Congressman Daniel Webster, who represents The Villages in the U.S. House of Representatives, has announced his retirement.
“After much prayerful consideration and discussion with my beloved wife Sandy, I have decided not to seek re-election to the United States House of Representatives,” said Webster. “It has been an honor and privilege to represent my beloved state in the U.S. House of Representatives. I’ve never taken for granted my responsibility to Florida’s hardworking taxpayers and families to advance common-sense reforms and principled policy. The time has come to pass the torch to the next conservative leader and spend more precious time with my wife, children and 24 grandchildren.”
In 2022, Webster fended off a tough primary challenge from Laura Loomer. She repeatedly hammered his age and questioned his cognitive abilities. He celebrated his 77th birthday this week.
In recent years, Webster closely aligned himself with President Trump and touted his endorsement to ward off another potential challenger, Anthony Sabatini.
The news will no doubt set off a rush of potential successors.
In his statement, Webster looked back on his long career in Congress.
“I ran for office because I wanted to change public policy. Fighting to protect our freedoms, values, life and liberty; lower taxes; invest in our veterans and active-duty military, infrastructure and precious ecosystems has energized me every day,” Webster added. “To have been part of the development and passage of some of the most significant legislation in our time is something I will forever treasure.”