New Hampshire congresswoman ready to pass baton to younger lawmakers

Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H., wants to set an example and allow younger lawmakers to be heard. The New Hampshire congresswoman is retiring after representing her district for more than 12 years.

Now 68, Kuster said it’s time to leave Capitol Hill and allow a younger Democrat to fill her seat. Maggie Goodlander, 38, will replace Kuster and represent New Hampshire’s 2nd Congressional District when the new Congress convenes next year.

“My time in these halls has been many things –– rewarding, inspiring, challenging, and, at times, frustrating. But more than anything, it has been the greatest honor of my lifetime,” Kuster said during her final address to the U.S. House on Dec. 18.

Kuster said she’s not the fighter the Democratic Party needs to go up against Donald Trump and the Republican-led Congress, adding that she believes her retirement can be an example for her colleagues to put the next generation of politicians in charge.

“I think there are colleagues –– and some of whom are still very successful and very productive –– but others who just stay forever,” she told The Boston Globe.

The average age of the 117th Congress was 58.4 for representatives and 64.3 for senators, with some of the oldest lawmakers surpassing 80.

Earlier this month, news broke of Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, living at a senior living facility in her state. Reports said the 81-year-old had not cast a vote since the summer.