Longtime GOP U.S. Rep. Fred Upton is retiring from Congress.
Upton announced Tuesday on the floor of the House of Representatives that he will not seek reelection in 2022.
“Even the best story has a last chapter, this is it for me,” Upton said.
Referring to his wife Amey, Rep. Upton said, “She asked me what the next chapter would be and concluded – “and they lived happily ever after.”
Upton is one of the longest-serving Republicans in the House of Representatives. He was one of just 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach former President Trump back in January 2021. Upton is the fourth of those Republicans to announce they will not seek reelection.
10 House Republicans who voted to impeach former President Trump back in January 2021.
Redistricting put Upton and Republican Rep. Bill Huizenga in the same seat this year. His retirement will now prevent a potential primary matchup against fellow Republican Congressman Bill Huizenga in the newly-drawn 4th District.
Congressman Huizenga released the following statement after Upton made his announcement: “I want to thank Fred for his commitment, service, and dedication to Michigan over the years. Fred and I have worked together on a host of issues including prioritizing the protection of the Great Lakes, leveling the playing field for Michigan agriculture, and supporting efforts to clean up PFAS and lead contamination. Fred’s statesman-like legacy will be remembered both in Michigan and our nation’s capital. I wish both he and Amey the best as they start their next chapter.”
Governor Gretchen Whitmer also released a statement regarding Upton’s retirement. She stated, “Congressman Upton is a lifelong Michigander, loyal U of M fan, faithful public servant, and family man. He is a passionate advocate for the issues he cares about and never hesitates to showcase his independent streak. Over decades of service, he has protected the Great Lakes and shaped major legislation on energy, the environment, manufacturing, and so much more. Mr. Upton’s leadership is bipartisan, commonsense, and empathetic. We could all learn something from his tenure and strive to live and lead with the values he embodies. I know that Mr. Upton will continue getting things done for Michiganders and leading on the issues that matter most in our great state.”
Upton spent the past 35 years in office.
You can read his full remarks here.
