House Republicans face growing exodus as dozens announce departures

The U.S. House Republican Conference is confronting a mounting wave of departures, with more than two dozen GOP lawmakers already announcing they will leave their seats at the end of the current term. The trend is expected to continue as members return home for the holiday recess, raising concerns about the party’s ability to defend its narrow majority in the 2026 midterm elections.

Republican exits traditionally rise during midterm cycles, but the current pace is nearing 2018 levels—when the party lost control of the House. According to The Hill, 23 Republican lawmakers are retiring or seeking other offices, while four have chosen to resign. By comparison, 17 Democrats are departing or running for different positions.

The most prominent exit came from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), who stunned Capitol Hill by announcing she will resign effective 5 January 2026, citing frustrations with her party’s approach to health care, foreign policy and governance.

The departing group spans the party’s ideological spectrum—from conservatives such as Texas Reps. Chip Roy, Jodey Arrington and Michael McCaul, to moderates like Rep. Don Bacon (Neb.), who represents a competitive district now rated as leaning Democratic.

Analysts say retirements, internal tensions and legislative dysfunction are driving the exodus. Several departing members publicly voiced frustration with gridlock, political pressure and a perception that House Republicans simply rubber-stamp decisions made by party leadership and President Donald Trump.

Others emphasised personal reasons: long absences from home, demanding schedules and the strain of representing swing districts.

The electoral impact remains uncertain. Most Republicans stepping down hold safe red seats, but a handful of competitive districts—including those held by Bacon and Rep. David Schweikert (R-Ariz.)—could help determine control of the chamber in 2026. Redistricting battles underway in multiple states add further complications for both parties.

Despite the concerns, some Republican lawmakers argue the turnover could be healthy, opening the way for new candidates and “fresh blood” to enter Congress.

By Vugar Khalilov