A Disquieting Trend: Why Congress is Losing Its Members

The Mounting Exodus from Congress

The political arena of Congress, historically regarded as a prestigious final destination for many lawmakers, is undergoing a seismic shift. In the lead-up to the 2026 midterm elections, we're witnessing a significant number of retirements and non-reelection decisions, particularly among a Congress that is already one of the oldest in recent history.

Recent reports indicate that a staggering 63 lawmakers have announced they will not seek reelection. Alarmingly, 54 of these are from the House of Representatives, representing the highest rate of announced retirements since 1992. In the Senate, we're seeing notable exits as well, with nine incumbents choosing not to continue, marking the highest turnover rate since 2012. What's driving this exodus?

Political Violence as a Factor

One of the foremost reasons cited for this disquieting trend is the growing fear among lawmakers regarding political violence. The U.S. Capitol Police recently released a concerning report indicating that threats against lawmakers and their families surged from nearly 9,500 cases in 2024 to approximately 15,000 in 2025.

“As a father, I have to consider whether the good I can achieve outweighs everything my family endures as a result,” stated Representative Jared Golden, a Democrat from Maine, when announcing his decision to not seek reelection.

This newfound climate of fear is undeniably altering the decision-making calculus for many legislators, leading them to opt for a more secure and less tumultuous career path.

Looking Beyond Party Lines

Political affiliations also play a critical role in this mass exodus. Within the Republican Party, the influence of former President Donald Trump remains a compelling factor. His sway over the party is echoed in the retirements of significant figures such as Marjorie Taylor Greene and Dan Newhouse, who opted to leave rather than contend with difficult primary challengers. Their exits illustrate not just a departure from Congress but a circumvention of the polarizing forces that persist within the GOP.

John Kasich, the former Governor of Ohio, encapsulated this dynamic: “To be a Republican means you must pay homage to Trump. Those who don't are finding fewer and fewer allies in what was once their own party.” This sentiment is palpable in the shifts we observe within the political landscape today.

Generational Fractures and Changing Voter Sentiment

Another pertinent factor contributing to the departure of these seasoned legislators is the dissatisfaction among voters with the aging political elite. After President Biden's tumultuous reelection bid left many Democrats feeling disillusioned, a clarion call for generational change is resonating strongly with the electorate.

“Watching the Biden thing really said something about the necessity for generational change in the party,” admitted Representative Jerrold Nadler, indicating that voter fatigue with older leaders is palpable.

The burgeoning generational divide is compelling long-standing legislators to reassess their positions amidst a shift towards new, younger leadership.

Dysfunction as a Deterrent

The narrative surrounding Congress is also marred by perceptions of dysfunction and ineffectiveness. Lawmakers have candidly expressed frustration over the challenges posed by polarization, which has stymied essential governance and funding efforts. The Congress that once represented the pinnacle of American political ambition is now regarded by some as an exasperating and disjointed institution.

“Leaders willing to embrace bipartisanship are becoming an endangered species,” noted Senator Thom Tillis, underscoring the increasingly untenable work environment.

With this backdrop, it's no wonder that many lawmakers are choosing to exit rather than endure continued frustration.

What Lies Ahead?

As Congress prepares for the anticipated midterm elections amid this unprecedented wave of retirements, the broader implications for governance and policy-making remain to be seen. Will we witness a call for rejuvenation and transformation in legislative priorities, or will the continued polarization lead to even greater disunity?

Whatever the outcome, I believe we must closely monitor these developments. They resonate far beyond the walls of Capitol Hill, echoing a need for dialogue and action that champions both governance and the electorate's evolving needs.