With Congress’ approval ratings historically low and the 2020 election cycle already underway, many lawmakers are beginning to brace for a wave of retirements. Younger members, in particular, are choosing to move on and pursue other opportunities.
No one could have anticipated the level of drama and change that Congress has recently experienced, a trend which has increased in recent years. Record numbers of retirements have been registered in the past two election cycles, with a major focus on younger members. This trend is likely to continue in the 2020 cycle as political complexities and divisions amongst members become even more of a prominent issue.
Younger members of Congress tend to strive for greater success and are less hindered by the career-long obligations that older lawmakers may face. As the risk profile for Congress continues to rise and confusion surrounding the next election cycle persists, many younger members have began to grapple with the choice to stay on for another term.
Despite a barrage of difficulties both legislatively and politcally, some younger lawmakers have announced their intentions to recontest. Representative Andy Levin, a Democrat from Michigan and one of the youngest members of the House of Representatives, recently announced his re-election plans for 2020. In a recent statement he said “I’m running for re-election because I believe in our country and feel a huge responsibility to work for a truly just economy and a government of, by, and for the people,”.
As the 2020 election nears it’s certain that more and more members of Congress, both young and old, are going to make decisions on their futures. This adds an element of uncertainty to the future of Congress and we can only hope that wiser decisions will be made for the benefit of the nation.
“Young Lawmakers Bowing Out: Congressional Retirements Ramping Up
