California Democratic Rep. Julia Brownley announced she will not seek re-election after seven terms representing Ventura County.
Brownley represents the 26th Congressional District, which includes most of Ventura County and a portion of Los Angeles County. Her decision comes as part of a broader wave of retirement announcements ahead of the midterm elections.
More than three dozen House members have announced they will not run again this cycle. Brownley is the second California House Democrat to announce plans to step down.
What Brownley Said
“Serving our community and our country has been the honor of my lifetime,” Brownley said in a statement. “Every step of this journey has been shaped by the people I represent, by their resilience, their determination, and their belief that government can and should work for the common good.”
She highlighted legislative achievements including expanding affordable health care access, supporting veterans and military families, protecting natural resources, and addressing climate change. “With another year remaining in my term, I will continue working every day to deliver results for our region,” Brownley added.
Brownley expressed optimism about the future despite current challenges. “I am particularly pleased that I will leave the House with Hakeem Jeffries as Speaker,” she said, referencing the House Minority Leader.
Political Response
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries praised Brownley’s record in a statement. “Congresswoman Julia Brownley is a principled public servant and an incredible advocate for the communities that she so ably represents,” Jeffries said.
He noted her work on veterans issues, including leading passage of the Female Veterans Suicide Prevention Act and the Deborah Sampson Act. “Rep. Brownley will be missed by the House Democratic Caucus,” Jeffries concluded.
California Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin signaled interest in running for Brownley’s seat, telling reporters she was exploring a bid for the now-open position.
This story has been updated. CNN’s reporting team contributed to this report.
