U.S. Representative Troy Nehls of Texas announced on Saturday that he will step away from Congress at the end of his current term, confirming he will not seek re-election in 2026. The Republican lawmaker, who represents Texas’s 22nd Congressional District, said the decision reflects his long-held belief that elected officials should not remain in Washington indefinitely.
Nehls, who previously served in the U.S. Army and later as sheriff of Fort Bend County, explained that his background had prepared him for public service, but he does not view a congressional career as a lifelong commitment. “Public service has always been important to me, but I have never believed these positions were meant to be permanent,” he said in a written statement.
The announcement comes after a challenging year for the two-term congressman. Earlier in 2025, House Republican leadership removed him from the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, a move linked to an ongoing review by the House Ethics Committee. While the inquiry has continued, Nehls has remained active politically and has been one of the most vocal allies of former President Donald Trump, frequently appearing with him at campaign-related events.
His district, which covers suburban areas southwest of Houston, has remained consistently Republican, making the newly open seat a likely focal point for an energetic GOP primary next year. Several potential candidates are already expected to explore a run.
In his statement, Nehls criticized what he described as a difficult media environment, arguing that “misinformation” had contributed to his decision to step aside. He did not endorse anyone to take his place but said he intends to continue supporting candidates aligned with the America First agenda.
With Nehls’ departure, Texas Republicans will now prepare for a competitive contest to determine who will represent the district in 2027 and beyond.
