Buchanan to Retire from Congress

By The News Service of Florida

U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, a Republican who has served in Congress for two decades, announced Tuesday he will retire. “I came to Congress to solve problems, to fight for working families and to help ensure this country remains a place where opportunity is available to everyone willing to work for it,” Buchanan said in a statement. “After 20 years of service, I believe it’s the right time to pass the torch and begin a new chapter in my life.”

First elected to Congress in 2006, Buchanan represents the 16th Congressional District, which includes parts of Hillsborough and Manatee counties. The district leans Republican, with the GOP holding a 73,451-voter registration edge over Democrats In the 2024 election.

In a news release Tuesday, Buchanan noted his work on issues such as the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement, a trade deal, and 2019 legislation targeting animal cruelty. Buchanan is among the wealthiest members of Congress, with business interests ranging from reinsurance companies to auto dealerships.

Buchanan is the third Florida Republican member of Congress who will not seek re-election this fall. Congressman Neal Dunn is retiring from a North Florida district that includes Panama City and Tallahassee, and Congressman Bryon Donalds is giving up his Southwest Florida seat to run for governor.