Rep. Tom Graves Won't Seek Reelection In 2020

WASHINGTON, DC — Rep. Tom Graves, a Republican congressman who spent the last nine years representing Georgia in Washington, DC, announced Thursday he is not planning to seek reelection in 2020. In a news release, Graves attributed the decision to wanting to spend time with his family "in their new and unique journeys."

Graves, who served seven years as a Georgia assemblyman, was elected in 2010 to represent the state's 9th Congressional District. As a result of redistricting, Graves was reelected in 2012 to represent Georgia's new 14th Congressional District. During his initial run for Congress, he campaigned as a “pro-life, pro-gun, tax-cutting constitutional conservative,” according to his website.

Graves is a senior member of the Appropriations Committee and is the top Republican on the Committee on the Modernization of Congress, a panel established by majority Democrats to reform the operations of Congress.

In a statement, Graves said he plans to spend the remainder of his term focused on Congress reform. He also said he is filled with gratitude for his time spent in Congress.

"My record is a testament to the collective effort of many talented and special people. The opportunities afforded to me — a North Georgia country boy from a single wide trailer — were far beyond my wildest dreams," Graves said in the statement. "Serving the country I love so much, and representing the community I hold so dear, is an honor that won't be replicated.

"To my constituents, both past and present, thank you for your vote of confidence and trust. What an incredible privilege it has been to represent you in Congress."

Georgia's 14th District represents Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Floyd, Gordon, Haralson, Murray, Paulding, Pickens, Polk, Walker and Whitfield counties.

At least 17 Republicans have announced they will not seek reelection in Congress, compared to at least six Democrats, CNN reports. Those numbers don't include members of Congress who have announced plans to seek a different office.

Graves joins Republican Sen. Johnny Iskason, who will step down at the end of December due to health problems. GOP Rep. Rob Woodall, narrowly reelected last year in a diversifying district outside Atlanta, will exit at the end of next year.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.