Rep. Albert Wynn, Maryland Democrat, said today he is leaving office in June to join a D.C. law firm, allowing rival Donna Edwards, who handily defeated the eight-term incumbent during last month's Democratic primary, to compete in a special election prior to November's general vote.

Mr. Wynn will become a partner at Dickstein Shapiro LLP this summer, leaving a district that handed him victory over his Republican opponent in 2006 by a margin of 81 percent to 19 percent.

Onlookers say the seat will remain safely in Democratic hands; Ms. Edwards has raised nearly $800,000 and does not face serious Republican opposition.

"It has been a great honor to serve as a member of Congress representing the wonderful people of the 4th District. However, it is time to move into another phase of my life and I am very excited to be joining such an outstanding firm," Mr. Wynn said in a statement. "My leaving early will also allow our Democratic nominee Donna Edwards the opportunity to successfully navigate a special election and be sworn in this summer.

This will not only give her seniority in the incoming Congressional class of '09, but more importantly, will allow her to get off to a fast start in serving the citizens of our community. I offer her my best wishes and stand ready to assist in any way possible."

Update: A spokesman for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee weighed in with his thoughts: "Congressman Al Wynn has been a valuable member of Congress and a leader for the people of Maryland," said spokesman Doug Thornell. "We wish him and his family well in their future endeavors. This is a solidly Democratic district and will remain that way."

— Carrie Sheffield, Web editor, The Washington Times