Representative Sam Graves of Missouri announced he will retire from Congress after serving nearly three decades in the House of Representatives. Graves currently serves as chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, one of the most powerful positions in the House.

The Missouri Republican's retirement announcement adds to a growing list of GOP lawmakers who have decided not to seek reelection. Graves has been a senior member of the House Republican leadership and has played a key role in transportation policy during his tenure.

Graves first took office in 2001, representing Missouri's 6th congressional district. During his time in Congress, he has been involved in major infrastructure legislation and has been a prominent voice on transportation issues affecting rural and suburban communities.

The retirement comes as Republicans face uncertainty about their electoral prospects in upcoming midterm elections. Graves joins other senior GOP members who have announced plans to leave Congress, contributing to what observers describe as a notable wave of retirements among Republican lawmakers.

As Transportation Committee chairman, Graves has overseen significant infrastructure initiatives and has been involved in negotiations on major spending bills. His departure will leave a vacancy in Republican leadership on one of Congress's most influential committees.