Politics

Republican Retirements Put House Majority at Risk

By Jake Beardslee · December 20, 2025

An unusually high number of members of the U.S. House of Representatives have announced plans to retire ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, raising new concerns for Republican leaders attempting to hold onto their narrow House majority.

Roughly 40 lawmakers have said they will not seek reelection, marking the largest wave of House retirements in more than a decade. The group includes approximately two dozen Republicans and more than 15 Democrats, creating volatility for both parties as they prepare for the next election cycle.

Among the most prominent Republicans stepping aside are Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia and Mark Green of Tennessee. The loss of high-profile incumbents could complicate GOP efforts to defend competitive districts, particularly given the party’s slim margin in the chamber.

Retirements among younger Republicans have drawn particular attention. Rep. Troy Nehls of Texas has endorsed his twin brother as his successor, a move that has received backing from President Donald Trump. Speaking about his endorsement, Nehls said, “I’ve got this guy. He’s a good-looking guy. He looks a lot like me.”

On the Democratic side, several senior lawmakers are also preparing to exit Congress. At the same time, a number of older incumbents in both parties have yet to clarify their plans, adding to uncertainty as the midterms approach.

Lawmakers’ decisions are also being shaped by impending redistricting in major states such as Texas and California. The redrawing of congressional maps is expected to influence which seats are considered competitive and could significantly reshape the balance of power in the House.