In Wake of Health Care Reform Vote, Stupak to Announce Retirement

Published December 23, 2015

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.

Charlevoix County Commissioner Connie Saltonstall will probably take Stupak's place as the Democratic nominee.

URL

https://www.foxnews.com/politics/in-wake-of-health-care-reform-vote-stupak-to-announce-retirement