The Gist BLT: Bacon, Lettuce, and Todd
May 10, 2025
Don Bacon, a retired Air Force General and U.S. Representative for Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District, dives into the complexities of political representation in today’s landscape. He discusses the impact of redistricting and proposes reducing district sizes to combat gerrymandering. The challenges of campaigning during the pandemic are explored, highlighting the shift to digital tools and community engagement. Bacon also reflects on his nuanced relationship with the Trump voter base and the necessity of political reform for a healthier democracy.
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Chuck Todd on Expanding the House
- Chuck Todd argues for doubling the House to make representatives closer to their communities and reduce the outsized influence of sparsely populated states.
- Expanding the House would decrease gerrymandering and reform the Electoral College ratio without a constitutional amendment.
Don Bacon on COVID-19 Challenges
- Don Bacon recalls the COVID-19 impact hitting meatpacking plants and nursing homes severely in Nebraska during early 2020.
- He focused on constituent services and volunteering instead of typical campaigning due to the pandemic restrictions.
Digital Fundraising Advantage in Pandemic
- Don Bacon explains Democrats hold an advantage in digital fundraising during COVID-19 due to more advanced networks.
- Incumbents have an edge through official capacity work reaching constituents virtually despite campaign challenges.