California Democratic Rep. Lynn Woolsey will reportedly announce her retirement Monday.
Woolsey, first elected in 1992, served as co-chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus during the height of the Iraq war and became known for her fervently progressive politics.
The Bay Area congresswoman is reportedly making the announcement now to allow constituents time to become acquainted with possible successors.
Woolsey is known for having been on food stamps as a young mother and for being arrested with four other members of Congress at a 2009 protest outside of the Sudanese embassy.
Woolsey sent a press advisory on Monday saying that she will make an announcement next week with fellow California Rep. Barbara Lee.
(Rep. Anthony Weiner resigns from Congress)
The Santa Rosa Press Democrat reports that sources close to Woolsey confirm that she will announce her retirement.
San Francisco Chronicle blogger Joe Garofoli speculates that, in addition to several other possible candidates, California Lt. Gov. and former San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom may be interested in running for the seat.
Garofoli notes that Newsom has moved “temporarily” to Woolsey’s district to “live with his in-laws after they had their second child.”
Woolsey’s office was not immediately available to offer comment.