Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) is approaching the end of a significant chapter in his political career. After more than two decades in Congress representing Texas’s 10th district, he has decided not to seek reelection in the upcoming November midterms. In his own words, he has deliberated on his options and concluded, “You can die, you can lose, you can get indicted, or you can go out on top, and that’s door number four.” Embracing the idea of exiting while on a high note, McCaul embodies a seasoned lawmaker with a pragmatic outlook on his legacy.
During his lengthy tenure, McCaul served as the top Republican on both the Foreign Affairs and Homeland Security committees. His roles allowed him to influence crucial national security and foreign policy matters at a time of increasing global challenges. With the rise of threats such as ISIS and the instability in Afghanistan, McCaul expressed pride in his work, saying, “It’s been an honor of a lifetime.” His commitment to national safety included initiatives like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, which he humorously labeled as “fun things to work on.”
Despite his impending retirement, McCaul is eager to maintain an impact in national security. He shared his interest in potentially becoming the U.S. ambassador to Australia, which he believes suits his experience. “Being ambassador to Australia, I think would be a very good fit for me,” he mentioned, highlighting the relevance of his previous work, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region through the AUKUS security pact. McCaul played a pivotal role in establishing this agreement, aimed at countering China’s influence in the Pacific.
As he nears his departure from Congress, McCaul is contemplating various opportunities that could sustain his involvement in national security. He notes that most of the offers he has received are in the intelligence sector or think tanks, allowing him to remain a voice on pivotal issues. “I could still be a relevant voice on the issues I care about,” he stated, emphasizing his desire to contribute meaningfully rather than being weighed down by congressional politics.
Reflecting on his extensive experience, he pointed to significant achievements, especially his work in response to the war in Ukraine following Russia’s invasion. “That emergency wartime supplemental bill was probably the highlight,” he asserted, underlining the belief that without swift assistance, Ukraine could have faced dire consequences. His apprehensions regarding the current isolationist tendencies within the Republican Party serve as a reminder of the ongoing debate around America’s role in global affairs. “I think it’s a very dangerous mentality,” he cautioned, referencing historical parallels to earlier crises.
While he acknowledges that he has had opportunities to advance further, he feels content with what he has accomplished. McCaul stated, “I feel very at peace with this, because I feel like I’m going out on top.” His thoughtful consideration of his future path reflects both pride and resolve. He encapsulated his experiences with a memorable phrase: “I’ll miss the clowns, but I won’t miss the circus.” These words convey a sense of relief and closure, underscoring that, while he may leave the tumultuous environment of Congress behind, his commitment to serving America remains steadfast.
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