Reps. Kilmer and Wenstrup Not Running in 2024; Rep. Higgins Reported to be Resigning

Overshadowed by Sen. Joe Manchin's retirement announcement, two U.S. House members also said Thursday they would not seek reelection next year. Reports also emerged about a pending resignation.

23 current House members, including 15 Democrats and eight Republicans, have now announced they are retiring or seeking another office. The list does not include Dean Phillips (MN-03), who is challenging Joe Biden for the Democratic presidential nomination. If his campaign doesn't work out, he will likely have time to file for another term, should he wish to do so.

Derek Kilmer - Washington District 6

Kilmer announced he would not seek a 7th term representing this safely Democratic district in the western part of the state. Kilmer won reelection with a 20% margin in 2022.

It has been one of the great honors of my life to serve as the Representative for Washington's 6th District in Congress. I’m proud of what we have accomplished – but it is time for the next chapter. I will not seek re-election in 2024.

Read my full statement here: pic.twitter.com/6dJLMT1xCo

— Rep. Derek Kilmer (@RepDerekKilmer) November 9, 2023

Brad Wenstrup - Ohio District 2

Wenstrup, part of the same incoming class as Kilmer, is also foregoing a 7th term. The district runs from south of Columbus to the Kentucky border, extending to include eastern parts of the Cincinnati area. Based on recent elections, it is the most Republican district in the state; Wenstrup won by a 49% margin in 2022.

A heartfelt message. pic.twitter.com/XshgO24H5t

— Brad Wenstrup (@bradwenstrup) November 10, 2023

Brian Higgins - New York District 26

Reports say the ten-term Democrat is set to resign to become president of Shea's Performing Arts Center in Buffalo. The district, which includes Buffalo and Niagara Falls, borders Canada from Lakes Erie to Ontario. It is safely Democratic; Higgins won by a 28% margin in 2022.

Once Higgins resigns, Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) will have 10 days to call a special election, with that election taking place 70-80 days after that.