Arizona Rep. John Shadegg won't seek re-election

(AP) — Arizona Republican U.S. Rep. John Shadegg says he is retiring and won't run for a ninth term this year.

Shadegg said in a statement Thursday that he will serve out his current term in Congress and then pursue other interests. He says he will "pursue my commitment to fight for freedom in a different venue."

A Shadegg spokeswoman says his exact plans won't be disclosed until he leaves office.

The 60-year-old's district covers north Phoenix, Paradise Valley and a stretch of rural communities north of Phoenix.