Rep. Rick RenziRep. Rick Renzi, R-Ariz., finally revealed Thursday what’s been known in Arizona political circles for some time - he won’t seek re-election after six years of representing the largest congressional district in the state. Making a formal announcement in late August was an important consideration for Republicans who want to keep Congressional District 1 and prevent the Arizona House delegation from going to five Democrats and three Republicans (assuming the other incumbents were to win in 2008). Three Democrats already have entered the race, former television journalist Mary Kim Titla, Flagstaff and Tempe lawyer Howard Shanker and former Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, D-Flagstaff, who resigned her state office to run. (Another prominent name frequently mentioned is Steve Owens, a previous congressional candidate and the current director of the state Department of Environmental Quality).But no Republicans have declared, out of respect for Renzi and in case he wanted to run again despite an ongoing FBI investigation. The longer that Renzi waited to reveal his own plans, the less time other Republicans had to start raising money and formal campaigning in a district that reaches from Four Corners to central Pinal County and covers the Navajo Nation and several other Indian tribes along with Casa Grande, Florence, Prescott and Flagstaff.The leading Republicans said to be seriously looking at the race are former Senate President Ken Bennett, R-Prescott, and Rep. Bill Konopnicki, R-Safford. Another name mentioned is Arizona Corporation Commission member Kris Mayes, who lives in the Valley but Prescott is her hometown. But Democrats really want this seat, as they have a voter registration advantage in the district. And some Republican insiders believe Mayes won’t cross her friend and Democratic Party standard bearer, Gov. Janet Napolitano.Money is a key issue in any congressional race. But it’s critical in District 1, as its geographic size limits personal campaigning and requires savvy media advertising. A candidate might be required to raise $1 million or more just to be competitive through the general election.A final note: Democrats are now hoping Renzi can be pressured into immediately resigning from office. That would bring a special election within 15 weeks, and further boost the chances of Democratic candidates already off and running. For that very reason, don’t expect Renzi to quit, at least until after the deadline for calling a special election has passed.

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