Va. GOP Rep. Wolf to Retire

Served in Congress for 17 terms

Rep. Frank Wolf (R-Va.) announced Tuesday he will retire from Congress after 17 terms, opening up a competitive House seat in Northern Virginia.

Wolf, 74, has represented Virginia's 10th District since 1981 and is the longest-serving member from the state.

A prominent global human rights advocate, Wolf said he plans to work to further human right and religious freedom following his departure from Congress.

"As a follower of Jesus, I am called to work for justice and reconciliation, and to be an advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves," Wolf said in a statement.