Rep. Jim Moran (D-Va.) is retiring from Congress, Roll Call reported Wednesday.
Moran, who served in the House of Representatives for the last 23 years and is a former mayor of Alexandria, told Roll Call "it’s time to close this chapter of my life and move on to the next challenge."
“I prepare to leave Congress feeling very fortunate, grateful for what we’ve accomplished, and optimistic for the future of Northern Virginia, the Washington Metropolitan Region, and our nation," Moran said.
Below, more from the AP:
WASHINGTON (AP) — Veteran Democratic Rep. Jim Moran is retiring from Congress.
The 68-year Moran, a former mayor of Alexandria, Va., who was first elected in 1990, has been a staunch supporter of federal civilian employees who have a heavy presence in his district.
Several House Democrats are retiring. Moran's Northern Virginia district in Washington's suburbs is heavily Democratic, however, and considered safe for the party.
Republicans are hoping to pad their majority in the House and they want to recapture the Senate from Democrats in November's mid-term elections.
Moran is the ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Interior subcommittee and a senior member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.
He says in a news release, quote, "It's time to close this chapter of my life and move on to the next challenge."
UPDATE -- 2:07 p.m.: Obama released the following statement on Moran's retirement:
In his twenty-three years in the United States Congress, Jim Moran has pushed to create jobs and economic opportunity for hardworking Virginians and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to growing a strong American economy. And because of Jim’s leadership, our brave service members and veterans are better protected, our civil service is stronger, and our air and water are cleaner and safer. Michelle and I thank Congressman Moran for his service, and we wish him and his family the very best in the future.
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