HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) - The longtime top aide to Republican U.S. Rep. Roscoe Bartlett says he has resigned and is considering running for his boss's western Maryland seat.

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Harold "Bud" Otis said Thursday that his decision would depend largely on whether Bartlett stays in the race.

Bartlett's office didn't return calls Thursday from The Associated Press. A spokeswoman said Wednesday that the conservative congressman is still seeking re-election to an 11th term.

The 73-year-old Otis has worked for Bartlett for 10 years. He says their service together was meaningful and important but he wants to do other things.
Maryland Republican Party Chairman Alex X. Mooney also said Thursday that he's considering running for Bartlett's seat.

The district was recently redrawn to improve Democrats' chances of winning the seat.