WASHINGTON — State Sen. Charles J. Colgan said he was going to retire several times before, but this time the longest serving member of the Virginia General Assembly is finally calling it quits.
According to the Gainesville Times which first broke the story, Prince William County Democratic state Sen. Colgan plans to retire next year when his term expires.
The longest-serving lawmaker in the General Assembly tells the Richmond Times-Dispatch he’s rejected Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s multiple requests to run for another term.
The 87-year-old has served in the Senate since 1976 — he is the only World War II veteran still serving in the senate. He is also a moderate Democrat, who is known for his ability to work both sides of the aisle.
Republicans currently hold a one-seat advantage in the senate. Democratic Caucus Chairman Sen. A. Donald McEachin says his party is preparing for Colgan’s retirement.
Former Democratic state Sen. Phil Puckett abruptly quit the upper chamber earlier this month.
WTOP’s Kathy Stewart contributed to this report
The Associated Press contributed to this report
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