Cathy McMorris Rodgers, a prominent Republican congresswoman from Washington State, has decided not to run for re-election in 2024. The congresswoman had served for 20 years in the House of Representatives. Rodgers had represented Washington’s 5th Congressional District since 2005.
She cited her desire to pursue new opportunities outside of elected office. “It’s been the honor and privilege of my life to represent the people of Eastern Washington in Congress. They inspire me every day. They are part of the strength and soul of America — the greatest experiment in self-governance the world has ever known,” she said.
The 54-year-old lawmaker wrote on X, “After much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided the time has come to serve the people of Eastern Washington in new ways. I will not be running for re-election to the People’s House.”
A growing number of GOP House members are opting out of running for re-election. Rodgers is the 18th Republican House member to make such a decision. House Financial Services Chairman Patrick McHenry and House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Kay Granger announced they would not seek re-election either.
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McMorris Rodgers also served as the House Energy and Commerce Committee chairwoman. In a statement released by her office, she reflected on her lengthy service in Congress, describing it as an honor and privilege.
“Especially as Chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I’ve seen the best of Eastern Washington and the United States of America,” she said. “We will spend this year honoring the Committee’s rich history — plowing the hard ground necessary to legislate on solutions to improve people’s lives and ensure America wins the future.”
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Not only was she the highest-ranking Republican woman in the House of Representatives, but she was also an advocate for conservative principles. She leaves a legacy of legislative accomplishments and leadership roles within the GOP. She championed healthcare, education, energy, and the economy throughout her tenure.
Also, with heartfelt gratitude, she praised her family for standing by her side from the beginning. “I love to see their drawings and notes hanging on my office walls. Brian, Cole, Grace, and Brynn give me strength and courage to give it my best every day,” she said of her husband and three children.
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“My brother quit his job to run my first campaign. My dad covered every road in Eastern Washington with campaign signs. My mom has been my greatest encourager and fiercest defender. I couldn’t have served so well without their love, support, and patience,” she added. “The best is yet to come,” her statement concluded. You can say that she has earned the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
In an email, Newhouse told The Center Square, “Cathy has been a conservative champion for Washington state and this country. Her constituents in Eastern Washington and Congress as an institution are better off because of her dedicated service. As a friend, I wish her the best wherever the next chapter takes her.”
Her statement did not give reasons behind her departure. Notwithstanding, people are curious about her plans and the implications for the Biden administration.
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