Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, announced he will not seek re-election in 2026. After more than two decades in Congress, McCaul says he’s ready to move on and explore diplomatic opportunities, potentially serving as a U.S. ambassador. His remarks reflect growing frustration with the state of Congress and the direction of foreign policy debates.
In an interview with Fox News, McCaul stated, “I’ll miss the clowns, but I won’t miss the circus,” a pointed comment about the dysfunction he sees in Washington. He said he plans to finish his current term but does not intend to remain in the House beyond that. McCaul, who has led both the Homeland Security and Foreign Affairs Committees, emphasized that he’s “going out on top.”
McCaul expressed concern about a rising wave of isolationism within the Republican Party. He argued that retreating from global leadership would repeat historical mistakes and make America less secure. He pointed to World War II as an example of what happens when the U.S. withdraws from the world stage. McCaul supports burden-sharing but insists that alliances like NATO remain essential.
Looking ahead, McCaul said he is interested in a national security or diplomatic role, mentioning that he’d “love to be the U.S. Ambassador to Australia.” He said he plans to continue working in foreign policy, possibly through the private sector or in an advisory capacity. He believes his experience and relationships in global affairs would allow him to contribute meaningfully outside Congress.
McCaul’s retirement signals another departure of a senior, policy-focused lawmaker amid growing frustration with gridlock and partisanship in Washington. His departure could also impact Republican leadership on foreign affairs, where he has long advocated for a strong national defense and global engagement rooted.
