Some veteran Congressional Democrats have been pointed out in a recent Wall Street Journal report, noting their reluctance to consider retirement ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Even with activists urging older House Democrats to allow new leaders to emerge, many incumbents seem hesitant to step aside. According to the WSJ, there’s a push among certain Democrats to encourage support for younger candidates in the upcoming elections.
“I think every Democrat over 70 should consider this their last term,” expressed Amanda Litman, president of Run for Something, a group backing young progressive candidates.
Gregory Meeks, a 71-year-old Democrat, shared with WSJ that he desires to “maintain the power” long-standing Congressional members hold. He seems to be planning for a 14th term in 2026.
“There’s no reason to suggest that everyone leave, particularly if they want to maintain influence,” said Meeks, who holds a prominent position on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “We want to keep the strength we have.”
On another note, Florida Democrat Rep. Jared Moskowitz, who is 44, remarked that the party needs to decide whether they want to leave on their own terms or let circumstances dictate their exits.
This year has seen several Democrats who are part of the older cohort, including 78-year-old Rep. Jerry Nadler from New York and 71-year-old Rep. Dwight Evans from Pennsylvania, as well as 78-year-old Rep. Lloyd Doggett from Texas.
Meanwhile, California’s Rep. John Garamendi, at 80, told WSJ that things look “good” for the Democrats, reflecting a sense of opportunity for those with decades of experience.
Garamendi has no plans to retire just yet; he intends to remain until he’s at least 85 and through the 2030 election cycle.
Democrat Rep. Yvette Clark from New York, age 60, stated, “I’m not here to dictate if others should seek re-election.” In a similar vein, Adriano Espaillat, a 70-year-old Democrat from New York, noted, “It’s a personal decision everyone must make,” pondering his own timing for retirement.
The discussion about generational change has intensified within the party, especially following former President Biden’s recent indications of not running again in 2024.
“I respect those who’ve served in Congress for years, but eventually, it’s important to introduce new voices,” remarked a candidate running to replace Rep. John Larson, who is 77, as indicated in the WSJ report.
