GOP Purging Themselves Of Toxic Lawmakers?
Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., recently shared his thoughts on the future of the Republican Party in the House of Representatives, offering a candid reflection on the new Congress. According to Bacon, the GOP will be “better off” without certain members who have often created friction within the party, hinting that their absence will help foster a more unified and cohesive Republican majority moving forward.
Though he didn’t name names, Bacon suggested that some of the most outspoken and contentious figures within the party—such as Reps. Matt Rosendale of Montana, Bob Good of Virginia, and Matt Gaetz of Florida—would no longer be part of the equation. These members were known for their challenges to GOP leadership, often creating disruptions that hindered progress and unity. Bacon expressed optimism that their absence will lead to a smoother, more effective working environment within the party, even though the GOP’s majority in the House will be smaller than in the previous two years.
Following the results of the 2024 elections, Republicans hold a slim 220-215 majority in the House, though the balance of power is further complicated by a few vacancies, particularly as some Republicans left to take roles in the Trump administration. Special elections are expected to fill these vacant seats, but for now, the GOP’s lead is precariously thin at 217-215.
Despite the narrow majority, Bacon is hopeful that the new makeup of the House will inspire a more bipartisan approach to governing. He emphasized that with such a small margin of control, Republicans will need to work across the aisle to pass meaningful legislation. Bacon also noted the challenges in the Senate, where Republicans have a 53-47 majority, and where reaching across the aisle will be necessary to secure the votes needed for key legislation.
“I think we need to govern from the center-right, not from the far-right, if we want to pass meaningful laws and keep the country moving forward,” Bacon stated. His vision for the new Congress reflects a belief in pragmatic, results-driven leadership that prioritizes unity and effective governance over ideological purity.
