Senate Democratic Leader Chris Larson said today he will not seek re-election, clearing the way for Democratic Sen. Jennifer Shilling to lead the 14 Democrats in the 2015-16 legislative session. In a Facebook post, Larson wrote: “Yesterday, I was on a walk with (son) Atticus and (wife) Jessica to the playground. We talked over the last few years and the challenges that are forthcoming in the years ahead. I had recently been challenged for my post as leader and was courting votes to defend it so I could continue doing the work I had been doing. That work had kept me on a rigorous schedule the last two years of leading our Democratic caucus, traveling, recruiting candidates, fundraising, and responding to the continuous Republican attacks on our shared values of looking out for everyone. It was a team effort by some of the most amazing candidates and neighbors I have met. I am proud of the work we put forth. Through all of this, one option I hadn’t considered fully was taking a break from being leader to spend more time with family and focusing on my own community. Once that option presented itself, it grew gravity….I called Jen Shilling last night to let her know I would be voting for her and would be encouraging my supporters to unite behind her as well. I hope for a united caucus as we prepare to take on the incredible threat ahead.” One week ago, Democrats lost one seat in the Senate. One Senate Democratic source said Larson would not have had the eight votes necessary to keep his leadership role. Shilling will be the fifth Senate Democratic leader in eight years.
Posted on: Tue, 11 Nov 2014 15:14:23 +0000
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