Republican Representative Jeff Duncan of South Carolina has announced his retirement from the House at the end of the current term, adding to the growing number of lawmakers choosing to step down during a challenging congressional session.
Duncan, 58, entered Congress in 2010 as part of the Tea Party movement that contributed to Republican control of the House.
Another House GOP retirement: S.C. Rep. Jeff Duncan says he won't seek reelection this year. pic.twitter.com/X0lImCyGuL
— Andrew Solender (@AndrewSolender) January 17, 2024
In a statement, Duncan emphasized the need for new leadership and "fresh ideas" in South Carolina’s 3rd Congressional District.
Acknowledging the privilege and honor of representing the district, he stated that it was time for others to bring innovative perspectives into the ongoing fight for liberty.
Duncan's decision comes amid personal challenges, with news in September revealing that his family was grappling with a difficult and private situation. Around the same time, reports emerged of Duncan's wife seeking a divorce and accusing him of engaging in multiple affairs.
Duncan, who initially served in the South Carolina House of Representatives for eight years before moving to Congress, currently holds positions on the Energy and Commerce Committee and chairs the Subcommittee on Energy, Climate, and Grid Security.
Known for his self-branding as a fiscal conservative, he has advocated for substantial spending cuts and tighter control over federal expenditures.
Duncan highlighted his conservative voting record in his retirement statement, expressing pride in his contributions to fiscal responsibility and American energy issues.
As a member of the House Freedom Caucus, Duncan has played a role in promoting conservative principles within the Republican Party. His departure adds to the tally of lawmakers choosing not to seek reelection at the conclusion of this term of Congress.
Among the 40 sitting lawmakers exiting, Duncan is the 18th Republican, marking a notable trend in departures. This comes at a time when the current Congress is experiencing significant challenges, characterized by internal party drama, changes in House speakership, government shutdowns, the threat of economic default, and various legislative battles.
Duncan's decision to retire underscores the complexity and intensity of the ongoing congressional session, where lawmakers face numerous hurdles and internal conflicts.
The Congressman's district, a stronghold for Republicans, adds a layer of significance to his departure. In the 2020 election, former President Trump secured a substantial victory in the district by over 30 percentage points.
The political landscape in Duncan's absence will undoubtedly attract attention as the district becomes a focal point for potential changes in representation.
