Rep. Ken Buck to Exit Congress Next Week

Representative Ken Buck, a Republican from Colorado's 4th Congressional District, has announced his intention to resign from Congress effective March 22. His early departure will necessitate a special election to fill his seat, as mandated by federal law. This development is poised to have significant implications for the balance of power in the House, where Republicans currently hold a narrow majority with 218 seats to the Democrats' 213, with three vacancies.

Buck, who has been a member of the House since 2014, has been a vocal conservative voice, at times clashing with party leadership. His decision to step down comes after announcing last year that he would not seek re-election in 2024. He cited his frustrations with congressional stagnation and his own party's election denialism as reasons for not running again. In addition to his legislative role, Buck has served on key committees, including the House Judiciary Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

The congressman's resignation comes amidst heightened political tensions within the GOP and the House of Representatives as a whole. Buck's departure will present a challenge for House Speaker Mike Johnson, who often relies on a delicate balance of votes from both parties to pass significant legislation. Buck has stated that despite his resignation, he plans to remain active in politics and spend more time with his family in Colorado.