Republican Reps. Beth Van Duyne and Rich McCormick Split After Two-Year Capitol Hill Romance

Republican Reps. Beth Van Duyne of Texas and Rich McCormick of Georgia have ended their romantic relationship after more than two years together, bringing an end to one of Capitol Hill’s most closely watched political romances.

The two lawmakers reportedly separated sometime in recent months, although the exact timing and circumstances surrounding their breakup remain unclear. Sources familiar with the situation indicated that the split was amicable and that the pair intend to remain friends.

McCormick confirmed that he continues to have a positive relationship with Van Duyne despite their decision to separate. The Georgia Republican said he hopes to maintain their friendship moving forward.

Van Duyne, 55, has not publicly addressed the breakup. Neither congressional office immediately provided additional details about the relationship’s end.

The couple first publicly acknowledged their romance in May 2024, shortly after McCormick filed for divorce from his wife of 12 years, Dr. Debra Miller. Their relationship had already attracted attention among congressional colleagues, with reports suggesting the two had been romantically involved for some time before making it public.

At the time, Van Duyne confirmed that she and McCormick were dating and described both lawmakers as single parents with adult children. She also emphasized that McCormick’s previous marriage had already been troubled before the relationship became public.

Their romance generated considerable interest in Washington because both were sitting Republican members of Congress. The pair were occasionally spotted together at congressional gatherings and other events around Capitol Hill.

Reports from 2024 described the lawmakers holding hands during a Republican lunch and spending time together while Congress was in session. Their relationship subsequently became public knowledge, and both continued serving in the House while dating.

As recently as July 2026, Van Duyne and McCormick appeared together outside the Capitol following a series of congressional votes. When asked about the difficulties of maintaining a romantic relationship while working in Washington, McCormick acknowledged that relationships can be complicated.

The Georgia congressman suggested at the time that Washington’s political environment presented its own unusual circumstances for couples. Their public appearance gave little indication that the relationship would soon come to an end.

McCormick, a physician and former Marine Corps officer, was first elected to Congress in 2022. Van Duyne, a former mayor of Irving, Texas, has served in the House since January 2021.

Neither lawmaker has indicated that the breakup will affect their congressional responsibilities or political careers. For now, both remain focused on their work in Washington, while McCormick has publicly expressed his intention to preserve their friendship.