Lautenberg Won't Seek Re-Election in 2014

US Sen. Frank R. Lautenberg announced Thursday he will not seek re-election in 2014, a potential boon for Newark Mayor Cory Booker, who has laid the groundwork for a campaign for the seat.

Lautenberg, 89, retired from the Senate in 2000 after serving three terms. After a two-year hiatus from the Senate, Lautenberg was elected again to the Senate in 2002 and then re-elected in 2008.

On Friday, Lautenberg said in statement, he will announce his agenda for the balance of his term during a press conference in his hometown of Paterson. Among Lautenberg’s signature issues is gun control, a topic which has taken on new urgency in the wake of the Newtown school shootings.

“This is not the end of anything, but rather the beginning of a two-year mission to pass new gun safety laws, protect children from toxic chemicals, and create more opportunities for working families in New Jersey.  While I may not be seeking re-election, there is plenty of work to do before the end of this term and I'm going to keep fighting as hard as ever for the people of New Jersey in the US Senate,” Lautenberg said.

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