Retirements and Departures: A Shift in Congressional Landscape Ahead of Midterms

Mon Dec 08 2025 20:14:54 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As midterm elections approach, both parties brace for significant changes in the U.S. House with numerous members deciding to retire or pursue higher office, signaling a potentially tumultuous electoral cycle ahead.

With the midterm elections on the horizon, many members of Congress from both parties are announcing their plans to retire or run for higher office. This trend indicates possible shifts in power dynamics and provides opportunities for new candidates as the parties prepare for the 2026 elections. Notable retirements include established figures like Nancy Pelosi and Eric Swalwell, reshaping the political landscape.

Ahead of next year’s midterms, a number of members from both major parties have announced their intention to leave Congress, either to seek higher office or to retire. These departures could significantly impact party dynamics and the upcoming elections.

Midterm elections are known to be challenging for the party of the sitting president, and with Republicans holding a slim majority in the U.S. House, the anticipated departures of certain GOP members could complicate their efforts to maintain control.

For Democrats, these retirements present opportunities to reclaim seats and possibly regain control of the House. Each announced departure acts as a bellwether for potential changes on Capitol Hill ahead of the elections.

Here’s a selection of notable announcements:

Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas

Date of announcement: Nov. 29, 2025
Reason: Retiring

Nehls confirmed he would not seek reelection after three terms, endorsing his brother Trever for his seat.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga.

Date of announcement: Nov. 21, 2025
Reason: Resigning

Greene announced she would resign from Congress in January 2026 after a notable shift in her relationship with Trump.

Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif.

Date of announcement: Nov. 21, 2025
Reason: Running for governor

Swalwell is entering a competitive gubernatorial race in California, leaving his congressional seat open.

Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.

Date of announcement: Nov. 6, 2025
Reason: Retiring

The first female Speaker of the House announced her retirement after a historic career spanning nearly 40 years.

These retirements reflect broader trends of changing political ambitions among lawmakers and signify a crucial time for both parties as they strategize for 2026.