Rep. Sam Graves to Retire from Congress in 2026

U.S. Rep. Sam Graves, a longtime Republican from northern Missouri and chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, announced Friday that he will retire from Congress at the end of his current term and not seek reelection in 2026.

The 62-year-old congressman, who has represented Missouri's 6th Congressional District since 2001, shared the decision on social media, confirming weeks of rumors. Graves, an airline pilot from Tarkio first elected after serving in the Missouri General Assembly, cited personal reflection as the driving factor. "This wasn't an easy decision, but it's the right one," he wrote. "I believe in making room for the next generation. It's time to pass the torch and allow a new guard of conservative leaders to step forward and chart a path forward for Missourians." In an interview, he added, "I think it is time for me to step down," explaining that he had filed for reelection earlier this year while evaluating his future.

Graves' departure adds to a significant wave of congressional retirements, with more than 50 House members across both parties announcing they will not seek another term this cycle, a record number months before the...