Arizona Rep. John Shadegg (R) is retiring from the House after eight terms. Hailing from the Phoenix suburbs, Shadegg was first elected in the Republican Revolution year of 1994.

Shadegg, who had considered a Senate bid in the past and briefly retired in 2008 before reconsiderng, becomes the 14th Republican to announce his retirement this year -- most are running for higher office. Shadegg joins Henry Brown (SC-2) and George Radanovich (CA-19) as the only three not running for higher office.

At the presidential level, the district has given Republican candidates double-digit wins the past two elections, however Democrats spent a considerable sum to defeat Shadegg in 2008. He prevailed with a 12-point victory.

Here is how the national party campaign committees are reacting to the news (at least publicly)...

DCCC spokesman Ryan Rudominer:

"For all of the Republican spin, the numbers don't lie: There are 14 Republican retirements versus 11 for Democrats. So instead of drinking Eric Cantor and the NRCC's Kool-Aid, House Republicans continue to show a lack of confidence in their ability to take back the House as Republican retirements are mounting and their own members refuse to invest in the NRCC."

NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions:

"John Shadegg has been a strong conservative voice and a dedicated leader for our Republican Conference and the people of Arizona since he was first elected in 1994. Congressman Shadegg is a close personal friend who has worked tirelessly to promote important Republican principles and his efforts will certainly be missed. Third District voters have consistently supported Republican values and we are confident that this seat will continue to be represented by a Republican who shares Congressman Shadegg's beliefs in fiscal responsibility and limited government."