U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan to Retire After 20 Years in Congress

The Republican congressman from Florida's 16th district will not seek re-election in November.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 12:23pm

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Florida Republican U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, who has represented the Sarasota area and other parts of Southwest Florida for nearly 20 years, announced Tuesday that he will not run for re-election in November. Buchanan, the sitting vice chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, saw 51 of his bills and legislative initiatives signed into law under four presidents.

Why it matters

Buchanan's retirement will open up a key House seat in a heavily Republican district. His departure also means the loss of an experienced legislator and committee leader who was known for his bipartisan approach and focus on environmental and animal welfare issues.

The details

Buchanan, a successful businessman before entering politics, was first elected to Congress in 2006 after a close and controversial race against Democrat Christine Jennings. During his two decades in the House, Buchanan championed legislation to combat red tide, protect water quality and coastal ecosystems, and prevent extreme acts of animal cruelty. He was the only member of Congress to receive the Humane Society's 'Legislator of the Year Award' twice.

  • Buchanan announced his retirement on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
  • Buchanan's current term in Congress will end in January 2027.

The players

Vern Buchanan

A Republican U.S. Representative who has served Florida's 16th congressional district for nearly 20 years, including as vice chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.

Christine Jennings

The Democratic candidate who ran against Buchanan in his close and controversial first election to Congress in 2006.

Bill Nelson

The Democratic U.S. Senator who defeated Republican candidate Katherine Harris in 2006.

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What they’re saying

“Serving the people of Southwest Florida has been the honor of my lifetime. Every achievement worth doing began with listening to my constituents and fighting for their priorities. I came to Congress to solve problems, to fight for working families and to help ensure this country remains a place where opportunity is available to everyone willing to work for it. After 20 years of service, I believe it's the right time to pass the torch and begin a new chapter in my life.”

— Vern Buchanan, U.S. Representative

What’s next

Buchanan's retirement will set off a competitive Republican primary to determine his successor in Florida's 16th congressional district, which leans heavily Republican.

The takeaway

Buchanan's departure marks the end of an era for Florida's 16th district, as the long-serving Republican congressman was known for his bipartisan approach and focus on environmental and animal welfare issues during his two decades in Congress.