U.S. Rep. Julia Brownley (D-Calif.) is making headlines as she announces her decision to step down, signaling the end of a long-standing career representing California’s 26th Congressional District in the House.
Brownley, 73, has served in the House since 2013. She previously served in the California State Assembly and worked in marketing before entering politics. She most recently won reelection in 2024 with about 56% of the vote. Her current term runs through January 2027.
In her announcement, Brownley reflected on her career and accomplishments, calling public service “the honor of my lifetime.” She highlighted work on veterans’ support, health care access, environmental protection, and constituent services. She said she plans to continue serving the remainder of her term and delivering for her district’s residents.
The announcement coincides with a growing number of retirements ahead of the fall midterm elections, as more than 30 House members have already chosen not to seek another term.
As Politico reports:
Brownley did not cite a reason for her decision, but in a statement the Democrat said she was “confident” that House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries would lead the House effectively as speaker should Democrats take back the chamber.
California Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin said Thursday she was considering a run for Brownley’s now-vacant seat, telling reporters “I am the most obvious person to run for that seat,” after exiting the Assembly floor following Gov. Gavin Newsom’s State of the State address.
Brownley has represented Ventura County and parts of Los Angeles County for the past 12 years. Although the district was occasionally rated as a “Lean Democrat” or “Toss-up” in certain cycles — such as 2014 and briefly in 2022 — when Republicans invested heavily, it generally reverts to being considered a “Solid Democrat” by nonpartisan political forecasters like the Cook Political Report, signifying a non-competitive race.
Even with the passage of Proposition 50, a gerrymander initiated by Newsom, Brownley’s decision sets the stage for a potentially competitive contest likely to draw interest from both sides should the opportunity arise. Several candidates are expected to vie for the open seat.
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