A top Democrat in the Kentucky House says he will not seek re-election.
Johnny Bell of Glasgow plans to retire from the General Assembly after eight years.
The House Majority Whip says the political atmosphere in federal and state legislatures has changed, and it’s more about politics than about serving the people. The 50-year-old Bell serves Barren and a portion of Warren County.
His announcement comes as Democrats hold a narrow 50-46 majority in the Kentucky House with four seats up for grabs in a special election March 8.
Glasgow Attorney Danny Basil and City Councilman Joe Trigg, both Democrats, will run for Bell’s seat along with Republicans Freddie Joe Wilkerson and Steve Riley.
Tuesday is the filing deadline for candidates seeking office this year.