Bill Young Retiring: Florida Republican Congressman Not Seeking Reelection In 2014

Rep. C.W. Bill Young (R-Fla.) announced Wedensday in a Tampa Bay Times interview that he has decided to retire when his term ends in 2014.

The congressman, 82, told the paper in a phone interview from Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, where he is recovering from a back injury. "I'm a little disappointed. It seems there's too much politics. It's a different Congress," he said.

He is Florida's longest-serving congressman, having first been elected in 1970. His district voted for President Barack Obama in 2008 and 2012, making it a possible Democratic pickup.

Young is one of 28 Republicans backing a "clean" continuing resolution to fund the government.

House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) thanked Young in a statement. "Bill Young is the dean of the Florida Congressional delegation, a tireless voice for our men and women in uniform and America’s national security, and a dear friend," he said. "Since 1970, he has served with distinction in the People’s House -- and both the House and the people are better for it. I thank him for his service, and I will miss him."