Republican Rep. Tom Graves of Georgia won’t seek reelection in 2020

GOP Rep. Tom Graves of Georgia announced on Thursday he will not seek another term in office, becoming the latest Republican who is not seeking reelection in 2020.

Graves is currently serving his fifth term in Congress and represents Georgia’s 14th District, one that President Donald Trump won in the 2016 presidential election.

In a letter to constituents, Graves said he is entering an exciting new season in his life and “the time has come for me to pass the baton.”

“Now it’s my turn to cheer, support and sacrifice for those who have done the same for me over the last two decades,” he said. “With Julie near retirement and my kids now suddenly adults, I have decided not to seek reelection in 2020, and instead, join my family in their new and unique journeys.”

He said he will spend the next year focusing on the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress on which he is vice chairman, “working to improve Congress for all Americans, and all who will serve after me.”

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