Long Beach Rep. Alan Lowenthal to retire from Congress next year

Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images
Rep. Alan Lowenthal (D.-Calif.) speaks during a news conference called "Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act of 2020," in the U.S. Capitol on February 11, 2020 in Washington, D.C. Photo credit Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images

LONG BEACH, Calif. — Veteran Southern California politician Alan Lowenthal announced Thursday he will not seek reelection to his seat representing California’s 47th Congressional District in the House of Representatives next year..

"Almost 30 years ago to the day, I made the decision to run for the Long Beach City Council because I felt that my council members didn't listen to me or my neighbors. Every day since, over three decades of public service, I have re-committed myself to listening to you, to serving your interests, and doing my best for you," the 80-year-old Democrat said in a message to constituents.

“But just as every journey has a beginning, so too does it have an end. I am announcing today that I will not be running for reelection to Congress in 2022.”

Lowenthal said it was time to “pass the baton” to a new generation of lawmakers. He has represented the 47th District since 2012, which includes parts of eastern Los Angeles County and western Orange County. He has served on the House Natural Resources Committee and Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

“This journey has taken me from Long Beach City Hall, to the California State Capitol, and to our nation's capital. During my time as a public servant, I have met some of the most incredible people, received the counsel of wise leaders, and had the honor of working with some of the most dedicated public servants,” Lowenthal said.

“It is time to rest and surround myself with the benefits of a life well lived and earned honorably in the service of my fellow citizens.”

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images