Republican Representative McMorris Rodgers Announces Decision to Not Run for Reelection

House Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., will not seek reelection this year, according to a statement provided to The Spokesman-Review.

“It’s been the honor and privilege of my life to represent the people of Eastern Washington in Congress,” she said. “They inspire me every day. They are part of the strength and soul of America — the greatest experiment in self-governance the world has ever known. After much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided the time has come to serve them in new ways.”

First elected to the House in 2004, the 54-year-old took over at the House Energy and Commerce Committee almost a year ago with her focus aimed at reining in tech companies. In 2021 she introduced the Big Tech Accountability Platform and told the Silicon Valley giants, “Your platforms are my biggest fear as a parent.”

“I would testify today that the greatest blessing in my life has been marrying Brian and becoming a wife and mom — my most cherished titles,” she continued in the statement. “Brian is my wise and faithful counselor, the one to wipe the tears from my eyes and send me back into the arena. Together, we have been blessed with three beautiful, beloved children.”

One of her children, Cole, was born with Down syndrome and was on the House floor in 2014 when lawmakers passed the ABLE Act, which created tax-free savings account for people with disabilities.

“Especially as chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I’ve seen the best of Eastern Washington and the United States of America,” she said. “We will spend this year honoring the committee’s rich history — plowing the hard ground necessary to legislate on solutions to make people’s lives better and ensure America wins the future.”

McMorris Rodgers didn’t indicate what she plans to do next, but she ended her statement with a line suggesting she may not be finished with public life.

“The best is yet to come.”