Lame duck congressman to step down early

Rep. Wynn, 56, was defeated in the Feb. 12 Maryland primary. Wynn said his early departure will help Edwards retain the seat, which is located in a Democratic district. The congressman personally called Edwards to inform her of his decision.

"My leaving early will also allow our Democratic nominee Donna Edwards the opportunity to successfully navigate a special election and be sworn in this summer," he said in a statement. "This will not only give her seniority in the incoming congressional class of '09, but more importantly, will allow her to get off to a fast start in serving the citizens of our community. I offer her my best wishes and stand ready to assist in any way possible."

But holding a special election so close to the general election in November could be costly for the state, with some estimates putting the price tag at more than $1 million. Gov. Martin O'Malley (D) could also choose to leave the seat vacant.

Wynn's likely successor, and former opponent, was gracious in her response. "I salute Congressman Wynn for his many years of public service on behalf of the people of Prince George's County and in the United States Congress representing the people of the 4th Congressional District," Edwards said in a statement.

"In the spirit of a dedicated public servant, Congressman Wynn is looking out for the interests of his constituents and I commend him for that," Edwards said. "I wish Congressman Wynn all the best in his upcoming endeavors, and I deeply appreciate his willingness to work together to ensure a seamless, smooth transition of representation and constituency services for Maryland's 4th District," she said.