A surprise announcement in the Senate today, as Democratic leader and former Senate president Sylvia Larsen told colleagues she will retire from the body.
"I still love what can be accomplished through political involvement, and I plan to stay involved, just not as a candidate this election," Larsen said. "I will miss all of you, both staff and Senate colleagues."
Larsen is in her tenth term representing District 15, which comprises Concord, Henniker, Hopkinton and Warner. She served as Senate president from 2006 to 2010. It was during that time that the State Senate became the first legislative body in the US to have a majority of women.
The announcement means Democrats will choose new leadership in both chambers of the legislature. House Speaker Terie Norelli announced her retirement earlier this year.
Three Republicans – Peter Bragdon, Bob Odell and Jim Rausch - are also leaving the Senate this year.
