A Decade of Service in Congress

The senior Republican lawmaker will conclude a decade of service in Congress at the end of next year. Reflecting on his tenure, Arrington shared his perspective on the nature of public service.

“I have a firm conviction, much like our founders did, that public service is a lifetime commitment, but public office is and should be a temporary stint in stewardship, not a career,” Arrington stated during an interview with Fox News Digital.

Leaving on a High Note

Arrington expressed satisfaction with his contributions during his time in office, particularly his involvement in crafting significant legislation during the Trump presidency.

“It was a very unique, generational impact opportunity, to be almost ten years into this and to have the budget chairmanship, and to lead the charge to successfully pass that and to help this president fulfill his mandate from the people,” he shared. “It just seems like a good and right place to leave it.”

Proud Achievements and Shift in Political Culture

When discussing his proudest achievements, Arrington cited multiple legislative initiatives but emphasized the cultural shift he aimed to create within Congress and his party.

Representing a rural district, he articulated the importance of raising awareness among urban and suburban lawmakers about the unique challenges faced by rural America. “Raising the profile among urban and suburban members as to the unique challenges of rural America and the unique contributions of rural America—like food security and energy independence—is something I’m proud of,” he noted.

Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility

As he prepares to leave, Arrington reaffirmed his commitment to fiscal responsibility, a principle he passionately advocates. He expressed confidence that Republican colleagues would continue this focus.

“The president’s committed to it, he talks about it all the time,” he said. “He’s actually doing something about it with very difficult decisions, not politically popular decisions. This is all about political will.”

Arrington voiced optimism about a new budget reconciliation bill that he hopes to pursue over his remaining year in Congress. “It’s been our most consequential tool to support the president and the strength of the country,” he stated.

Looking Ahead: New Challenges and Personal Time

Despite not yet knowing his post-Congress plans, Arrington mentioned a desire to remain active in leadership roles that would allow him to make a significant impact. “I want to remain in the fight,” he remarked.

“I am looking forward to quality time with my wife and kids and focusing on my leadership and service, not in the people’s house, but in my own house,” he added, highlighting the importance of family.

Reflecting on His Journey

Representing a heavily Republican constituency in Lubbock, Texas, Arrington believes it’s unlikely that his seat will flip to the Democrats in the 2026 midterms. As he prepares to leave office, he conveyed a sense of fulfillment with his service.

“I’m thankful that God called me and gave me the grace to succeed and to achieve the things that we’ve achieved,” he reflected. “Did I make my share of mistakes? You bet. Did I learn along the way? You bet I did. But we left [the country] better than we found it, and it gives me great satisfaction.”