As the 2020 elections approach, lawmakers in both the House and the Senate are bracing for an unusually high rate of retirements, even among younger members. Some of these retirements are due to the bitter partisan divide that has gripped Washington in recent years, while others are due to a desire to pursue new opportunities and to spend more time with family and loved ones. With fewer senior members to serve as mentors and experienced guides, there is a concern that the legislative process could become even more gridlocked and ineffective in the coming years. This is a worrying prospect for many constituents, and it is important that newly elected legislators receive appropriate training and resources to prepare them for their new roles.
