WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2013 – Three representatives, including Rep. Tom Latham, R-Iowa, announced today that they will not run for re-election in 2014.
Latham’s announcement came along with word from Rep. Frank Wolf, R-Va., and Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, who also plan not to run for re-election. “It is never a perfect time or a right time to step aside,” Latham said in an email. “But for me, this is the time.” After serving in the House since 1995, Latham’s departure could set the stage for a tight race in his district.
Wolf announced he would not seek an 18th term. “I plan to focus my future work on human rights and religious freedom – both domestic and international – as well as matters of the culture and the American family,” Wolf said. “My passion for these issues has been influenced by the examples of President Ronald Reagan, former Congressmen Jack Kemp and Tony Hall, Chuck Colson, and the life of 18th century Member of Parliament William Wilberforce.”
Matheson, one of the last Blue Dogs, has served since 2000 and said, “Public service has been integral to my life for as long as I can remember. I was raised to value the honor in public service and the responsibility of holding the public trust. My time in Congress has only strengthened these beliefs.”
Matheson said while his tenure in the House will end, he will continue to “work hard to solve problems, to achieve progress and to put Utah first.”
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