Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., has become the latest member of Congress to announce that he will not seek re-election.
"It has been my privilege to fight on the front lines defending freedom, faith, family, and the values that make America and Montana strong," Zinke said in a letter to his constituents.
Zinke said the multiple surgeries he has endured from his years as a Navy SEAL contributed to his retirement.
"The injuries sustained from a career in Special Operations are not immediately life-threatening, but the repair cannot be deferred any longer and recovery will require considerable time with Lola and the family," Zinke said.
"My judgment and experience tell me it is better for Montana and America to have full-time representation in Congress than run the risk of uncertain absence and missed votes," Zinke added.
The Montana congressman touted his accomplishments including securing critical funding for state bridges, roads, sewer systems, water infrastructure, public access points, and conservation projects.
"Service is a duty that I will always hold sacred, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference," Zinke said.
Zinke was first elected to Congress in 2014 before leaving to become interior secretary in the first Trump administration.
He returned to Congress in 2023 and was re-elected for another term in 2024 by 7.5 points.
More than 30 House Republicans have announced they will not seek re-election as the GOP tries to maintain its slim majority.
The Cook Political Report, a nonpartisan election handicapper site, currently lists the race as "Likely Republican."
Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte praised Zinke in a statement.
"Ryan Zinke has been a champion for Montana and the United States throughout his career of dedicated service as a U.S. Navy SEAL, a Montana state senator, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, and U.S. Secretary of the Interior," Gianforte said.
"He’s been an outspoken advocate for Montanans and our values from protecting public lands to restoring accountability in the federal government," Gianforte added.
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