LAURENS, S.C. (AP) - South Carolina Rep. Mike Pitts says he is resigning on the advice of his doctors and family.
Pitts said after a heart attack on Oct. 20, he reconsidered his political career, even after winning a ninth term in office.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Upstate Representative suffers heart attack after hunting in Montana
The Republican from Laurens says his doctors told him he can make a full recovery, but he needs less stress, a less hectic schedule and more patience. Pitts says that's impossible in modern politics.
Pitts said in a statement being chairman of the House Ethics Committee added to his stress.
Pitts says he will resign on Jan. 3 - just before the House session begins - and a special election will be held to determine his replacement.
Pitts is a 62-year-old retired Greenville police officer and former Laurens County council member.