On December 20, 2025, Senator Cynthia Lummis, a Republican from Wyoming, announced that she will not pursue re-election in 2026. This decision marks the end of her first term in the U.S. Senate, where she has served since 2021. Lummis, who is 71 years old, described her experience in the Senate as feeling like a 'sprinter in a marathon,' indicating that the energy required for the position no longer aligns with her current capabilities.

Lummis is the fifth Republican senator to declare retirement this year, joining Mitch McConnell (KY), Joni Ernst (IA), Tommy Tuberville (AL), and Thom Tillis (NC). Her retirement is not anticipated to significantly impact the Republican majority in the Senate, as Wyoming is considered a reliably Republican state. Potential candidates to succeed her include Congresswoman Harriet Hageman, who previously defeated Liz Cheney in the 2022 primary.

Before her Senate tenure, Lummis served eight years in the U.S. House of Representatives and began her political career in the Wyoming House at the age of 24. She gained recognition in the Senate for her advocacy in cryptocurrency regulation, earning the nickname 'Crypto Queen.' The Senate Leadership Fund, aligned with the Republican Party, acknowledged her contributions, particularly in establishing the U.S. as a leader in digital currencies and energy production.

Lummis expressed gratitude for the support she received during her career, particularly from former President Donald Trump, who endorsed her during her successful 2020 campaign. She indicated her intention to continue working on legislation until her term concludes in 2026, emphasizing her commitment to advancing policy initiatives during her remaining time in office.