Montana's Baucus latest to announce retirement

[ProSense]

Montana's Baucus latest to announce retirement

By Steve Benen

Senate Democratic leaders who hoped to keep 2014 retirements to a minimum have apparently failed to persuade their colleagues.

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) is retiring rather than seek re-election in 2014, according to two senior Democratic strategists familiar with his plans.

First elected in 1978, Baucus has been the top Democrat on the powerful committee since 2001.

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As is always the case with these retirement announcements, there are a couple of angles to consider. The first is who's likely to succeed Baucus once he gets a lobbying job departs from public service. In this case, Republicans will welcome the chance to compete in a state Mitt Romney won by 14 points, former Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer (D) is reportedly interested -- he was rumored to be eyeing a primary race against Baucus -- and would be a strong contender.

And then there's the other question: what's with all the retirements?

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We can only speculate, of course, but I have to wonder whether being a senator is a whole lot less fun that it used to be -- the chamber just isn't a satisfying place to be right now. Republican abuse of filibuster rules have made it nearly impossible to do much of anything, and with a radicalized House majority, even if the Senate can pass something, it's likely to die in the lower chamber.

Senators effectively just spin their wheels, unable to govern, leaving both rookies and veteran senators alike feeling frustrated.

- more -

http://maddowblog.msnbc.com/_news/2013/04/23/17878559-montanas-baucus-latest-to-announce-retirement

Good riddance. He's part of the problem.

[Bonhomme Richard]

1. Question. Then why did he vote against the background check bill? n/t

[ProSense]

3. Good question, especially since

Tester voted for it.

Baucus Explains Opposition To Background Checks: ‘Montana’
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022700853

[Zambero]

2. As an unreliable DINO he won't be missed much

Brian Schweitzer should be a a strong contender for the open seat, and I hope he decides to run. Baucus' announcement at this point seems a bit puzzling because if he had intentions of retiring, he would have incurred no future political risk in supporting an extension of backround checks for weapons purchases. The harsh criticism he received over his recent "no" vote may have affected his decision however.