Overview
- Jesse James, who announced Tuesday he will retire at the end of his term, ended his planned run against Democratic Sen. Jeff Smith in the 31st District.
- He becomes the fifth GOP senator to step aside this cycle and the third from a closely contested district expected to shape control of the chamber.
- New maps adopted in 2024 moved James into Smith’s district, creating a matchup that Republicans had targeted to protect their narrow majority.
- A March 23 criminal complaint says James’ daughter took about $32,000 from his campaign, with investigators confirming repayment but noting no amended finance reports on file.
- Republican Michele Magadance Skinner launched a bid for James’ seat and said she received his endorsement as she entered the race.