‘Bone Tired’ Rep. Obey to Hang It Up

Posted on May 5, 2010

obey.house.gov

Can you blame Wisconsin Congressman David Obey for being “bone tired,” as he claims to be? Even if you can, this will not impact Rep. Obey’s newly announced decision not to run for re-election this November. 

Meanwhile, Republicans in Congress aren’t buying Obey’s explanation for bowing out; instead, predictably, they’re pointing to what they construe as an uphill battle for re-election as the main contributing factor. But Obey’s congressional career spans more than 40 years, so if that doesn’t wear a fellow out, we’re not sure what would.  —KA

CNN:

Obey, 71, represents Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District. He was the youngest member of Congress when he was elected to his first of 21 terms in 1969.

He is the fourth longest-serving House member, serving behind Democratic Reps. John Dingell and John Conyers, both of Michigan, and Florida Republican Rep. Bill Young.

“I think that along the way I’ve made a difference in the district and the state that I represent, and for the country. But there is a time to stay and a time to go and this is my time to go,” Obey said in announcing his decision.

“Frankly, I hate to do it. There is so much that needs to be done. But even more frankly, I am bone tired,” he said.

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