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Record 36 House Republicans Retire Ahead of 2026 Midterms Following Sam Graves Announcement

House Republican Retirement Trends·March 27 – March 28, 2026
Photo: Newsweek

20 days ago

Record 36 House Republicans Retire Ahead of 2026 Midterms Following Sam Graves Announcement

Representative Sam Graves (R-MO) announced he will leave Congress at the end of his term. His decision brings the total number of House Republicans retiring before the midterm elections to 36 Sam Graves adds to record number. This is a record high for the party. Many lawmakers cite legislative gridlock and institutional dysfunction as the primary reasons for their departure House Republicans flee Congress. The current wave of retirements is one of the fastest since 1930. It matches the high rates seen during the first term of the Trump administration House Republicans, an Exodus. As these seats open up, Democrats are organizing campaign strategies to gain influence in the upcoming 2026 elections Democrats are trying to connect the dots.
Sam Graves adds to record number of House Republicans exiting pre-midtermsHouse Republicans flee Congress in record numbers amid growing dysfunctionFor House Republicans, an Exodus Rivaled Only By Trump's First Term

Key Statements

TThe Hill

“Thirty-six House Republicans announce retirements or departures at the end of their terms, a record number attributed to legislative gridlock.”

Provides the specific count of retiring members and the primary reason for their departure.

TThe New York Times

“House Republicans are retiring at one of the highest rates since 1930, citing institutional dysfunction and political calculations.”

Establishes the historical significance of the current retirement trend.

News

Sam Graves adds to record number of House Republicans exiting pre-midterms

newsweek.com logoNewsweekCenter

Analysis: Democrats are trying to connect the dots on Trump's 2026 plan | CNN Politics

us.cnn.com logoCNNCenter Left

House Republicans flee Congress in record numbers amid growing dysfunction

thehill.com logoThe HillCenter

For House Republicans, an Exodus Rivaled Only By Trump's First Term

nytimes.com logoThe New York TimesCenter Left

Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.