Michael McCaul will not seek re-election after over 20 years in Congress
- Michael McCaul announced his decision not to seek re-election in 2026 after serving for over two decades.
- As chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, he has been a vocal advocate for national security and foreign policy.
- His retirement reflects broader changes within the Republican party, as several members announce their departure.
In Texas, Republican Congressman Michael McCaul revealed on September 14, 2025, that he will not pursue re-election in 2026, concluding more than two decades of service in the U.S. House of Representatives. McCaul, who first rose to Congress in 2004, has had a significant influence during his tenure, particularly in national security and foreign policy matters, serving as the chairman of both the House Homeland Security and Foreign Affairs Committees. The 63-year-old representative expressed his desire for a new challenge while emphasizing his commitment to continue serving the American people through national security efforts until the end of his term. In a public interview, he reflected on the events that shaped his career, notably mentioning how the September 11 attacks influenced his work in counterterrorism. He also addressed the growing concern over Russia's aggression in Eastern Europe and pointed to recent escalations, including discussions around NATO's responsiveness to threats. McCaul's departure follows a wave of announcements from fellow Republicans also choosing to retire, highlighting a significant shift within the party as they prepare for future elections. Despite being considered a stronghold for Republican support, McCaul's district has seen some reconfiguration due to recent redistricting efforts. Nevertheless, he successfully secured re-election in 2024 by a considerable margin. McCaul aims to stay involved in national security and foreign policy, indicating that he would like to serve in a different capacity, addressing the complex challenges the U.S. faces internationally. As he departs from the congressional stage, his legacy will include a commitment to making America stronger and ensuring global safety through various foreign policy initiatives. As the Republican party experiences transformations, McCaul's choice to step back reflects the dynamic nature of political service and the need for new leadership perspectives. His statements suggest he intends to remain active in contributing to national security discussions, underscoring the continued importance of the issues he championed during his tenure in Congress.