Key Congressional Retirements Ahead of 2026 Midterms: An Overview

Mon Dec 08 2025 21:32:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

With the midterm elections approaching, several U.S. House members from both major parties have announced their retirement or candidacies for higher office. This shift could impact party dynamics and the pursuit of power in Congress.

As the 2026 midterm elections draw near, numerous representatives in Congress have declared their intention to retire or pursue higher political positions. The outcome of these announcements is crucial as they may reshape the political landscape, particularly for the Republican Party, which holds a slim majority in the House. For Democrats, these retirements could signify opportunities to regain control. An overview of key retirements and candidacies highlights potential shifts in party power dynamics.

Ahead of the crucial midterm elections of 2026, a wave of retirements and announcements to run for higher offices has been observed among members of Congress. This trend, common in midterm cycles, carries significant implications for the political landscape as both major parties strategize to either maintain or regain control over the U.S. House.

Historical data reveals that party members often face challenges during midterm elections, particularly those currently holding the presidency. With Republicans controlling a thin margin in the House, the retirement of key GOP figures, many of whom have been influential supporters of former President Donald Trump, could alter the party's legislative agenda ahead of the elections.

Furthermore, retirements among Democrats present an opportunity for the party to act strategically in attempting to reclaim power in the House. Observers point to these congressional retirements as critical indicators of the potential churn on Capitol Hill and the shifting tides of political loyalty and ambition.

Currently, numerous representatives have declared they will not seek reelection or are shifting to new political roles. Among those announcing their exits are:

Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas

Date of announcement: Nov. 29, 2025 - Reason: Retiring. Nehls has served three terms and plans to endorse his twin brother for his seat.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga.

Date of announcement: Nov. 21, 2025 - Reason: Resigning. Greene's announcement marks a significant transformation from her past support of Trump.

Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif.

Date of announcement: Nov. 21, 2025 - Reason: Running for governor. Swalwell transitions from congressional duties to aiming for the state's highest office.

Rep. Nydia Velázquez, D-N.Y.

Date of announcement: Nov. 20, 2025 - Reason: Retiring. A veteran lawmaker and progressive mentor, Velázquez calls for generational change.

Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Texas

Date of announcement: Nov. 11, 2025 - Reason: Retiring. Chair of the House Budget Committee, Arrington has played pivotal roles in budgeting.

As more representatives announce their intentions, the stakes continue to rise, marking a challenging path ahead for both major parties as they navigate the implications of these departures and candidates.