News Summary
Representative Michael McCaul (R-TX) has declared he will not run for re-election in the upcoming midterms, concluding over 20 years in Congress. Known for his focus on national security and foreign policy, McCaul has held significant roles, including chairing the House Homeland Security and Foreign Affairs Committees. He plans to seek new challenges beyond Congress after his term ends, emphasizing ongoing concerns about international aid and U.S. foreign policy effectiveness.
Austin, Texas – Representative Michael McCaul (R-TX) has announced that he will not seek re-election for the 2026 midterms, marking the end of over two decades of service in the United States Congress. McCaul’s decision comes after a long career that began in 2005 and has been defined by a strong focus on national security and foreign policy issues.
After serving as the chief of counterterrorism and national security in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas, McCaul entered Congress, where he has held significant positions, including chairing both the House Homeland Security and Foreign Affairs Committees. He also played a pivotal role as the leader of the China Task Force, which evolved into the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.
McCaul mentioned that the motivation for his public service was inspired by his father’s service in World War II. As he looks toward the future, he has expressed a desire for a new challenge in 2027 outside of Congress.
Throughout his congressional tenure, McCaul has been vocal about issues surrounding international assistance and foreign policy, particularly during his interview in February 2025 regarding the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and food aid programs in Houston. He expressed concern over the challenges posed by the Biden administration’s policies, which he believes have caused confusion surrounding USAID’s mission and effectiveness.
Furthermore, McCaul cited significant amounts of food aid, totaling $40 million, that remained undelivered due to a lack of U.S. personnel to process the aid. He emphasized that timely food assistance is crucial for starving populations and for maintaining stability in fragile nations, which is essential to countering adversarial threats from countries like Russia and China.
In discussing the necessity for humanitarian assistance waivers, McCaul urged the administration to expedite food delivery amidst ongoing crises in various nations. He raised alarms over stalled humanitarian programs, particularly in countries afflicted by war, such as Syria, where the effects of delayed aid can be devastating.
McCaul also highlighted an internal divide within the Republican Party concerning funding for international programs, specifically regarding differing viewpoints on the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). He stressed that the U.S. must honor commitments made to Afghan partners who supported military operations, advocating for the continuation of the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program to aid these allies.
As his congressional career comes to a close, McCaul remains committed to reviewing operations within USAID to ensure that responsibilities are effectively met, and he continues to underscore the importance of robust foreign aid as a tool for promoting goodwill internationally and addressing external threats.
McCaul’s retirement from Congress will bring to an end a notable chapter in Texas politics, where he has played a crucial role in shaping legislation related to national security and foreign affairs. His absence will likely pave the way for new candidates in the upcoming electoral cycle, as discussions on national and international issues continue to evolve.
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Additional Resources
- KTRH: Michael McCaul Announces Retirement
- CBS News: Michael McCaul Interview
- Houston Chronicle: McCaul on Stock Ban
- Wikipedia: Michael McCaul
- Chron: McCaul Detained
- Google Search: Michael McCaul
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
