Senator Jesse James has announced that he will not seek re-election this November, dealing a blow to Republican hopes of keeping the Senate.
Wisconsin Senator Jesse James, a Republican who represents western Wisconsin, announced he will not seek reelection to the Senate in November, stepping aside after years of service in the Legislature.
James, first elected to the Senate in 2022 from the 23rd District, had moved to challenge Democratic incumbent Jeff Smith in the more competitive 31st District following redistricting. His decision not to run again comes as Republicans work to defend their narrow majority in the upper chamber amid a determined Democratic push for control.
“Service is the rent that we pay for such privilege. We are blessed with living in the greatest country of all time,” James said in a statement Tuesday. “Protecting our freedoms and opportunities takes work and when we begin to take them for granted, we run the risk of losing them.”
A U.S. Army veteran and law enforcement officer, James has focused on issues including public safety, agriculture and conservative reforms during his time in Madison. He previously served in the Assembly and emphasized family and community values throughout his career.
The announcement deals a blow to Republican hopes of keeping the Senate. Republicans need to hold three of the four most competitive Senate districts (including James’) in order to keep control of the upper chamber.
