WASHINGTON D.C. (WKZO) -- It will be the end of an era when Michigan’s Senior Senator, Carl Levin steps down from office in two years.  He has just announced that at the age of 78, he won’t be running for another 6 year term in the U.S. Senate next year.

   The tributes have been rolling in.

Senator Debbie Stabenow says the U.S. could use dozens more lawmakers just like him.   President Obama called him a “true champion of all those who serve”.   Governor Snyder says Levin has been a thoughtful, compassionate voice in Washington for 30 years.

Levin says he plans to finish out his term working hard as an advocate for the state without the distraction of having to campaign.  The speculation has already begun on who may make the run to replace him.