Rep. Don Bacon’s decision not to seek re-election highlights a broader trend among U.S. House members. Over the past several months, 36 members have chosen to leave, marking a significant shift in Congress. Bacon, a retired Air Force general, expressed a common feeling among these lawmakers: “the fire wasn’t there anymore.” His reluctance to continue after significant wins in previous elections reflects growing frustration. It’s not just the number of retirements that stands out, but the implications they might have for the upcoming midterm elections.
David Wasserman, a senior editor at The Cook Report, notes the unusual pace of these retirement announcements. He points out that historically, many members opt to step aside in the months leading up to an election. With both parties featuring retirements—21 Republicans and 15 Democrats—this shift could alter the balance of power in the House, which currently hangs by a delicate thread.
Among the departing members, some are seasoned veterans in their twilight years, like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Yet many younger lawmakers, such as Rep. Jodey Arrington and moderate Democrat Jared Golden, are also stepping down. Arrington’s sentiment captures a growing disillusionment among members: “public office is and should be a temporary stint in stewardship.” Golden articulates a similar sentiment, stating that he has grown “tired of the increasing incivility and plain nastiness” that has become part of the political landscape. This dissatisfaction isn’t just personal; it points to a larger issue within Congress.
Bacon echoed Golden’s concerns. He reflected on the discouragement that comes with pursuing a victory in a bitterly polarized environment. “If it feels like it’s a little bit depressing to win, then better let somebody else run,” he remarked. Bacon’s remarks suggest a collective weariness with partisanship that has soured the spirit of public service for many. This trend could signify a significant shift in how future members view their roles in government.
Former Rep. Annie Kuster shared similar thoughts on the dysfunction within Congress. Her experience over 12 years painted a picture of a Congress that is “much more fractured, partisan, less congenial.” This reflects a growing challenge for lawmakers aiming to collaborate across party lines. As Kuster pointed out, the departure of moderates leads to an environment dominated by “hard right partisans,” further complicating cooperation.
Bacon’s humorous description of being “stuck in the middle” between extremes highlights the tension that has characterized recent years in Congress. It’s a stark reminder that political identity is often defined by the extremes on either end of the spectrum, leaving moderates like him feeling isolated.
The motivations behind the decision to retire also vary significantly. While some are stepping away for personal reasons or to pursue other opportunities, others feel a lack of effectiveness in their roles. Wasserman suggested that many Republicans sense little will be accomplished in the near future, especially with President Trump’s second-term agenda looming over Congress. With new dynamics at play, some may see a better chance to effect change outside of their current roles.
Bacon remains cautiously optimistic. Despite the alarming wave of retirements, he believes new faces could bring fresh perspectives to Congress. “When folks move on, new people move in, and I know there’s good people out there,” he stated. This outlook, while tempered by the realities of partisan struggles, reflects hope for rejuvenation in the political landscape.
Ultimately, the growing number of anticipated retirements may set the stage for significant shifts in both party composition and legislative priorities. The moderate voices that characterized earlier congressional sessions appear to be dwindling, while the trends observed signal a Congress that may need to reevaluate its working environment. As members like Bacon leave, the question remains: who and what will fill the void they leave behind?
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