Breaking: Hobson Announces Retirement.

Sources with the Dayton Daily News have just informed that earlier this afternoon Dave Hobson of Ohio's 7th Congressional District announced his retirement. Speaking impromptu at a birthday party, Hobson confirmed in public that he will not be seeking his 10th term in 2008.


The DDN states:


Rep. David Hobson announced at 5 p.m. Sunday that he will retire at the end of this term.


He made his announcement at a birthday party surrounded by staff, former staff and community leaders.


Dave Hobson came to power in the 7th District during the 1990 election when the southwest Ohioan was elected to fill Mike DeWine's vacated seat (as he ascended to Lt. Governor). The cook partisan voting index gives the district a Republican lean of +6, so any Democrat will face an uphill challenge in the district.



However, in 2006 while running a barebones (and practically non-existent campaign in the mainstream media) William Conner picked up 39.28% of the vote against Hobson. While Conner spent only $17,000 for his 40% of the vote, a well financed, top name candidate may be competitive in this district. The next few days should be interesting in the 7th, as attention turns to Franklin, Green, Clark and Fairfield counties (the most populous counties in the district) to see what names emerge immediately.


On the Democratic side, William Conner had previously announced plans to challenge Hobson again in 2008. His website is already live. Additionally, newcomer Dave Woolever, a small business owner from Pickaway County, announced his bid earlier this year.


Hobson is the 12th Republican nationwide to announce retirement, and the 4th Ohio Congressional Republican who will not return for the 112th session. Other Republicans not running for re-election due to death or retirement include Paul Gilmor in OH-05, Deborah Pryce in OH-15, Ralph Regula in OH-16th.



Additionally, Ohio Democrat Dennis Kucinich has been rumored to be considering retirement as well