Thanks a lot, Harry! Tom Harkin of Iowa to retire

by: Zappatero

Sat Jan 26, 2013 at 12:03:06 PM MST

CUMMING, Iowa - Iowa Sen. Tom Harkin says he will not seek re-election in 2014.

The 73-year-old Harkin tells The Associated Press in an interview, "It's just time to step aside," because by the time he would finish a sixth term, he would be 81.

Harkin said it would also allow a new generation of Democrats to seek higher office.

The announcement comes as a surprise, considering he had $2.7 million in his campaign war chest and was planning a fundraiser next month.

Harkin played a lead role in urging the Senate's more liberal members to back the 2010 health care bill.

One of the senate's most stand-up and principled progressives will be leaving at the end of this term. One less chance that any of Barack Obama's progressive goals - even though they are supported by majorities of Americans - will be achieved.

Thanks, Harry, and eff you too!