Rep. Ted Poe announced Tuesday he will not seek re-election in Texas’ 2nd District.

“I am grateful for the honor and privilege to represent the best people in America, Texas’s Second Congressional District,” the Texas Republican said in a statement.

Poe cited spending more time with his 12 grandchildren, all of whom have been born since he took office, as a reason for his departure. 

The seven-term congressman was first elected in 2004. The 2nd District race is rated Solid Republican by Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales.