Georgia GOP Rep Barry Loudermilk to retire, adding to wave of House exits

Rep. Barry Loudermilk, R-Ga., announced Wednesday that he will not seek re-election to a seventh term, becoming the latest Republican lawmaker to step aside amid a growing wave of GOP retirements ahead of the next election cycle.

Loudermilk released a statement announcing his retirement, saying it has been a "tremendous honor" to represent the people of Northwest Georgia for six terms.

He also said that during his tenure, he focused on upholding the U.S. Constitution and representing the 11th Congressional District.