Rep. Gallagher’s Departure Timing Will Leave Seat Open

Mr. Gallagher’s April 19 departure will prevent him from being replaced via a special election.

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) speaks to members of the press after a members-only classified briefing on TikTok at the Capitol Visitor Center on Capitol Hill in Washington on March 12, 2024. Alex Wong/Getty Images

Rep. Mike Gallagher’s (R-Wis.) March 22 announcement that he will retire in mere weeks caught insiders’ attention because of the timing.

Per Wisconsin statute, “A vacancy in the office of U.S. senator or representative in Congress occurring prior to the 2nd Tuesday in April in the year of the general election shall be filled at a special primary and election.”