At least a dozen Republican members of Congress have expressed their intentions to leave their seats, signaling major turnover in the 2024 election.
On Tuesday, Congressman Larry Bucshon (R-IN) is the latest to announce his retirement, stating, “It became clear to me over the Christmas holiday … that the time has come to bring my season in public service to a conclusion,” as reported by Axios.
Indiana GOP lawmaker Larry Bucshon will retire once his term is up next year. At least 11 other Republican lawmakers have revealed they are retiring in 2024. https://t.co/mbBPByuSuC pic.twitter.com/ZBQhvgaL3L
— The Hill (@thehill) January 8, 2024
His decision follows earlier retirement announcements by Reps. Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MI) and Doug Lamborn (R-CO) last week. Other departures include Rep. John Curtis (R-UT), who is vying for the vacant Senate seat in Utah, and Rep. Bill Johnson (R-OH), leaving for the the position of president at Youngstown State University. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) will also leave Congress later this month.
These congressmen hold secure Republican seats, presenting a chance for more conservative voices to emerge. The House’s future ahead of the November elections remains uncertain, with Republicans aiming to retain or expand their slim majority. Democrats are also dealing with numerous resignations, indicating increased efforts on both sides to influence primary elections in safe seats.
President Trump’s strong position in the polls has pulled House GOP leadership firmly into his sphere. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), and Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) have all recently announced their endorsements of Trump.
In an election cycle marked by an unusually high number of congressional retirements, House Republicans are facing a burst of new retirement announcements as they return from the holiday recess. https://t.co/NGE4FlHKTf
— Axios (@axios) January 9, 2024