Jerry Lewis, dean of California's GOP delegation, calls it quits

[bemildred]

Rep. Jerry Lewis (R-Redlands), dean of California’s GOP congressional delegation and a fixture in Golden State politics since Ronald Reagan’s governorship, on Thursday announced he would retire when his term expires, further shaking up the state’s Washington representation.

"After months of consultation with loved ones and family, my wife Arlene and I have decided to retire from public life," he said in a statement. Lewis becomes the sixth member of the state's 53-member House delegation who will be retiring or running for another office.

His decision will set off a game of political musical chairs.

The 77-year-old Lewis has been contemplating retirement since his Inland Empire district was carved up by a redistricting plan, drawn up for the first time by a citizens commission instead of lawmakers.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/nationnow/2012/01/jerry-lewis-congress-retire-california.html

[savalez]

1. In other words, he doesn't have the votes anymore.

Yes, I say this without a shred of evidence. But this part helped make the assumption:

The 77-year-old Lewis has been contemplating retirement since his Inland Empire district was carved up by a redistricting plan, drawn up for the first time by a citizens commission instead of lawmakers.

[bemildred]

2. The fruits of our new redistricting methodology.

No more "safe districts" except by accident.

[savalez]

3. Darn right.

How do you think this will play out for Democrats overall?

[bemildred]

4. Very good for us.

Both in terms of fewer 'R's and in terms of fewer corrupt 'D' manipulating our politics.