Dear Neighbors, I have decided not to run for re-election in 2022. I plan to finish out my term, and I’ll work with people in my district to achieve as many wins as possible in the upcoming session. I have given my professional life to creating healthy, vital, and compassionate rural communities. I ran for office because I care about rural people and want us to see the needs we share in common across race and geography. Since the last election, and the insurrection at our nation’s Capitol in particular, I’ve been drawn to the growing national conversation about how Democrats can better connect with people in rural communities. For the sake of our democracy, we need to be able to build trust with people in rural communities and invite them to stand with us. I feel a sense of urgency about giving more of my time to this particular work. There are practical matters for my family and me that are a part of this decision too. All of this suggests it is the right time for me to step aside. It has been incredible to work with my colleagues on so many important issues. From work that helps farmers deal with a changing climate, to fighting for seniors and better conditions for long-term care workers, I’ve learned so much through this process. I couldn’t have been able to do the work that I did without the remarkable staff efforts of Nancy Conley, Coco Milliard, Colbey Sullivan, Nathaniel Leonard, Lindy Sowmick, Seth Gellman, and many more. Thank you to my family, friends, volunteers, and neighbors. I plan to work hard in this last new year at the legislature. Sincerely, Todd Lippert For the Common Good |