In a whirlwind of political drama and unexpected phone calls, Mitt Romney’s retirement announcement set the stage for a thrilling sequence of events. As his cell phone buzzed incessantly, the seasoned politician boldly declared that President Joe Biden should steer clear of a reelection bid, setting off a chain reaction that no one saw coming.
A mere five minutes later, Romney’s phone rang again, and this time, it was a call he couldn’t ignore—a call from none other than President Biden himself. Amidst the intrigue, the seasoned statesman embarked on what seemed to be a friendly and upbeat conversation with the president, shrouded in secrecy.
This episode encapsulated Romney’s brief yet impactful Senate career, marked by his staunch opposition to Trumpism within the GOP and his surprising ability to find common ground with President Biden, despite stark ideological differences. It’s a far cry from the days when Biden relentlessly criticized Romney as “out of touch” and uncompromising during their 2012 presidential campaign showdown. Now, Biden stood among the first to extend his well-wishes to the Utahn as he exited the political stage.
While Romney’s decision to retire in the face of the 2024 elections was not made lightly, it came as a response to the daunting prospect of a rematch between Biden and former President Donald Trump. In his view, another term for either candidate would do little to advance critical legislation on issues such as the national debt, climate change, and international diplomacy.
Romney made it abundantly clear that, though he leans toward Biden over Trump, he won’t be endorsing the president for a second term. His stance is firmly rooted in a belief that neither candidate possesses the leadership needed to address the pressing challenges facing the nation.
As he candidly put it, “I don’t see the leadership coming from either person.” His decision to exit the political stage rather than taking on the mantle of battling Trumpism demonstrates that he’s not willing to spend six more years just to prove a point.
Romney’s decision also takes into account age as a significant factor. Although he may not look his age of 76, he’s acutely aware of where he stands in terms of actuarial projections and Senate history. He humorously quipped about Senator Chuck Grassley’s potential longevity, but he’s keen to pass the torch to the younger generation, recognizing the fiscal burdens they inherit.
Furthermore, he views serving in the Senate as an octogenarian as a risky endeavor. The clear decline of Senator Dianne Feinstein at 90 and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell’s recent concussion underscore the potential pitfalls of aging politicians in the upper chamber.
Romney believes it’s time to step aside and let a new generation take the reins. His decision aligns with the departures of several senators close to his age, signaling a changing of the guard in Congress.
In a parting reflection on his Senate career, Romney remains humble, acknowledging that he may not be remembered by the masses. Instead, he envisions himself as a footnote in history, with only his descendants preserving his legacy.
Yet, Romney’s first-term impact on the Senate is undeniable. He quickly became a trusted and approachable senator for both colleagues and journalists. His willingness to address internal party crises and crises within his own party set him apart.
Throughout his tenure, he displayed a quirky and self-deprecating sense of humor that often eluded him during his presidential runs but shone brightly in the Senate.
Romney’s legislative accomplishments are also noteworthy. His lone GOP vote to convict Trump in the first impeachment trial, participation in bipartisan coalitions during the pandemic, and support for various historic deals exemplify his commitment to bipartisan governance.
However, his “Trust Act” remains his biggest legislative regret—an initiative aimed at establishing rescue committees for federal trust funds. While he’s often regarded as a GOP moderate, his fiscal conservatism and desire to shore up entitlement programs remain unfulfilled.
As he transitions into post-Congress life, Romney has his sights set on completing three non-political books and potentially engaging with college campuses or teaching. Still, he recognizes that his time in the Senate marked the pinnacle of his political journey.
In his own words, “My last four-and-a-half years, I was kind of spoiled. And if I can’t get stuff done, I’m not the kind of guy that wants to be around here voting no on everything.”
Mitt Romney’s exit from the political stage may be the end of an era, but it’s a conclusion filled with twists, turns, and a legacy that leaves a lasting impact on American politics.
