Rep. Lane Evans To Retire

It was reported on WEEK 25 at 6pm that 17th Congressional District Representative Lane Evans announced that he would be retiring after he finishes his current term in office.

I had seriously wondered about his physical condition over the last couple of years. In the 2004 race, if I remember, he would not commit to any open debates with challenger Andrea Zinga, who is again running on the Republican ticket this year. I felt that he did not want the public to see his true condition.

Then, it was reported that Rep. Evans had missed a total of 33 votes in the House. His spokesman claimed that he was undergoing some medical procedures and that Rep. Evans was fine and would be able to do his job. I didn't exactly buy that.

In these last couple of years, I had thought that Rep. Evans should have molded someone to take over his position. He could then step down and enjoy some time with family and tend to his health. Rep. Evans has done an exemplary job as a congressman. No one would think ill of him if he would have stepped down. In fact, it is inspiring to the public the performance he has made while in office with Parkinson's. But the disease does take a toll.

I believe he could do an outstanding job in bringing awareness to Parkinson's Disease as has actor Michael J. Fox.

Common Sense of it All: I wish the best for Rep. Evans and hope he is feeling better.