Dear John,

On this Thanksgiving Day, I reflect on the many blessings and freedoms we have today, and praise God that we live in the greatest country in the world. Thanksgiving is a special holiday for me. It was my mom’s favorite holiday, and she went through great efforts to make each Thanksgiving special. She passed away 16 years ago and at an age too young. Thus, a part of my Thanksgiving is remembering those who made great impacts in my life, many who are no longer here. It is also a time to be grateful for new friends and family members. We’re now up to seven grandkids, and an eighth is on the way! It is also my prayer that I can make a positive impact in each of their lives.

I also give thanks to the men and women who serve and protect our country. We salute them for defending our nation and sacrificing their time with loved ones to protect, care for, and serve ours. My family, and millions across the U.S. are eternally grateful for their service, especially during the holiday season. As a retired brigadier general who served 16 assignments, I understand the difficulty of being away from families during these special times. We are reminded that freedom is never free, and the sacrifice made by those in uniform is never taken for granted. I was deployed to the Middle East for Thanksgiving in 2002 and 2007. I will always remember how the military really tried hard to make Thanksgiving special for us. While I was grateful for their efforts, we all knew our hearts were home with our families.

Next, I acknowledge that many more are struggling with expenses this year. The price of food is growing much faster than our wages. The rising prices of gas, groceries, and utilities has hurt families across Nebraska, and Thanksgiving looks very different than what families planned. The rising cost of living has impacted everyone, and this just emphasizes the importance of protecting our economy, so that we can provide better for the next generation. I love how Americans are generous people and many are helping those who are having a hard time affording Thanksgiving dinner.

This season I also reflect on the families who have been impacted by the devastating effects of fentanyl…much of it coming through our unprotected borders, which our border patrol tries to secure to the best of their abilities and resources. I have met people right here in Omaha who have lost family, friends, or coworkers this year from this drug. Omaha has seen a 400% increase in fentanyl overdoses the last two years and it is a scourge that is hitting us nationwide.

As we prepare for the next Congress, I am committed to combatting inflation by limiting excessive federal spending, increasing domestic energy production, keeping communities safe from fentanyl by securing our borders, and strengthening our military so we are equipped to handle any threats that may arise.

My prayers continue to be with you and your family. I am thankful to have the opportunity to represent this district. I wish you all a very blessed and Happy Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,

Don Bacon