Full Breakdown
Congressional Retirements Ahead of 2026 Midterms
3/7/2026, 9:48:12 PM
Overview of Congressional Departures
As the 2026 midterm elections approach, a significant number of lawmakers in Congress have announced they will not seek reelection. Currently, 63 congressional members, including 39 Republicans, have opted to retire or pursue higher office. This includes 12 senators, representing over 10% of the Senate, marking the highest rate of retirements from both chambers this century.
Notable Retirements
Among the prominent figures stepping down is Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), who, at 86, is the oldest lawmaker to announce his retirement. Hoyer's decision follows that of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who concluded her four-decade career by opting out of the 2026 elections. Other notable retirements include Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), who cited redistricting as a factor in his decision, and Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), who is 88 years old.
The retirements are not limited to the House; several senators are also leaving. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who has faced health issues, announced he would not seek reelection, joining fellow Republicans Joni Ernst (Iowa), Thom Tillis (N.C.), and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) in retirement. On the Democratic side, Senators Dick Durbin (Ill.), Gary Peters (Mich.), Tina Smith (Minn.), and Jeanne Shaheen (N.H.) are also stepping down.
Aspirations for Higher Office
In addition to retirements, many lawmakers are pursuing higher office. A total of 24 House members are running for governor, with notable candidates including Reps. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) and David Schweikert (R-Ariz.). Meanwhile, 13 House members are aiming for Senate positions, including Reps. Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) and Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas).
Historical Context
The current wave of retirements is significant, with 53 members of the House announcing they will not seek reelection, the second-highest number since recordkeeping began nearly a century ago. This figure surpasses the 52 retirements in 2018 but remains below the record of 65 retirements in 1992, according to the Brookings Institution’s Vital Statistics on Congress. The Republican Party currently holds a narrow majority in the House at 218-214 and a 53-47 advantage in the Senate.
Criticism & Opposition
The high number of retirements has raised concerns about the stability and continuity of leadership within Congress. Critics argue that such a significant turnover could lead to a loss of experience and institutional knowledge, potentially impacting legislative effectiveness.
What's Next
As the midterm elections draw closer, the political landscape may continue to shift with additional announcements from lawmakers regarding their electoral intentions. The implications of these retirements and candidacies will likely shape the upcoming elections and the future composition of Congress.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The number of retirements announced in the House this election cycle is the second highest since recordkeeping began nearly a century ago.” — Brookings Institution
- “Republicans hold a razor-thin 218-214 majority in the House.” — Congressional Analysis
