Another Democrat Abandons a Sinking Ship

Powerful Democratic Rep. David Obey (D-WI) has thrown in the towel on his re-election bid. He was facing a tough campaign and ,reportedly, poor polling numbers. Obey is giving up the chairmanship of the powerful House Appropriations Committee. After the Scott Brown election in Massachusetts, Republicans thought Obey's seat was in play. Democrats still felt this was a safe seat for them. Obey was a close associate of deceased Rep. Jack Murtha and Murtha's lose could have influenced his retirement decision.

The Politico reported:

Bone-tired and facing a tough political landscape at home, House Appropriations Committee Chairman David Obey announced Wednesday that he won’t seek reelection, ending a 41-year House career stamped by his unique talent and tempestuousness.

Rarely does a committee chairman of such power just walk away, and Obey’s decision is a blow to Democrats and marks the passing of one of the last major leaders of the 1970’s reforms that reshaped the modern House.

“I am ready to turn the page, and frankly, I think that my district is ready for someone new...