Little Rock — Congressman Tim Griffin (R- 2nd District Arkansas) announced today that he will not seek re-election in 2014. Griffin cited his desire to pursue a career in the “shrimpin’ business” as the main reason for the decision.
Griffin released a statement this morning announcing the decision.
“Serving the people of the Second Congressional District is an honor, and I am grateful for the opportunity I have been given by my fellow Arkansans,” Griffin says. “…To that end, I will not seek reelection to a third term. I will complete my second term, but I have decided to give up a career in Congress. I plan to start a career in the shrimpin’ business following my lifelong dream of becoming a shrimp boat captain. I will continue to be involved in public service including as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve.”
Griffin went on to say that he has purchased his first boat, the “Tiny Tim”, and will spend his spring congressional recess preparing it for the 2014 fall inshore shrimp season off the coast of Louisiana.
Sources close to Griffin say the decision has no baring on other contenders entering the race, but rather was decided following a recent tug boat ride along the Arkansas River. Griffin said that the daily struggle of working in Washington after 4 years had lost the appeal that it once had.
On a call after the announcement Griffin spoke about his excitement for the upcoming gulf shrimp season, saying “It appears to be an active hurricane season. With any luck I can kill FEMA funding to the region in the next 6 months, then a storm can shut the shrimp business down for the area. Then I can sweep in and work while everyone else is out.”
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