The Michigan representative now best known for attempting to hold healthcare reform hostage in order to advance his anti-choice agenda will be annoucing his retirement today, according to the Atlantic.

Rep. Bart Stupak (D-MI) plans to announce his retirement today, Democrats briefed on his decision said. Stupak, the leader of a pro-life faction within his party, had received death threats and was under intense political pressure after he agreed to support the Democratic health care reform legislation, even though pro-life groups insisted that it would allow federal funds to be used for abortion.

Stupak was being challenged in a primary by Charlevoix County Commissioner Connie Saltonstall, who has already received the backing of numerous pro-choice and women’s political action groups.  It remains to be seen if she will be the only Democratic candidate for the seat after Stupak’s exit.