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U.S. Rep. Bart Stupak, the anti-abortion Michigan Democrat criticized for backing President Obama's health care plan, said Friday he won't seek re-election to his House seat.

He told reporters his service to Michigan has been "one of the great honors of my life" and that it's "time to begin a new and exciting chapter" in his life.

He said that his announcement allows potential candidates to organize campaigns and that he's "committed to helping the Democrats retain this seat."