At the conclusion of this term, Congressman Earl Blumenauer, a Democrat from Oregon, is one of nearly 40 lawmakers leaving Congress. In an interview with CBS News, Blumenauer expressed his deep respect for his colleagues and revealed that the unending chaos in the House makes it increasingly difficult for him to work with fellow members. “It really takes up most of the oxygen,” he said.
Blumenauer’s sentiments are shared by Republican Rep. Ken Buck from Colorado. He cited “unending lies” and the impossibility of calling fellow members out on those lies as reasons for his departure. On the other hand, Maryland Democrat John Sarbanes, who is in the midst of a busy week at the House, is leaving to explore a new chapter in his life, away from Congress.
The retirement of these and numerous other lawmakers from both sides of the aisle, during a time of staunch political division and confrontation in Congress has raised concerns about the loss of experience and the erosion of relationships necessary to broker bipartisan deals and legislation.
Congresswoman Anna Eshoo of California, whose 60 pieces of legislation have become law, is leaving after 32 years in the House. Her departure is among a group that includes Texas Republican Kay Granger and Washington Democrat Derek Kilmer. Even centrist senators such as Mitt Romney of Utah and Joe Manchin of West Virginia have announced their retirement, threatening to deplete Congress of pivotal votes and institutional memory.
Worries about the state of Congress have emerged, with concerns over the ability of its increasingly inexperienced members to fulfill basic responsibilities to the American public. Brad Fitch, the president of the Congressional Management Foundation, stressed the significance of experience, stating that many Congress members are still learning how to do their jobs.
While the retirements may impact both parties’ ability to win a majority in the House, some have already set their eyes on higher or different offices. This impact could be felt as early as the 2022 midterm elections. Spanberger’s seat in Virginia, for example, is expected to be heavily targeted by Republicans. Manchin’s retirement has fueled speculation about him considering a third-party run for the presidency, which could impact President Biden’s re-election prospects.
The departure of so many veteran lawmakers is likely to have a profound impact, and the full extent of the fallout remains to be seen. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has described Eshoo as “a giant” in the Congress and praised her for representing her district and the country magnificently.
As numerous lawmakers across both parties prepare for their final terms in Congress, many express concern over the wave of retirements. The effects of these departures have the potential to ripple through the House for years to come.
