GOP'rs Resigning and Giving Dems A Chance for The House Before Nov 'of 26

 

Several notable GOP members resigned or announced retirements in late 2025 and early 2026, including Marjorie Taylor Greene, amid shifts in party alignment, clashes with President Trump, and a desire for different paths, contributing to a significant number of Republicans leaving Congress for the 2026 election cycle, with some citing internal party dynamics and the challenging partisan environment as reasons. 

Key Resignations & Retirements (Late 2025 - Early 2026):

Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA): Announced resignation effective January 5, 2026, after public disagreements with Donald Trump, impacting the House's slim majority.

Doug LaMalfa (R-CA): Died in early January 2026, creating another vacancy.

Chip Roy (R-TX): Not running for reelection, aiming for Texas Attorney General.

Joni Ernst (R-IA): Senator retiring, not seeking re-election, with Rep. Hinson running for her seat.

Mitch McConnell (R-KY): Senator also not seeking reelection in 2026. 

Reasons for Departures:

Internal Party Conflicts: Some members, like Greene, had falling-outs with Donald Trump and his agenda.

Shifting Political Landscape: Others, like Joni Ernst, faced criticism or sought new challenges.

Challenging Majority: The narrow Republican majority in the House has been complicated by these departures, creating more open seats.

"Exodus" from Congress: An analysis in January 2026 showed a significant number of House members not seeking re-election, with some retiring after long service or pursuing other offices. 

These moves signal a period of significant turnover and internal adjustments within the Republican party as they head into the 2026 election cycle.