Austria will not seek re-election

BEAVERCREEK, Ohio (WDTN) - Congressman Steve Austria (R-Beavercreek) announced on Friday that he will not run for congress next term as the result of the new redistricting map.

Austria said, "I share the same anger and frustration as the residents and voters of our region about the loss of the 7th Congressional District, but I want to thank each and every one of the eight counties (Clark, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Greene, Perry, and Ross counties) in the current district for the honor of representing them. I have thoroughly enjoyed working on behalf of every one of my communities, both large and small, and regret that I will not be able to continue the work I have been truly committed to, due to the redrawing of the maps."

The Ohio legislature divided Austria's current congressional district into three different districts. The final congressional map created a new Democratic seat in Columbus and thus eliminated the long-standing history of the 7th Congressional District.

According to Congressman Austria, "Since the redistricting process began, it has been done in secrecy and with closed door deals. I join my constituents, who are frustrated and disappointed about the new maps forced upon them and the fact that they didn't have a voice in the process."

Congressman Austria will serve out the remainder of his term until 2013 and has not ruled out a future run for public office.

"There is still much work to be done in advancing the priorities of the region and our state," Austria said.