CONGRESSMAN GEORGE RADANOVICH Congressman George Radanovich has announced that he will not seek reelection in 2010. He issued a statement on the decision on Tuesday morning.

“During the past 15 years that I have been a member of congress representing my friends, family and neighbors from our Central Valley, not a day goes by that I don’t feel a sense of pride and honor in being their voice in our nation’s capital.

“Every decision I make and every vote I cast is based solely on what is best for our valley, our state and our nation,” Radanovich said.

“Being a congressman is a full-time commitment that takes one away from family, social events with friends, and cherished time at home. I knew that when I decided to run for Congress and know it today,” the congressman said.

“I have also been blessed by having a supportive family with my wife, Ethie, who is my soul mate and the love of my life. And having a great son like King who makes us complete.”

Radanovich said that during his tenure, he has had to put aside his personal life to fulfill his public obligations. “I did it happily knowing that I had the support of my family despite often being disappointed when I wasn’t by their side,” he said.

“During the past couple of months, Ethie and I have had deep and often emotional conversations giving thanks for our many blessings and setting our priorities as a couple and as parents. It was during these sessions that it became clear to me that the time has come for me to place my family first and my public service career second.”

Ethie Radanovich has been fighting ovarian cancer for nearly three years, and it is this situation that prompts the congressman to make this decision. “My family needs me, and I intend to be by their side to win this battle. It is for this reason that I have decided to not seek reelection to congress in 2010.”

Radanovich said he has had conversations with his most trusted advisors and colleagues including Congressman David Dreier, State Senator Dave Cogdill, Assemblyman Mike Villines, Richard Spencer and others, seeking their advice and counsel regarding this decision. “They were all most supportive as you would expect friends to be,” he said.

Radanovich said he has reached out to State Senator Jeff Denham and asked him to consider running for the seat. Denham has reportedly accepted.

“Finally, I intend to finish this session of congress as I pledged to the voters in my district,” Radanovich concluded.