Rep. Don Bacon said he is considering a bid for the White House in 2028 as he prepares to leave Congress next year. The Nebraska Republican, who has previously floated interest in a presidential run, told an interview scheduled to be released in full on Saturday that he would “love” to seek the Republican nomination. “I won’t lie. Yes, I would love to,” Bacon said on the “Our Republican Legacy” podcast. He added that he would also be open to serving as a running mate or in a supporting role if the ticket offered an alignment with his priorities. “But I would also be happy to be the right-hand man or left-hand man to someone else that has the same values.” Leaving Congress And Keeping Options OpenBacon is set to depart the House of Representatives in January after deciding not to seek re-election in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District, a seat he had held since 2017. With his departure approaching, he said he wanted to remain involved in national politics, regardless of whether he is the leading candidate. He indicated that he is looking to join a wider team effort, arguing that the United States requires what he described as the “values” he believes should guide the country. “I do definitely want to be on a team, whether I’m the lead or part of the team, fighting for these values for our country,” Bacon said. He added that he believes those values are needed and are still being sought by the electorate. Christian Values And A Call For DecencyIn discussing what he would want from the next Republican presidential nominee, Bacon said he expects a focus on decency and what he described as Christian principles. Bacon said he wanted leadership that sets an example of decency and “humanity,” and that reflects Christian values found in the Gospels, including how people should conduct themselves. His remarks framed the issue as one of character and conduct, rather than policy specifics, while signalling the kind of candidate he thinks could appeal to voters within his party. Previous Interest In A White House BidBacon indicated that his interest in a White House campaign has been present for some time. He said he would like to keep serving if an opening arises. Shortly after announcing his retirement last year, Bacon told NBC News that if an opportunity presented itself and he believed he could make a meaningful contribution, he would consider it. At the time, his comments suggested a willingness to return to politics at the national level if a race aligned with his goals. Early Attention On 2028 ContendersThe exchange comes as early attention has begun to turn toward the 2028 Republican presidential field. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have been discussed as possible top contenders, according to wider speculation following the latest political developments. Bacon has also been known to break with President Donald Trump at times, particularly on foreign policy and national security issues, despite belonging to the Republican Party. Join the discussion? 12 September 2026
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