New Hampshire Representative Annie Kuster has cited former President Donald Trump as a factor in her decision to step away from Congress.
Speaking with The Boston Globe, Kuster explained that her retirement, announced in March, was partly motivated by a desire to set a “better example” for future generations.
“I’m trying to set a better example,” Kuster said. “There are colleagues — some still very effective and productive — but others who just stay forever.”
Reflecting on the challenges of the Trump era, Kuster admitted that she no longer feels equipped to handle its political climate. “I’m just not the best gladiator for it right now,” she remarked.
Kuster also pointed to the events of January 6, 2021, and their lasting impact on her decision. The protests at the U.S. Capitol, which arose from baseless claims of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election, left her deeply shaken.
“I’ve said somewhat facetiously, he tried to kill me once; I’m not available for that again,” Kuster said, referring to Trump. “What we went through on Jan. 6 and his attempt to overthrow the government took a toll. That was really hard—not just personally, but on my ability to