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August 13, 2025government formationDemocratic InstitutionsCongressional GovernanceElectoral Politicsdemocracycongressinstitutional crisis

63 Members of Congress Resign in Modern-Era Record Exodus

Sixty-three members of Congress resigned in a single month, the highest number in modern American history, citing toxic partisanship, threats to democratic institutions, and personal safety concerns. The exodus spanned both parties but was weighted toward moderate Republicans and Democrats who had publicly criticized the administration. Political scientists noted the vacancies would give the dominant party outsized influence in replacement appointments and special elections.