Republicans across Capitol Hill were rocked this week after a key player in the centrist sector of the party announced that he will not seek reelection.

According to Politico, Nebraska Republican Rep. Don Bacon made it clear that he's not seeking reelection and will retire at the end of his term. Two people familiar with his career ambitions confirmed the bombshell news to the outlet. 

While it's not uncommon for members of Congress to announce their retirement, the news comes at a rough time for Republicans, as their House majority isn't quite as comfy as they would like, and Bacon's retirement presents a key pick-up opportunity for Democrats seeking all the extra support they can get.

Bacon happens to represent one of the three Republican-held districts that former Vice President Kamala Harris won during the 2024 election.

What's going on?

The House majority is at stake during the next election cycle, and a majority could be won by a matter of two seats. Bacon's seat is especially vulnerable given the districts he represents, leaving open a prime opportunity for Democrats to snatch it up.

CNBC noted:

With Bacon out, the GOP no longer has an incumbent advantage. The formal announcement could come as early as next week, NBC reported on Friday night. NOTUS and Punchbowl News first reported Bacon’s plans, which are not unexpected.

Even worse for Republicans is that former President Joe Biden carried Bacon's district by an even larger marging than Harris during the 2020 election.

No matter the state of politics, the majority party is always vulnerable anyway during a mid-term election cycle, which could spell disaster for the GOP next year.

🚨 BREAKING: Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) has just announced he will NOT seek re-election in 2026

So long, you anti-Trump RINO!

GTFO! 👋🏻 pic.twitter.com/NqX4xhRLc5

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 27, 2025

Bacon's district covers a majority of Omaha, Nebraska's biggest city.

Social media reacts

Plenty of people weighed in on Bacon's announcement across social media.

"Nancy Pelosi’s happy that Bacon will no longer be raiding her vodka stash," one X user wrote.

Another X user wrote, "Who is coming up to take his place that is better for MAGA?"

Only time will tell if Democrats manage to scoop up the critical seat.