Sen. Steve Symms, whose blunt partisanship and arch-conservative views energized supporters and exasperated opponents during nearly two decades in Congress, announced Wednesday he will not seek another term.

"I look forward to starting another career in 1993," the two-term Republican said at his family fruit ranch in Caldwell.But he said he would work hard to defend the seat from the attack of Rep. Richard Stallings, who is expected to be the only Democrat in the 1992 race.

Symms, 53, a veteran of 18 years in Congress, for months has hinted he might not run again. He has had family problems in recent months. Earlier this year, his ex-wife, Fran, raised questions during an interview about the senator's fidelity during their marriage of more than 25 years.

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