Washington, D.C. – Alabama has suddenly become a key battleground in November's congressional elections with the announced retirement of Democratic Representative Bud Cramer of Huntsville yesterday.
Coupled with the retirement of Republican Representative Terry Everett of Rehobeth, Cramer's announcement puts two of the state's seven congressional seats in play. And a slew of candidates from both parties are angling for what officials expect to be competitive races.
The 60-year-old Cramer was first elected in 1990. He surprised colleagues yesterday by saying he would step down to spend more time with his family and explore other opportunities.
Everett, who is 71, announced last fall that he would retire after his current term, in part citing his age and health problems. He was elected in 1992.
Republicans have held Everett's southeastern Alabama district since 1964, but Democrats say they have a chance at winning the seat after convincing Montgomery Mayor Bobby Bright to run.
Party officials say Cramer's seat -- which he has held even as the district has leaned Republican in recent national and state races -- could attract even stronger interest.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)