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On Tuesday, New York Congresswoman Kathleen Rice announced that she would not seek reelection at the end of this current term.
As I turn to the next chapter of my own personal and professional story, I do so with profound thanks to the community leaders, colleagues and staff who have lived our shared commitment to service with courage and humility. pic.twitter.com/GBVvtrWpia
— Archived: U.S. Rep Kathleen Rice (@RepKathleenRice) February 15, 2022
The Democrat, who represents New York’s 4th congressional district — which includes central and southern Nassau County, took office in January 2015.
“I entered public service 30 years ago and never left,” Rice announced. “It has been the honor of my life to serve as a prosecutor, district attorney, and US Representative in my beloved home state of New York.
“I have always believed that holding political office is neither destiny nor a right. As elected officials, we must give all we have and then know when it is time to allow others to serve.”
First elected to Congress in 2014, Rice has been a polarizing figure, constantly butting heads with House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi during her eight years as a lawmaker in New York before recently reconciling, according to reports.
Rice said that she “will remain focused on protecting our democracy and serving (her) constituents throughout the rest of (her) term.”
“As I turn to the next chapter of my own personal and professional story, I do so with profound thanks to the community leaders, colleagues, and staff who have lived our shared commitment to service with courage and humility.”
Rice is now the 30th House Democrat to announce an exit in 2022. While the majority are stepping away from public office, others are vying for other elected positions, including the Senate or local positions in their states like mayor or governor.
Thirteen Republicans have done the same. Control of the chamber will be at stake in the November midterms.
After Rice’s decision to not seek reelection, the National Republican Congressional Committee tweeted that vulnerable House Democrats “should do the same before they lose in November.”
