Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy has announced that he won’t seek reelection to a ninth term in Congress, becoming the first Senate Democrat to announce his retirement, AL.com reported.
Leahy is the most senior senator in the chamber and serves as president pro tempore. He is also chairman of the Appropriations Committee.
“It’s time to put down the gavel,” Leahy said. “It is time to pass the torch to the next Vermonter who will carry on this work of our great state. It’s time to come home.”
Senator Richard Shelby, vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, announced his retirement months ago. Leahy’s retirement means two ranking members will leave Congress at the same time, ushering in the first time women will likely lead the panel; it’s expected that Maine’s Susan Collins and Washington state’s Patty Murray will take over the two positions.
Shelby praised Leahy and his legacy, stating, “Over the past 47 years, Chairman Leahy has had a remarkable career in the Senate. As chairman of the Appropriations, Judiciary, and Agriculture committees and president pro tempore of the Senate, Pat has served Vermont well and with honor. His devotion to our nation and his state merits praise. I thank Pat for his friendship and wish he and his wife, Marcelle, all the best.”
