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Rep. Ken Buck to Retire from Congress Next Week
Republican Representative Ken Buck has announced his retirement from Congress, setting off a ripple effect that will leave the GOP with a narrow majority.
Razor-Thin Majority for Republicans
Following the departure of several key figures, including Kevin McCarthy, Bill Johnson, and George Santos, the Republicans will face a slim 218-213 majority in Congress.
Last November, Rep. Buck, a member of the GOP establishment, declared that he would not seek reelection in 2024. However, in a surprising turn of events, Buck revealed on Tuesday that he will be stepping down from his congressional duties at the conclusion of next week.
In a statement, Ken Buck expressed gratitude for his nine-year tenure representing Colorado’s 4th District. He thanked his constituents for their unwavering support and announced his intentions to remain engaged in the political realm while prioritizing quality time with his family in Colorado.
Speaker Johnson Reacts
House Speaker Mike Johnson conveyed his astonishment at Ken Buck’s sudden decision to retire from Congress. He expressed a desire to engage in discussions with Buck regarding this unexpected announcement.
Statement from Congressman Ken Buck on his departure from Congress. pic.twitter.com/orjSzenZnv – Rep. Ken Buck (@RepKenBuck) March 12, 2024
Increasing Number of Republican Retirements
Rep. Buck joins a growing list of over 20 House Republicans who have opted not to seek reelection in 2024. Among them are prominent figures such as Alex Mooney, Jim Banks, Dan Bishop, and others, as reported by Axios.
- Alex Mooney (R-W.V.)
- Jim Banks (R-Ind.)
- Dan Bishop (R-N.C.)
- Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.)
- Kay Granger (R-Texas)
- Ken Buck (R-Colo.)
- Michael Burgess (R-Texas)
- Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio)
- Bill Johnson (R-Ohio)
- Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.)
- Drew Ferguson (R-Ga.)
- John Curtis (R-Utah)
- Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-Mo.)
- Larry Bucshon (R-Ind.)
- Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.)
- Greg Pence (R-Ind.)
- Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.)
- Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.)
- Mike Gallagher (R-WI)
- Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA)
In explaining his decision to retire, Rep. Buck pointed to his concerns with the current trajectory of the Republican Party. He specifically highlighted what he viewed as dishonesty among GOP leaders regarding the 2020 election and the events surrounding January 6th, 2021.
Buck emphasized the importance of truth and a commitment to addressing critical issues facing the nation, such as policing, education, inflation, border security, and energy policy. He urged Republicans in Washington to take decisive action to safeguard the country’s future.
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