Troy Nehls Announces Retirement, Shaking Up Texas GOP Landscape

U.S. Representative Troy Nehls will not seek reelection in 2026. The Texas Republican made the announcement on Saturday. His departure marks the sixth GOP exit from the state’s congressional delegation this cycle.

The news creates an immediate opening in Texas’ 22nd Congressional District. This district covers parts of the Houston metro area. The political landscape is now set for a significant transformation.

Brother Enters Race as Redistricting Looms

Trever Nehls, the congressman’s twin brother, declared his candidacy shortly after. He is a former Fort Bend County constable. He pledged to continue his brother’s work and support former President Donald Trump.

His entry adds a dramatic family dynamic to the race. The district’s boundaries, however, are not yet final. According to Reuters, the Supreme Court is poised to rule on new Texas congressional maps soon.

The court’s decision will critically impact the election. It will determine the voter base for the 2026 primary. Candidates are operating under this cloud of uncertainty.

Nehls’s Legacy and a Wave of Departures

Troy Nehls served three terms in the House of Representatives. He was a prominent member of the House Judiciary Committee. He also chaired the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation.

His retirement is part of a broader exodus. Five other Texas Republicans are also not seeking reelection. This signals a notable shift within the state’s political power structure.

Nehls was known for his staunch conservative views. He was a vocal ally of Donald Trump throughout his tenure. His absence will leave a noticeable gap in the state’s delegation.

The retirement of Troy Nehls initiates a pivotal contest for a key Texas seat. This race will test the influence of political legacies amid national GOP realignment. The outcome will reshape the district’s representation for years to come.

Info at your fingertips

Why is Troy Nehls not running for reelection?

Nehls announced his decision to retire from Congress. He did not specify a particular reason for his exit. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve his district.

Who is running to replace Troy Nehls?

His twin brother, Trever Nehls, has launched a campaign for the seat. Other candidates are expected to enter the race before the filing deadline. The field will likely be competitive.

How will redistricting affect this election?

The Supreme Court must rule on new Texas congressional maps. This decision will define the exact boundaries of the 22nd District. It could alter the demographic and political makeup of the electorate.

What was Troy Nehls’s role in Congress?

Nehls served on the House Judiciary and Transportation committees. He was the chairman of the Aviation Subcommittee. His work focused on law enforcement and infrastructure policy.

How many Texas Republicans are retiring?

Nehls is the sixth Texas Republican to announce he will not seek reelection. This wave of retirements is creating multiple open seats. It represents a significant turnover for the state’s GOP representation.