CHEYENNE, WY — Republican Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming announced on Friday that she will not run for re-election in 2026, citing the increasing demands of the job and the “energy required” to continue serving in the U.S. Senate.

In a message posted on the social platform X, Lummis said it had been “an incredible honor to represent Wyoming”, but after enduring “difficult, exhausting session weeks” this fall, she concluded that she “does not have six more years” of energy needed for another term. Lummis described her experience in Washington as being like “a sprinter in a marathon.” Fox News

At 71 years old, Lummis will complete her first term in the Senate but will not seek another six-year term, a decision that opens up a key Republican seat in one of the party’s most solid strongholds. Wyoming has not elected a Democrat to the U.S. Senate in more than half a century, and party leaders will soon prepare for a competitive GOP primary to replace her. WTOP News

Lummis has been a vocal supporter of American energy independence, championing policies related to coal, oil, and natural gas during her tenure. She also played a notable role in cryptocurrency and blockchain policy, pushing for legislative clarity in the emerging digital asset space. Cointelegraph

Despite her retirement announcement, Lummis reaffirmed her commitment to conservative leadership, noting her appreciation for having earned the support of former President Donald Trump and expressing her intention to continue working on important legislation through the remainder of her term. AOL

Her departure marks another notable retirement ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, a cycle already shaping up to be pivotal for both parties as they vie for control of Congress. The Daily Wire