Key facts
- Roy said Republicans were "trying to focus on political power" instead of constituents' interests.
- Roy said he will depart his role on January 3, 2026.
- Roy urged Congress to stay in session until January 3.
- Roy called for a congressional stock trading ban, border security and a reconciliation package.
US Representative Chip Roy, a Texas Republican, criticized his party on the House floor on November 12, 2026, after Republicans lost control of both chambers of Congress in the midterm elections the previous week. Roy, who leaves his role on January 3 following an unsuccessful bid for Texas attorney general, spoke for nearly half an hour and accused the party of "trying to focus on political power" rather than acting for constituents.
Roy renewed his criticism of the party's decision to back Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton against incumbent Senator John Cornyn in the state's Republican primary. Paxton, who was impeached by the Texas House over alleged inappropriate favors for donors and later acquitted by the state Senate, lost the general election to Texas state Representative James Talarico.
Roy also warned Democrats against reading their wins as a wave, saying the public is not enamored with either party. He urged Congress to stay in session until January 3 and to advance a congressional stock trading ban, border security and a reconciliation package.