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dragonfire5004's avatar

You know, there might be somewhat of a stampede of retirements in easily flippable seats in a Trump midterm, especially so if they’re without an incumbent. Imagine Bacon retires, Lawler runs for Governor. That might be the spark needed for GOP incumbents in swing seats to leave up or down, but leave in order to avoid being defeated in 2026.

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Marcus Graly's avatar

That's been a big factor in past waves.

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Brad Warren's avatar

Yep. The Paul Ryan retirement was a *big* harbinger.

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PollJunkie's avatar

Paul Ryan retired because his agenda of libertarian economics with free trade, privatizing social security, cutting welfare while pursuing moderate social policies like immigration reform was dead. His district is still republican.

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Andrew's avatar

Yeah. He knew he reached his peak and got out while he could before having to sacrifice his morals in order to stay Speaker.

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Zero Cool's avatar

I'm not sure that's really the issue as to why Ryan retired although I have no doubt he was limited in what he could do as House Speaker as far as his original agenda.

I recall Ryan was very much turned off by Trump, his antics and influence on the GOP to the degree where it was all about loyalty and not about governing. He had no future as House Speaker or at all in Congress whether it be his original agenda or anything else. Ryan also did not want the job as House Speaker and was pushed to do that under pressure.

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PollJunkie's avatar

Bacon is looking to retire as per the news.

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Zero Cool's avatar

Could make NE-02 easier for Democrats to pick up if this is the case.

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