Rep. Annie Kuster participates in the news conference in the Capitol on June 15, 2022. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)
During her years on Capitol Hill, Kuster became known for working across the aisle on key issues, and for her openness in sharing personal experiences, including that she was a survivor of sexual assault during her youth.
Kuster's announcement ignited surprised reactions across the political sphere and the media Wednesday morning on social media.
"Wow. I think Kuster might be the last member still in office who I helped get elected when I worked at the DCCC in 2012," Josh Schwerin, a longtime Democratic political operative, posted on X.
"Wow!" Michael LaRosa, a former spokesman for first lady Jill Biden, posted on X.
"Big surprise out of New Hampshire this morning – Democratic Rep. Annie Kuster won’t seek reelection, opening up NH-02," one Politico reporter posted on X.
"Wow. Rep. Kuster is Chair of New Dems, one of the largest Democratic caucuses in the House," an AP reporter posted on X. "The number of retirements in the House just continues to multiply."
Rep. Annie Kuster marches in an Independence Day parade, on July 4, 2022, in Amherst, New Hampshire. (Fox News - Paul Steinhauser)
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Kuster may play a key role in the battle to succeed her, but she steered clear of such discussion in her statement.
"I will continue serving the people of New Hampshire until the end of my term in January 2025. In the months ahead, I will use my time to help Congress build on the progress we have made and finish the job for the American people," Kuster said.
Republicans aim to defend their razor-thin House majority in November's elections.
The GOP currently holds a 218-213 majority in the House of Representatives.
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