Vermont Sen. Jim Jeffords, an independent who triggered one of the most dramatic upheavals in Senate history when he quit the GOP four years ago, announced Wednesday he would retire at the end of his term next year, citing his and his wife's health. Jeffords, 70, had been adamant in saying he would seek re-election, but he reversed himself in a short statement Wednesday. "After much thought and consultation with my family and staff, I have decided to close this chapter of my service to Vermont and not seek re-election in 2006," Jeffords said at a suburban Burlington hotel ballroom filled with current and former staff.

Of course it wouldn't have anything to do with the fact that it sucks to be him in the Senate right now, where the party he screwed over is in the majority and can keep him on the back-bench and make his life miserable. What's the point for Jeffords at this point? The Republicans aren't going to lose that majority anytime soon. And the only time Democrats even talk to him is when they want to use him - for nothing in return.

No, Jimbo took a gamble back in 2001. And ultimately he lost.

Hat Tip to Memeorandum who has a few blog links from both sides of the spectrum.

Posted by: Gary at 02:09 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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