In a recent announcement, Representative Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.) declared that he will be retiring from the House at the end of his current term, adding his name to the growing list of lawmakers choosing to step away from Capitol Hill amid what has been perceived as an unproductive congressional session.

Duncan, a key figure elected during the Tea Party wave in 2010 that secured Republican control of the House, emphasized the need for new leadership and “fresh ideas” in South Carolina’s 3rd Congressional District. The 58-year-old congressman stated, “At some point in a career, one needs to step aside and allow others to bring fresh ideas and abilities into the fight for Liberty, just as I have.”

In his official statement, Duncan expressed gratitude for the privilege and honor of representing the 3rd District of South Carolina, underscoring the importance of passing the torch to a new representative in the next Congress. He confirmed that he would not seek re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Duncan, a businessman turned politician, entered politics in the aftermath of the September 2001 terrorist attacks, motivated by a desire to serve his country. Over the years, he has been a staunch advocate for energy policy, particularly championing the cause of expanding nuclear power. Duncan believes that small-scale nuclear reactors warrant increased research and could be a crucial source of power in the future.

The retiring congressman also founded the Faith and Freedom BBQ, an event that brought together thousands of conservatives in Anderson to hear from prominent Republicans nationwide. Despite his political achievements, Duncan’s reputation for conservative family values took a hit last year when his wife, Melody Hodges Duncan, filed for divorce. Allegations surfaced that Duncan had left her and was involved in a sexual relationship with a lobbyist, with claims of infidelity during their 35-year marriage.

Duncan has remained tight-lipped about the details surrounding his marital issues, referring to it as a “difficult and private moment.” Notably, his recent months in office have been overshadowed by these accusations of adultery, adding a layer of controversy to his political career.

Representing a conservative district in upstate South Carolina, Duncan has been a formidable force, regularly winning elections with over 70 percent of the vote in years he sought re-election. He was unopposed in 2022, further highlighting the Republican stronghold in his constituency.

As Duncan bows out of Congress, the focus now shifts to the upcoming political landscape in South Carolina’s 3rd Congressional District. Duncan’s January 17 statement did not mention his preference for a successor, leaving speculation about the future representation of this conservative stronghold until the filing period for political office opens in March.

Duncan joins a growing list of more than a dozen House Republicans who are either retiring next year or seeking another office, signaling a potential shift in the composition of the Republican caucus in the House of Representatives.