Facing dim prospects due to anticipated redistricting, U.S. Representative Ann Kirkpatrick announced on Friday her intention to retire. She said she will not seek reelection after her sixth term ends.
“Every two years for the past 18 years, there has been an election in Arizona with my name on the ballot. Serving Arizonans has been my absolute honor and joy, but after much consideration, I have decided not to seek re-election in 2022. I will continue the good fight through this Congress, and when the term is up, I will hand over the baton,” Kirkpatrick said in a press release.
“Serving Arizonans has been my absolute honor and joy, but after much consideration, I have decided not to seek re-election in 2022. I will continue the good fight through this Congress, and when the term is up, I will hand over the baton.” https://t.co/jBuB85SeHH
— Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (@RepKirkpatrick) March 12, 2021
Kirkpatrick’s colleague, Rep. Raul Grijalva, reacted swiftly to the news:
My friend @RepKirkpatrick has spent decades serving the people of Arizona at home and in Washington.
I wish her the best in her retirement and am grateful for the impact she has left on our state and country fighting for Arizonans.
— Raul M. Grijalva (@RepRaulGrijalva) March 12, 2021
Kirkpatrick was reelected in November 2020 after she was forced into rehabilitation for a drinking problem in January of the same year.
A serious trip and fall, in which she suffered serious injuries prompted her to admit that she has a drinking problem and take a leave of absence.