Longtime GOP Rep Announces Surprising Career Update

Representative Ken Buck, a prominent Republican known for his service in Colorado's 4th District, has surprised many by announcing his departure from Congress at the end of the upcoming week. With nearly a decade of political activity under his belt, Buck reflected on his time in office and outlined his future aspirations in a statement released on X.

"For the past nine years, it has been my honor to represent the people of Colorado's 4th District in Congress," Buck expressed, conveying his gratitude to his constituents for their unwavering support.

While emphasizing his desire to remain engaged in politics, Buck did not elaborate on the reasons behind his decision. "Today, I am announcing my departure from Congress at the end of next week. I am eager to continue participating in our political process and to dedicate more time to Colorado and my family," he stated.

In an interview with CNN's Dana Bash, Buck elaborated on his departure, citing the current state of Congress as a factor. "This year has been the most challenging of my nine years and three months in Congress, and from conversations with former members, it's one of the most difficult years to serve in Congress in 40 or 50 years. But I am leaving because I believe there are other tasks that need attention," Buck explained.

Expressing disillusionment with Congress's descent into petty disputes and inefficiency, Buck highlighted the need for meaningful work elsewhere.

Buck's early exit will impact the delicate Republican majority in Congress, reducing it from 218 to 218, with three vacant seats. With this configuration, Republicans will require only two additional votes to pass strictly partisan legislation.

Representing Colorado's 4th congressional district since 2015, Buck, a former District Attorney for Weld County, brings a wealth of experience in prosecution to his role.

In October, Buck joined eight other Republicans in voting to remove former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. He has not shied away from criticizing the Republican Party's stance on various issues, including its alignment with Trump's positions on the 2020 election and the events surrounding the January 6 Capitol breach.

With Buck's departure, Colorado's 4th District faces a period of transition, sparking discussions about its future political landscape and potential successors.