Republican Frank Wolf Will Not Seek 18th Term in Congress

U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf, a Republican who has served the 10th District of Virginia in Congress for 17 terms, today announced that he would not seek election in 2014. At the end of next year, he will have served 34 years in Congress, first elected with Ronald Reagan, whom he mentions in his announcement, in 1980.

“It has been an honor to serve the people of northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley. I thank my constituents for giving me the privilege of representing them in Congress for 34 years,” Wolf said in a prepared statement.

Three Democrats had already announced bids to run for the 10th District seat in 2014. Wolf’s exit will likely put national eyes on the seat, which remains in a conservative district, but in a state that has been straddling the political spectrum. Wolf’s district represents all of Loudoun County, but also extends east and west.

U.S. Sen. Mark Warner quickly released a statement honoring Wolf.

“Congressman Wolf’s dedication in over 17 terms in Congress, and his exceptionally high level of service to the constituents he proudly represents in Virginia’s 10th District, will remain a model for all of us who serve,” Warner said in the statement.

Wolf’s full statement:

“I have decided not to seek re-election to the U.S. Congress in 2014.  It has been an honor to serve the people of northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley.  I thank my constituents for giving me the privilege of representing them in Congress for 34 years.

“As a follower of Jesus, I am called to work for justice and reconciliation, and to be an advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.  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.  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.

“I want to thank the many excellent former and current members of my staff who have helped me serve the people of the 10th District.  I am also grateful to my wife, Carolyn, and my family, who have faithfully stood by me all these many years."