Context:

The growing dissatisfaction among moderate lawmakers in Congress is leading them to retire rather than engage in bipartisan dealmaking that is no longer supported by their parties. Rep. Don Bacon, one of the few House Republicans whose district was won by Vice President Harris, announced he will not run for re-election, exemplifying this trend. This exodus of moderates is worrisome for those who advocate for cross-party collaboration. Sen. Susan Collins' upcoming re-election is deemed competitive, reflecting the broader challenges moderates face. Meanwhile, the Louisiana Senate race is under scrutiny, with Sen. Bill Cassidy anticipated to encounter multiple primary challengers from within his party.

Dive Deeper:

• Moderate lawmakers are increasingly choosing to retire from Congress as they face exhaustion and a lack of support for bipartisan dealmaking within their parties, leading to a notable shift in the political landscape.

• Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, a rare House Republican in a district won by Vice President Harris, has decided not to seek re-election, highlighting the challenges moderates face in maintaining their positions.

• The departure of moderates like Bacon signifies a concerning trend for proponents of bipartisan collaboration, as fewer representatives are willing to bridge the partisan divide.

• Sen. Susan Collins of Maine is facing a competitive re-election race, with her seat currently rated as 'lean Republican' by The Cook Political Report, indicating potential vulnerability for moderates in upcoming elections.

• The Republican Party is closely monitoring the Louisiana Senate race, where Sen. Bill Cassidy is expected to encounter several primary challengers, reflecting internal party dynamics and challenges facing moderate incumbents.

• The trend of retiring moderates underscores a broader shift in Congressional dynamics, with implications for future legislative collaboration and the overall political climate.

• This phenomenon of moderates leaving Congress suggests an increasing polarization, where the willingness and ability to work across the aisle are diminishing within the legislative branch.