GOP Rep. Tim Griffin won't run for 3rd term

Rep. Tim Griffin (left) of Arkansas is tugged along by his son, John, as he and other Republican lawmakers arrive Oct. 8 on Capitol Hill for a strategy session.
Rep. Tim Griffin (left) of Arkansas is tugged along by his son, John, as he and other Republican lawmakers arrive Oct. 8 on Capitol Hill for a strategy session.

Tim Griffin says he won't seek a third term representing central Arkansas in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In a statement, the Republican congressman cited the "formative ages" of his two young children for not seeking reelection.

"It has been an agonizing and difficult decision involving much prayer, thought and discussion," Griffin said. " We have decided that now is the time for me to focus intently on my top priority, my family, as Elizabeth and I raise our two young children."

Griffin said he would complete his second term but hasn't finalized any plans for what to do after Congress "except that I will continue in public service, including as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve."

He added his announcement was timed to allow other Republicans to have an opportunity for a successful bid at the seat.

"I believe 2014 will be another historic year for conservatives in Arkansas, and I stand ready to help with that effort and make sure a conservative wins the 2nd Congressional District," Griffin said. "Several Democrats have reportedly been looking at running for this seat. As a result, it is imperative that I make and announce my decision now not to seek a third term so that Republican candidates who wish to succeed me will be able to prepare their campaigns and compete on an equal playing field with the Democrats. "

The unexpected announcement came just days after Griffin said he'd raised more than $208,000 for his re-election bid in the third quarter.

Other Arkansas Republicans, including U.S. Reps. Tom Cotton and Rick Crawford, commented Monday on Griffin's retirement.

"Congressman Griffin has been an excellent public servant representing the voice of Arkansas’ Second District, and a great partner in achieving tangible results for our state, " Crawford said in a statement on his website. "I will truly miss my friend and colleague in the House of Representatives."

Cotton issued a statement on his website as well, calling Griffin "a strong leader for Arkansas and our country."

In November, Griffin was named to the powerful U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, becoming the first Republican from Arkansas to serve on the tax-writing panel. At the time, Griffin said he wouldn't run for Arkansas governor or the U.S. Senate because of the appointment.

Griffin is a former interim U.S. attorney who's also worked in the White House Office of Political Affairs.

Read more in Tuesday's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

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