“It has been an honor and a privilege to represent Kentucky’s Second Congressional District throughout the past 14 years. I am proud of the many successes we have had: the passage of the tobacco buyout, strengthening of Fort Knox during the last BRAC commission, bringing a veteran’s clinic to the Owensboro area, and securing over $8 million for local law enforcement officials to eradicate methamphetamine production and use.
“I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and catching up on the things I have missed over the years. I could not have done this without the support of my dedicated staff.”
Lewis has served Kentucky’s Second Congressional district since winning a special election in 1994 for the seat vacated by the death of Rep. William Natcher.

Press Secretary Mike Dodge terms this an "11th hour decision" and that Lewis assembled his Congressional staff late this afternoon, about 4pm to tell them.

Dodge says Lewis labored for a while with the decision and acknowledges the "timing is hairy."
He says many of Lewis' colleagues from the 1994 Republican Revolution have stepped aside and that there are a lot of frustations for those remaining in Congress, now.

Lewis told his staff that the timing is right for a change and for the 2nd district.

As for the staff, Dodge says they are still absorbing it tonight and are disappointed, but understand.