Congressional Exodus: Frustration, Career Changes, and Record Resignations

Nearly 40 lawmakers, including veteran lawmakers and workhorses of Congress, are retiring at the end of this term due to frustration with the chaos and dysfunction in the House, as well as a desire to explore new careers or rest. The large number of retirements threatens to deplete Congress of institutional memory and relationships that facilitate bipartisan legislation. Some retirees are seeking higher or different offices, while others are concerned about the state of the House of Representatives. The toxic atmosphere in Congress and the aftermath of the January 6th Capitol assault continue to have an impact, with lying and partisanship cited as major issues. The retirements could potentially impact each party's ability to win a majority in the House.