Sam Graves, chairman of the House Transportation Committee, announced he will not seek reelection and plans to retire at the end of his current term. After more than two decades in Congress, Graves said the decision came after careful consideration, adding that it is time for a new generation of leaders to step forward and shape the future.
Graves has represented Missouri’s 6th congressional district since 2001, covering much of northern Missouri. During his tenure, he focused heavily on transportation and aviation policy, including efforts to modernize the nation’s air traffic control system. He also supported safety initiatives such as the ALERT Act, aimed at strengthening aviation oversight following major incidents.
His retirement comes amid a broader trend of lawmakers stepping down this cycle, with dozens of members from both parties choosing not to run again. Missouri’s 6th District is widely considered a safe Republican seat, and several potential candidates are expected to compete for the nomination as the race develops.
At the same time, House Republicans are navigating internal divisions over a Senate-passed funding measure for the Department of Homeland Security. Mike Johnson faces a challenging decision on whether to bring the bill to a vote, as differing priorities within the party continue to shape the path forward.