DeMint has no plans to seek re-election

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint says he has no plans to run for re-election in 2016.

DeMint told reporters in Charleston on Tuesday that he has not completely ruled out another run, but he favors term limits of 12 years for senators. He was first elected in 2004 and was re-elected last year.

DeMint says he does not think his plans will hurt his ability to push for budget cuts and more responsible government spending.

He told a group of 300 Republicans form Charleston and Berkeley counties that the 2012 elections may be the last chance for the nation to put its fiscal house in order.

He said earlier this month that the debt ceiling deal Congress approved has cost America its credibility.