Never-Trumpers have always been in the wrong. Their careers are over.
And now a RINO Republican made Trump’s day with a huge retirement announcement.
Newhouse Announces Retirement from Congress
Rep. Dan Newhouse, one of the final remaining Republicans who voted to impeach President Trump following January 6, has decided not to seek reelection in 2026, concluding his congressional tenure after more than a decade.
The Washington Republican said in a statement that “this decision comes with no reservations or remorse, only gratitude for the tremendous opportunity to have represented my home state in Congress.”
He added, “After over 25 years of public service, including more than a decade in the House, I am grateful to the Washingtonians who put their faith in me, as well as the colleagues I have served with on both sides of the aisle.”
He joins more than 40 House members to announce plans to leave Congress next year.
Mr. Newhouse will finish out the rest of his term before stepping down.
“I am truly humbled by this uniquely American journey that took a farm boy from Sunnyside, Washington, clear across the country to represent his friends and neighbors in the ’other’ Washington,” he said. “I will continue to serve my district with energy and enthusiasm until the end of my term.”
Strong GOP Prospects in Safe Red District
The 70-year-old congressman holds a reliably Republican seat, expressing optimism about the emerging field of candidates to carry forward effective representation.
The 70-year-old congressman represents a safe red seat, and although he did not name a successor, he remains positive about potential candidates.
“Public service takes many forms. As I look forward to this new chapter and ways I can continue to serve my community and this great Nation, I do so with confidence that there are now qualified and serious people expressing interest in this office,” Mr. Newhouse said. “Central Washington will have a strong, capable leader to whom I can pass the torch.”
Mr. Newhouse emerged victorious over two Trump-backed challengers in 2022 and 2024 during the district’s primaries.
Republican Jerrod Sessler, who lost to Mr. Newhouse in 2024, and first-time GOP candidate Wesley Meier have filed paperwork to enter the race, according to the Federal Election Commission.
John Duresky, an Air Force veteran, is running on the Democratic side.
Context of Newhouse’s Impeachment Vote
Newhouse’s departure marks the near-end of the small group of House Republicans who supported impeaching Trump in 2021.
Mr. Newhouse is one of the last two remaining House Republicans — alongside Rep. David Valadao of California — who voted to impeach President Trump in 2021 over his role in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. Ten Republicans voted that way.
His repeated primary wins against Trump-endorsed opponents highlight voter support for his record, even amid party divisions.
