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Senator announces he will not seek re-election; colleagues offer tributes
Summary
A senator told colleagues during the Senate's closing that he will not seek re-election, prompting personal tributes from members and remarks about long service and friendship on the floor.
An unnamed senator announced on the Senate floor that he will not run for re-election and said he will step down at the end of his current term, telling colleagues, "I will not run for reelection." He thanked members for the "privilege of serving" and said he will carry his memories of the body after he leaves.
The announcement drew immediate appreciation from colleagues. One member addressed him directly, "Thank you, Pete," and other senators offered brief tributes and expressions of affection. The floor remarks included both personal memories and light-hearted references to shared events and trips, underscoring a tone of collegiality.
Colleagues used the remarks to highlight long service: the presiding remarks recognized 24 years of service by one member and six years by another, and senators praised travel and commitment by colleagues who commute long distances to attend session. Several members also thanked staff, spouses and family members for their support.
The announcement did not include additional procedural steps about candidate filings or a formal resignation; the senator said only that he "will step down at the end of my term." The session continued with scheduled business and the governor's address later in the proceedings.
