Rep. Frederica Wilson, D-Fla., announced on Friday that she will not seek re-election for a ninth term in Congress. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI | License Photo
May 29 (UPI) -- U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, D.-Fla., said she has decided not to run for what would be her ninth term in the House of Representatives, following weeks of speculation about her next move.
Wilson, 83, told The Miami Herald that she thinks "it's time" to leave Congress after 16 years in the House, which have seen her deliver significant funds and programs for her South Florida district -- in addition to being known for her signature brightly colored outfits and hats.
Earlier this week, Wilson called reports about her potential retirement from Congress a "crazy rumor," despite the decision having already been made. She said she held back for "political strategy."
Florida Gov. Ron Desantis and the Republican-controlled state legislature changed the state's congressional map this year, which Wilson said also played into how and when she announced that she would leave Congress.
