Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

I'll believe it when I see it. We have been down this road before in 2008. We won't get fooled again.

The Rothenberg Political Report cryptically reports that AZ 3: Shadegg (R) to Retire:

Republican Cong. John Shadegg (R) is retiring. First elected in 1994, he represents Arizona's 3rd District. John McCain carried the district with 56% in 2008.

This has yet to be confirmed by Rep. Shadegg. He could always change his mind – again.

UPDATE: MSNBC's First Read has a statement from Rep. John Shadegg confirming the report. Shadegg retires, and it's for real this time – First Read:

From NBC's Domenico Montanaro
The 14th House Republican this cycle is not running for reelection — Rep. John Shadegg (AZ).

"While it would be difficult to leave this position at any time," Shadegg said in a statement, "it is particularly hard to do so now with the challenges we face as a nation, but it is necessary for me to do so." And this: “While the rules of the House do not allow me to pursue future employment while I am still in office, rest assured, I will continue to remain in the fight for freedom and defend American exceptionalism.”

Shadegg was part of the 1994 wave of Republicans that were swept into Congress. In 2008, Shadegg won with 54% of the vote; Presidential candidate John McCain, an Arizonan, won with 56%. Last year was Shadegg's closest race since being elected.

Republican operatives say the seat is "safe," though it wasn't immediately clear who the GOP (or Democratic) candidate would be. According to the Cook Political Report, The district has a +9 Republican leaning.

Shadegg had said in February of 2008 that he would retire, but then changed his mind.

“Two years ago I considered retiring and briefly announced my intention to do so," Shadegg said in a statment, adding, "This time, however, my decision is irreversible."

Here's Shadegg's full statement from his office after the jump:

Regrettably, prior commitments mean I won't be able to attend this event, but that doesn't stop others from going. It sounds like one of those minor/major (take your pick) historic events for Tucson. It's the first of what promises to be an annual event.

The first annual Reception for the Pima County Democratic African American Caucus will be held at Pima Dem headquarters (4639 E. First Street, near Speedway and Swan) this Saturday, January 16, 5pm. According to the press release, the event is "open to ALL Democrats who want to move Arizona forward."

Rep. Giffords will address the group, and lots of other notables will be there.

Public officials expected to attend this event include Arizona Corporation Commissioner Sandra Kennedy, Tucson City Council Members Richard Fimbres and Shirley Scott, Florence City Council Member Vallarie Woolridge and Affirmative Action Moderator for the Arizona Democratic Party Gerald Richard, who will be delivering the keynote address.

Read the entire press release after the jump.