Oct 29, 2021 - Politics & Policy

Kinzinger will not seek re-election in 2022

Representative Adam Kinzinger listens during a business meeting of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021.

Rep. Adam Kinzinger listens during a meeting of the select committee to investigate the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capito on Oct. 19. Photo: Sarah Silbiger/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) announced Friday that he will not run for re-election in 2022.

Why it matters: Kinzinger is one of two Republicans to serve on the House select committee investigating the Jan. 6 Capitol riot and one of former President Trump's fiercest GOP critics.

Driving the news: "In Congress, I've witnessed how division is heavily rooted. There is little to no desire to bridge our differences and unity is no longer a word we use," Kinzinger said in a video announcing his decision.

  • “It has also become increasingly obvious to me that in order to break the narrative, I cannot focus on both re-election to Congress and a broader fight nationwide.”
  • "But let me be clear: My passion for this country has only grown," Kinzinger said.
  • "My desire to make a difference is bigger than it’s ever been. My disappointment in the leaders that don’t lead is huge. The battlefield must be broader, and the truth needs to reach the American people across the whole country."

Go deeper: Kinzinger blasts GOP colleagues' silence after Gonzalez announces retirement

Editor's note: This story has been updated with new details throughout.

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