Mississippi Congressman Chip Pickering has told The Clarion-Ledger that he filed for divorce from his wife, Leisha.

Pickering, a 44-year-old Republican, announced in August 2007 that he would not seek re-election this year. He said then that he wanted to spend more time with his wife and their five sons.

Pickering was first elected in central Mississippi’s 3rd District in November 1996. His current term ends in January.

Pickering told the Jackson newspaper that he is seeking a divorce for irreconcilable differences. His congressional Web site has several family photos.