Today State Senator Ann Johnson Stewart (DFL-Minnetonka) announced that she will retire from the State Senate and not run in a primary for newly drawn Senate District 45, issuing the following statement to her supporters, constituents and colleagues.
“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve the residents of Senate District 44 at the State Capitol. There is no greater honor in a democracy than to be selected by your fellow citizens to represent them in the halls of government, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity they have given me.
My entire adult life – as a mother and a business owner, engineer, teacher and community volunteer – has been about making a difference where I am. I’m proud of the work I’ve done with my Senate colleagues to strengthen our state’s economy, shore up our public schools and create more welcoming spaces for people whose voices haven’t always been heard.
I ran for the State Senate because I believe deeply that we must address our state’s urgent infrastructure needs. Maintaining clean water, protecting the environment, providing access and expanding transit are all equity issues that will make life better for every Minnesota resident. Right now, we cannot afford to miss one opportunity being offered by the Federal Infrastructure and Jobs Act, whether it is for renewable energy, construction dollars, or creating jobs, and I plan to play an active role in advancing that important work.
I have spoken with Representative Kelly Morrison to offer her my full support. I have every confidence she will continue to represent our communities with the same passion and dedication she has shown during her time in the House.
I make this decision with a full heart and a hopeful vision for the state that has given me so much. My commitment to public service is undimmed, my belief in Minnesotans remains as strong as ever, and I look forward to serving my community in new ways once my time in the Senate comes to an end. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”
Learn more about Sen. Johnson Stewart.
Read more news from Sen. Johnson Stewart.