[IMGCAP(1)]One Republican is leaving the Senate by choice, the other because his constituents decided they want someone new.

Between them, Alaskan Ted Stevens (left) and Virginian John Warner served more than 70 years in the Senate, often in high-profile positions (Stevens has chaired the Appropriations and Commerce, Science and Transportation committees; Warner chaired Armed Services as well as Rules and Administration).

Warner opted to retire at the conclusion of the 110th Congress. Stevens, on the other hand, fought to the bitter end to retain his seat, despite being convicted of filing false financial disclosure reports, and with the final ballots counted, it appears his tenure has come to a close, as well.