Key Centrist Democrat Won’t Seek Reelection

Florida Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy announced that she would not seek reelection to represent Florida's 7th Congressional District next year.

WATCH:

Murphy became one of just five Democrats to beat Republican incumbents in 2016. Her victory over 12-term Congressman John Mica came after court-ordered redistricting made the GOP-leaning seat slightly more favorable to Democrats. The new district lines will likely make it significantly more Republican. (RELATED: Democrat's Retirement Creates Golden Opportunity)

Observers considered Murphy a rising star in the Democratic Party. Murphy serves as the chief deputy whip despite only being in her third term.

Per CNN:

When announcing her retirement, Murphy, a mother of two young children, conceded, “This was not an easy decision, but it was the right decision.”

Murphy's decision to not seek reelection comes as many Democrats have announced retirements amid districts being redrawn and a growing consensus that the upcoming midterms are going to be a tough fight for the party. The Republican-led Florida legislature has taken a particular interest in redrawing Murphy's district, all but ensuring it will be difficult for Democrats to hold. Murphy is the 21st Democrat, and 32nd House member overall, to announce they'll be leaving at the end of the term, including 11 members who are running for Senate or governor.

SEE ALSO: Senior House Democrats Announce Retirement From Congress

In May, Murphy ruled out a bid for US Senate to challenge Republican incumbent Marco Rubio for his seat, partly because she acknowledged how difficult it has been for Democrats to win statewide in the state. Florida Republicans have dominated statewide races for more than a decade. The last time a Democrat won a Senate seat in Florida was in 2012.

Besides her position in Democratic leadership, Murphy sits on the House Ways and Means Committee, the House Armed Services Committee and the select committee investigating the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.

Colleagues on both sides of the aisle graciously responded to the news on Twitter:

Despite news of her retirement, Murphy left the door open on running for future office.

SEE ALSO: Kinzinger Announces Retirement While Hinting at Political Comeback

So what do you think? Are you afraid that the Jan. 6 committee will present its findings before the midterms which Republicans are likely to win? As always, share your thoughts with us in the comments below!