Some members feel they’ve reached the right time to retire. Others want to focus on their health or spend more time with family. And for many, the increasingly difficult work environment has become a deciding factor.
Taken together, these personal and political considerations explain why Lawmakers are departing Congress at a historically high rate ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The trend continued last week as two more House Republicans announced their decisions to step away from Capitol Hill.
Recent Announcements Add to Growing List
Rep. Barry Loudermilk of Georgia revealed he would retire to dedicate more time to his family. Shortly afterward, Rep. Mark Amodei of Nevada confirmed he would not seek another term, saying it was the right moment for both himself and his state to “pass the torch.”
With these announcements, a total of 60 members of Congress have chosen not to run for re-election this cycle — including 51 representatives and nine senators. According to historical data from the Brookings Institution, this marks the highest combined number of retirements from both chambers in any election cycle this century. The figure includes those leaving politics entirely as well as lawmakers pursuing other offices, but excludes those who resigned or passed away during the current term.
House Departures Near Recent Peak
The number of House retirements is approaching the modern high of 52 set in 2018 — a challenging year for Republicans. Similar to that cycle, more House Republicans than Democrats are stepping aside in 2026.
Lawmakers leave for a range of reasons. Personal concerns such as health challenges, long commutes, and family obligations often play a role. Others are motivated by political opportunities, including campaigns for higher office or concerns about serving in the minority. For some, the day-to-day frustrations of Congress itself have become a major factor.
Seeking New Opportunities — and an Escape from Toxic Politics
More than two dozen House members are leaving to pursue higher office. Among them is Democratic Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, who is running for an open Senate seat in Illinois. He described the move as a chance to have a greater impact on issues like accountability, economic opportunity, and affordability.
Krishnamoorthi also pointed to the increasingly combative political climate as a reason many colleagues are reconsidering their futures. After a decade in Congress, he said the intense partisanship, personal attacks, and constant political tension have made the environment far from what many expected.
Retirement for Generational Change and Personal Limits
Some departures reflect a desire for leadership turnover. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, 81, said she believes it is time to step aside and allow a new generation to take over. While she expects Democrats to perform well in the upcoming elections, she acknowledged that the current political environment also influenced her decision.
For others, the relentless workload and campaign cycle have taken a toll. Former Rep. Don Bacon cited the demanding schedule — long workdays, weekend events, and nonstop campaigning — as a key reason he chose not to continue.
Reading the Political Signals
Retirements often provide insight into how lawmakers view the upcoming electoral landscape. Political analysts note that members in the majority may leave if they fear losing control in the next cycle. In 2018, for example, a large wave of Republican retirements preceded significant GOP losses.
The 2026 elections could prove competitive again. Republicans currently hold a narrow House majority, while Democrats need only a few seats to regain control. So far, 30 House Republicans and 21 Democrats have announced retirements. In the Senate, the split is nearly even, with five Republicans and four Democrats stepping down.
Republican strategists, however, argue that many GOP departures reflect ambition rather than concern, as several members are running for governor or Senate seats — particularly in states with open races due to term limits or retirements.
A Difficult Workplace Driving Decisions
Beyond electoral strategy, the realities of congressional life are pushing some lawmakers out. Tight margins have contributed to persistent gridlock, making it harder to pass legislation. Security concerns have also grown, with threats against members and their families becoming an increasing worry.
Rep. Jared Golden of Maine cited family safety as a major factor in his decision not to seek re-election, noting that threats had forced his family to temporarily leave their home.
Midterm Impact: Limited but Significant
Despite the large number of departures, only a small portion of open House seats are considered competitive. Most retiring members represent districts that strongly favor one party. Still, a handful of vacancies — especially in swing districts — could influence the balance of power.
Both parties are already framing the retirements to their advantage. Democrats argue the exits signal concern among Republicans about losing the majority, while GOP leaders maintain they are expanding their opportunities and competing aggressively.
Pressure for Renewal Within Both Parties
Many of the retirements also reflect internal party dynamics. Democrats, in particular, have faced growing calls from their base for younger leadership and fresh voices following recent national election setbacks. Several longtime figures have chosen to step aside, signaling a broader shift toward generational change.
Veteran lawmakers such as Rep. Jerry Nadler have acknowledged that the political moment demands renewal, saying recent events underscored the importance of leadership transition within the party.
As the 2026 midterms approach, the unusually high number of exits highlights the personal strain, political uncertainty, and shifting expectations shaping life in Washington. Whether driven by opportunity, exhaustion, or the desire for change, one thing is clear: Lawmakers are departing Congress at a historically high rate, and their decisions could help shape the balance of power for years to come.
