Rep. Graves Retires, House Transportation Leadership Shifts

Sam Graves, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, announced his retirement from Congress, opting not to seek a 14th term and joining 57 other House members in stepping down, contributing to a wave of retirements ahead of midterm elections. Graves, 62, a Republican representing a rural Missouri district since 2001, had initially filed for reelection but stated he is "making room for the next generation." His departure contributes to a projected record turnover in Congress, with 58 House members now either retiring or seeking other offices.

Graves played a central role in aviation safety discussions and investigations, including a 2025 collision over the Potomac River. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, a Democrat, praised Graves for delivering "important projects." Despite Graves' safe GOP district, the Republican party faces challenges in maintaining House control due to public sentiment on military action against Iran and affordability issues, though President Donald Trump predicts larger majorities.