After two decades helping shape federal tax policy, one of the House GOP’s most senior lawmakers is preparing to step aside.
According to Fox News, Rep. Vern Buchanan, a Florida Republican who has represented southwest Florida for 20 years, announced Tuesday that he will not seek re-election, bringing his tenure on Capitol Hill to an end at age 74.
His decision adds to a growing list of lawmakers opting not to return for another term.
Buchanan becomes the 28th House Republican to announce plans to retire or otherwise leave Congress at the conclusion of the current term.
On the Democratic side, 21 House members have also said they will not seek re-election, signaling significant turnover ahead of the 2026 midterms.
In a statement, Buchanan reflected on his time in office and emphasized his connection to the voters who repeatedly sent him to Washington.
“Every achievement worth doing began with listening to my constituents and fighting for their priorities,” Buchanan said. “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,” he added.
Throughout his congressional career, Buchanan was a fixture on the House Ways and Means Committee, one of the most influential panels in Congress. The committee has jurisdiction over tax policy, trade, and major entitlement programs, placing Buchanan at the center of some of the most consequential legislative debates.
When Republicans regained control of the House following the 2022 elections, Buchanan was considered a contender for the committee’s top leadership post. The gavel ultimately went to Rep. Jason Smith of Missouri, who currently serves as chairman.
Despite his pending departure, Buchanan is still expected to play a role in upcoming legislative efforts.
Republicans are preparing another major package through the budget reconciliation process, which allows the majority party to pass sweeping legislation in the Senate with a simple majority vote.
The first reconciliation bill focused heavily on President Donald Trump’s campaign promises.
GOP leaders have indicated that a second effort would place greater emphasis on lowering costs for Americans, including healthcare costs.
Buchanan’s district is rated solidly Republican by the Cook Political Report, making it unlikely to flip parties in the next election cycle. Still, his retirement comes as House Republicans brace for a difficult fight to maintain their narrow majority during the latter half of Trump’s term.
With Buchanan’s exit, GOP leaders will lose a seasoned lawmaker whose influence extended well beyond his Florida district.
