Michigan's Dem Rep. Sturpak retiring

MARQUETTE, Mich. (AP) — Congressman Bart Stupak of Michigan says he's retiring this year because "it's time to begin a new and exciting chapter."

Stupak said during a news conference today that he made the decision within the last 36 hours not to seek a 10th term. He says he felt his main legislative goal — a national health-care overhaul — was accomplished.

The 58-year-old anti-abortion Democrat had been targeted for defeat by tea party activists for his crucial role in securing House approval of the health-care overhaul.

Stupak says he could have won re-election. He insists he wasn't being chased from the race by the Tea Party Express, which is having rallies this week in his northern Michigan district calling for his ouster.