Romney says won't seek 2024 Senate reelection: 'Time for a new generation of leaders'

Romney, who ran for president in 2012, said that after a quarter of a century in public service, he would be in his mid-80s at the end of another Senate term.

By Madeleine Hubbard

Published: September 13, 2023 1:45pm

Updated: September 13, 2023 1:57pm

Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney on Wednesday said he does not plan on running for reelection, ending decades in public office as he cites his age and says, "It's time for a new generation of leaders."

Romney, who ran as the GOP presidential candidate in 2012, said in a video: "I've spent my last 25 years in public service of one kind or another. At the end of another term, I'd be in my mid-80s."

He also criticized the policies of both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. Romney pledged to keep working for the public until January 2025, when his term is set to be over.

His decision comes as age has been a major factor in the 2024 presidential election. Trump is 77 and at 80, Biden is the oldest U.S. president.

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