In both the 2012 and 2014 cycles, Rep. Steve Israel dutifully and shrewdly headed the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. Today, he announced he will retire in 2016 in part to focus on writing a second novel. Israel's surprise decision isn't just a reflection of Democrats' dismal odds of taking back the House; it's also a testament to Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi's long tenure and the fatigue of up-and-comers waiting for leadership openings. Unlike the recent retirements of GOP Rep. Robert Hurt (VA-05) and Democratic Rep. Jim McDermott (WA-07) from safe seats, Israel's retirement from his very competitive North Shore Long Island district creates a prime takeover opportunity for Republicans. President Obama carried it with just 51 percent in 2012, and 2012 redistricting made it a point friendlier to the GOP. Nationally, it's one of just nine districts with an EVEN score in the Cook Partisan Voter Index. Israel's strong electoral showings, including taking 55 percent in the dismal year of 2014, were a testament to his popular suburban brand and Republicans' failure to recruit credible opponents. Always the party strategist,
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