U.S. Representative from Michigan · 1987-2023

Fred Upton

Republican Congress
Summary

Long-serving Republican Congressman who voted to impeach Trump after January 6 and retired after Trump endorsed his primary opponent.

In Their Own Words

Key Statements

The Congress must hold President Trump to account and send a clear message that our country cannot and will not tolerate any effort by any President to impede the peaceful transfer of power from one President to the next.
January 13, 2021 · Upton House statement
There was simply no excuse for the events of January 6th. The President's actions that day were simply unacceptable and warrant impeachment.
January 13, 2021 · Upton House statement

Timeline

January 3, 1987

Elected to U.S. House

Began 36-year congressional career

January 2179

Chaired House Energy and Commerce Committee

Senior Republican leadership

January 13, 2021

Voted to impeach Trump

One of 10 House Republicans to vote for impeachment

2022

Trump endorsed primary opponent

Targeted for removal

April 5, 2022

Announced retirement

Would not seek re-election

January 3, 2023

Left Congress

Retired after 36 years

Why This Matters

Credibility & Background

Background

Long-serving Republican Congressman, former committee chairman, moderate voice in GOP

Positions Held

  • U.S. Representative from Michigan (1987-2023)
  • Chairman, House Energy and Commerce Committee (2011-2017)
Analysis

Reasons for Opposition

  1. 01 Trump's actions on January 6 were unacceptable
  2. 02 Trump impeded peaceful transfer of power
  3. 03 Trump's conduct warranted impeachment
  4. 04 Trump attacked anyone who stood up to him
  5. 05 Trump corrupted the Republican Party
Electoral Position

Voted to impeach Trump, retired rather than face Trump-backed challenger

View All Critics

Explore the full list of Republican officials, military leaders, and former staff who have spoken out against Trump.