A Georgia Congressman announced today that he will not be seeking reelection in 2020 and will instead spend time with his family and focus on efforts to improve the U.S. Congress.
Today, U.S. Rep. Tom Graves, a republican representing Georgia’s 14th Congressional District announced in a letter to his constituents that he will not seek re-election in 2020.
The 14th district includes parts of Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Floyd, Gordon, Haralson, Murray, Paulding, Pickens, Polk, Walker and Whitfield Counties.
Below is Graves’ letter to his constituents outlining his reasons for not seeking reelection.
Friends and fellow Georgians,
The holidays are a time of reflection for each of us. Today, I’d like to share a few of my thoughts from last week as we all paused to give thanks.
My first real public service experience was watching my wife, Julie, lead a pro-life effort many years ago. It was inspiring to witness a community band together and cause real change.
Soon after, I found the courage to overcome my fears and run for office. I did so grounded in the creed my parents shared with me: Dream Big. Work Hard. Achieve Much.
I was motivated to push through the tough days of campaigning and the hardest days in office by my kids, Josephine, John and Janey.
The whole of my service was built upon the contributions of countless people; sacrifices of my family, late nights and long days from dozens of dedicated staff members, friendship of my colleagues, generosity of supporters and encouragement from constituents.
Looking back on my years in the Georgia House and now nearly a decade in Congress, I am filled with gratitude. My record is a testament to the collective effort of many talented and special people. The opportunities afforded to me – a North Georgia country boy from a single wide trailer – were far beyond my wildest dreams.
Serving the country I love so much, and representing the community I hold so dear, is an honor that won’t be replicated. To my constituents, both past and present, thank you for your vote of confidence and trust. What an incredible privilege it has been to represent you in Congress.
As we all do, I’m entering a new season in life. An exciting season. So, the time has come for me to pass the baton. Now it’s my turn to cheer, support and sacrifice for those who have done the same for me over the last two decades. With Julie near retirement and my kids now suddenly adults, I have decided not to seek reelection in 2020, and instead, join my family in their new and unique journeys.
I’m excited to spend the next year focused on the Committee on the Modernization of Congress. Working to improve Congress for all Americans, and all who will serve after me, seems like the perfect way to close this chapter and say, “thank you.”
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued a statement supporting Graves and his decision. In it he wished Graves and his family the best in their future.
“Congressman Graves has been a strong, conservative leader for Georgia both in the General Assembly and the U.S. House, and the Kemp family thanks him for years of dedicated service,” Kemp said. “Having served with Tom, I’ve seen firsthand his commitment to championing the values and principles that make our state and nation great. Marty, the girls, and I wish Tom, Julie, and the entire Graves family the very best in the future.”
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