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Georgia’s Tom Graves won’t run for reelection in 2020

Graves’ departure will open up a safe Republican seat

Georgia Rep. Tom Graves said he is retiring to spend more time with his family. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call file photo)
Georgia Rep. Tom Graves said he is retiring to spend more time with his family. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call file photo)

Georgia Rep. Tom Graves, a Republican serving his fifth full term, is not running for reelection in 2020, leaving behind a solid red district.

“As we all do, I’m entering a new season in life. An exciting season,” Graves said in a statement Thursday, in which he said the holidays have been a “time of reflection.”

“So, the time has come for me to pass the baton. Now it’s my turn to cheer, support and sacrifice for those who have done the same for me over the last two decades,” Graves, 49, said, noting that his wife is approaching retirement and his kids are now grown.  

President Donald Trump won Georgia’s 14th District by 53 points. Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales rates the district Solid Republican. Graves is the 17th House Republican to announce he won’t seek reelection in 2020. 

He first came to the House in a June 2010 special election to replace Republican Nathan Deal. He is a senior appropriator and the ranking member of the Select Modernization of Congress committee. 

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