California Democratic Rep. Julia Brownley announced she will not seek re-election after seven terms representing a Ventura County district.
Brownley’s decision comes as more than three dozen House members have announced they will not run again this cycle. She 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, adding that her work has been “shaped by the people I represent, by their resilience, their determination.”
The congresswoman highlighted her office’s constituent services work, stating, “We have helped thousands of constituents navigate the federal government, returned millions in earned benefits, and never lost sight of the simple truth that public service is about showing up for people when they need help the most.”
Brownley expressed optimism about the nation’s future despite current challenges. “The American experiment has endured not because it is perfect, but because generations of Americans continue to believe in it and work to make it more just, more equal, and more reflective of those it serves,” she said.
The Reaction
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries praised Brownley’s tenure and legislative accomplishments. “Congresswoman Julia Brownley is a principled public servant and an incredible advocate for the communities that she so ably represents in Ventura and Los Angeles counties,” Jeffries said.
Jeffries highlighted Brownley’s work on veterans issues, noting she “led passage of the Female Veterans Suicide Prevention Act and the Deborah Sampson Act, critical pieces of legislation supporting the women who have bravely served our nation in uniform.”
“Rep. Brownley will be missed by the House Democratic Caucus and we wish her and her family the very best in this new chapter,” Jeffries concluded.
What Comes Next
Brownley did not provide a specific reason for her retirement announcement. Her decision opens the door for other candidates to pursue her seat in the 2024 election cycle.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Political Team contributed to this report.
