Utah Republican Senator Mitt Romney made a significant announcement on Wednesday, declaring that he will not seek re-election. This decision marks the conclusion of a remarkable two-decade-long political career that saw him secure the 2012 Republican GOP nomination for president and serve as the governor of Massachusetts.
At the age of 76, Romney emphasized the need for a younger generation of leaders to address the multitude of challenges facing the nation. He suggested that the United States would be better served if the current front-runners for their respective parties’ 2024 presidential nominations, Democratic President Joe Biden and Republican former President Donald Trump, stepped aside. Biden, at 80, and Trump, at 77, are seen as figures from a previous era. Romney asserted, “The times we’re living in demand the next generation step up and express their point of view and make the decisions that will shape American politics over the coming century.” He added that baby boomers like himself are not the right individuals to be shaping the nation’s future decisions.
Romney also shared his plans for post-Senate life, stating that he intends to focus on encouraging more young people to participate in the political process and exercise their right to vote.
Romney’s political journey saw a transformation from a buttoned-up former Massachusetts governor and private equity executive campaigning as the GOP’s 2012 presidential nominee to a more independent and outlier figure within the party as Donald Trump rose to prominence. He notably stood out as the only Republican member of Congress to vote to convict Trump during both of his impeachment trials.
In a news conference, Romney remarked that he belongs to the “wise wing of the Republican Party” and believes it will continue to play a significant role. He contrasted his wing’s focus on policy and issues with what he termed as the “Trump wing,” which he characterized as emphasizing resentments, settling scores, and revisiting the 2020 election.
Romney disclosed that he had a conversation with President Biden, during which the President wished him well.
Romney’s retirement announcement makes him the sixth incumbent senator to announce plans to step down at the end of the term in 2025, joining Republican Mike Braun of Indiana and Democrats Tom Carper of Delaware, Ben Cardin of Maryland, Dianne Feinstein of California, and Debbie Stabenow of Michigan.
Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell praised Romney, highlighting the depth of experience he brought to the Senate and commending his faith and integrity, which inspired his colleagues.
The upcoming vacancy in Utah’s Senate seat is expected to attract a crowded field of candidates in a state that traditionally favors Republicans.
Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson had previously expressed interest in Romney’s seat earlier this year, launching an exploratory committee and emphasizing the need for a “conservative fighter” who aligns with the state’s values rather than a “professional career politician.”
Despite facing some resistance within his party due to his differences with Trump, Romney enjoyed broad popularity in Utah, a state known for its conservative values and significant membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which Romney is a part of. Romney’s reputation was further enhanced by his successful management of the 2002 Winter Olympics in Utah, which helped spotlight Salt Lake City on the global stage.
Romney had previously served as the governor of Massachusetts from 2003 to 2007, during which time he signed a healthcare law that shared core features with the 2010 federal healthcare law signed by then-President Barack Obama.
During his presidential campaign in 2012, Romney faced challenges in connecting with regular Americans, with his remark about the “47% of Americans” who “believe they are victims” and “pay no income tax” becoming a defining moment.
Romney moved to Utah after his presidential defeat and, in 2016, delivered a scathing speech denouncing Trump as a “phony” and a “fraud” who was unfit for the White House. However, after Trump’s victory, Romney considered the role of secretary of state but was not selected.
Throughout his Senate tenure, Romney maintained a stance of principled independence, voting to convict Trump in both of his impeachment trials in 2020. This led to some backlash within his party, including boos from Utah Republican Party members and a failed attempt to censure him.
Despite these challenges, Romney remained a prominent figure in Utah’s political landscape, and his retirement now paves the way for a new era of leadership in the state and the nation.
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