Earlier this month, Upton opted to retire moderately than search reelection following redistricting. He was considered one of a small group of Home Republicans who voted to question then-President Donald Trump in January 2021 and who voted for the bipartisan infrastructure bundle later that yr.
Upton stated that if Republicans solely get hold of a slim majority, that will give extra leverage to firebrand members like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) who might complicate management’s means to corral votes on key points similar to elevating the debt ceiling.
“That’s why this over/beneath quantity is so essential. Are we going to be over or beneath 230? If it’s beneath 230 … It is going to be very exhausting to manipulate for Republicans if we’re beneath 230, understanding that we’ve received the MTG factor that’s actually not part of a governing majority,” stated Upton, who was first elected in 1986.
A celebration wants 218 votes to represent a majority within the Home. Democrats at current have 221 members.
Upton conceded that a few of these representatives who’ve induced complications for Republicans in Washington are enduringly well-liked of their residence districts.
He additionally expressed concern in regards to the coarsening of American politics lately, saying it’s a disincentive for high quality candidates to pursue public service. Upton stated he confronted loss of life threats following his vote for the infrastructure bundle.
“It places you in danger, significantly after they threaten not solely you … however after they threaten your partner or your youngsters, or no matter, that’s what actually makes it horrifying,” he stated.
