Frances Griffey
Special to Mustang News
Congresswoman Lois Capps announced her retirement Wednesday, saying she will relinquish the 24th Congressional District seat at the end of her term in 2016.
Cal Poly political science professor Michael Latner said Capps’ retirement announcement came as no surprise, but her absence from the community will be felt and her legacy remembered.
“She leaves a legacy of healthcare regulation. She was an important contributor to the Affordable Care Act,” he said. “She’s also been a staunch advocate for women’s rights and for the environment.”
Latner said events from her last election may have influenced her decision to retire. He remembers the close congressional race being “particularly nasty.”
“She probably didn’t want to have to go through that process again,” he said.
According to an article in the San Luis Obispo Tribune, candidates for the next election so far include Democrat Bill Ostrander, Republican Justin Fareed, Democrat Helene Schneider and potentially Republican Katcho Achadjian.
“There have been a couple candidates waiting in the aisles, and now, as expected, a number of candidates are throwing their hats in the ring,” Latner said.
Capps announced her retirement in a short video, saying she loved the San Luis Obispo community but felt it was time for her to “return home.”
“It’s been a hard decision to make, for I have loved this job. I have loved serving alongside such remarkable staff, such outstanding community members and wonderful colleagues in public service,” Capps said. “But life moves on, and in the meantime, I am very much looking forward to our final 22 months together in public office. There is a lot of work to do, and I promise you that I will serve with as much energy and enthusiasm and passion on my last day in office as I had on my first.”