Stupak will not run for re-election

MARQUETTE — Congressman Bart Stupak said today he will not seek a tenth term in Michigan's 1st Congressional District.

"Last night and early this morning, I informed Democratic leaders and key supporters that I would not seek reelection to Congress," Stupak said at a press conference in Marquette. "I will always serve the people of the First District, but have chosen not to continue to do so as their Congressman."

Stupak made the announcement at Northern Michigan University where supporters touted his accomplishments over his 18 years in office.

Stupak entered a firestorm when he switched his vote on health care reform in March. In a last minute deal, President Obama agreed to uphold a ban on federally funded abortions by executive order. Stupak nd other pro-life Democrats then gave the President enough votes to pass the bill. Stupak said he does not regret the vote.

"Throughout the past year, I have worked alongside my colleagues to achieve health care reform and I’m proud to have helped bring it across the finish line," Stupak said.

Stupak's wife Lori held back tears as she introduced her husband. She said Bart never sought the notoriety that he gained during the health care debate.

"He has never sought the limelight, nor national fame. he just does the best job he possibly can do for his constituents, the peope of our great nation and the people of Northern Michigan," she said.

Stupak's decision has left supporters stunned although Delta County Chair Bill Charon said it wasn't unexpected.

"They hated to see it happen this way," he said. "Bart's been there for them for so many years. Many of them know him as well as I do or better so there's a certain sadness to this, with his leaving, for all of us."

Tea Party activists made Stupak the top target for defeat next to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. At a rally in Escanaba today, they took credit for Stupak's withdrawl from the race.

"This Tea Party movement has great power because it is the power of the people and Bart Stupak is a perfect example of that," Amy Kremer, Tea Party organizer, told a crowd at Escanaba's Ludington Park.

The tone was set to defeat Stupak in the election but with Stupak's announcement not to run the mood at the rally changed.

"Today is a day of celebration. He's gone!" yelled Don Hooper of Iron River. Hooper was one of four Republican candidates for Congress to speak at the rally. The other three were Dan Beneshek, Linda Goldthorpe and Tom Stillings. Hooper ran against Stupak in the past.

Republican party leaders said other people will likely join the race. One name mentioned was Steve Mariucci, the former San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions coach from Iron Mountain.

Stupak hinted he may still be on the campaign trail this fall.

"I am committed to helping Democrats retain this seat as I believe we must continue to fight for our working families and small businesses, for our economic and national security, for our environment, and for our quality of life," he said.