Sen. John McCain will run for re-election, seeks 6th term

WASHINGTON, April 7 (UPI) -- Amid speculation he might retire, U.S. Sen. John McCain instead announced he will seek a sixth term in 2016.

McCain, a 2008 Republican presidential nominee and chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said he's eager to continue his longtime Senate career.

"The reason why I want to seek re-election is that there's a lot more to do, both for Arizona and the country," McCain told The Arizona Republic.

McCain has long been the target of conservatives who see him as too liberal and will likely face stiff competition in the upcoming election. Republican state Sen. Kelli Ward is being considered the most likely opposition to McCain for the seat. Already McCain has raised $3.5 million for the campaign, which he said is a "good start."

"I think the reason why I have been successful is by not taking anything for granted, and by anticipating the worst and hoping for the best," McCain said. "But you've got to be ready."

To win re-election, McCain said he will address issues close to home, including Arizona's drought, issues at a local copper mine and bipartisan reforms to the Department of Veterans Affairs after the Phoenix VA Medical Center launched a nationwide scandal.

McCain, who is currently 78 but will be 80 by Election Day, said he is "just getting started" with his Senate career.

"I say watch me," he said. "Take a look. Take a look at my 18-hour days. Take a look at the hearings we have. Take a look at my legislative accomplishments."

He added that his mother, Roberta, is still living a full life, "I am happy to tell you my mother is 103 years old and she is doing well."