A shocker

John Micek reports on some surprising breaking news; House Speaker Keith McCall will not seek re-election.

McCall gave first dibs to his hometown Lehighton Times-News. Here's the story:

"State Rep. Keith R. McCall announced Tuesday he will step down from elected office when his term ends in December in order to spend more time with his family.

The surprise announcement came a year and a few days after the Carbon County Democrat was sworn in as Speaker of the House of Representatives, and 28 years after he launched his first term in state office in 1982 after the death of his father, the late state Rep. Thomas J. McCall.

"This decision is about my family. I first came to Harrisburg as a single 22-year-old man following in his father's footsteps," McCall said. "Now I have a wonderful wife and two amazing children all of whom I owe not only my thanks, but also a lot of missed dinners, football and baseball games, volleyball games and help with homework.

"As much as I care for the institution of the House, I love my family, and it's long overdue that I put them first. After 2010 is over I know I will miss the House and the wonderful members and staff with whom I've been blessed to serve, but, I know in my heart that I am doing the right thing for myself and my family," he said.

McCall, 50, said he's looking forward to attending sports and school functions with daughter Courtney, 11, son Keith Robert II, 9, and Betty, his wife of 13 years.

A definite shocker...