He’s apparently out:
Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI) plans to announce his retirement today, Democrats briefed on his decision said. Stupak, the leader of a pro-life faction within his party, had received death threats and was under intense political pressure after he agreed to support the Democratic health care reform legislation, even though pro-life groups insisted that it would allow federal funds to be used for abortion.
Stupak negotiated a compromise with the White House, which resulted in President Obama’s issuing of an executive order clarifying the executive branch’s view of the subject. For that, Stupak was called a traitor to the pro-life cause. Stupak has represented Michigan’s first congressional district for 18 years. He will make public his decision at a press conference later today.
Stupak hinted at this course in a letter to constituents on Wednesday. His district, representing parts of the state’s upper peninsula, is marginal: President Obama received 50% of the vote there.
Hasta la vista pal… hope you’re the first amongst many.
H/T Andrea Shea King via email.
Crossposted at Brutally Honest.
