Top local Republicans say Congresswoman Deborah Pryce has decided not to run for re-election next year. A top local Republican says Pryce will make the announcement Thursday at 11am. The source said Pryce is leaving Congress because the new Democratic leadership has made the schedule too hectic and she wants to spend more time with her young daughter. The reality that Pryce would face a difficult re-election fight in 2008 is also a factor, according to the party insider.
Pryce, from Upper Arlington, has served in Congress for 15 years. She barely won re-election in 2006 after a tough fight with Franklin County Commissioner Mary Jo Kilroy. Kilroy has announced her intentions to run for the seat again in 2008.
A spokesman for Pryce declined to comment but said the Congresswoman's office would release a statement later today.
Among the Republicans mentioned as considering a run for Pryce's seat: Former Attorney General Jim Petro, and State Senator Steve Stivers. Another top local Republican - Franklin County Auditor Joe Testa says he is not considering running.
