Congressman Jodey Arrington Announces He Won’t Seek Re-Election

House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington will not be seeking reelection in 2026. The surprise announcement will open up a contested Republican primary in TX-19 that could draw some big names. The announcement from Arrington comes shortly after President Donald Trump had endorsed him for re-election.

Arrington Proud of The Accomplishment's Made

In a statement to KFYO News, Arrington said he was proud of a number of accomplishments, including "restoring cotton to the Farm Bill, to securing the next generation bomber at Dyess Air Force Base, to establishing the Ports-to-Plains federal highway – all of which represent billions of dollars to our economy and a brighter future for West Texas".

And of course Arrington touted his role in authoring and leading President Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill', which Arrington said was his "highest privilege".

Public Office Should Be Temporary

Arrington was first elected in 2017 and at the time was a supporter of term limits for members of Congress. Not as many elected officials in Congress were interested in that debate though. Arrington, will leave office after 10 years. Saying, "“It has always been my firm conviction that public service be a lifetime commitment, while public office a temporary stint in stewardship – not a career. 

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Arrington says he looks forward to continuing to promote West Texas and advancing the America First agenda while he remains in office. Then on to his next leadership challenge and "spending more time with my greatest love - my family".

The filing deadline for candidates in the  2026 primary is Monday, December 8 2025.