Georgia Republican Barry Loudermilk Won’t Seek Reelection to U.S. House

Georgia Republican U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk announced he will not seek reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2026, ending more than a decade in Congress and adding to a growing wave of members exiting the chamber.

By David Thompson – News Reporter

Last Updated: Feb. 4, 2026

Loudermilk’s Decision to Retire

Rep. Barry Loudermilk, a Republican representing Georgia’s 11th Congressional District since 2015, announced that he will not seek reelection in 2026, choosing instead to retire from Congress after six terms. In a statement, Loudermilk said serving his constituents has been a tremendous honor, but he wants to devote more time to his family and pursue other ways to contribute to his community, state and nation. His retirement adds to the significant number of incumbents stepping down this cycle. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

A Solid Republican District

Loudermilk’s 11th District, located northwest of Atlanta, is a reliably Republican seat where he was reelected in 2024 with more than 65% of the vote. The district encompasses Bartow, Gordon and Pickens counties and parts of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton counties, and is ranked among the stronger GOP districts in Georgia. With Loudermilk’s departure, Republicans will aim to hold the seat in the 2026 election cycle amid ongoing national political competition. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Role in Jan. 6 Investigations

Throughout his tenure, Loudermilk has played a high‑profile role in Republican efforts to challenge and investigate elements of the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. He faced scrutiny from the original bipartisan Jan. 6 committee over a Capitol tour he led the day before the attack, which he vehemently denied was inappropriate. After Republicans regained the House majority, Loudermilk chaired select subcommittees focused on what GOP lawmakers describe as concerns about the original committee’s conduct and personnel decisions. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Part of a Broader Retirement Wave

Loudermilk’s announcement is part of a broader wave of departures from the U.S. House of Representatives in 2026, particularly among Republican members. His retirement follows that of fellow Georgia Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene and comes as other GOP lawmakers pursue higher office or choose to retire. With about 50 incumbents overall opting not to seek reelection or to run for a different position, both parties are preparing for competitive races next year. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Looking Ahead to 2026

With Loudermilk’s retirement, multiple candidates from both parties are expected to vie for the open seat in Georgia’s 11th District. The race will be closely watched as part of the 2026 midterm elections, offering insight into broader national political dynamics. Georgia’s congressional delegation is undergoing significant turnover, making the upcoming contests particularly important for party control in the House. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}