Ex-Vice President Mike Pence sought the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, but it became evident early on that the GOP constituency wasn’t supportive. He ultimately withdrew from the race late last year. Now, another individual with the surname Pence has also opted not to pursue a political office.
On January 9, Representative Greg Pence, a Republican from Indiana, declared that he will not seek re-election. In a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, the ex-Marine explained that his initial decision to run for Congress was driven by a desire to serve the country once more. However, after three terms in office, he has now decided against running again. Pence pledged to fulfill his duties until the conclusion of his current term.
— Rep. Greg Pence (@RepGregPence) January 9, 2024
A Pence has been actively involved in serving the state of Indiana since 2001. Mike Pence represented the state in Congress from 2001 to 2013, followed by a term as governor and another as vice president of the United States. Greg Pence has been serving the state since 2018.
On the day preceding Representative Pence’s announcement, Representative Larry Bucshon, a Republican from Indiana, also disclosed that he would not seek re-election. Having served seven terms in Congress, he has been a representative for the state for the past 14 years.
The choices made by Bucshon and Pence imply that four out of the nine congressional seats in the state will lack an incumbent in November. This circumstance potentially facilitates the possibility for a candidate from the opposing party to secure the seat. Additionally, these two individuals are part of a larger group, numbering about three dozen House lawmakers, who are either retiring or seeking other offices in the upcoming election.
Notably, 22 Democrats and 17 Republicans have declared that they will not be pursuing re-election. The recent retirement of former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) has also left his seat vacant.
The available seats suggest that the 2024 election has the potential to be exceptionally competitive. The presence of compelling presidential candidates at the top of the ticket could significantly impact whether the parties secure a majority or minority in the House.
