Long-time Sen. Rosemary McAuliffe, who represents Bothell and North Kirkland from the 1st District, has announced that she will not seek re-election to the Washington State Senate.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the people of the 1st Legislative District for 23 years. While I have decided to finish out this year and not seek re-election, I will without a doubt continue to be involved in my communities,” McAuliffe said.

McAuliffe first joined the legislature in 1993. Her original passion was to fight for changes in K-12 education and to ensure a high quality education for all children, including those with disabilities. Prior to her service as a state lawmaker, she served on the Northshore School Board of Directors for 14 years. McAuliffe has proven to be a staunch advocate for students, teachers and parents.

Some of her proudest accomplishments include working to improve K-12 education, creating the G.E.T. Program (Guaranteed Education Tuition) to make college more accessible to all families, the expansion of higher education opportunities in North King County with the creation of the University of Washington Bothell and Cascadia Community College, and more recently working with Senate and House budget negotiators to receive funds to preserve Wayne Golf Course as a park for generations to come.

“I appreciate the support of my community over the past 23 years,” McAuliffe said. “It is now time to come home and be with friends and family, and with my husband Jim. I am excited about future plans, whatever they may be. It has truly been an honor to serve.”