Colorado Springs – Word came from Washington, D.C. that New Mexico Republican Senator Pete Domenici will retire next year at the end of his current term. The six-term Senator, citing health concerns, will formally announce his retirement tomorrow (Thursday) afternoon at 4:00 PM local time.

Senator Domenici was the longtime chairman of the Budget Committee dating back to former President Ronald Reagan‘s first term. He is currently the top Republican on the Energy Committee.

He was a principal architect of a 1997 balanced budget bill negotiated with then-President Clinton, and has been a major player on national energy legislation. He has supported nuclear power and opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to drilling.

Senator Domenici also earned a reputation advocating for his state from his seat on the powerful Appropriations Committee, steering money to Energy Department nuclear facilities such as the Los Alamos National Laboratory.

At age 75, health concerns were the primary reason given for Domenici’s decision not to seek re-election at the end of his term next year. He has held his Senate seat since 1972.

Senator Domenici is scheduled to announce his retirement plans Thursday at St. Mary’s School in Albuquerque. He attended the school as a youth and his sister Marianella is the principal.

Adios, Senator Domenici!

Paotie