A record number of House Republicans are leaving Congress to run for governor, driven by frustration with Washington's toxic environment and a desire for greater impact at the state level, amid ongoing partisan gridlock and internal party challenges.
President Trump criticized Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene for her recent criticisms of GOP strategy, amid ongoing political debates including government shutdown negotiations, crypto regulation legislation, and upcoming congressional retirements. The article covers various political developments, legislative efforts, and internal party dynamics.
A record number of U.S. Congress members are not seeking reelection in 2026, with 10 senators and 27 House members announcing retirement or plans to run for different offices, mostly Republicans, amid ongoing redistricting efforts and political shifts.
As a wave of congressional retirements hits the House, current members are urging their departing colleagues to reconsider, warning that their departure will further weaken the institution and leave it in the hands of those ill-equipped to govern. Lawmakers from both parties emphasize the importance of institutional memory and the need for capable, dedicated legislators to preserve democracy and address the challenges facing the country. They appeal to patriotism, ambition, and the duty to serve a cause greater than oneself, urging departing members not to let the "bad guys" win and to stay and fight for a better future.
A surge of congressional retirements in the past three weeks is set to surpass previous cycles, potentially impacting the balance of power in Congress. The retirements deprive parties of experienced fundraisers and vote-getters, injecting uncertainty into the tight battles for control of each chamber in the 2024 elections. Democrats have already lost key seats in West Virginia and swing districts, while Republicans face challenges in maintaining their narrow majority in the House. The retirements reflect a tumultuous and dispiriting period on Capitol Hill, with some members questioning the worth of serving in Congress. The upcoming retirements could further influence the political environment and the likelihood of party turnover in open seats.