U.S. Rep. Donald Payne (D-10) announced tonight in a press release that he is being treated for colon cancer.

Payne said he is expected to make a full recovery and does not expect to take a leave to battle the disease.

"I wish to inform my constituents of the 10th Congressional District of New Jersey, my colleagues in the United States Congress, and my many friends as well as supporters that I am under the care of an outstanding medical team for the treatment of colon cancer. They expect my full recovery, as do I," Payne said in an emailed statement.

Payne, 77, is the state's only black Congressman and is serving his 12th term in Congress.  He is up for re-election in November and could be challenged by Newark Councilman Ron Rice Jr., who is mulling a bid, but has not yet formally declared.  The statement did not indicate if Payne plans to run for a 13th term.