Rep. Inslee to resign House seat
(CNN) - Democratic Rep. Jay Inslee of Washington will resign his House seat in order to focus on his 2012 run for governor of the state, a Democratic official confirmed to CNN on Saturday.
Inslee, now in his eighth term, represents Washington's 1st Congressional District, which covers the northwest part of Seattle and its surrounding suburbs.
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Previously, he held one term as a U.S. representative for Washington's 4th Congressional District from 1993 to 1995.
Known as a leader in his party on technology and environmental issues, Inslee served on the House energy and commerce committee.
The congressman announced his gubernatorial bid in June, after Democratic Gov. Chris Gregoire announced she would not seek a third term.
In his campaign against Republican Attorney General Rob McKenna, Inslee has raised $4.2 million, according to state campaign finance filings, while McKenna has brought in $3.7 million.
Following the news of Inslee’s resignation, President Barack Obama praised the congressman for his work on Capitol Hill.
“Jay has supported new frontiers in technology, and worked to increase fairness in our nation’s health care system. While Jay’s voice in Congress will be missed, I know he will continue his dedicated service to the people of Washington State. Michelle and I wish him and his family well in the future,” Obama said in a statement released by the White House.
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He (Jay) made right choice to leave Obama.
Bummer for the country ...but good or washington...
Obummer you had the most not present no votes in history! When were ever there to hear the old boy talk? Its a good thing tho 1 less useless democrat to worry about! Now lets get rid of Obummer and vote us a real POTUS!
More power and success to Mitt Romney.
Itd seem to me he could get richer faster being a state rep.
It would be nice if the environement wasn't an issue that was becoming divided along party lines.
Oh crap, now we have another seat to defend.
Good for rommy
We need to get rid of ALL Republican governors in all states – Hopefully, he will win!! Voting or President Obama in November, is a vote for Inslee!
Obama and all Democrats in 2012 – The Only Trusted Way Forward!!
Haray four comgressman jay insle we need continueing leadership in washhngton state! from the 'democratic 'party! iam voter in central washington count my vote for the next washington state governor 'jay isle !
Good luck! I like that you resign instead of hanging on to a seat while out campaigning for another office. Honorable....