Rep. Vern Buchanan Announces Retirement After 20 Years
Buchanan will not seek re-election, ending a 20-year House career and vacating Florida's 16th District seat.
Overview
Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., announced on Jan. 23, 2025 that he will not seek re-election, ending a 20-year tenure representing Florida's 16th Congressional District, his office said.
Buchanan serves as vice chair of the House Ways and Means Committee and as chairman of its Health Subcommittee, roles that shape tax and health policy, according to congressional records.
President Donald Trump endorsed Buchanan less than three months before his announcement, and Buchanan said in a written statement he will "pass the torch" after two decades of service.
An Associated Press analysis found 47 current representatives — 21 Democrats and 26 Republicans — had announced retirements as of Jan. 17, 2025, though other outlets count 28 departing House Republicans, reflecting conflicting tallies.
Records and news reports show Buchanan has faced investigations by the Justice Department and the House Ethics Committee over alleged financial wrongdoing, a factor analysts say could affect the open-seat campaign.
Analysis
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Sources (4)
FAQ
Rep. Vern Buchanan served as vice chair of the House Ways and Means Committee and chairman of its Health Subcommittee, influencing tax and health policy.
Rep. Vern Buchanan announced on January 27, 2026, that he would not seek re-election, ending his tenure representing Florida's 16th District.
Potential Republican candidates include Fiona McFarland, Mike Owen, Manatee County Commissioner Mike Rahn, and state Rep. Will Robinson; Democrat Anthony DeRibas, a former USPS worker, is also mentioned.
Buchanan has faced investigations by the Justice Department and the House Ethics Committee over alleged financial wrongdoing.
An Associated Press analysis as of Jan. 17, 2025, found 47 current representatives had announced retirements (21 Democrats, 26 Republicans), with some outlets counting 28 departing House Republicans.
History
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