Florida GOP Rep Buchanan to retire after 20 years in Congress, among 48 leaving House this year

“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. Vern Buchanan said

Published: January 27, 2026 1:52pm

Florida GOP Rep. Vern Buchanan announced Tuesday that he is retiring and will not seek reelection after 20 years in Congress.

“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,” said Buchanan, who is the No. 2 Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee, The Hill news outlet reported.

“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.

Buchanan appears to be the 48th current House member – 21 Democrats and 27 Republicans – have announced they will retire after this year, according to PBS.org. The total doesn't include the nine members who resigned or died this term and whose seats will be filled before the November general election.

Buchanan, 74, has served in Congress since 2007, and represents Florida’s 16th Congressional District, located in southwest Florida between Tampa and Sarasota. President Trump endorsed Buchanan for reelection in November.

He is the third Florida Republican who isn't seeking reelection, as Rep. Neal Dunn said he’s retiring after his current term, and Rep. Byron Donalds is running for Florida governor.

Buchanan’s congressional district was won by Trump by more than 15 points in 2024.

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