Two House Democrats have announced their retirement shortly after the recent GOP battle to select Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) as the new House Speaker.

Reps. John Sarbanes (D-MD) and Jeff Jackson (D-NC) each released statements explaining that they would not run for another term.

Two Democrats Retiring From Congress After Speaker Drama

Reps. Jeff Jackson (D-N.C.) and John Sarbanes (D-Md.) are leaving Congress.https://t.co/npj2jWoVqe

— The Epoch Times (@EpochTimes) October 27, 2023

Sarbanes speaks

"With that in mind, I have decided not to seek re-election in 2024. While I am making this announcement today—specifically for the benefit of candidates interested in running for my seat in next year’s election—I’m not going anywhere for the next fourteen months," Sarbanes wrote in a statement.

"That’s what’s left in my term and I’m committed to finishing strong," he added.

I've officially been drawn out of my congressional district by a small group of politicians.

It’s blatant corruption, but I’ve got news for them:

I’m running for Attorney General, and I’m going to use that job to fight political corruption.

Join us: https://t.co/tb9ykB1pUH pic.twitter.com/nEcQnXEw5g

— Rep. Jeff Jackson (@JeffJacksonNC) October 26, 2023

Jackson's plans

Jackson announced his plans to step away from Congress and instead run for Attorney General in North Carolina.

"I've officially been drawn out of my congressional district by a small group of politicians," he posted to X.

"It’s blatant corruption, but I’ve got news for them: I’m running for Attorney General, and I’m going to use that job to fight political corruption," he continued.

America is different - and we are exceptional - because we stand on certain foundational principles.

And House Republicans will defend those principles. pic.twitter.com/MUiC1i8WaK

— Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) October 27, 2023

Johnson seeks to unite

"America is different - and we are exceptional - because we stand on certain foundational principles," Speaker Johnson said in a recent Fox News interview following his new role in the House.

"And House Republicans will defend those principles," he noted, emphasizing the focus of the party as the 2024 election nears.

The congressional maps of some states will likely make the House battle tough for Republicans to win next year. Alabama is expected to lose one seat due to its new map, while North Carolina and other states continue to battle for new maps over partisan divisions.

Regardless of the outcome, Republicans will have two Democrats out of the way as they seek to keep and extend their majority in the House under Johnson's leadership.