Former Senator Jeff Flake responded to Tillis' retirement announcement with sympathy on Sunday. (Getty Images)
"It’s an honor to serve in the Senate — but not at any cost," he added.
Tillis said on Sunday that he plans to retire at the end of his term in 2026. In a statement, the North Carolina Republican referenced "the greatest form of hypocrisy in American politics."
"When people see independent thinking on the other side, they cheer," Tillis said. "But when those very same people see independent thinking coming from their side, they scorn, ostracize, and even censure."
"In Washington over the last few years, it's become increasingly evident that leaders who are willing to embrace bipartisanship, compromise, and demonstrate independent thinking are becoming an endangered species," he added.
Tillis added that the choice broke down to either spending time with his family or navigating "the political theater and partisan gridlock," in Washington, D.C.
"It's not a hard choice, and I will not be seeking re-election," he said.
SENATE REPUBLICANS RAM TRUMP'S 'BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL' THROUGH KEY TEST VOTE
President Donald Trump speaks with reporters after announcing a trade deal with United Kingdom in the Oval Office of the White House, Thursday, May 8, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
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"I will be meeting with them over the coming weeks, looking for someone who will properly represent the Great People of North Carolina and, so importantly, the United States of America. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" he added.
Fox News Digital's Alex Miller contributed to this report.
Andrea Margolis is a lifestyle writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. Readers can follow her on X at @andreamargs or send story tips to andrea.margolis@fox.com.
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