Frank Wolf, GOP Congressman, Won't Seek Reelection In 2014

Rep. Frank Wolf (R-Va.) won't seek reelection in 2014, the congressman announced Tuesday.

Wolf, who has represented Virginia's 10th District for 17 terms, said in a statement that he would retire to focus on humanitarian work.

“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," Wolf said. "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 was first elected in 1980, making him the state's current longest serving representative.

The Republican's retirement leaves the seat open for a potential Democratic pick-up in the Northern Virginia district. President Barack Obama carried the district in 2008, while Republican candidate Mitt Romney narrowly won the district in 2012.

Fairfax County Supervisor John Foust, a Democrat, has already announced plans to enter the 2014 race. As the Washington Post notes, a number of local Republicans had also expressed interest in challenging Wolf prior to his retirement announcement.