Virginia state Sen. Dick Black won't seek re-election

State Sen. Dick Black (R) announced Wednesday he will not seek re-election in this year's 13th Senate District contest.

Black, known as one of the most conservative lawmakers in General Assembly, has served in the Senate since 2012, winning election in 2011. He served in the House of Delegates from 1998 to 2006.

"I have dedicated my life to public service, whether it was wearing a uniform or serving in elected office," Black said in a prepared statement. "My family has made many sacrifices throughout the years in order for me to serve, and I am grateful for their support and the support of voters. I have been blessed with 16 beautiful grandchildren and it has been harder and harder to find the time to spend with them as my district has grown to over quarter of a million of people."

The 13th Senate District covers portions of Ashburn, western Loudoun County and parts of Prince William County.

Democratic state Del. John Bell (87th) announced in late 2018 that he is seeking the 13th Senate District seat. Also planning to vie for the Democratic nomination are Lucero Wiley and Jasmine Moawad-Barrientos.

Black said he's proud of what he's accomplished over his legislative career. He was named "Legislator of the Year" by the Family Foundation and the National Right to Work foundation.

A retired Marine, combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Black, 74, has been a frequent news maker over the years, including recently for his unwavering support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who is viewed by most analysts as a dictator whose administration has murdered thousands of its own citizens during the civil war that sparked in 2011.


https://www.loudountimes.com/news/virginia-state-sen-dick-black-won-t-seek-re-election/article_ef9ea190-0e87-11e9-8e23-afbcb8990a6d.html