Republican Congressman Neal Dunn of Florida has declared he will not seek re-election, ending a decade-long tenure in the U.
S. House of Representatives and triggering a high-stakes special election in a narrowly divided chamber.
According to Gateway Pundit, Dunn, a Panama City physician and Army surgeon, is stepping aside after five terms representing Floridas 2nd Congressional District, citing a desire to devote more time to his family. His exit, however, comes as Republicans struggle to preserve a fragile House majority amid a wave of retirements, resignations, and unforeseen vacancies that have emboldened Democrats and complicated the conservative agenda in Washington.
Dunn made his announcement on X, stating, After much prayerful consideration and discussion with my family, I have decided not to seek re-election to the United States House of Representatives. This will conclude my service after five meaningful terms representing the people of Floridas Second Congressional District. He emphasized his record as a conservative lawmaker and veteran, adding, As a physician, an Army surgeon, and veteran from a multi-generational military family, I brought my commitment to life, liberty, and conservative values to Washington.
Highlighting his priorities in office, Dunn said, It has been my greatest honor to fight for lower taxes, our military and veterans, the unborn, healthcare innovation, and policies that empower Americans over bureaucracy and addressing threats from Communist China, Russia and others. He framed his departure as part of a generational handoff on the right, declaring, The time has come to pass the torch to new conservative leaders, return home to Panama City, and spend more precious time with my family and our beloved grandchildren.
Dunn expressed appreciation to his constituents, noting, I am deeply grateful for your trust, support, and prayers over these years. He closed his message with an affirmation of American exceptionalism, saying, America remains the greatest nation on Earth, and with Gods blessing, our best days are ahead. Thank you, and God bless you all.
Because Dunn is leaving before the end of his term, state officials have scheduled a special election for March 10 to fill the vacancy. Although Floridas 2nd District has long leaned Republican and Dunn won it by double digits in 2024, the contest now carries heightened importance as Democrats eye any opportunity to erode the GOPs tenuous edge.
The stakes are amplified by other recent changes in the House, including the resignation of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and the death of Rep. Doug LaMalfa, developments that have further narrowed the Republican margin. Georgias 14th District, another seat that has been reliably conservative and strongly supportive of President Donald Trump, will also hold a special election on March 10 to replace Greene, making that date a critical test of whether Republicans can maintain control and continue advancing a pro-growth, pro-liberty agenda in Congress.
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