Over 40 Lawmakers Announce Departures Ahead of 2026 Midterms

As the countdown to the 2026 midterm elections begins, more than 40 members of Congress have publicly declared that they will not seek reelection. This significant wave of departures includes both House and Senate members, marking what could be one of the largest exoduses in recent political history. The trend raises questions about the stability of the Republican Party, particularly as President Donald Trump faces historically low approval ratings.

Currently, the Republicans hold a narrow majority in the House of Representatives, with a seat count of 219–213. The upcoming elections present a critical opportunity for Democrats, who aim to reclaim control of the chamber amid ongoing redistricting battles that could influence congressional maps prior to November. In total, 39 members of the House have announced they will not run for reelection, with seven choosing to depart before their terms end. Furthermore, eight senators have declared their intention to step down, matching the number from the previous election cycle and representing the highest level since 2012.

The current number of House departures is approaching the figures of recent cycles, which saw 45 departures in 2024, 49 in 2022, and 36 in 2020. With several months remaining before the elections, this number could continue to rise.

Full List of Lawmakers Not Seeking Reelection

Several prominent figures have announced their retirement or intention to pursue other offices. In the Senate, notable retirements include:

– Senator Joni Ernst (Iowa)
– Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
– Senator Thom Tillis (North Carolina)
– Senator Mitch McConnell (Kentucky)

In the House, retirements include:

– Representative Tom Tiffany (Wisconsin) – running for governor
– Representative Ashley Hinson (Iowa) – running for the Senate
– Representative Andy Biggs (Arizona) – launching a gubernatorial campaign
– Representative Nancy Mace (South Carolina) – retiring for gubernatorial aspirations

The list of lawmakers choosing not to seek reelection spans both parties, with familiar names among the Democrats as well.

In the Senate, the following Democrats are stepping down:

– Senator Nancy Pelosi (California)
– Senator Tina Smith (Minnesota)
– Senator Jeanne Shaheen (New Hampshire)
– Senator Dick Durbin (Illinois)

Several House Democrats are also retiring, including:

– Representative Angie Craig (Minnesota) – running for the U.S. Senate
– Representative Lloyd Doggett (Texas)
– Representative Robin Kelly (Illinois) – seeking a Senate seat
– Representative Seth Moulton (Massachusetts) – retiring to run for the Senate

This wave of departures, particularly among high-profile figures, creates a shift in the political landscape. As both parties prepare for the elections, they will need to navigate the implications of these retirements and the potential for reshaping the congressional balance of power.

In a statement on Truth Social, President Trump expressed confidence in the Republican Party’s prospects, stating, “We should win the Midterm Elections in RECORD NUMBERS.” His comments highlight the contrasting perspectives within the party as it approaches this pivotal election cycle.

With the landscape of Congress changing rapidly, the 2026 midterm elections will be a critical moment for both parties. The decisions of these lawmakers may influence voter sentiment and shape the political agenda in the years to come. As the election date draws closer, all eyes will be on the evolving dynamics within Congress.