This is not good for Trump’s GOP majority.
A major shakeup is brewing for Republicans in a key Southern state as a longtime GOP lawmaker prepares to exit Congress — a move that could complicate efforts to protect President Donald Trump’s agenda in the years ahead.
Florida Republican Rep. Vern Buchanan announced Tuesday that he will not seek re-election, bringing an end to a 20-year career on Capitol Hill. Buchanan, 74, has represented southwest Florida since 2007 and has been one of the Republican Party’s most experienced voices on tax and economic policy.
His retirement adds to a growing wave of departures from the U.S. House of Representatives. Buchanan is now the 28th House Republican to announce plans to leave at the end of the current term. More than twenty House Democrats have also opted out of running again, signaling widespread turnover and uncertainty ahead of the next Congress.
In a statement, Buchanan called his time in Washington “the honor of a lifetime,” emphasizing his commitment to listening to constituents and advancing conservative priorities.
“Every accomplishment worth achieving started with listening to the people I represent and fighting for what matters to them,” Buchanan said. “I came to Congress to solve problems, stand up for working families, and help ensure America remains a land of opportunity for those willing to work hard.”
For nearly his entire tenure, Buchanan served on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, which oversees tax policy, trade, and major entitlement programs. The committee plays a central role in shaping legislation that directly affects the U.S. economy and household finances.
After Republicans regained control of the House in 2022, Buchanan was widely viewed as a contender to lead the committee. However, the chairmanship ultimately went to Rep. Jason Smith of Missouri. Buchanan has since served as vice chairman and led the committee’s health subcommittee.
Despite his upcoming departure, Buchanan is still expected to play a role in major legislative efforts before leaving office. Republicans are preparing another budget reconciliation package — a process that allows large-scale legislation to pass the Senate with a simple majority.
The first reconciliation bill delivered on many of President Trump’s campaign promises. GOP leaders now hope a second package will focus more narrowly on lowering everyday costs for Americans, including tackling rising healthcare expenses and economic pressures facing middle-class families.
According to the Cook Political Report, Buchanan’s congressional district remains solidly Republican, making a party flip unlikely. However, replacing a seasoned lawmaker with two decades of experience will not be without challenges.
Buchanan’s exit comes at a critical moment, as House Republicans face a tough fight to maintain their razor-thin majority during the latter half of Trump’s term. With margins already tight and veteran lawmakers stepping aside, even safe districts could carry higher risks than expected.
For Republicans focused on advancing Trump’s agenda, Buchanan’s retirement is more than just another exit — it’s a reminder that holding the House may be far more difficult than it appears.
