Griffin will not run again for Arkansas’ 2nd District

U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin, R-Little Rock, said he will not seek a third term in the U.S. House of Representatives, citing his young family as his primary reason.

“God has blessed me with a wonderful wife, Elizabeth, and two precious children, and for several months Elizabeth and I have been discussing whether to seek a third term in Congress, especially considering the formative ages of Mary Katherine and John. It has been an agonizing and difficult decision involving much prayer, thought and discussion. We have decided that now is the time for me to focus intently on my top priority, my family, as Elizabeth and I raise our two young children,” Griffin told Talk Business.

“To that end, I will not seek re-election to a third term. I will complete my second term, but I have made no decision as to my plans after Congress except that I will continue in public service, including as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve,” he said.

Griffin said he wanted to make his announcement “sooner rather than later” in order for other candidates in the GOP field to have time to organize.

Griffin was elected in 2010 to his first term in Congress.  He serves on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee.

Following is Griffin’s complete statement.
“Serving the people of the Second Congressional District is an honor, and I am grateful for the opportunity I have been given by my fellow Arkansans. To those who have prayed for and supported me and my family, thank you–thank you for your kindness, commitment, time, trust and understanding.

God has blessed me with a wonderful wife, Elizabeth, and two precious children, and for several months Elizabeth and I have been discussing whether to seek a third term in Congress, especially considering the formative ages of Mary Katherine and John. It has been an agonizing and difficult decision involving much prayer, thought and discussion. We have decided that now is the time for me to focus intently on my top priority, my family, as Elizabeth and I raise our two young children.

“To that end, I will not seek reelection to a third term. I will complete my second term, but I have made no decision as to my plans after Congress except that I will continue in public service, including as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve.

“In September 2009, I launched my campaign for Congress as a common sense conservative and have kept my word by supporting bold but pragmatic solutions to address our most pressing problems, including a balanced budget, Medicare reform, repeal of Obamacare, tax reform, and regulatory reform. I am proud that the House’s efforts resulted in the Budget Control Act (BCA), the largest spending reduction in American history. I am equally proud that the House has stopped numerous harmful proposals. I choose to be a citizen-legislator rather than a career politician, and I will continue to do my best representing my fellow Arkansans through the remainder of my term.

“I believe 2014 will be another historic year for conservatives in Arkansas, and I stand ready to help with that effort and make sure a conservative wins the 2nd Congressional District.  Several Democrats have reportedly been looking at running for this seat.  As a result, it is imperative that I make and announce my decision now not to seek a third term so that Republican candidates who wish to succeed me will be able to prepare their campaigns and compete on an equal playing field with the Democrats.

“May God continue to bless Arkansas and the United States of America.”

U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, R-Rogers, who represents Arkansas’ 3rd District, was the first elected official to provide comment.

“Tim Griffin is a trusted and valued member of the House, a principled conservative, and a dedicated servant to the people of Arkansas. I will certainly miss having him as a part of the Arkansas delegation. At the same time, I know the impact this job can have on a family, understand the desire to be closer to one’s young children, and respect his decision. I will continue to support my friend and colleague as he sets out on a new journey,” Womack said.