If you’re not on his list, I share below a letter from U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin about his decision not to seek re-election and a comment on plans post-Congress. H
is mention of an intention to continue in public service is interesting. Does that mean elective office? A government job? Does consulting or lobbying government mean public service? Time will tell.

Dear Friend,

As you may have heard, I have chosen to retire from Congress in January 2015, after I complete my current term.

God has blessed me with a wonderful wife, Elizabeth, and two young, precious children, Mary Katherine and John. Now is the time for me to focus intently on my top priority, my family.

I choose to be a citizen-legislator rather than a career politician, and I have made no plans about what I will do after Congress except that I will continue in public service, including as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve.

For the next 15 months, my office stands ready to serve the people of the Second District. Please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff regarding legislation, help with a federal agency, Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid, nominations to U.S. Service Academies, tours and tickets in Washington, D.C., or anything else on which we may be able to provide assistance.

Serving the people of the Second Congressional District and representing my fellow Arkansans is an honor. To those who have prayed for me and my family, thank you for your kindness and understanding.

Sincerely,
Tim

Heard an interesting report this morning from a Little Rock resident who’d talked to Griffin in a Starbucks shortly before he announced his first run for Congress in 2010. He was thinking then, too, about a race for county judge, says my correspondent. Seat’s open in 2014. Job is in Little Rock. Only pays about $92,000, though. It does include good health insurance.

Advertisement

Invest in the future of great journalism in Arkansas

Join the ranks of the 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts who know that the Arkansas Times is the go-to source for tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, our progressive, alternative newspaper in Little Rock has been on the front lines of the fight for truth, and with your support, we can do even more. By subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers and expand our coverage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference with your subscription or donation to the Arkansas Times today.

Previous article Little Rock lawyer pays strip club steak tab for Bryant police chief Mark Kizer Next article The Saturday night line; another Pulaski County judge candidate