Frederica Wilson, the 83-year-old congresswoman from Florida, announced on Friday that she will not seek re-election. The House Democrat was absent from Congress from April 20 to May 20 while recovering from an eye procedure, missing 57 roll call votes, according to GovTrack.
Social Media Controversy
During her absence, Wilson's social media team reused photographs from the previous fall in an apparent effort to create the impression that she was still actively engaging with constituents. This move sparked criticism and raised questions about transparency.
Strategic Timing of Announcement
Wilson deliberately withheld her retirement announcement to protect her district from the Florida GOP's redistricting efforts, she told the Miami Herald on Thursday. Prior to this, she had denied reports suggesting she was about to retire, telling Axios last week, 'It's a crazy rumor.'
Concerns Over Absence
Wilson's mysterious absence from Congress sparked concern among her colleagues and the public. Her absence coincided with that of Tom Kean Jr., a New Jersey Republican, who has missed 104 consecutive roll call votes between March 17 and May 21, according to GovTrack. Kean last voted on March 5, and his absence has been attributed to a medical issue, but GOP leaders have stated they have little information about the specifics or when Kean might return.
Impact on House Majority
Kean's absence has caused fear among Republicans on Capitol Hill, as his already-competitive seat could become vulnerable in the November elections. With the House having a tight margin of 217 Republicans to 212 Democrats, and control requiring 218 seats, every vote is crucial.
Wilson's Legacy
Though she is leaving Congress, Wilson plans to remain active in public life. She was well-known on Capitol Hill for her brightly colored outfits, complete with matching hats. The former school principal made headlines in 2017 for a public clash with President Donald Trump, accusing him of making an insensitive remark to the widow of a U.S. Special Forces soldier killed in action in Niger. Trump denied the account, but the widow's mother later confirmed Wilson's story to multiple news outlets.
Next Steps
Now that Wilson has stepped down, potential replacements have until June 12 to file for the August 18 primary election. Florida state senator Shevrin Jones, a Democrat, said in a video posted to social media on Wednesday that he would not be running for his old seat and hinted at 'another chapter.'
