Dave Obey retiring

[TheMightyFavog]

http://www.wqow.com/Global/story.asp?S=12429927

A Democratic source says House Appropriations Committee Chairman David Obey will not seek re-election.

The Wisconsin Democrat was first elected to his Wisconsin seat in 1969 and easily won his 20th full term in 2008 with 61 percent of the vote.

Obey's decision came as a surprise. He faced a potentially difficult re-election bid this fall. He scheduled an official announcement for Wednesday afternoon.

The Democratic source spoke on condition of anonymity to speak frankly about Obey's decision before the announcement.

[HelenWheels]

1. Bone tired

Dave said he's "bone tired" and I believe it as he is such a hard worker. He always said he would retire only after health care was passed. The current atmosphere is so hostile it would be horrible for him on the campaign trail. Possible replacement: Pat Kreitlow?

[Callalily]

2. Dave Obey has always

been a champion for the "common person". He will be missed.

[undeterred]

3. Dave Obey has been in the House since Obama was 8.

I hate to see him go, but I appreciate his service. Hopefully the right person will step up to run for his seat in Congress.

[a kennedy]

4. Heard he was in a potential tough battle for re-election......is that true??

:shrug:

[hayrow]

5. Who Knows?

As with everything else reported by the media, there is certainly a large gap between reality and what is reported. Living in the district adjacent to Obey's, I doubt he would have had much trouble. Obey has always been honest, and he says, and I completely belive him, that he would have had no trouble defeating the bum of the month right wing hack the repubicans planned to run against him.

[sybylla]

6. Not true.

Wishful thinking. Dave's won his last five elections with more than 60% of the vote. No MTV has-been with an out of control wife is going to beat him no matter how much money the pukes throw their way.

But the media wants everyone to think the race is on.

It is now, unfortunately.

[undeterred]

7. A rare moment of graciousness from Sensenbrenner:

"Over the years, Dave Obey and I have disagreed on many issues; however, I have always found Dave Obey to be a passionate public servant who has worked tirelessly for the State of Wisconsin and the country throughout his 48-year career in public service. Given his announcement earlier today, I wish Dave Obey well in retirement and thank him for his commitment to Wisconsin. I hope he enjoys this new chapter in his life and appreciates the opportunity to spend more time with his wife, Joan, and their family,” Sensenbrenner said.

[midnight]

8. After reading this, I can only wonder if someone with diplomatic ties to Mr. Leinenkugel

could persuade him to run for that seat rather than one we already have a great candidate for.