February 4, 2026

Georgia Republican Representative Barry Loudermilk has declared that he will not seek reelection, adding his name to the growing list of GOP members stepping down as the midterm elections approach. First elected in 2014, Loudermilk cited the desire to spend more time with his family and explore new ways to serve his community and the nation as primary reasons for his departure.
"Although I continue to have strong support from the people of the Eleventh Congressional District, I believe it is time to contribute to my community, state, and nation in other ways," Loudermilk stated, emphasizing his continued popularity among his constituents despite his decision not to run again.
This announcement comes at a critical time as Loudermilk's select subcommittee, charged with reinvestigating the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, intensifies its efforts. The subcommittee was established as a counter to the initial investigation led by Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) and the now-former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.). Recently, the panel commenced hearings and issued subpoenas for phone records linked to the suspect allegedly involved in placing pipe bombs at the political party headquarters before the riot.
Despite Loudermilk's retirement, the Republicans are optimistic about retaining his suburban Atlanta seat, which he secured by a significant margin of 34 points in the 2024 elections. His district has shown robust Republican support, which the party expects to maintain in the upcoming November elections.
Loudermilk's exit marks him as the latest among 33 other House Republicans who, since the beginning of 2025, have either resigned, announced retirements, or sought other elected offices. This trend underscores a possible strategic reshuffling within the Republican ranks ahead of what is anticipated to be a challenging midterm cycle.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of these retirements and the ongoing investigations remain focal points of national interest, potentially influencing voter sentiment and the broader strategic direction of the Republican Party.