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Congress Faces Aging Exodus Amid Calls for Experience

1/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other senior lawmakers are leaving Congress.
Many older members plan to run again in 2026.
The current Congress is the third-oldest in U.S. history, averaging 58.9 years.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, 92, and Rep. Maxine Waters, 88, argue that experience benefits constituents.
Rep. Danny Davis, 84, cites health concerns as a reason to retire.

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Story summary

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other senior lawmakers are leaving Congress.
Many older members plan to run again in 2026.
The current Congress is the third-oldest in U.S. history, averaging 58.9 years.
Sen. Chuck Grassley, 92, and Rep. Maxine Waters, 88, argue that experience benefits constituents.
Rep. Danny Davis, 84, cites health concerns as a reason to retire.