisan Voting Index.
Both candidates looked to paint their respective opponent as extreme during the course of the race.
Bacon ran heavily on economic issues, arguing that he was better suited to address issues such as inflation and high gas prices. He hit his opponent for his position on tax policy and touted his bipartisan record on the trail. Vargas, a former school teacher, in turn, attacked Bacon on issues including abortion and his stance on healthcare policy.
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Both parties poured money into the race, with Bacon spending $3.3 million and Vargas spending $2.8 million, according to OpenSecrets. GOP outside groups spent a whopping $5.6 million, while Democratic-aligned groups spent $5.2 million.