Michel Announces End of Senate Career

State Sen. Geoff Michel (R-Edina) has announced that after a decade of service at the Capitol, he will not seek reelection this fall.

The former deputy majority leader said he could not commit to serving another term in office, citing a need to focus on familial and work obligations.

"Both my family and my employer have been very patient, flexible, and supportive of me for the past ten years," Michel wrote in a letter. "It’s time for me to return their support and focus on a family future that is getting busier every year and may include four college tuitions."

Looking back on his 10-year tenure, Michel said he's proud of his work with the University of Minnesota to build TCF Stadium and a number of other measures. He also pointed out the passage of the Abigail Taylor Pool Safety Act and being part of the first new majority in the state senate in 38 years as highlights.

Michel currently chairs the Senate Jobs and Economic Growth Committee, which he said has allowed him to focus on measures to grow Minnesota's economy.

See the full letter Michel sent to Senate District 49 constituents below:

Dear Friend:

Ten years feels just about right.

Thank you for the honor of representing you in the Minnesota State Senate.  This is the best senate district in the state and it is now even better with the new redistricting maps.

After ten years and three terms in the state senate, I will not be seeking reelection this November.

Annie, our four daughters and I have been discussing our options since the state shutdown last summer. I have also been speaking with my colleagues at Securian Financial Group.  Both my family and my employer have been very patient, flexible, and supportive of me for the past ten years.  It’s time for me to return their support and focus on a family future that is getting busier every year and may include four college tuitions.

We cannot commit to another four-year term and want to allow time for candidates to emerge before the endorsing convention at the end of the month.

I plan to finish strong and focus on the fundamental fiscal and economic concerns facing our state during the remaining months of this legislative session.

Thank you for all your support and kindness over the past decade.

Warmest regards,

Geoff