DOVER - In a surprise announcement Saturday during the final night of the legislative session Rep. Bob Gilligan, D-Sherwood Park, announced he will not seek re-election in September.
Though he filed for office, he said, the action didn't stir excitement for knocking on doors, campaigning and seeking election.
After 40-plus years serving, he said, he is ready to spend time with his wife, children and grandchildren.
"What I need is quality time. When you get to my age, you don't have that much time," said Rep. Gilligan, who is 70.
"If you don't stop (applauding), I'm going to cry," he said before being honored by fellow representatives and eventually Gov. Jack Markell who spoke on the floor.
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