Chairman Sessions Responds to Latest Democrat Retirement

Chairman Sessions Responds to Latest Democrat Retirement

Washington- National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) Chairman Pete Sessions (R-TX) issued the following statement after Democrat Rep. Brian Baird (D-WA) announced that he will not seek reelection in 2010:

“The retirement of Brian Baird should send an alarming message to the Democratic Party on two fronts. First, it speaks to the shifting political environment that has led another multi-term Democrat to opt for retirement rather than face the oncoming political headwind. Secondly, Brian Baird was an advocate for openness and transparency within the legislative process, who co-authored bipartisan legislation that would require all major bills be posted online for at least 72 hours. The conduct of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has not only shut the American people out of the process, but it has led to the erosion of her party’s political footing, leaving a number of incumbent Democrats vulnerable to Republican challenges.

“With this being the third retirement by a swing-district Democrat in as many weeks, it is clear that members of the Majority are feeling the ground shaking beneath them. As the unemployment rate remains unacceptably high and Democrats continue on with their out-of-touch agenda, independent voters are rightfully fleeing the Democratic Party. Now, facing an angry and frustrated electorate, Democrats are quickly realizing that it’s time to throw in the towel.”

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