Reps. Walker, Geren Announce They Will Not Seek Reelection

Rep. Robert S. Walker (R-Pa.), the Science Committee chairman who is a trusted ally of House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.), unexpectedly announced Friday that he will not run for reelection after 20 years in Congress.

Conservative Democratic Rep. Pete Geren of Texas also announced his retirement, bringing to 27 the number of House members who are not seeking new terms next fall. Of those retiring, 19 are Democrats, making their party’s effort to regain a majority in the 1996 elections much more difficult. There are 236 Republicans, 197 Democrats and one independent in the House.

Walker said his decision, reached last weekend with his wife, Sue, was driven by a desire to do something beyond Capitol Hill, where he has worked since arriving in Washington 25 years ago as a House aide. “I really do believe it’s time for me to go do something else with my life,” he said. “I’ve accomplished much of what I said I was going to do 20 years ago.”

Walker, who turns 53 next week, said he has not “explored any specific new employment” and sought to dispel any notions there were other reasons for his retirement. “In case there’s any rumor, I’m in excellent political and physical health,” he said in response to a question.

Geren’s announcement also took lawmakers by surprise. Geren, 43, said he wanted to spend more time with his wife and young daughters. “It’s time to move on to the next stage of life,” he told reporters.

Geren was elected in 1989 to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Speaker Jim Wright (D-Texas). In contrast to his predecessor, he has been a consistent conservative voter, joining Republicans to oppose President Clinton on guaranteeing workers unpaid leave in family medical emergencies, the president’s plan to boost the economy, his first budget plan and much of his social agenda.