Deal Resigning from Congress to Run for Governor
Georgia Congressman Nathan Deal (R) has announced he is resigning his postion so he can devote his full attention to his campaign to become Georgia's next Governor. Deal is one of seven Republicans seeking the GOP nomination for governor.
In an e-mailed statement Deal said, "One of the highest honors of my life has been the privilege to serve the great people of North Georgia in the Congress of the United States.... I firmly believe that now is the season for me to devote my full energies to the campaign for governor.
Deal's resignation becomes effective at the close of business on March 8, 2010.
Deal’s decision to resign from the U.S. House now sets up a special election to fill the remainder of his term, which lasts through the November elections. At least six Republicans are already campaigning for Deal's seat.
Deal becomes the second member of the state’s 13-seat congressional delegation to announce his retirement in the past few days. U.S. Rep. John Linder (R-Ga.) announced on Saturday he won’t seek re-election in November.
