Joe Hackney, one of the leading Democrats in the North Carolina House of Representatives, announced Thursday morning he will not run for re-election.
"At the end of this term, I look forward to a more predictable schedule for my family, my law practice, my family farm, and for the recreational activities I've been missing," Hackney said in an announcement.
"I will serve out the remainder of my term with enthusiasm. As Minority Leader, I will work actively this year for a Democratic majority and a new Democratic Speaker for the NC House in 2013; I will continue to assist our candidates' campaigns and will actively raise money for them, as I have in the past."
Hackney, the House Minority Leader, has been a vocal opponent to the Republican-led Legislature. He represents Orange, Chatham and parts of Moore counties in what is traditionally a Democratic seat.
"I think I made a contribution," Hackney said. "I have been fortunate to have the assistance of able and dedicated legislative staff throughout this time, and I do not have words sufficient to express how appreciative I am for their dedication to our state."
Hackney becomes the second significant Democrat to decide not to run for re-election. Gov. Bev Perdue announced last week she will not seek a re-election.
"Joe Hackney never wavered from the principles that brought him to public service: to better North Carolina and its people by providing them a stronger education system and a government that truly serves the people instead of just the privileged," Perdue said. "Over the course of his 32 years in the House, Joe always stood firm on the foundation of what he believed, regardless of popular opinion.
"He fought relentlessly to keep our government more transparent and to protect our environment for future generations. And we stood together in our recent battles to try and protect our teachers and the fairness of our elections. Our state today is a better place, and we should thank him.”
Republican Thom Tillis, the House Speaker from Mecklenburg County, called Hackney "a true public servant" and praised his work as "distinguished."
"While we disagree on many policy issues, his respect for the traditions and integrity of the House has had a significant impact on my first year as Speaker," Tillis said. "I wish him and his family nothing but the best as they move forward."
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement