Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-FL) announced on Friday she will not seek re-election in the 2026 midterms.

“This has been a journey, but it’s time,” Wilson stated, emphasizing her decision to step down from Congress after nearly four decades serving. She confirmed she had strategically delayed her retirement announcement until after new congressional district maps were finalized—a move designed to protect her deep-blue Miami district from potential targeting during redistricting efforts.

Wilson, who turned 83 earlier this year, had previously signaled her intent to run for another term in 2026 despite widespread voter demands for generational change among lawmakers. Her recent eye surgery caused a month-long absence from voting sessions this spring, though she returned to Capitol Hill to cast votes on May 21 after missing over forty sessions during her recovery.

The House member also addressed a recent dispute with former President Trump, referencing their 2017 clash following the tragic death of Army Sgt. La David Johnson in Niger. Wilson recalled Trump’s call with Johnson’s widow, Myeshia Johnson, where he reportedly claimed the soldier “knew what he signed up for”—a statement Wilson has consistently contested while criticizing Trump’s tendency to politicize solemn moments.

Wilson had previously dismissed reports of her retirement as a “crazy rumor,” asserting she would inform local allies before publicizing the decision. Her announcement makes her the 60th House member this cycle to either retire or pursue higher office ahead of the next election.