SPOKANE, Wash. — In a tweet posted on Thursday morning, Cathy McMorris Rodgers announced she will not be running for re-election in Washington’s 5th District.
In a statement, McMorris Rodgers said, “It's been the honor and privilege of my life to represent the people of Eastern Washington in Congress. They inspire me every day. They are part of the strength and soul of America - the greatest experiment in self-governance the world has ever known. After much prayer and reflection, I've decided the time has come to serve them in new ways. I will not be running for re-election to the People's House.
For years now, my team and I have lived and worked by our values of having fun while we SERVE-to Seek excellence, that Everybody matters, to Responsibly own it, practice Vigilant integrity, and Embrace change. I'm proud of how it's helped us be more effective and deliver results to my district and the hardworking people of this country. There is no doubt I've had the best staff on my team. They are smart, strategic, and committed to building trust.”
McMorris Rodgers has served the 5th District of Washington since January 3, 2005. From 2002-2003, she was the House Minority Leader She was up for re-election again this November, making her decision all the more surprising to both Democrats and Republicans in eastern Washington.
"This wasn't even a possibility," said Stephen Kirby, the chair of Spokane County Democrats.
"It was quite the news," said MJ Bolt, the chair of Spokane County Republicans. "We were surprised by that. We didn't know it was coming."
Kirby said McMorris Rodgers announcing her decision to not run for reelection is a game changer.
"She was the leading contender, she has a large war chest," he said. "Having her step out clears the field for Democrats coming up, so I'm ecstatic."
Although Bolt was surprised by the news, she isn't concerned for her party's chance during this year's election.
"I'm not worried. I think it's going to be interesting for sure," she said. "We can't just stick our head in the mud and say it's going to be automatic."
Her full statement can be read below:
It's been the honor and privilege of my life to represent the people of Eastern Washington in Congress. They inspire me every day. They are part of the strength and soul of America - the greatest experiment in self-governance the world has ever known. After much prayer and reflection, I've decided the time has come to serve them in new ways. I will not be running for re-election to the People's House.
For years now, my team and I have lived and worked by our values of having fun while we SERVE-to Seek excellence, that Everybody matters, to Responsibly own it, practice Vigilant integrity, and Embrace change. I'm proud of how it's helped us be more effective and deliver results to my district and the hardworking people of this country. There is no doubt I've had the best staff on my team. They are smart, strategic, and committed to building trust.
I would testify today that the greatest blessing in my life has been marrying Brian and becoming a wife and mommy most cherished titles. Brian is my wise and faithful counselor, the one to wipe the tears from my eyes and send me back into the arena. Together, we have been blessed with three beautiful, beloved children. Cole was with me on the House floor when we passed the ABLE Act, which marked a new chapter of opportunity and independence for people living with a disability. Grace and Brynn joined me at countless parades, election night parties, trips to the office, and committee hearings. I love to see their drawings and notes hanging on my office walls. Brian, Cole, Grace, and Brynn give me strength and courage to give it my best every day.
My family has been in my corner from the start. My brother quit his job to run my first campaign. My dad covered every road in Eastern Washington with campaign signs. My mom has been my greatest encourager and fiercest defender. I couldn't have served so well without their love, support, and patience.
Especially as Chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee. I've seen the best of Eastern Washington and the United States of America. We will spend this year honoring the Committee's rich history- plowing the hard ground necessary to legislate on solutions to make people's lives better and ensure America wins the future.
Every day, my number one priority is to pray. I pray that God's purpose over my life will be more deeply rooted in my heart and in gratitude for the remarkable colleagues and people He has brought into my life. No matter the division, we must unite in prayer. And as we do, we will bring hope and healing to broken lives, broken families, and broken systems failing broken people. Together, may we always be guided by God's abundant grace and wisdom to keep the promise of America alive.
The best is yet to come.
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