Georgia Republican Drew Ferguson Announces Retirement

Georgia Republican Representative Drew Ferguson revealed that he will not seek reelection, adding his name to the growing list of lawmakers choosing to step away from office. The 57-year-old congressman did not provide a specific reason for his decision but expressed his anticipation of spending more quality time with his family.

“Upon the conclusion of the 118th Congress, I will be retiring from the House of Representatives,” stated Ferguson. “Serving the wonderful constituents of Georgia’s Third District has been the honor of a lifetime. I have been blessed to have worked with such a talented and dedicated staff in my District and D.C. offices.”

Ferguson, a former mayor of West Point, was elected to Congress in 2016, representing western Georgia’s 3rd District, which encompasses areas west of Atlanta along the Georgia-Alabama state line. He has served in the House GOP leadership as the chief deputy whip from 2018 through 2022 and holds a seat on the influential tax-writing Ways and Means Committee.

The congressman plans to fulfill the remainder of his fourth term, set to expire at the end of next year, before officially stepping down. Ferguson’s decision comes as a surprise, especially considering the strong support he received in last year’s reelection, securing 69% of the vote in a district that leans solidly Republican.

“Georgia is truly a special place, and it’s calling us home. Julie and I look forward to spending more time with our children and grandchildren while continuing to work to keep Georgia the best state in America to live and do business,” Ferguson added.

Ferguson faced a notable moment of controversy in October when he claimed to have received death threats following his change of heart regarding the House Speaker election. Initially supporting Representative Jim Jordan, he later switched his allegiance to House Majority Leader Steve Scalise.

A native of West Point, Ferguson was elected as the city’s mayor in 2008. A graduate of the University of Georgia and the Medical College of Georgia, he established a dental practice in his hometown before entering the political arena.

As the race for Ferguson‘s seat is expected to draw attention, the 3rd Congressional District remains a safe bet for Republicans. Stretching along the Alabama line from northern Muscogee County through Haralson County, the district extends east through Spalding, Lamar, and Upson counties. The announcement of Ferguson’s retirement adds another layer of intrigue to the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. politics.