Rep. Burgess Owens (R-Utah) announced he will not seek reelection in 2026, joining over 30 other House and Senate Republicans stepping down this year.

Owens, who has served in Congress since 2021, cited his focus on advocating for at-risk children and education as motivating his public service.

He emphasized completing his current term fully committed to representing Utah’s values of faith, family, free markets, and education.

Owens praised former President Donald Trump’s leadership in combating what he called the “spread of Marxism” in the U.S. political landscape, The Hill has reported.

His departure comes amid challenging political conditions for Republicans, including Trump’s low polling numbers, Epstein-related controversies, and concerns over the party’s policy positions.