On Sunday, Representative Brian Higgins (D-N.Y.) disclosed his intention to resign in February after 19 years, attributing his decision to mounting frustrations with the increasing dysfunction in Congress, especially during a particularly tumultuous year for the chamber.

Higgins, who represents New York’s strongly Democratic 26th Congressional District, revealed the challenges that influenced his choice to step down.

“I’ve always been a little impatient, and that trait has helped us deliver remarkable progress for this community,” Higgins said in a statement. “But the pace in Washington, D.C. can be slow and frustrating, especially this year.”

“Therefore, after thoughtful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to leave Congress and explore other ways I can build up and serve Buffalo and Western New York,” he continued.

At the age of 64, Representative Brian Higgins commenced his 10th term in office in January 2023, The Hill reported.

Serving on both the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Budget Committee, Higgins holds the positions of co-chair for the Northern Border Caucus and the Canada-U.S. Inter-Parliamentary Group.

Additionally, he serves as the co-chair of the Bipartisan Cancer Caucus. In recent weeks, Higgins adds his name to the list of several other House members who have announced their departure.

Written by B.C. Begley