Wisconsin's Tom Petri retiring after 30+ years in Congress

WASHINGTON (WITI/AP) — Republican congressman Tom Petri of Wisconsin says he will retire after more than 30 years in Congress.

In a statement on Friday, the congressman says he will make a formal announcement in his district on Monday on his plans not to seek re-election.

Petri is considered one of the more moderate Republicans in the House and was first elected in 1979. He has served on the Education and Workforce Committee and the Transportation Committee.

He has easily won re-election in his Republican-leaning district in east central Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker released the following statement regarding Petri's retirement: Congressman Tom Petri has been a long and trusted friend to Wisconsin and to me personally. We will miss his leadership - in particular on transportation and education issues. We thank him for his distinguished service.