Democrats scramble as McDermott announces retirement

WASHINGTON — At a surprise news conference, 27-year state Rep. Jim McDermott, a Democrat, stepped to the microphones and announced that he'll retire, when his term ends in December.

“I retire from the House forever humbled and grateful to my constituents for their unwavering embrace,” the 14-term congressman said.

He nationally famous for traveling to Iraq in the run-up to the 2003 conflict and saying that President George W. Bush would mislead Americans to win their support for the war.

“I'm very proud of having said that and forcing the Congress to actually look at that issue.”

McDermott serves the solidly Democratic 7th District—mostly Seattle, but it also includes Burien, Vashon Island and Edmonds.

His move sets off a scramble among Democrats to replace him.

“I have no real doubt about getting reelected but the question was ‘do you want to go back there and do it for two more and the answer was no,’” McDermott said.

State Rep. Brady Walkinshaw had already announced a challenge to McDermott, but wouldn’t say that pushed McDermott out of the race.

“I wouldn't say that. I'm sure that the Congressman has been reflecting on this race over the last six-eight months.”

In addition to Walkinshaw, King County Councilmember Joe McDermott, (who is not related to the Congressman) State Representative Reuven Carlyle, former U.S. attorney Jenny Durkan and Seattle City Councilmember Kshama Sawant are all being mentioned as possible replacements.

“I'd like to see a progressive for heaven's sakes,” McDermott said laughing. “I don't want anybody who's not progressive.”

Walkinshaw believes he is that person, “I certainly hope so. I've said that from the beginning of this campaign. I share the congressman's values.”

A psychiatrist, McDermott says he wants to be a college professor after he leaves Congress.

• LIKE KIRO 7 Eyewitness News on Facebook

KIRO