January 02, 2008

Longtime House Foreign Policy Leader To Retire

House Foreign Affairs Chairman Tom Lantos (subscription) today announced he will not seek re-election to a 15th term, citing a diagnosis of cancer of the esophagus.

"In view of this development and the treatment it will require, I will not seek re-election," the California Democrat said in a statement released by his office.

Lantos, a Holocaust survivor who was born in Budapest, Hungary, became chairman with the election of a Democratic House majority in 2006. He becomes the 23rd House member -- and just the fifth Democrat -- to announce either retirement or plans to seek another office.

"Throughout my adult life, I have sought to be a voice for human rights, civil liberties and social justice, both at home and around the world. My wife, Annette, and I look forward to continuing this vital work with purpose and verve every day for the remainder of my term," Lantos said.

California Rep. Howard Berman (subscription) is the committee's second-ranking member.

--CongressDaily

Posted at 2:04 PM
Posted to: Campaigns, Congress, House
Share via