(Image Credit: J. Scott Applewhite/AP Photo)

Republican Rep. David Dreier, who represents California's 26th district in Congress, this morning announced his plans to retire.

Dreier, who serves as chairman of the House Committee on Rules, explained in a paper statement that his decision to retire stemmed from his accomplishing a series of objectives that he'd outlined for himself three years ago; cut nondefense discretionary spending, pass free-trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea, enhance national security and ensure that both parties have the opportunity to propose amendments on the House floor.

"My decision has been a deliberative one," he said.  "Three years ago I contemplated leaving at the end of the previous Congress, but I ultimately chose to seek reelection for the sake of pursuing four key objectives. Speaker, I have been honored to play a part in the effort to accomplish these four goals."

Dreier was facing a challenge as a result of redistricting in his state; the new congressional map in California left him without a district.

The announcement makes Dreier the fourth Republican congressman in California to announce plans to retire at the end of the 112th congress. Three longtime congressman from the nation's largest congressional delegation announced in January their retirement plans within the span of one week.