A Democratic congresswoman from Florida has been missing from Capitol Hill for nearly a month, raising new questions about the party’s aging bench as the 2026 midterms draw closer.
Rep. Frederica Wilson, 83, has not cast a vote in the House since April 17, according to congressional records cited in multiple reports. The longtime Florida Democrat has now missed 43 consecutive votes, with no public explanation from her office.
Wilson represents Florida’s 24th Congressional District, a heavily Democratic seat covering parts of Miami-Dade and Broward counties. She has served in Congress since 2011 and has represented the 24th District since 2013.
Her unexplained absence has drawn scrutiny as Democrats try to claw back control of the House while President Donald Trump and Republicans look to defend their narrow majority.
The issue gained attention after congressional reporter Jamie Dupree flagged Wilson’s voting record and noted that her official social media account had posted photos from events that appeared to be older. Some of the images reportedly matched pictures from previous appearances, including a Service Academy Day event from last year.
Wilson’s office has not said whether she is dealing with a health issue or when she plans to return to Washington.
Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-TX)
The absence is especially awkward for Democrats, who have repeatedly attacked Republicans over questions of age, stamina, and transparency while relying on a number of elderly lawmakers in their own ranks.
Wilson serves on the House Education and Workforce Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Recent hearing footage reportedly did not show her in attendance.
The Florida Democrat is also running for reelection in 2026. She faces a primary challenge from Christine Sanon-Jules, a small-business owner who has argued the district needs new leadership.
Wilson’s seat is not considered competitive in a general election, but the mystery surrounding her absence could fuel a broader debate over whether longtime lawmakers should remain in office while missing weeks of votes.
For now, the congresswoman missing from Capitol Hill has offered no public answers.
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