After 22 years in office, Jeff Mullis, the state senator from the 53rd District in Northwest Georgia, will not be seeking re-election to his position.
He made the announcement in a written statement released Monday afternoon from Chickamauga.
"As we are nearing the end of another legislative session, I have taken pause to appreciate what we have accomplished together and to consider my future," Mullis wrote. "Recovering from Achilles tendon surgery, witnessing my children step into the next phases of their lives and the many hours away from my dedicated wife and family this job requires has led me to this time reflection. We have fought the good fight for 22 years, but I have decided I will not be seeking re-election."
Mullis is the chairman of the powerful Senate Rules Committee, chairman of the Economic Development Subcommittee of Senate Appropriations and also serves on several other committees.
His announcement came on the first day state candidates can qualify for the general election to be held Nov. 8. Candidates have until Friday to qualify. The primary will be held on May 24.
In his announcement, he listed some of his proudest legislative accomplishments: a law strengthening the freedom to worship, passing a "heartbeat bill" regulating abortion, protecting the Second Amendment, cutting taxes, and making Georgia more business-friendly. He also said he brought hundreds of millions of dollars in grants and direct investment that is helping the 53rd District thrive.
He wrote that his love for the rolling hills of Northwest Georgia is as strong as ever but he will be spending more time with his friends and family and looking forward to serving his community in other capacities.
"I truly feel as if I am saying goodbye to 190,000 friends across the 53rd District. I cannot thank you all enough for your support and prayers along the way. What an adventure it has been!" Mullis wrote.
- Compiled by Andrew Wilkins