U.S. Rep. Jerry Lewis, who has represented Inland Southern California in Washington for more than three decades and steered hundreds of millions in federal funds to the fast-changing region, announced Thursday he will step down from Congress at the end of the year.
“After months of consultation with loved ones and family, my wife Arlene and I have decided to retire from public life,” Lewis, R-Redlands said in a statement. “We are deeply grateful to so many who have provided their support over the years. I have worked hard to justify that support. Thank you all and may God continue to bless America.”
Lewis, R-Redlands, becomes the latest in a string of senior California Republicans to announce their retirements in recent days, signaling major changes to the state’s congressional delegation. His announcement has significant implications on a pair of races for Inland House seats this fall and is certain to trigger a series of candidacy declarations in the hours and days to come.
A lifelong resident of San Bernardino County, Lewis was elected to the California Assembly in 1968. There, he penned landmark legislation creating the South Coast Air Quality Management District and was influential in the establishment of the California Newsman’s Shield Law.
http://www.pe.com/local-news/politics/ben-goad-headlines/20120112-2012-elections-veteran-rep.-lewis-to-retire.eceSafe GOP district.
