Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) stated on Sunday that President Donald Trump was "being honest" when characterizing rising gasoline prices as a necessary cost of preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. During an interview on CBS News' "Face the Nation," Bacon noted that while the president previously set "false expectations" for a quick resolution to the five-and-a-half-month-old war with Iran, he is now leveling with the American people about a "longer term fight." Bacon, who is not seeking re-election, urged the administration to maintain a strict naval blockade to further pressure the Iranian economy.
The representative's comments come amid domestic economic pressure and ongoing military operations in the Middle East. President Trump stated on Friday that gasoline prices reaching $4 per gallon were acceptable to ensure that Iran, which he described as the "number one state sponsor of terror," does not acquire nuclear capabilities. Bacon supported the strategic goal but critiqued the president's earlier rhetoric, which suggested a diplomatic deal or military victory could be achieved in one or two months.
Bacon also addressed concerns regarding U.S. military readiness and personnel welfare. He expressed concern over reported shortages of Patriot missiles and cruise missiles, noting the president claimed to be unaware of these deficits. Additionally, Bacon critiqued the president's dismissive response to the nine-month deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln, where living conditions have drawn scrutiny. The USS George Washington is currently scheduled to replace the Lincoln in the region.
For the approximately 1.3 million active-duty U.S. service members and their families, the conflict has resulted in extended maritime deployments. The crew of the USS Abraham Lincoln has spent more than nine months at sea, a duration Bacon noted is difficult for families to endure. These operational tempos are occurring alongside reported shortages in critical munitions, such as Patriot air defense missiles and cruise missiles, which may affect the strategic capabilities of the Navy and Air Force in future engagements. Bacon indicated that congressional oversight of these shortages and naval conditions would begin when lawmakers return to Washington, D.C.
The policy direction of the Republican Party also remains a point of internal debate as the midterm elections approach. A recent CBS News poll found that 58% of registered voters describe the party as "extreme." Bacon, identifying as a moderate, suggested the party could reclaim middle-ground voters by revising its stance on global tariffs and increasing support for Ukraine, which he stated is backed by 70% of Americans. The next major step for these issues will be the return of Congress on August 31, 2026, where Bacon expects testimony from the Secretary of the Navy and service chiefs regarding military readiness and personnel welfare.
Congress will resume its session on August 31, 2026, at which time Bacon anticipates hearings regarding weapon shortages and naval oversight. The transition between the USS Abraham Lincoln and the USS George Washington is currently underway. No specific dates for potential tariff reviews or additional Ukraine aid votes were provided in the report.