GovernmentElections

Record 10 House Republicans leave Congress to run for governor

Experienced lawmakers flee Washington for state capitals, citing toxic environment

Ten House Republicans are running for governor in 2026. This is the most from either party in available CNN data going back to 1974. The previous high was six members from one party in a single cycle.

More than 10% of won't return to their seats after 2026. A record 53 members have announced plans to retire or run for different offices. That includes 30 Republicans and 23 Democrats.

Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) said Congress has become toxic with vitriolic debate and demonizing the other side. He's retiring after 20 years and 11 terms. McCaul chaired both the Homeland Security and Foreign Affairs committees.

Three sitting senators are also leaving to run for governor in 2026. Senators have six-year terms and more individual power than House members. Their departures are unusual because Senate seats are considered more prestigious.

Members cite narrow majorities as a key frustration. The Republican House majority in the 119th Congress was just a few seats. Every vote became a high-stakes battle with no room for defections.

Capitol Police worked through 14,000 threats against members of Congress in 2025. Security concerns are driving some retirements. Members and their families face harassment and danger that didn't exist a decade ago.

Republicans say they can better implement Trump's agenda as governors than as House members. Governors have executive authority to act unilaterally. House members must negotiate with 434 colleagues and the Senate.