Many members of Congress are choosing to retire at a record pace ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Recent announcements from representatives like Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.) and Mark Amodei (R-Nev.) highlight this trend. Loudermilk wants to focus more on family, while Amodei believes it’s time to pass the torch.
So far, 60 lawmakers—51 from the House and 9 from the Senate—have decided not to seek re-election. This is the highest number of combined retirements we’ve seen in over two decades, according to data from the Brookings Institution. The surge mirrors the situation in 2018, when 52 House members opted out, which contributed to significant losses for the GOP that year.
Reasons for these retirements range from personal to political. Some lawmakers, like Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), are leaving to pursue higher office, while others are simply overwhelmed by the toxic political environment in Congress. “The atmosphere has been anything but normal,” he said, reflecting on his decade in office.
The current political landscape is also pushing many to reconsider their future. Research shows that party dynamics in the House reflect a sense of uncertainty among members. Molly Reynolds from Brookings explains that Congress members weighing the current climate may influence their decisions to retire, particularly in light of the tight majorities expected in the upcoming election.
Meanwhile, social media has become a sounding board for public sentiment around these retirements. Tweets and posts often express concern about the future of Congress, with hashtags like #CongressExit trending as people weigh the implications.
Interestingly, a portion of retirees are looking to ascend to roles in state governments, like the governor’s office. Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) stated he felt his background in business was vital for future state leadership. He and others view these new paths as opportunities rather than signs of defeat.
Gridlock also plays a significant role in the frustrations lawmakers face. Sarah Chamberlain, CEO of the Republican Main Street Partnership, noted challenges such as security concerns and constant partisan strife. For lawmakers like Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine), family safety influences their decisions to leave.
As we look ahead to 2026, these retirements could shift the political landscape significantly. Democrats need to net only a few seats to regain control, and with the current trend, they may find opportunities in traditionally Republican districts, although some argue that many retiring members are not in competitive positions.
Overall, the wave of retirements suggests shifting tides in Congress, as its members seek new challenges or leave due to frustration. The outcome of the upcoming elections will reveal how these changes impact both parties.
For more detailed insights into congressional trends, check out the Brookings Institution’s Vital Statistics on Congress.
