Overview
- In a Face the Nation interview, Rep. Don Bacon said the administration has pursued a negotiation-first approach that has not stopped Russian attacks and that Congress has done little to help Ukraine.
- Bacon accused House leadership of actively blocking meaningful votes on Ukraine aid, saying the Speaker whipped members against measures and that a year and a half has passed with no substantive action.
- He criticized Pentagon and administration rhetoric, including Secretary Hegseth's Normandy comments, and warned such remarks have reduced European partners' trust in U.S. policy toward Russia.
- Bacon urged expanding production of Patriot missile systems with allied partners to replenish low U.S. stockpiles and meet demands from Ukraine, the Middle East and Asia, and welcomed proposals to open new production lines.
- He called the Trump-backed Ken Paxton nomination in Texas a mistake that makes the Senate seat more vulnerable in the general election and noted he is retiring from Congress.