Former California Republican Congresswoman Michelle Steel Announces Exit from Congress
Michelle Steel, a prominent voice in the Republican Party and one of the first Korean-American women to serve in Congress, has announced that she will not seek re-election in the 2026 midterm elections. The decision follows her narrow defeat in the 2. This shift in focus has opened the door for a potential competitive Republican primary in her district, which is a key battleground in the state.
Steel, who represented California’s 38th congressional district, narrowly lost to Rep. Derek Tran in 2022. Her decision not to run for another term is a significant development for the Republican Party, especially as it looks to strengthen its position in a state that has traditionally been a Democratic stronghold. Steel’s exit creates a vacancy that is likely to be a focal point for the GOP, with multiple candidates expected to enter the race in the coming months.
Steel has expressed her commitment to continuing her work on President Trump’s agenda, particularly in the areas of immigration and Asian-American community support. She mentioned her role in an Asian-American coalition established by House Speaker Mike Johnson, and her involvement in initiatives aimed at strengthening ties between Asian-American communities in the U.S. and those in her native country. This reflects a broader effort within the Republican Party to address the growing concerns of immigrant communities and the issues associated with immigration.
Steel’s remarks also included a critique of the current political climate regarding immigration, with emphasis on the dangers of illegal immigration and the need for strict enforcement measures. She addressed the growing criticism she has faced for her stance on immigration, stating that her position is based on the need to protect American citizens from criminal activity. Steel highlighted the importance of understanding the complexities of immigration and the need for comprehensive policies that balance safety and compassion.
The decision to step down from Congress is expected to have significant implications for the Republican Party in California. With Steel’s name no longer on the ballot, the race for her seat is likely to attract a range of candidates, each seeking to capitalize on the political vacuum left behind. The outcome of this race could have a lasting impact on the state’s political landscape and the broader Republican strategy in a state that has historically leaned Democratic.