Congressman Henry Brown Announces Decision Not To Seek Reelection

Statement

First District Congressman Henry E. Brown, Jr. (R-SC) will not seek re-election in 2010. The five-term Representative made the decision after careful consideration and discussion with family and closest friends. "It is time for me to leave and spend more time with my wife of 54 years, Billye, my children and my grandchildren," Brown said.

I chose to make the announcement at this time so that Republicans who have not considered running for Congress out of friendship or respect for my incumbency can consider their options to file and have adequate time to campaign," Brown, who turned 74 in December, noted.

In disclosing his intentions to his employees in Charleston, Myrtle Beach and Washington, Brown said, "To my staff, I want you to know how grateful I am for your loyal and competent service. The hardest part of all will be ending my professional relationship with each of you."

Acknowledging his long-time backers, Brown said, "I am grateful to all who have been supporters throughout my years of public service. Knowing that some of you were expecting my assistance for years to come has made my decision all the more difficult. But I know you understand that one cannot continue working forever at the expense of their personal life. My offices and the constituent services they provide will be fully operational throughout this year and the end of the 111th Congress."

Congressman Henry Brown served longer in the position than any Republican in recent years. Before his election to Congress, Brown served 15 years in the South Carolina House of Representatives and was Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. He previously served four years on Hanahan City Council.

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