WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican officials say two-term Republican Rep. Jon Runyan of New Jersey intends to retire rather than seek re-election next year.

Runyan, a former professional football player, defeated a Democrat to win his seat in 2010, one of dozens of newcomers who gave the GOP the majority in the House.

His decision gives Democrats a chance to win back the seat.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly speak about the decision by name before a formal announcement.