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Florida’s Tom Rooney Not Running for Re-Election

The GOP congressman leaves behind Solid Republican seat

Florida Rep. Tom Rooney will not seek a sixth term. (Scott J. Ferrell/CQ Roll Call file photo)
Florida Rep. Tom Rooney will not seek a sixth term. (Scott J. Ferrell/CQ Roll Call file photo)

Florida Rep. Tom Rooney announced Monday he will not seek a sixth term in November. 

“After what will be 10 years in the United States Congress representing the good people of Florida’s Heartland, it’s time to ‘hang ‘em up,’ as my old football coach used to say,” the GOP congressman said in a statement. 

First elected in 2008, Rooney serves on the Appropriations and Select Intelligence Committees. 

Rooney specifically thanked several of his GOP colleagues, past and present, for their friendship.

“To my colleagues in the House: Representatives Herrera-Buetler, Hunter, Kinzinger, Roby, Yoder, and Dold, your unyielding friendship and loyalty will never be forgotten,” he said. 

Rooney suggested that his career in public service may not be over, saying in his statement: “I look forward to serving Florida again in the future in a different capacity. Keep the faith. Sláinte!”

His 17th District is rated Solid Republican by Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales. President Donald Trump carried the district by nearly 30 points in 2016. 

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