Coats was elected to for a second swing in the Senate in 2010.
He had previously served from 1989 until 1999. He was ambassador to Germany between terms. After retiring in 1999 he decided to jump back in 2011.
Coats’ decision could trigger an open-seat race. Democrats need to gain four seats to win the majority in the Senate in 2016, five if a Republican takes the White House.
The National Republican Senatorial Committee seems confident it will fill the seat.
“We have a strong Republican bench in Indiana, and I am confident that we will have another capable ?Republican joining us in the Senate in 2016 to continue Dan’s great work,” NRSC Chairman Roger Wicker said in a press release.
Coats said he is grateful to God and to Hoosiers who allowed him to serve his state and country.
“This was not an easy decision,” Coats said in a press release. “While I believe I am well-positioned to run a successful campaign for ?another six-year term, I have concluded that the time has come to pass this demanding job to the next generation of leaders.”
Coats is closing an ?extraordinary career in public service, Gov. Mike Pence said Tuesday.
“While we greet this news with mixed emotions, we will always be grateful for the example, life and service of Senator Dan Coats and his family,” Pence said in a press release. “We look forward to working with the Senator during the remainder of his term.”
Coats is 71 years old and a graduate of the IU Maurer School of Law.
Hannah Alani
