While declining to reveal his future plans, Davis said he would likely return to the private sector.
Davis is likely to have a number of options on K Street. His experience as the former chairman of the NRCC has given him political expertise that is often sought out by companies, associations and firms.
But high-tech companies or trade associations could be particularly interested, given his experience with tech issues as a member from a tech-heavy district.
“Tom Davis has been the ultimate champion for technology in Congress,” said Phil Bond, the president and CEO of the Information Technology Association of America.
Joining Davis in his departure this week are Reps. James Walsh (N.Y.), Dave Weldon (Fla.), Kenny Hulshof (Mo.) and Ron Lewis (Ky.).
In 2005, the National Federation of Independent Business offered Davis its top job, at a reportedly $1 million annual salary. Davis instead opted to run for reelection.
Davis’s seat might be the most Democratic-leaning district being vacated, as Northern Virginia continues to shift dramatically in the Democrats’ favor.
His exit should lay the groundwork for an intense Democratic battle between former Rep. Leslie Byrne, whom Davis beat to win the seat, and Fairfax County Board Chairman Gerry Connolly, who formed an exploratory committee a month ago and has raised $160,000 for the race.
Connolly is likely to officially enter the race shortly and appears to be the preference of influential Democrats.
“Congressman Davis’s retirement reminds us that a new day is dawning in Northern Virginia,” Connolly said, adding that he’s been humbled by the support he’s received.
The GOP picture is less clear. Businessman Keith Fimian has very quietly put together more than $650,000 for the race, including raising $125,000 in the fourth quarter and loaning his campaign $325,000 in total so far.
Other Republican candidates mentioned include U.S. Maritime Administrator Sean Connaughton, Prince William County Board Chairman Corey Stewart, state Sen. Jay O’Brien and state Del. Tim Hugo.
David Wasserman of the Cook Political Report said Byrne-versus-Connolly would be a “titanic battle.” The primary will be held in June.
“Fimian would face a huge obstacle getting known in a district that is overwhelmed by the Washington media market,” Wasserman said. “That’s his chief challenge.”
A Republican lobbyist said seats such as the one Davis is vacating will pull the focus away from Republican challengers and force them to focus only on retaining incumbents and open seats.
Jim Snyder contributed to this article.
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