Longtime Southern Illinois Congressman John Shimkus has announced he will not seek re-election.
The 61-year-old Collinsville republican has served in the U.S. House since 1997. He received 71 percent of the vote last year.
Shimkus did not give any hints about future plans, other than to say he will leave the political field knowing he served honorably and, with the help of many, accomplished a lot for his constituents.
He thanked his family for their support and sacrifices during his time in Congress.
In July, Collinsville democrat John Hursey, Jr. announced his plan to run for Shimkus' 15th congressional district seat.
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