Arkansas Democratic Congressman Ross won't seek re-election

Source: Reuters

(Reuters) - The only Democratic congressman in Arkansas, Mike Ross, said on Monday that he will not seek a seventh term in the U.S. House of Representatives, saying he wants to spend more time with his family.

The announcement sent a shock through Arkansas political circles, and opened the possibility of a Republican replacement for the popular congressman. The redistricting process has left Ross's district heavily GOP, with an uphill battle for Democrats there next cycle.

"Last year was a tough political environment to seek re-election," Ross told reporters.

"Yet, I won by 18 points -- one of the largest margins of any member of Congress in a swing district. The trust and confidence the folks here at home have continually placed in me is something I will never forget."

Read more: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/07/25/us-campaign-arkansas-congressman-idUSTRE76O4TX20110725