Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell to Retire at End of Term

Sen. Mitch McConnell used the occasion of his 83rd birthday to announce he will not seek an 8th term in 2026. While the timing of this announcement was unknown, his decision to retire had been expected. McConnell stepped down as Republican leader at the end of 2024, and has had several health episodes in recent years. 

As the AP reports, "McConnell's looming departure reflects the changing dynamics of the Trump-led GOP." A "diehard adherent to Ronald Reagan's brand of traditional conservatism and muscular foreign policy, increasingly found himself out of step with a GOP shifting toward the fiery, often isolationist populism espoused by Trump."

McConnell was first elected in 1984. He served as Republican Leader for 18 years, including six with his party in the majority. He is currently second in Senate seniority, trailing only Iowa Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley.

Despite the absence of an incumbent, the seat is likely to remain in GOP hands given the deep red lean of the state. Former Attorney General Daniel Cameron wasted no time jumping into the race after McConnell's announcement. Rep. Andy Barr (KY-06) is also expected to run.