Florida GOP Rep. Bill Posey announced Friday that he will not seek re-election.
Posey, who was first elected to Congress in 2008, said in a statement, “Representing you in Congress has been the greatest honor of Kathy’s and my life. And the polls show that with your support, I can stay in Congress. We will work together forever, and we look forward to another spirited final term.” We were looking forward to the campaign.”
He added: “However, circumstances beyond my control earlier this week now require me to suspend my re-election campaign.” The statement did not provide additional information about what these cases were.
The announcement came shortly after the filing deadline for candidates seeking to replace Posey in the district east of Orlando.
The Republican primary will now feature former Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos, Joe Babits of Vero Beach and John Hearton of Satellite Beach, who entered the race Friday.
Into statement announcing his imminent retirementPosey endorsed Haridopoulos, saying, “Mike’s conservative values and work ethic are superior, and unlike those who have filed to run against me, Mike has never lied to me or tried to undermine his efforts to represent our district.”
Posey added, “Mike knows our district and has continued to be involved at the local, state and federal levels. He is clearly the type of representative we need in Congress, and I have no doubt he will excel.”
One Write on FacebookHaridopolos thanked Posey and the supporters of his new campaign, saying, “I will do my best to fill his BIG shoes.”
Posey is the 23rd GOP member of Congress to announce they will leave the House at the end of their term. according to To the Press Gallery of the House. This number does not include members of Congress who left the House mid-term.
Twenty-five Democrats announced that they will not seek re-election.