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Longtime Virginia Congressman won’t seek re-election

Posted at 1:46 PM, Dec 17, 2013
and last updated 2013-12-17 14:55:06-05

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WTVR) – Northern Virginia Congressman Rep. Frank Wolf (R – VA 10) will not run for re-election in 2014. It would have been the Republican’s 18th term.

“It has been an honor to serve the people of northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley. I thank my constituents for giving me the privilege of representing them in Congress for 34 years,” Rep. Wolf wrote in a statement.  “As a follower of Jesus, I am called to work for justice and reconciliation, and to be an advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. I plan to focus my future work on human rights and religious freedom – both domestic and international – as well as matters of the culture and the American family.”

“ It is with sadness that we learn that he will not seek reelection next year. Frank’s legacy is not just left here in Virginia or America, but also around the world,” Congressman Eric Cantor (R -VA 7) wrote in a statement. “His efforts to promote human rights and religious freedom have helped bring about relief for those in persecuted areas. Though this is his last term, his commitment to providing a voice for those who are not heard will carry on.”

“One of the many things that I admired about Frank was the fact that he steadfastly refused to do any campaigning or political events on Sunday. That was his day to worship and to be with his family. He is one of the most honest and devout people it has ever been my privilege to know. He believed and practiced that the two most important things in his life were his God and his family,” Republican Party of Virginia Chairman Pat Mullins wrote in a statement.

Rep. Wolf represented Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, Clarke and Frederick Counties. He also represented Manassas, Winchester and Middleburg.

“Frank Wolf has been a true friend, and a great partner, both when I served as Virginia Governor and since I’ve joined Congress. He is a tireless and leading advocate for religious freedom around the world,” Senator Mark Warner (D – Virginia) wrote in a statement.

“I want to thank the many excellent former and current members of my staff who have helped me serve the people of the 10th District. I am also grateful to my wife, Carolyn, and my family, who have faithfully stood by me all these many years,” Wolf said.