Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL) has announced his retirement, adding that he will not seek reelection in the 2026 midterms. The Florida Republican said that it was "time to pass the torch and begin a new chapter."
"Serving the people of Southwest Florida has been the honor of my lifetime," said Rep. Buchanan in a statement. "Every achievement worth doing began with listening to my constituents and fighting for their priorities. I came to Congress to solve problems, to fight for working families, and to help ensure this country remains a place where opportunity is available to everyone willing to work for it. After 20 years of service, I believe it's the right time to pass the torch and begin a new chapter in my life."
Rep. Buchanan's press release highlights his long service in Congress under Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden, during which 51 bills he authored were signed into law, earning him a rating as one of the most effective members of Congress.
In 2025, the Florida congressman introduced and cosponsored numerous bills, including eight introduced at the start of the 119th Congress in January.
Five more were introduced in February, three in March, and several more were introduced throughout the year, addressing issues including border security, healthcare, taxes, and animal protection.
Buchanan is the second Florida Republican to announce retirement, following Representative Neal Dunn (R-FL), who announced in mid-January that he would not seek reelection.
"After much prayerful consideration and discussion with my family, I have decided not to seek re-election to the United States House of Representatives," said Rep. Dunn in a statement. "This will conclude my service after five meaningful terms representing the people of Florida's Second Congressional District."
With the midterms approaching, Florida Republican Party Chair Evan Power has already announced his candidacy for Rep. Dunn's seat, raising speculation about who might run for Buchanan's Congressional District 16 seat.
