California Rep. Julia Brownley Announces Retirement After Seven Terms in Congress
Democratic Representative Julia Brownley of California announced that she will not seek re-election, bringing an end to a congressional career that has spanned seven terms representing communities in Ventura County and parts of Los Angeles County.
Brownley becomes one of more than three dozen House members who have announced plans not to run for re-election. She is also the second California House Democrat this cycle to confirm her departure from Congress.
In a statement, Brownley reflected on her years of public service and expressed gratitude to the constituents she has represented.
“Serving our community and our country has been the honor of my lifetime,” Brownley said. “Every step of this journey has been shaped by the people I represent, by their resilience, their determination, and their belief that government can and should work for the common good.”
Brownley highlighted accomplishments during her time in office, including efforts to expand access to healthcare, strengthen support for veterans and military families, protect natural resources, address climate-related challenges, and advocate for working families. She also noted constituent service efforts that helped residents navigate federal agencies and secure benefits.
Despite stepping away from Congress at the conclusion of her current term, Brownley said she remains optimistic about the nation’s future and intends to remain active in public life.
“The American experiment has endured not because it is perfect, but because generations of Americans continue to believe in it and work to make it more just, more equal, and more reflective of those it serves,” she said.
Brownley also expressed confidence in House Democratic leadership, praising House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and saying she believes he would provide strong leadership should Democrats regain control of the House.
Following the announcement, California Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin indicated she is exploring a campaign for the open seat, while Jeffries praised Brownley’s record, particularly her advocacy for veterans and military families throughout her congressional tenure.
