Congressman George Miller Won't Seek Re-Election

After 40 years in Congress, East Bay Democrat George Miller is calling it quits.

Miller, 68, announced on Monday he won't seek a 21st term in this year's congressional election.

“This is a great institution and I cannot thank my family and my constituents enough for having given me the honor and privilege of representing my district in Congress these past 40 years,” said Miller.  “I have tried to repay them for their confidence by working hard every day to make our country a better place. I’m proud of what I have been able to accomplish on behalf of children, working people and the environment, in my district and for our country, especially passage of national health care reform."

Miller, whose father was a state senator, was first elected in 1974 at the age of 29.

Miller, generally considered one of the more liberal members of Congress, is the fifth ranking House member in terms of seniority. Education and health care have been two of his priority issues over the years.

Miller grew up in Richmond and attended Diablo Valley College and San Francisco State University. He earned a law degree from U.C. Davis. He currently lives in Martinez.

Miller's retirement opens up the field for the 2014 election in the 11th congressional district, which covers most of central and western Contra Costa County.

Among the potential candidates are state Sen. Mark DeSaulnier (D-Concord), state Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla (D-Concord) and state Assemblywoman Joan Buchanan (D-Concord).