Sen. John McCain is running for re-election in 2016.
The Arizona Republican, who was first elected in 1986, will seek a sixth term, he said. The chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and 2008 presidential nominee will be 80-years-old by Election Day, but told NBC News his Senate career is “just getting started.”
“I say, watch me,” he said to critics of his age. “Take a look. Take a look at my 18-hour days. Take a look at the hearings we have. Take a look at my legislative accomplishments.”
McCain said he will win re-election by continuing to be outspoken on foreign policy and stress home state issues, including immigration and veterans affairs.
He also said he expects a GOP primary challenge by Tea Party conservatives — but that he is prepared.
McCain told the Arizona Republic he will officially announce his bid in a speech before the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the Arizona Biltmore resort in central Phoenix.
“It’s my job to convince the voters, both primary and general, that I can do more for Arizona and the country, and I think I have a record to prove it,” McCain said.
McCain decision to run for re-election and the subsequent race for his seat is an important one for Senate Republicans — 34 Senate seats in total, 24 Republican and 10 Democrat — will be open in 2016. Republicans took control of the Senate in 2014 and now hold a majority with 54 seats — something the Democrats will be eager to take back.
