With the retirements of Reps. Hastert (IL-14), Pryce (OH-15), and Pickering (MS-03) last week, the Republican caucus has been bracing itself for more surprises. Today brings another retirement: embattled Rep. Rick Renzi (AZ-01). From Roll Call:
Rep. Rick Renzi (R-Ariz.) said Thursday in a statement obtained by Roll Call that he will not seek re-election in 2008, ending months of speculation regarding the ethically clouded Congressman’s political future.“I will not be seeking re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2008. I am honored and thankful to serve Arizona’s first district and appreciate all that we have accomplished together over the past 6 years.” […]
Renzi staved off a spirited challenge from his Democratic challenger last cycle, but saw his political fortunes plummet following an FBI raid of a business connected to his family as part of a federal probe into his dealings as a Congressman.
Renzi has not admitted to any wrongdoing, but it has become increasingly clear that the investigation would imperil any 2008 re-election bid, and possibly result in him facing multiple GOP primary challengers.
This one is not so surprising. While Republicans will likely to view this as some necessary bloodletting, Arizona’s 1st will likely be a top tier race next year. With a PVI of R+2.2, it’s had a Republican lean over the past two Presidential cycles, but not an insurmountable one. The Democratic field includes State Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, Mary Kim Titla and attorney Howard Shanker. It remains to be seen whether or not Arizona Republicans will field a Randy Graf-type here. In any event, this race will be a barn-burner.
…but still a big opportunity all the same. This seat was competitive when it was first created.