Free Republic

Representative has served S. Arizona for more than 20 years. A desire to teach, D.C. 'divisiveness' part of his decision U.S. Rep. Jim Kolbe, a Tucson Republican who rose through the ranks of Congress to become one of the country's most influential lawmakers, will not seek re-election in 2006. Kolbe stunned supporters, delighted rivals and touched off a frenzied wave of anticipation among possible successors Wednesday by announcing he will leave the House of Representatives next year after 22 years. "At some point you have to say it's time to hang up the spurs," the 63-year-old congressman said. "This is...