Retiring GOP reps blast 'unprecedented' dysfunction: 'Nasty, shrill legislative process'

An unprecedented wave of retirement announcements has swept the halls of Congress — particularly from Republicans. Even Republicans from safe districts and committee chairs who have spent years climbing the ranks are bowing out. A new report suggests that even the most powerful and influential members of the House of Representatives are frustrated with trying to govern in today's hyper-partisan atmosphere.

NBC News reports that of the 26 current members of the House not seeking reelection in 2024, 15 are Republicans. And of those 15 Republicans, six of those hold leadership positions that carry additional weight and influence on policy. Some Republicans lamented that despite having a majority in the House, governing has become effectively impossible.

"If we are not successful in doing our work here and we wind up in the minority, who wants to finish out your career here in the minority?" said Rep. Frank Lucas (R-Oklahoma), who chairs the House Science, Space and Technology Committee.

READ MORE: Another GOP rep announces retirement while Mike Johnson reels from legislative losses

"There’s been no adjustment for the cost of living since [Dennis] Hastert was speaker," said Lucas, who himself is seeking reelection this year. "Most of these members are experienced people on really important, relevant committees and the outside world realizes their skill sets, and they’re probably trying to pull on ‘em.

"It's a combination of all those things — it’s not one particular issue... And if you want to throw on top of that just the nasty, shrill nature of the legislative process these days," he added. "This is kind of an unpleasant town and unpleasant process."

One of the more high-profile retirement announcements came from Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Washington), who chairs the powerful House Energy and Commerce Committee. And six other Republicans who are not seeking another term also come from that committee. Rep. Barry Loudermile (R-Georgia), who is seeking reelection this year so he can continue investigating the January 6 attack, attributed many of those exits to "a level of frustration... that's unprecedented." He said lawmakers aren't accustomed to having a majority but still being unable to enact their policies.

"There’s some that are just like, ‘Is it worth it being here, to go through this?’" Loudermilk said.

READ MORE: Yet another House Republican announces retirement as Johnson fights to keep majority

Click here to read NBC's report in full.