Politics | Frank Lautenberg Lautenberg, 89, Won't Run for Re-Election in Senate Democrat's decision paves way for Cory Booker By John Johnson Posted Feb 14, 2013 2:32 PM CST Copied In this May 3, 2012, file photo, Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., smiles as he stands on the Rutgers-Camden campus in Camden, N.J. (AP Photo/Mel Evans, File) Liberal stalwart Sen. Frank Lautenberg says he won't run for re-election to his New Jersey seat in 2014, reports the Star-Ledger. The 89-year-old ended the speculation weeks after Newark Mayor Cory Booker made it clear he'd like to run if Lautenberg stepped down. Who knows, maybe this sets up a Booker showdown in the general election with ... Geraldo Rivera. In the meantime, though, Lautenberg tells the Star-Ledger that he doesn't plan to coast on his way out: “I am not announcing the end of anything. I am announcing the beginning of a two-year mission to pass new gun safety laws, protect children from toxic chemicals, and create more opportunities for working families in New Jersey. While I may not be seeking re-election, there is plenty of work to do before the end of this term ..." Read These Next New Fox star, 23, misses first day after car troubles. Iran's supreme leader makes first public comments since ceasefire. Her blood isn't compatible with anyone else's. Man accused of killing his daughters might be dead. Report an error