FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 02, 2003

CONTACT: Stacey Farnen 202-225-3130

HOUSE DEMOCRATIC WHIP HOYER ON REP. DOOLEY RETIREMENT ANNOUNCEMENT

WASHINGTON – House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today in response to Representative Cal Dooley’s (CA-20) announcement that he will retire from the House of Representatives at the end of the current term:

 “Cal Dooley has served his constituents, our country and the Democratic Party with distinction for almost fourteen years.  His retirement will be a loss for the Democratic Caucus and the House as a whole, but I respect his desire to look for new opportunities and to tackle new challenges.

 “Cal’s intellect and energy made him an influential figure on issues important to our nation’s future such as agriculture, technology and trade.  His founding of the New Democrat Coalition with two Democratic colleagues created a home for moderate ideas to take root and grow.  And his willingness to work in a bipartisan manner was notable and needed in a House that is increasingly partisan and gridlocked.

 “I wish Cal good luck in whatever he decides to pursue in the years to come.”

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