Rep. Ruben Hinojosa, D-Texas, announced he will not seek reelection and retire from Congress.

In a statement released on Friday, Hinojosa announced his decision to not seek reelection to represent the 15th Congressional District in Texas.

"For the last 20 years, it has been my privilege to represent the voters of the 15th District. During that time, I fought to improve the quality of life of South Texas families, children and communities," said Hinojosa, who went on to list some accomplishments in education, which included efforts to expand Pell grant access and college affordability.

On immigration, Hinojosa said, "I am very proud to have supported our nation's Dreamers. These students deserve a path to U.S. citizenship. After all, this is the only country they have ever known. As the proud of son of Mexican immigrants, I remain hopeful that Congress will enact comprehensive immigration reform for future generations of Dreamers and immigrant families."

Hinojosa will stay in office until December 2016. Afterwards, the former Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) chairman indicated he will pursue a teaching career or vice chancellor at a university or enter the private sector.

"Throughout his career, Congressman Rubén Hinojosa has stood up and fought for minority communities in America," said current CHC Chairwoman Linda Sanchez, later adding, "Rubén knows how to build coalitions and has a reputation of bringing together the Hispanic, Black and Asian Pacific American Caucuses to fight for issues like education, voting rights and immigration. When he departs next year, he will leave behind a 20-year legacy centered on a commitment to the Latino community, education and financial literacy. On behalf of the Caucus, we thank Rubén and wish him and his family all the best."

House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer also commended Hinojosa's congressional work, noting his advocacy for equal rights and equal opportunity.

"His work, including as a former Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, in support of efforts to achieve comprehensive immigration reform has been rooted in his conviction that our nation is strongest when it is welcoming of those who seek to better their lives and contribute to our economy in the process," said Hoyer in a statement, also highlighting the Texas congressman's work to improve federal investments for job skills programs.

Hinojosa was elected to Congress in 1996, representing areas including McAllen and San Antonio. At age 75, he has been serving on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce and the House Committee on Financial Services for the current 114th Congress.

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