Republican House Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas has announced his retirement from Congress after more than two decades in public service. The veteran legislator confirmed he will not seek re-election in 2026, marking the end of a career dedicated to national security and foreign policy.
McCaul made the revelation during an appearance on ABC News, reflecting on his tenure as chair of the Homeland Security and Foreign Affairs Committees. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to represent the people of central Texas,” he stated. “My father’s service in World War II inspired me to pursue a life of public service, with a focus on defending our great nation against global threats.”
The 58-year-old congressman emphasized his commitment to national security throughout his career, having previously led both the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the Homeland Security Committee. Before entering Congress, he served in counterterrorism roles within the Justice Department and as Texas deputy attorney general.
McCaul’s decision comes amid a broader trend of Republican lawmakers exiting Congress ahead of the 2026 elections. Despite his retirement, he plans to continue working on national security and foreign policy issues in a new capacity. “I’m looking for a new challenge in the same space—national security and foreign policy—but just in a different realm,” he said.
His district in Texas is expected to remain reliably Republican under the updated congressional maps, ensuring his successor will likely be another GOP candidate. McCaul will serve out the remainder of his current term before stepping down.