WASHINGTON (AP) - Sen. Evan Bayh says he's grown tired of the partisan divisions that dominate Congress, and won't seek a third term.
The Indiana Democrat says he loves helping citizens, but he doesn't love Congress. He says it's time for him to "contribute to society in another way."
Bayh made the announcement at an Indianapolis news conference, with his wife and two sons at his side.
Bayh's retirement adds to the struggle Democrats will face this fall to prevent an erosion of the 59 votes they now have in the Senate.
They'll have to scramble to find a replacement candidate for Bayh's seat. Friday is the filing deadline for the May primary, although the party would have until June 30 to select a replacement candidate.
Former Indiana Sen. Dan Coats, a Republican, announced recently that he intends to run for his old seat.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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