Newhouse Says He Won't Seek Reelection

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Republican Dan Newhouse, who was first elected to the Fourth District of Washington in the House of Representatives in 2014, announced today he will not seek reelection in 2026.

He published the following press release:

“I am announcing today that I will not seek reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives. Serving the Fourth District of Washington has been the honor of my life, and this decision comes with no reservations or remorse, only gratitude for the tremendous opportunity to have represented my home state in Congress.

After over 25 years of public service, including more than a decade in the House, I am grateful to the Washingtonians who put their faith in me, as well as the colleagues I have served with on both sides of the aisle.

Public service takes many forms. As I look forward to this new chapter and ways I can continue to serve my community and this great Nation, I do so with confidence that there are now qualified and serious people expressing interest in this office. Central Washington will have a strong, capable leader to whom I can pass the torch.

I thank my family for their steadfast love and support which allowed me this opportunity to serve. I am truly humbled by this uniquely American journey that took a farm boy from Sunnyside, Washington clear across the country to represent his friends and neighbors in the ‘other’ Washington. I will continue to serve my district with energy and enthusiasm until the end of my term.

God bless America and God bless the people of the Fourth District of Washington.”

Several candidates have already announced their decision to run for his seat in 2026, including 2024 Republican challenger Jerrod Sessler, who garnered more votes in the primary than Newhouse. Sessler has already raised $121,134 toward his campaign. It will be his third attempt to win the seat.

Democrat John Duresky, Independent Devin Poore, and Republican Wesley Meier have also announced their candidacies.

Newhouse’s early decision not to seek reelection could make the field more crowded.

The filing deadline is May 8, 2026. Primary will be held on August 4, and the general election will be on Nov. 3.

Newhouse turned 70 in July.